I'm just getting into 2 channel audio. I have the Peachtree audio Nova 125SE and Sierra 2s and it sounds awesome. I want to include a nice subwoofer into this 2 channel system and I was wondering about the crossover.
In my home theater I have an opportunity to set the settings of my front LCR speakers (small, medium, large settings) and I can influence the cutoff point
I noticed when I did my research that most integrated amps while they do have a pre-out for subwoofer applications, do not have the option of a crossover.
Should I go with an AVR so I can get the crossover function and maybe even get one with Audyssey?
Sell the Peachtree and buy an integrated with pre-out/power in connectors so you can split the two stages: there are plenty of good units second hand available, but I'm not sure what is out there new. Add a MiniDSP to do the xover and EQ functions. Far more flexible than what most AVRs can do, but not a PHD* solution.
Most I've seen don't have a HPF for the mains, or if they do, it's something completely useless like a first order. Removing the LF content from most mains, especially small types, can considerably reduce distortion all through the mids especially as levels increase.
IMO the best way to connect a subwoofer is to connect wire from the speakers' terminals to the speaker-level inputs of the subwoofer.
This can be done with lightweight (16 or 18 gauge) speaker wire, and insures that the subwoofer gets the exact same input signal as the main speakers.
The subwoofer's internal crossover can be set to the LF lower frequency rolloff point of the main speakers (40, 50, 60 Hz or what ever it is), and adjusted for best blend of sound.
My vote: Buy an old AVR from Craigslist. The ones without HDMI inputs will be cheap (~$70), but will have the bass management/active adjustable crossover that you need for proper subwoofer integration.
An AVR like that won't have Audyssey or other room correction software. No big deal, as these are overrated IMHO.
If it's just for music, then just run the sub through the pre-amp. If you're going to watch movies with lots of low frequencies, you're better off with an AVR to filter out the lower frequencies from your sierras.
Hi all,
I noticed when I did my research that most integrated amps while they do have a pre-out for subwoofer applications, do not have the option of a crossover.
Should I go with an AVR so I can get the crossover function and maybe even get one with Audyssey?
SVS subs have 80Hz high-pass filters which would do a good job of integrating bookshelves. You can keep your current amp and just add a sub to the chain.
yup and the plus and ultra line have adjustable high pass. Or you could buy a Outlaw ICBM-1.
Why on earth AVR's are being talked about....
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