Any Crowson TES100 users that can compare their performance to Buttkicker or regular shakers.
Im reading they have actual audible speakers in them.?
They are quicker responding ?
but..
They are less "Impact" than others ?

Also mounting options ?
I read they use the floor to Push against so they need to be UNDER the chair or platform ??
I wanted to mount inside a chair.. and have subtle but accurate Low hz response, with a feel that puts you in the scene, rather than just vibrate.

NO Stores in Ottawa at all that carry anything.. this will have to be a on line purchase for my 2 rows of seats.. 5 total.
Any users out there that can comment ?
They cost more.. are they a "different feel" compared to shakers ?
Or is this a bit over hyped ? as a different league transducer ?

nobody ??

Any Crowson TES100 users that can compare their performance to Buttkicker or regular shakers.
Im reading they have actual audible speakers in them.?

There are no "speakers" in the TES 100. It is simply a mechanical transducer that changes the electrical signal to "motion".
http://www.crowsontech.com/go/crowsontech/3342/en-US/DesktopDefault.aspx
They are quicker responding ?
but..
They are less "Impact" than others ?
It is "different" in that it is designed to have one leg of the sofa/chair sit on top of the transducer. Most other transducers are designed to be attached to the framework of the seating, or to the floor or platform. The TES 100 would be similar to using a Buttkicker with a Chair/Couch Mounting Accessory Kit:
http://www.thebuttkicker.com/home_theater/accessories/cmak.htm

Also mounting options ?
I read they use the floor to Push against so they need to be UNDER the chair or platform ??
Correct.

I wanted to mount inside a chair.. and have subtle but accurate Low hz response, with a feel that puts you in the scene, rather than just vibrate.
They're not designed to be mounted that way.

NO Stores in Ottawa at all that carry anything.. this will have to be a on line purchase for my 2 rows of seats.. 5 total.
It looks like they only have one dealer in Canada, and they're in Toronto:
http://www.crowsontech.com/go/crowsontech/3434/en-US/DesktopDefault.aspx#International
I suggest you call or e-mail Crowson directly and explain the situation. They may be able to help you with a "demo" of the product.
http://www.crowsontech.com/go/crowsontech/3333/en-US/DesktopDefault.aspx
Also, why do you think you need 5 of them for 2 rows of seats?

Any users out there that can comment ?
They cost more.. are they a "different feel" compared to shakers ?
Or is this a bit over hyped ? as a different league transducer ?
As with anything, they need to be properly set up. I am driving mine with a Buttkicker power amp:
http://www.thebuttkicker.com/home_theater/products/bka1000-4a.htm
I have the high-cutoff, (low pass filter) set at 40 Hz. IOW, the Crowson only sees 40 Hz and below. I then spent a lot of time setting the level. I had several other people help me with the level setting process. At this point, the effect is quite natural and believable, without being distracting.

However, with this system, there is one "effect" you miss: sensing the tactile output in your feet. If your feet are on the floor and your body is shaking, but your feet are not, it's a little unnatural. However, that is the case with any seating mounted actuator. The only way around it is to mount the actuator to a suspended floor, or to a platform underneath the seating. Earthquake Sound makes an actuator and they have plans available to build a platform:
http://www.earthquakesound.com/quake10.htm
http://www.earthquakesound.com/IMAGEJP/HOME/PDF/Mounting-Option1.pdf
Frankly, if I were to redo my system, I would go with the Earthquake Sound system and build the platform. They had this system setup at CEDIA last October. IMO, it was the best demo of "motion" at the show.

One last tidbit: I also met the Crowson people ar CEDIA. They told me that they're working with D-Box on a system that will allow them to use the "Motion Code" track that is currently available on many BluRay discs:
http://www.d-box.com/2008/
http://www.thehdroom.com/article.php?id=2435
It won't be able to provide the front/back or left/right motion that a full-fledged D-Box system can, (which is overdone, IMO). But it will use the motion code track instead of having to use the subwoofer output and modifying it for the transducer. It will also be significantly more affordable than a D-Box system. It remains to be seen, (felt), if it is an improvement over current systems. I also do not know the timeframe for that system.

Craig

Thanks so much.
I wondered about the speaker in the transducer "duh" But I did read it in a review.
A professional review..I'm gonna dig that up.
I would be interested in a D-box set up, but I think it needs to develop more, I've heard about Long downloads 40+min of the BD before play back.

as for 5 units..well they go under a chair leg and I have 3 chairs row one 2 chairs row 2.
They attatch by a metal bracket that would not transfer energy well.
I could build a platform, but I don't want to raise my seating height too much(if possible).

