Subwoofer with 2 channel stereo setup


My system is rapidly growing. I can't help it :)
The whole system now is integrated amp(DK Design MK1), turntable (Oracle Delphi MK 1), phone MC pre pre-amp and two speakers (ML Aerios i).
Now to finilize it I am thinking about getting a powered sub. The decent sub is another $2,000 investment.
I wonder if for-music-only-listening stereo (not for movie watching) it is A MUST upgrade? Does an introduction of subwoofer to a system will make a big difference?
Thanks!
sputniks
Donbellphd: I can see how this approach would help a speaker where the woofer covered much more than just the last few octaves i.e. was more of a mid-woofer than a woofer. Woofers really shouldn't go up much above 200 Hz or so, otherwise, they tend to run into problems like those that the addition of the REL solved for you.

Sputniks: With what you have, speaker placement ( mains ) will be the make-it or break-it factor. Once you get that as good as it gets, getting the sub to blend in would be the next step. Don't introduce more variables into the equation until you are certain that the bare essentials are covered as well as possible. Sean
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Sean,

I first noticed the improvement in transaparency, openness, and soundstage when I had been using KEF Reference 102/2s with a Velodyne HGS-10,; it seemed intuitive to limit the frequency range, given the small size of the 102/2s. When I substituted the much larger KEF Reference 104/2s, I decided to send the full frequency range to them. But when a Velodyne HGS-15 from a local source was delivered by an installer very familiar with high-end audio, he suggested I use Proceed's 80 Hz crossover even with the 104/2s. I was surprised to find the the same effect as with the smaller speakers.

The HGS-15 sits on an Auralex SubDude, and blends seamlessly with the KEFs. For movies and HDTV, surrounds are a pair of 102/2s with a KEF 200 C center speaker. The other pair of 102/2s and the HGS-10 have been moved to a secondary system, and provide good sound for the living room.

db
I suggest to audition and give it a try on your system.
Most of all trust your ears.

Just like you I was a skeptic unitl 2 days ago I brought home a Martin Logan Depth to demo with my Ascent of 2 years.

I opt for the Depth due to its size and ample performance of seamless matching my system. It is AWSOME....easy to set-up. Authorize dealer let me take their demo unit while mine is on order. My room is a 14x15x9. I listen to jazz, classical rock,and vocals. Hope this helps...