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crossover newb with passive subwoofer questions

I am considering purchasing a stand alone crossover for my system.
My system is comprised of the following, source to speakers:
MacMini to DAC to tube line preamp to tube amplifier to *passive* subwoofers (one per channel) with monitor satellites wired off their respective channel subwoofer.
The crossover devices that I've seen all seem to have RCA outputs (rather than speaker outs) which would imply to me that that the subwoofer and satellites would need their own amplifier.
Is there a device, or way to avoid the need for another amplifier,using a crossover "seperate" with my passive subwoofer/satellite setup? I'm assuming that such an animal would allow for wiring the speakers for each channel in more of a parallel arrangement, as opposed to a series arrangement as I have them now....
rabco

Showing 9 responses by rabco

rabco OP
49 posts
 
Kal, understood.
All the input has been helpful!
Now I can start weighing the pros and cons, and plot my next move.
rabco OP
49 posts
 
I've been wondering if the benefit gained,a better integration of the subwoofers, which will come at the expense of complicating the signal path (introduction of a seperate amp for the subwoofers, the circuitry of the crossover,etc)will yield better sound, than simply leaving the setup as is.
I've spent a fair amount of time equalizing the bottom end thru the MacMini. I'm thinking the sonic footprint of the Mini might better be eliminated with a crossover and no equalization.
Not to mention freeing the Legacy Monitors (the satellites)from the influence of the subwoofers.
rabco OP
49 posts
 
I'm using Cambridge Soundworks passive subwoofers with Legacy Monitors. The wires feeding the Legacy's are connected to the same posts on the subwoofers that accept the signal from the amp.
rabco OP
49 posts
 
I've assumed the passive subs have no crossover for themselves. I haven't gone to the length of contacting the manufacturer at this point.
As always, I'm trying to proceed to get the most for my audio dollar. I'm assuming a nice self powered sub could set me back, well, more than a good used crossover.
I could press a nice Onkyo ss amp into service to power the subs.
Opinions regarding the benefit I might realize by buying a used crossover & employing a seperate amp, vs the addition of several active devices are welcome.
If anyone cares to share their experience doing this, I'm all ears.
rabco OP
49 posts
 
Tpsonic, no my equalizer isn't fine enough for me to hazard a guess about what frequency should be used for a crossover point. The passive subs have no level control. When discussing the impedance of the speakers with the manufacturer of my amp, he felt that setting the amp up for a 4 ohm load would be best. I know, a guestimate at best, for gear that's been matched piece meal without any formal measurement. I've been using it this way for years, but thought I might try this process as an upgrade.
rabco OP
49 posts
 
Kal, if I had my way, I'd be part of a 3 Corvette household, but the reality is.....reality! I manage to get unsolicited compliments on my system as it stands, and I steadily try to improve it over time.
Thanks for the links. I'll check them out.
rabco OP
49 posts
 
Tpsonic, thanks for the suggestions.
My preamp is a simple tube line preamp with only one output. I suppose "Y'ing" the output with RCA lines, to what would be two separate amps would be a no-no for several different reasons....
rabco OP
49 posts
 
Kal, just covering all my bases with questions that address all my potential solutions.
For example, if I use my ss Onkyo as a subwoofer amp, I may need 2 pre outputs to drive the subwoofer amp and the tube amp that would drive the Legacy monitors.
I understood that some of the units in the links you provided are as you describe. Which may make them the most attractive way to proceed.
Just trying to sweat the details. These are devices I've only seen pictures of, & I haven't deployed.
rabco OP
49 posts
 
Just for giggles, as it's been years and many rig modifications ago since I listened to the Legacy's "naked", I think I'll listen to the monitors alone and re-evaluate their sound without the subs.
The results of this experiment might help justify the additional expense of a proper subwoofer.
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