So.. the cheaper Buttkicker mounted inside the chairs. Is perfect.
or.. The Crowson mounted under the chairs(raising it 1.1 inch).
From what I read the Crowson sounds like it would be a more natural feel.
More speed from the transducer allows more variable styles of sensation, hums, rumbles etc.. I want a natural blend to the sub and movie...NOT distracting.
My wife thinks it is a gimmicky thing geared for teenagers...I'm trying to convince her otherwise. She does enjoy our theater though.
I've found Nowhere to demo ANY type of transducer of anysort.

Oh, One more thing..these are recliners and I rarely have my feet on the floor..plus at 5'7" tall I find it uncomfortable with my chairs..So my wife and I recline just a few degrees..to hit the perfect comfy spot.

I think i'm going Buttkicker NObody seems to be the Popular vote as 90% of everyone goes Buttkicker and is happy.
Earthquake may set the chair on fire. Run HOT.
Crowson is hard to get a hold of, and nobody claims they are tops!
But kickers less than half $ of crowson or Earthquake just as bonus. when your in the market for 5 units.

Thanks so much.
I wondered about the speaker in the transducer "duh" But I did read it in a review.
A professional review..I'm gonna dig that up.
Id like to see it. :confused:

I would be interested in a D-box set up, but I think it needs to develop more, I've heard about Long downloads 40+min of the BD before play back.
If your wife thinks a transducer is gimicky and "for teenagers", don't even think about showing her D-Box. It's *way* more expensive, (think ~$15K/chair), and it's prone to causing motion sickness. It lifts, tilts, rolls and rumbles. It can generate up to 2 G's of motion force. :eek: I sat through the demo at CEDIA and didn't really like the effect. I much preferred the Earthquake Sound Quake/platform system.

as for 5 units..well they go under a chair leg and I have 3 chairs row one 2 chairs row 2.
They attatch by a metal bracket that would not transfer energy well.
I could build a platform, but I don't want to raise my seating height too much(if possible).
Is your second row on a riser? If so, you could attach a Buttkicker or Quake to the underside of the riser and get the whole riser to shake with one unit.


or.. The Crowson mounted under the chairs(raising it 1.1 inch).
From what I read the Crowson sounds like it would be a more natural feel.
More speed from the transducer allows more variable styles of sensation, hums, rumbles etc.. I want a natural blend to the sub and movie...NOT distracting.
I think the Crowson is a more "natural" feel than a Buttkicker system. I even enjoy having mine on when I listen to music. It gives a gentle tactile "hum", (not audible), that feels just right.

I've found Nowhere to demo ANY type of transducer of anysort.
Like I said, call Crowson. I would bet they'll let you "try" a unit to see if you like it.

Craig

Craig... Your selling me on crowson.
I think I'll call them Monday.. I'm afraid to call because I'm an easy sell on the phone.
I see thousands floating out through the phone line, every bell and whistle they can sell me.
Maybe you need a quake and sell me yours ?

http://www.hometheatermag.com/customaccessories/904crowson/

Home theatre review says Crowson is a loudspeaker as well as a transducer?
Offering audible in that "deaf spot" behind the couch, as well as being tactile.
Are they wrong?

Craig... Your selling me on crowson.
I think I'll call them Monday.. I'm afraid to call because I'm an easy sell on the phone.
I see thousands floating out through the phone line, every bell and whistle they can sell me.
Maybe you need a quake and sell me yours ?
Steve,

Did you ever call Crowson? What did they say?

Craig

2 eamils, One phone call.. No reply ?
I've been patient because of the holidays.
But.. By Friday I'll have chose a product.
Crowson.. or Earthquake.
Actually I emailed Earthquake as well they got back and said" how can we help you?"
I said I was looking for info on product a,b and c.. and to buy.
They too never got back to me.

I do wish there was a brick and mortor store to just walk in and BUY In Ottawa.

.photobucket.com/albums/qq142/stevegamble66/September.jpg

These are the seats to set up w/ transducers ?
3 plus a console first row.
2 plus a console second row.
LOTS of legs there and their are 2 under each console as well, The way the seats attatch I think I'd need a unit under EACH leg, or less untis inside back of chair, lots of good lumber in there to bolt them to.
ps.
Ignore the screen and gear it is from last year when I started the room... All new stuff now.

