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2 Channel Subwoofer connection

Hello, I am seeking advice for a Subwoofer connection.  My system consist of a Rotel RCD 1570, Jolida JD 202 Integrated Tube Amplifier and a pair of Bowers & Wilkins 705. This set up is just for music listening.
I like how much detail I get from the music with these 705, the only problems is that my loft is an open space with high ceilings, therefore, the bass is not very strong. I thought I could add a Subwoofer. The issue is that my integrated amplifier doesn't provide a Subwoofer out. The only option will be to run speaker wire from the integrated into the Subwoofer's speaker level inputs, then connect the 705s to the subwoofer's out (As pictured in the diagram)

 https://cloudflare.crutchfieldonline.com/ImageBank/v20160824170200/ImageHandler/scale/978/978/core/l...

However, as I've never attempted this connection, I am concerned this could degrade the audio signal, would the sound quality be affected due all these extra wiring and having the signal go through the subwoofer and then to the 705 monitors?
I've looked into the Bowers & Wilkins ASW750  but this doesn't come with sub's level inputs. I am considering the ASW300 instead. Any advice will be much appreciated.
Thanks,

Joseph







mamifero

Showing 4 responses by mattmiller

mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,479 posts
 
Joseph, To add proper bass to your system you need a REL subwoofer, This sub will connect right off the main amps output taps (just like your main spkrs) You dont need a Sub out! You just need the proper subwoofer. The REL uses a special cable called a SPKON connection. its very easy to setup and the great benefit of this connection is that it recieves the same signal as your main spkrs which allows it to blend much better. REL makes subs of all different price points. Find the one that fits your budget, you will love it!

Matt M
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,479 posts
 
This is why Im recommending the REL it has ONE cable with a spkon connection for the SUB side and three bannana plugs for the amp side( 2 positive 1 negative). You leave the speaker wires in place as you have them already, no need to change that. IN THIS WAY, the amp dosen’t see the SUB. So this has no effect on your amps output. Yes this is the most sonically appealing way to connect the REL. Your not giving up any sonics! In fact, set up properly it will make your mains work less and they become free to play more musically and everything is improved.

Matt M
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,479 posts
 
Hooking up any sub using the amps taps to run a second set of wires to the sub using a HIGH level input is connecting the sub in the least favorable way for sound and integration.
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,479 posts
 
Subs that use 4 (2 neg and 2 pos) wires from the amp to receive the signal is an old outdated way of running a sub, how can you say the active sub dosent see the 2 additional wires connected to it..it does, and it has to deal with it. I call this smoke and mirrors and subs hooked up in this way never integrate and your always adjusting knobs with every song. The REL’s dont connect this way they only send 3 wires (2 positive 1 neg) this way the amp really dosent see the sub because its running at 100,00 ohms! You set the REL and once its dialed in thats it, you dont fiddle with volume and crossover points ever! The REL is just there doing its job, and its very musical, anyone that thinks subs are for adding non directional bass has never heard a REL.

And NO i'm not a REL rep, I always hated Subs because of lousy connections and bad integration...until I found a REL Britania B2 10" in natural cherry. with upgraded (signalcable.com) spkon connection.

Matt M
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