This is interesting. I have dual DD-15’s in my 2 channel system and run speaker line level. Perhaps I will give the XLR a try.
Changed subs from speaker level to XLR after many years. Wow!
Quite a number of years ago I started using the speaker level input for my Velodyne (glad to see them back in business) DD10plus subs. At the time I had been reading that REL recommended this method, and having a new set of BHK300 amps, I decided to hook them up via a set of dedicated short speaker runs. At the time I thought it sounded a bit fuller and left it that way for many years.
The system hasn’t changed drastically, perhaps the addition of a Niagara 7000 power conditioner, but definitely new Directstream firmware (more articulate bass) tube/socket cleaning, the addition of EtherRegen, and recently cat8 ethernet cables that’s surprisingly filled out the entire lower range of the system.
This last change made me wonder what the subs would sound like going direct from my preamp’s extra XLR outs.
The change to XLR is pretty significant. Aside from just getting the lowest octave (subs come in at 35hz) I’m getting an entire lower ambience of the room, which I wasn’t fully getting previously in the large, close to double height space. Everything is more fleshed out.
The other thing is I noticed the sub’s cone moving differently. Touching the sub’s rubber surround, (through a cloth to avoid oil transfer) the servo woofer’s vibrations were now More distinct, lower and more controlled, less buzzy.
These last 2 changes, cat8 and line level for subs has opened up a huge subterranean environment, and I can’t wait to listen to the system again tomorrow.
The cumulative effect is pretty powerful and has taken my system to yet another level of realism.
Again this supports the idea diminishing returns can be counterbalanced by setup and tweeks that change the curve, and pay off dividends later. I guess what you’re paying for with more up priced gear is potential.