2 eamils, One phone call.. No reply ?
I've been patient because of the holidays.
But.. By Friday I'll have chose a product.
Crowson.. or Earthquake.
Actually I emailed Earthquake as well they got back and said" how can we help you?"
I said I was looking for info on product a,b and c.. and to buy.
They too never got back to me.

I do wish there was a brick and mortor store to just walk in and BUY In Ottawa.
Remember, today is the first day of CES. The marketing departments are probably in Vegas right now.

Craig

Oh..I see.
Also Spectra is a "by app. only" company small private business.?
They are just 4 hours up the highway, so I'll hold out for them.
Q.
You once said, If you were to do it again you'd go platform and Earthquake10.0.

For the shere power to move an object with more authority?
You like the feel better?
Would crowsons not move a platform?
http://photobucket.com/steveshometheatre

Oh..I see.
Also Spectra is a "by app. only" company small private business.?
They are just 4 hours up the highway, so I'll hold out for them.
Q.
You once said, If you were to do it again you'd go platform and Earthquake10.0.

For the shere power to move an object with more authority?
You like the feel better?
Would crowsons not move a platform?
http://photobucket.com/steveshometheatre
Yeah, the Earthquake/platform system was better, mostly because you got the sensations through your feet as well as the chairs. It felt very "natural".

The Crowsons are not designed to shake a platform. They're under-chair-leg devices.

Craig

As a proud owner of a pair of Crowson transducers here's my 2 cents. The Crowsons start and stop on a dime (no motion lag) and I've been enjoying subsonics in a number of recent films. If your regular subs are up to it they will provide the foot shaking and the Crowson will fill in the gaps. Well worth the money and the easy setup they provide just seals the deal.

The biggest draw back for me is the so called easy setup, I don't have a even dispersed number of chair legs.
So.. under the chairs, so that everyone gets the same equal sensation will require a lot of transducers.(5) for three seats.
I don't mind the extra work or money if they are simply superior.
It's not thousands...well, it could be ? 2 amps 8 units?? ok, yea thousands.. oh well..

I do prefer the possible one unit installed INSIDE a chair a easy sollution for me.
I also didn't want to raise the seat height.
I may modify the chairs to accomodate that.

I've just heard the crowsons are the most accurate and quickest.
But in tactile output "Bam" Cannon shot, the Quake hits you harder.

I actually want Both subtle ,accurate response that blends so well with My SVS PB12Plusx2 that I'm not sure which I'm sensing...
On the other side of the coin, when the Cannon goes off, I want to be slammed in the ribs. ie; Quake , inside the lower back portion of the chair.? to which no mistake made I've been tackled by a tactile response.

I watched The Incredible Hulk last night. That movie has phenomenal bass throughout. My single Crowson, driven by the BK amp was as much shaking as I could possibly want. The subsonic stuff is really phenomenal:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15129604&highlight=hulk#post15129604
My subs, JL Audio F112's), filter out the subsonics. The Crowson adds it back. :)

Also, as jillbrazil says, it stops on a dime. :)

Craig

I like the idea of that quickness.
I understand that low LFE 40hz shaking rumbling, but that quicks snap, bamm! of that one cannon, Master and Commander, 60-80hz area jolt!
with the SHORT throw, movment of the linear transducer..Is it able to also produce the same Single jolt, start/stop to the body of that of a earthquake10.0, buttkickerLFE, IBeam etc..
I see 1hz to 500hz specs. wow.. full range for sure.

I like the idea of that quickness.
I understand that low LFE 40hz shaking rumbling, but that quicks snap, bamm! of that one cannon, Master and Commander, 60-80hz area jolt!
I have mine crossed at 40 Hz, so I get very little 60 to 80 Hz stuff. I don't like it, (or *any* shaker), crossed over that high.

with the SHORT throw, movment of the linear transducer..Is it able to also produce the same Single jolt, start/stop to the body of that of a earthquake10.0, buttkickerLFE, IBeam etc..
If it's coupled properly to the seating, you don't need a lot of movement to feel it.

I see 1hz to 500hz specs. wow.. full range for sure.
Yeah, but I doubt you'll find many amps with 1 Hz response. I think the BK amp is 5 Hz.

