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Bass distortion before tweeter distortion with a monitor at high volume?

I am looking at getting a set of monitors for a second system in a small room (12' x 10') , but I would also like the flexibility to play them in my main system in a room that is larger (13' x 25') with cathedral ceilings.

Let's assume that the small speaker I end up with won't be able to produce enough volume without distorting in the larger room.  Most of what I have read indicates that a subwoofer would solve the problem.  My understanding is that I would want to high-pass the bass on the speaker before it reaches the point of distortion, solving that issue.

If that is true, that leads me to believe that generally the tweeter would not be distorting unless the volume is at a higher level.  Is this normally the case?  If not, it seems there would be no point to using the sub. 

To restate the question:  With a high quality monitor, is it safe to say that the tweeter can play at higher volume without distorting compared to the woofer?  I am speaking in general terms here - I am sure there are exceptions.  Thanks.
abnerjack

Showing 3 responses by elevick

elevick
2,636 posts
 
I disagree with all.  Distortion usually comes from the amp, not the speakers.  By adding a sub, you are putting less stress on the amp which allows for more headroom in the monitors.  Bass is the most demanding and therefor uses the most power.
The tweeter will have its limits regardless of the sub since the crossover is limiting the signal to the tweeter.  You are only alleviating the stress on the woofer.  
I have seen plenty of small speakers that can "crank" if given the right amp.  Adding a sub will help regardless.
elevick
2,636 posts
 
So, you guys really think that my 92 db at 1 watt/1 meter Coincident monitors are actually distorting at 95 db?  Is that when I overdrive them with my 100 watt tube monoblocks or my 325 wpc Mac amp?
They will fill most rooms with sound.  Adding a sub adds much needed bass but doesn't increase volume a bit.  The stress on my amps is negligible.  I also have a 10 watt triode amp that sings beautifully with them in my 15 x 25 living room.
elevick
2,636 posts
 
A well designed speaker should perform with almost flat response and just roll off in the bass due to size limitations.  Also, how big is your "big" room and how loud do you listen?  I've seen some monitors that rock better than some huge floor standers, take Revel for example.  You can throw 300 watts at them.
Where will my speakers distort if driven with a bryston 300 wpc amp?  I would have to say that it depends on the music.  Jimi Hendrix will distort and possibly fry the tweeters, while Pachelbel's Canon might overdrive the woofer. Something like Diana Krall will probably do the best since she tends to be more in the mid-range.
A sub will help the amp more than the speakers unless you turn up the bass knob.
On a last point:  My favorite repairman always said that 1 watt of distortion will fry a speaker much faster than 100 clean watts.
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