I have a marantz av8805 pre processor, which has 2 Xlr balanced subwoofer outputs.

I have two regular subwoofers connected to these.

Now I want to also connect a behringer nx3000d to power 4 jbl 12” subwoofers in a boss riser.

What is the best approach for this:

1) use one of the Xlr out for both subwoofers (they can be chained) and the second Xlr for the behringer, or

2) use both for the subwoofers but add one Xlr splitter to split one of them towards both the sub and the behringer?

I’m afraid option 2 has a disadvantage when using audyssey since it would influence not just the sub but also the behringer. But option 1 means Audyssey can’t optimize each sub individually. What’s the best approach here?

Also should I add all 4 jbl’s to a single output channel of the behringer or put 2 on each output channel? If I do the latter, do I also need to use 2 input channels?


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I'd definitely keep the shaker array on one XLR and bridge the subs on the second. This provides some flexibility in my opinion such as the option to put a couch mounted volume control for the boss, or (if you're receiver supports it) run different crossover points for each. The NX3000 supports bridged mode so all 4 subs can be on one channel bridged provided you dont go lower than a 4 ohm load in that configuration. Wire your subs 2 in series on in pairs of 2 then wire the pairs in parallel.

There are some advantages to having audyssey have to work with both subs at the same time as if they're one sub. It will see them as the pair of subs they're intended to be. There are arguments for it both ways. The benefit here is that perhaps audyssey will not "hear" anything when you have it equalize the boss set which is sub #2 and then it won't futz with it at all. This is ideal as I don't think you'd want audyssey doing anything on the BOSS array.

Option 2.

This will allow you to keep your current calibration. Turn off the Behringer amp when/if you recalibrate with Audyssey. Adjust your BOSS settings using REW and a mic or by taste. The BOSS is more a shaker than a sound emitter, so it shouldn't hurt your existing calibration. If you use two outputs, you can split the input once again, or just use Input A in Bi-Amp mode. Make sure the crossovers aren't linked in the Crossover tab if you use Bi-Amp mode

I also have the AV8805, and was thinking the RCA output connections could also be utilized?

I will be using a miniDSP 2x4 HD, so will probably be using that for the BOSS platform.

I’m researching/reading through the thread to prepare for the build.

Mark


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Having like subs on one trim lets you adjust the levels with said trim, but you forego any possibility matched stereophonic bass.

At some point you'll either have to go with a bigger miniDSP, or all-inukeDSP or step up to a Trinnov or Motu DSP rig.
Traditional AVR's and pre-pro's just aren't designed for ultra bassheads.

So preparing for that scenario, would you say splitting it with a y sitter from one of the ports is the better choice? Or how do you get the signal into the minidsp?


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Hmm I made the assumption that if I use the Xlr puts the rca’s would be disabled. Or do they still output the exact same signal? Then we essentially have 4 sub outs.




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Yes, both the RCA and XLR output connections are “hot” all the time.
I learned that when converting from RCA to XLR or XLR to RCA, the adapter wiring is critical, and depends on which way you are converting, as noted in the post below. For converting XLR to RCA, Emotiva makes a correctly wired adapter:

https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink/top...ink_source=app

The Monoprice adapters are wired incorrectly:

https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink/top...ink_source=app

For my miniDSP installation, I plan on making my own cables so I have ultimate flexibility in where to place the miniDSP in the rack.

I hope this helps.

Mark


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Actually, the pinout depends on which way you’re converting.

RCA output to XLR input, pin 1 and 3 are shorted.

XLR output to RCA input, pin 3 is not connected.

Chris

It would this have an advantage over splitting the xlr? Audyssey would adjust both the rca and xlr output simultaneously, I assume, so it’s not 4 independent outs.

Yes, they’re linked internally. Splitting the XLR will have the same effect.

Chris

Consider a MiniDSP unit because it will give you the splitter function and also allow additional EQ along with BEQ.

Thanks for the clarification, because I have not decided whether or not to make either the XLR to RCA or the RCA to XLR adapters.

I need to find out if the subwoofers are actually balanced XLR inputs, because if they are not, it might make the most sense to wire them this way:

1) Marantz AV8805 RCA outputs to miniDSP RCA inputs via RCA cables (no adapters).

2) MiniDSP RCA outputs to the existing XLR cables via RCA to XLR adapters.

3) Equipment rack to subwoofers via the existing XLR cables.

Any input would be appreciated.

Mark


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It sounds like you have balanced inputs and outputs, so I’d just use a minidsp balanced.

On an unrelated note, I have one for sale. Pm me if interested.

Chris

Thanks but I already got the 2 x 4 HD based on recommendation from experienced miniDSP users, but I wish they had a newer balance unit with the same capabilities as the 2 x 4 HD.

Mark


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Agreed. I’m switching to a 4x10 HD, but it still doesn’t do some of the things the 2x4 hd does.

In that case, I’d go rca from processor to minidsp. Your subs likely have both rca and xlr inputs, so just use rca there too if you can.
Use adapter cables for the boss amp.

Chris

Thanks again. I can’t do RCA to the subs because the Belden cable I used to make those custom cables is 110-ohm and designed for XLR. We will see how it works out.


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Ahh, gotcha.

I don’t think you’ll have any issues as long as you use correctly wired adapters.

I just try to avoid using more adapters than necessary. It sounds necessary in your case though.

Chris

Agreed, and I will be connecting miniDSP gold RCAF to gold RCAM, and Neutrik XLRF silver to XLRM silver so no mismatched metal on the connections, so there is that.


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