Craig

Hi, I'm in Vancouver, BC. I purchased my Crowsons from Spectre Audio in Toronto, who is, AFAIK, is still the only dealer in Canada. He is a small operation so, to keep his overhead low, he only opens his demo room by appointment. However, the owner, Najeeb Khan, used to be the Chief Designer for Paradigm speakers. He designed their Signature Series. But good luck getting anybody this week with CES on.

The reason you can't just walk into a store and buy them is because (I think) Crowson sees it as a "Custom Installer' kind of product. Personally, I think that is wrong - I found installation to be very easy - if you have a couch!

I chose the Crowsons because they seem to be a very efficient design, and overall I am very happy with them. If you are in Vancouver come by for a demo : )

I have four movie theater chairs so I ended up building a platform with 2x4's on their ends and a sheet of plywood on top. The chairs are bolted to the platform, and two TES100's are on the two back corners. Two mounting pads are on the front corners. (I'm thinking of adding two more TES100's, BTW).

I have the Crowson pre-amp and it does add to the realism. I'm using a Nady PA1400 amp and there is no lack of power. I think Crowson recommends only 75-150 watts per transducer. However, the fan noise in the Nady bothers me so I'm looking at getting a Crown K2 to drive the Crowsons, which will match the K2 I already have that drives my infinite baffle subwoofer, which is flat to 15 Hz : )

Hope that helps!

Hi, I'm in Vancouver, BC. I purchased my Crowsons from Spectre Audio in Toronto, who is, AFAIK, is still the only dealer in Canada. He is a small operation so, to keep his overhead low, he only opens his demo room by appointment. However, the owner, Najeeb Khan, used to be the Chief Designer for Paradigm speakers. He designed their Signature Series. But good luck getting anybody this week with CES on.

The reason you can't just walk into a store and buy them is because (I think) Crowson sees it as a "Custom Installer' kind of product. Personally, I think that is wrong - I found installation to be very easy - if you have a couch!

I chose the Crowsons because they seem to be a very efficient design, and overall I am very happy with them. If you are in Vancouver come by for a demo : )

I have four movie theater chairs so I ended up building a platform with 2x4's on their ends and a sheet of plywood on top. The chairs are bolted to the platform, and two TES100's are on the two back corners. Two mounting pads are on the front corners. (I'm thinking of adding two more TES100's, BTW).
Are the transducers on the back corners of the platform? That sounds like a novel approach... to mount the TES100's under the corners of a platform. Hmmmm... I gotta think about that one...

I have the Crowson pre-amp and it does add to the realism.
Are you running in "stereo"? Do you get left to right motion as well as up/down shaking?

I'm using a Nady PA1400 amp and there is no lack of power. I think Crowson recommends only 75-150 watts per transducer.
The Crowson amps only put out a maximum of 160 wpc, but Crowson told me the TES100 could handle more power. They said I should be fine with the BK 1 kilowatt amp, and I've been using it for two years with no problems... and *lots* of shaking. :)

However, the fan noise in the Nady bothers me so I'm looking at getting a Crown K2 to drive the Crowsons, which will match the K2 I already have that drives my infinite baffle subwoofer, which is flat to 15 Hz : )

Hope that helps!
Sounds like a great system!

Craig

Yes, it does do left/right and vice versa.


Are the transducers on the back corners of the platform? That sounds like a novel approach... to mount the TES100's under the corners of a platform. Hmmmm... I gotta think about that one...


Are you running in "stereo"? Do you get left to right motion as well as up/down shaking?


The Crowson amps only put out a maximum of 160 wpc, but Crowson told me the TES100 could handle more power. They said I should be fine with the BK 1 kilowatt amp, and I've been using it for two years with no problems... and *lots* of shaking. :)


Sounds like a great system!

Craig

Yes, it does do left/right and vice versa.
Good to know it also does right/left. Wouldn't want you leaning one way or the other. :D

Craig

I would'nt worry about having transducers under every chair leg. My nephew sits about 3 feet away and he was complaining about the bass jolts in I am Legend. As for impact I don'nt know if the Earthquake is stronger but the impact Crowson gives from 2 td's is more than enough to scare me at times. Now they're working with D-BOX !!! I know what's on my buy list this year.

I've been a happy Crowson user for the past 12 months.
I have 4 actuators spread underneath two armchairs and one 3-seater couch.
The effect can be quite amazing and is dependent on the soundtrack of each film.
The level of motion can be very dramatic and always surprises people who sit down to watch a movie here.
I can recommend, without hesitation, purchasing and installing Crowson actuators in your setup. Their frequency response and ability to start and stop instantly make them superior to shakers. They are also superior, imho, to dbox as they can be used with any material and don't need specially encoded material.

Yes.. the problem I see with D-Box becoming mainstream (as impressive as the technology can be) is the price point.
At it's current pricing levels, D-Box will always remain as a niche product.
Of course, if it were as affordable as a Crowson setup, I would have no hesitation purchasing it. But I fear that this will be a very long way off in reality.

Yes.. the problem I see with D-Box becoming mainstream (as impressive as the technology can be) is the price point.
At it's current pricing levels, D-Box will always remain as a niche product.
Of course, if it were as affordable as a Crowson setup, I would have no hesitation purchasing it. But I fear that this will be a very long way off in reality.

$4500 is not too much for all us HT junkies, if it is that impressive.. we all find a way to justify it:p
I am going to look into this... I was waiting for a dealer to get some Earthquake stuff in for me, but taking too long.. is giving me time to explore other options.
Montreal is about a 80-90 minute drive...:rolleyes:
I'm gonna check it out..:D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DYFX6VALXo&feature=related

D-Box vid, check this out..that's a lot of movement... I could actually see people getting motion sick, or just plain fatigue of sorts from too much CONTINUOUS movement. just never lets down ?
I'm still, quite interested..as I'm sure it is adjustable.
If someone thinks a 60hz tuned Transducers is a distraction ?..check out this thing knocking you around through a car chase.
Also.. would it make any sense to use this WITH a transducer for pure Low LFE feedback/response ? I mean how does D Box respond to quick gunshots ?
Just when I thought my HT room was about finished...along comes this.

$4500 is not too much for all us HT junkies, if it is that impressive.. we all find a way to justify it:p

Well I was interested until I found out that cost was for one seat!!
I'm a HT junkie but I also have a life... with other significant costs.

User feedback about motion sickness also made me wary to invest as well as the limited library.

But hey.. you got money to burn and don't feel like donating it to make the world a better place... by all means... buy Dbox. :D

I thought I read couch, or row of seating 4500
And.. Motion sickness is a real issue for me.
No carnival rides for me... a simple ride on the swing set with my daughter makes me ill in under 2 minutes.
I donate time.. I donate food (I'm a farmer).. and a weekly allowance to United way... I generally don't give money to people I feel can't make it work for them. I don't burn it though..
I haven't been out to a dinner or a movie in over 10 years.. let me enjoy my home, I never get to leave it.

I thought I read couch, or row of seating 4500
And.. Motion sickness is a real issue for me.
No carnival rides for me... a simple ride on the swing set with my daughter makes me ill in under 2 minutes.
I donate time.. I donate food (I'm a farmer).. and a weekly allowance to United way... I generally don't give money to people I feel can't make it work for them. I don't burn it though..
I haven't been out to a dinner or a movie in over 10 years.. let me enjoy my home, I never get to leave it.
I am very interested in what you decide to do Steve. I am considering the Crowson product too. Please keep us updated on the demos!

Mike

User feedback about motion sickness also made me wary to invest as well as the limited library.



This is normally coming from people that have not experience the system. Since you can adjust the system Motion and Vibration seperately, this is likely never going to happen. All I can say is, take some of your time to go and experience (if there is a dealer in your area). If the funds are not there, that's understandable, but keep an eye open. There is a 1000 movies available right now and for all those non encoded ones, you can enjoy the audio mode (linear transducer mode).

I am very interested in what you decide to do Steve. I am considering the Crowson product too. Please keep us updated on the demos!

Mike

I am SURE that in my quest to find the ULTIMATE movie Experience in my home.. I will try a few products.
I have BK LFE , and IBeam , transducers now.
Earthquake Q10B x2 and a XJ600 is supposed to be on the way(delayed at the border) will be installed.
I will make the run to Montreal on a Saturday, try this technology too.
If I buy D-Box it would be to run my front row.
I'd put the Earthquakes in the back for now.
And post some IBeams and BK for sale here;)

I don't want to look like a idiot tossing money around, and out the door.
I just put coin,time, effort, into a HT room that is my winter sanctuary...and I want to have it just right:D
Work my A#@S% off all summer,now is play time.
Not that I need to justify anything.. but around a few threads people start to throw stones...:mad:except in the Ultra High end 20K+ threads..
Now.. back to tactile performance.

John.. It is beginning to sound like in the Down Low <25hz ....BK1 rule, they throw a lot of weight around, they look huge.
Maybe not the fastest,or most accurate (sensitive)..but Tanks .

I don't want to put words in your mouth.. but is that your experience with those BK1's?

Have you considered D-Box ?
Turns out they cost a little less than I first thought.
All this experimenting will surely add up though..

John.. It is beginning to sound like in the Down Low <25hz ....BK1 rule, they throw a lot of weight around, they look huge.
Maybe not the fastest,or most accurate (sensitive)..but Tanks .

I don't want to put words in your mouth.. but is that your experience with those BK1's?

Have you considered D-Box ?
Turns out they cost a little less than I first thought.
All this experimenting will surely add up though..

I have been using the BK's for about 8-10 years. I don't have any experience with the Buttkicker II currently named Buttkicker LFE. They are quite a bit larger than the LFE model as you can see. With my 20 Hz lowpass crossover frequency and independent adjustable delay I have never considered them to be slow. I have always been extremely pleased with there performance. Even after adding the Earthquake units I won't be removing the Buttkickers form my system.

ButtKicker LFE: 5.375" H x 5.5" W
Weight 11 lbs

Original ButtKicker: 7.13" H x 7.5" W
Weight 18 lbs

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v356/blonzz/BUTTKICKERS018.jpg

I did look at the D-box system quite a few years ago. I did not have the space or the money at the time. Now that I have a dedicated HT room I might take another look.

After reading your posts you sound like you love tactile transducers as much as I do. I consider them to be a necessary part of my home theater no matter how much subwoofage I have.

I started out with that array of 8 RBH units. Replaced them with a pair of Clark Synthesis Gold TST329 models and then upgraded to their Platinum TST429 models. Then came a pair of Buttkickers. Then another pair. :D Then the Crowsons. Then the Earthquake Q10B's. I don't have any of the other manufactures models left but the ButtKickers and the new Earthquakes. The Buttkickers never left!

Just put in an order for 4 TES-100's.


John

John.. I do think if you have a dedicated HT. having tactile transducers are a must to finish the room.
You are in the Elite from what I see in transducer install, use, experience,..with No fear of trying a new technology or brand.
Makes me think I'm not that crazy..
Clarks Platinum claim a pretty high LBs of force per watt.. did you think they were pretty forcefull in their LFE response ?
Now.. Only thing left for you to try is D Box...hehe maybe I can plant that seed ?
I am sure I will get it installed eventually(this year). and I will post pic's, video, Opinions.

I XO my transducers about 55hz right now.
I do like response to LFE that moves my Subs.. so they both respond together and blend seamlessly.(if possible)
I feel IBeams do that well. BK LFE does NOT blend as well.. not as musical.?
ps.
You have made a Beautifull HT room.

I just Ordered D Box.
SRP 230 and a Series IV standalone motion controller.

I'll be posting install pictures, and a few opinions of course.

it doubles as 4 super crowsons(sorta) as well when in transducer mode 1hz to 100hz. (bonus)

I just Ordered D Box.
SRP 230 and a Series IV standalone motion controller.

I'll be posting install pictures, and a few opinions of course.
Looking forward to it! Be sure to start a new thread with "D-Box" in the title.

it doubles as 4 super crowsons(sorta) as well when in transducer mode 1hz to 100hz. (bonus)
That oughta be interesting. :)

Craig

Yea..I will.
How a Crowson thread..got to a Earthquake thread..gotto a D Box thread..got to this point ??
Either way...it'll be fun, and I'll be happy to oblige any inquires, features to have or skip, etc..
I'm converting a 2 seater platform for a 3 seater set up, So.. a few pic's to show My method will be first.
I should have it all by Wednesday.
Look for a "New D Box set up" thread Thursday.

oh.. and due to prices coming down on this technology..it'll be in "subwoofer,bass,transducers"
not the "ultra high end gear", where I mostly find it now. it's not really a 20,000+ set up anymore.
Unless you have a big cinema 3 rows of seats etc..

John.. I never heard of D Box or Transducers a couple months ago.. now I'm hooked.
I put my Q10B order on hold.
I could use it for the back row.. but I want to see how I like D Box first.
The D Box stuff seems to be coming down in price.
SRP 230 is 80" long and good to 800-100lbs SRP 330 is same thing but good for 1100-1300lbs.
I intend to extend the sq. tubing to 98" long for my 3 seat row.
I will re enforce my seats with 2x2 x1/4" angleIron so no sag in middle(pics to follow).
and use a SRP230,.. The SRP330 is not too too much more.(relative of course) But, for me and my wife and little girl, the SRP230 will be fine.
Plus when I move it to the rear row of 2 seats.. I can buy a SRP330 for the front row..Or 3 individual seats ? when the price drops.

Individual seats will perform better,or offer more degrees of tilt side to side and more (quicker/noticed) sensation on the subtle tilt and roll etc.. than the the platform under a long couch.
A srp530 would actually go under your existing platform.

John.. I never heard of D Box or Transducers a couple months ago.. now I'm hooked.
I put my Q10B order on hold.
I could use it for the back row.. but I want to see how I like D Box first.
The D Box stuff seems to be coming down in price.
SRP 230 is 80" long and good to 800-100lbs SRP 330 is same thing but good for 1100-1300lbs.
I intend to extend the sq. tubing to 98" long for my 3 seat row.
I will re enforce my seats with 2x2 x1/4" angleIron so no sag in middle(pics to follow).
and use a SRP230,.. The SRP330 is not too too much more.(relative of course) But, for me and my wife and little girl, the SRP230 will be fine.
Plus when I move it to the rear row of 2 seats.. I can buy a SRP330 for the front row..Or 3 individual seats ? when the price drops.

Individual seats will perform better,or offer more degrees of tilt side to side and more (quicker/noticed) sensation on the subtle tilt and roll etc.. than the the platform under a long couch.
A srp530 would actually go under your existing platform.
Wow, you really do move fast. Are you no longer interested in the Crowsons? You mentioned the price is coming down on the D-Box equipment. Do you mind telling us what you paid?

Mike

All installed....
Pic's coming..
Questions answered..
gotta do some testing here, to be fair to the products being used.

All installed....
Pic's coming..
Questions answered..
gotta do some testing here, to be fair to the products being used.

Nice! I am very interested in your opinion.

John

I've run a few test discs, and tried a couple set up options, even tried Fortress seating.

Of course I have many opinions.
FIRST.. I Love my D Box set up.. for me worth every effort, every dime.
As most reading this already know I have been looking for a in chair transducer that would give me the sense that I had the ultimate in feeling my movie (soundtrack).
I started with a Buttkicker which answered my Q. Yes I like the effect of having a transducer in my set up.
Then I tried IBeam and discovered that I', missing out with Buttkicker on some lower strength signal LFE as the Ibeams are very sensitive and easy to run.
But they miss out below 20hz.. I combined Buttkicker and IBeam in ONE chair and that was enjoyable, but now I wanted to see if there was better.

Well.. after a email from Yannick at D Box, I said.. yes and ordered a D Box set up for 2 seats, with the latest and greatest motion control Box Series IV-BD.
and I opted for a SRP230. 2 seat platform.
The SRP330 is just a higher weight bearing capicity actuator at a couple thousand more.(roughly) 800lbs vs 1100lbs.
I would NOT recommend building a 3 seater platform.. you'll loose too much roll in the side tilt action.
this is too expensive to compromise performance by trying to get that 3'rd seat set up under thae one platform.. IMO.
Most of us have that 3 seater front row. I simply left the one seat D BOX Free.
I plan to do my 2 seater in my back row the same way. That 3'rd seat will be for granny when she visits.

also..
Prices strongly vary from place to place and time to time, impossible to give a exact quote.
For rough idea of what to expect (pm) me.

Now.. I will say right off D Box is NOT a transducer that will enhance your Audio set up, or compliment your subwoofer.
That was the first thing, and weird thing I had to get used to...for a minute or two.

Sub..activity with little/no response from chairs, then little/No sub activity and yet the chair Shakes.
This point does needs to be emphisized... It is related to FILM video, not soundtrack.
however..
It shook my Soda right out of my cupholder at one point... then I knew this was the real deal..
Think of a 100lb transducer replacing your buttkicker. Hitting 4 points at once or rotating from one to the other...it'll have you in awe..

The fed material to the motion controller comes from the DVD/BD player Optical out. and the LFE out from AVR.
Make sure your DVD/BD player can output Lossless audio via HDMI and DD via Optical at the same time.
I had to buy a new player for this.. Pioneer BDP95FD is one model (works perfect)

you can't have the motion controller send both optical and LFE signals to the actuators at the same time.
You need to choose (FX mode) Optical fed motion/vibration mode.
Or (Audio Mode) LFE fed.
Both modes are tweekable in the simple to use menu.

I find the transducer LFE Audio mode to be hard to activate Sub out +6 volume up, and only hard hitting LFE activates the D Box.
However when it hits.. it is POWERFUL.. like having 20 buttkickers in one chair, (not kidding).
I run my Ibeams still in my chairs with the D Box, because I like the sensitivity..lots of action even if it is VERY subtle. I XO at 50hz
I get a little activity from the bassy soundtrack of a movie..which for me increases the tension.. ie; Mirrors.
But..
When the D Box is operating,(active) there is no way your going to even know if your transducers are on though.. it is just far,far too powerful. Absolutely NO comparison.
You can NOT have a bowl of popcorn or a soda in your chair.. You will loose it.
I have my intensity at max right now, while I play around.
It is more than enough IMO.

The quality of the equipment feels good, heavy, good interface, remote, metal platform etc..
The customer service is not like you'll ever see anywhere else (for me so far).
Funtionality.. No Bugs, downloads are fast.. sync. is fast and 100% accurate, even if I pause, rewind, stop, play, etc.. several times a minute.. I can't loose sync. if I try.
If you turn on your controller half way in a movie it takes about 1 second to find your title and sync.(for me) seriesIV-BD.

I have a few pic's on my photobucket.
I'm going to take a couple videos.. upload them to youtube and post the link here.
this week.
I will answer ANY questions anyone has.
I don't want to make too long a post here..
Just a few remarks with my DBox findings that I thought noteworthy.

There is a lenghty D Box thread going in the (ultra high end gear 20,000+), so I don't want to really start another one.
But there were a few interested people here following this transducer one that may want a bit more feedback or info and I'm here to answer or offer what ever I can.

Thanks for the information. It sure sounds like D-box might be the way to go. I may be looking into a J-133 single seat setup.
I think this would work out best for me.

You metioned that the Pioneer BDP95FD outputs lossless audio from the HDMI out and DD from the optical simultaneously? Is that multi-channel DD audio from the optical out?

The reason I ask is that I run two processors in my system right now. An Integra DCH-9.9 and a Parasound C2 for my tactile transducers. I already own that model Pioneer player and I could not get it to output lossless from the HDMI to the Integra and multi channel DD to the Parasound C2 via optical at the same time. The only DD audio available from the optical is DD stereo when outputing lossless out HDMI. What settings in my player do I need to output multi-channel 5.1 ect... DD via optical and lossless via HDMI at the same time?

Thanks,
John

Hi John,
Yes you get Lossless via HDMI and DD AC3/2 and DTS 5.1 from Optical.
From memory.. I'll double check tomorrow.
Menu..audio..speakers.. 5.1 multi ch. centre(yes) front(small or Large) surrounds (yes)
That's for the Optical.. HDMI I set to auto.
that's it.
I have the Pioneer BDP51FD and the 95FD, I will pull up the menu on the 95 in the morning.. PM you.
But.. I believe this 95FD and the Denon 3800 ore the two best options for D Box and good PQ.
If watching D Box is Not a family affair for you get a SRP130 or j-133...but your NEW Berklines will do fine, and those J-133 are near7k vs SRP130 near 2k ? all ball park numbers.
Get the standalone series IV-BD controller it costs more but.. it does everything,and updates automatically, nice interface.. you'll be glad you did.
I did sit in Jaylor seats and Fortress(better)IMO, as well.. nicer than my La-Z-boy matinee, and your Berks... but I'd wait til' your seats are due for replacement...They are not that much nicer IMO... just one guys opinion.
I will be buying D-Box custom seats when mine are due for replacement.. That's a no brainer.

and I only have 3/4" between my seats with D-Box and the seat that doesn't, so it blends together well.
For about 1800 more you can go 2 seater ? .....I thought it was the best Value.
But... It's ALL Good :>)

One note.. I am building a custom(simple) 18" x24" foot platform, that bolts to the metal frame so my feet can be on the floor and move with the seats...(must be solid not to rattle as these chairs shake violently)
Otherwise we recline.