Equalization with REL six pack


I am preparing to set up a REL six-pack for the first time. Though I bought the subs used, I am paying a local dealer to set them up. One question I want to have perspective on before setup is this:

 

I use a Rives PARC attenuation-only equalizer that is indispensable to tame room bumps in the 40-80 hz range. (yes I know room treatments are more deal but let's put that aside please)

When I set up the six-pack, my thinking is that I should put the subs in place, stacked approximately where they are supposed to be just outside and slightly back from the mains, and with the subs unplugged, get the mains to sound the way I like with equalization. Then go through the whole six-pack setup. This makes more sense to me than bypassing equalization during setup and equalizing after the six-pack setup, since subs have separate volume control and can be set accordingly. I suppose I may do slight attentuation adjustments afterward as well. 

 

The alternative of bypassing equalization until after six-pack setup seems less appealing because much of the six-pack "by ear" setup could be thrown way off by adding significant attenuation after the fact.

 

Thoughts? I am not mentioning system components because I don't think it matters, but if anyone disagrees I am happy to give a rundown. My mains are Verity Parsifal Encores, flat to around 28hz.

 

Thanks

 

 

montaldo

Showing 3 responses by m-db

["REL Reference models employ remote control in order to assist and increase ease of initial set-up. We do this knowing that once properly set, the owner will likely use it rarely during the remainder of their ownership experience as RELs truly can be set-up correctly to reproduce all forms of music and film without resorting to cheap parlor tricks like turning bass up for movies and down for music.']

If you find this online brochure statement questionable you should become knowledgable as to their return policy. Keep in mind you're purchasing "-6dB sub-bass systems - Richard Edmond Lord," not subwoofers.

 

avatar: Gene Czerwinski

To be clear, that was a direct quote from the REL website. Point being they developed a remote volume control even though they claim adjusting volume level for music to HT is a parlor trick.

My response was in the form of a warning showing a blatant contradiction regarding something as simple as adjusting gain. If I'm not mistaken their contradiction now extends to the use of low level connectivity for the line array systems? 

I apologize for my lack of forum clarity and a failed attempt at sarcasm toward a product (not you) that I personally found to be stunningly lacking in control as well as frequency response.

In my experience with this sub-bass speaker I disregarded the manufacturer setup procedure regarding high level connectivity and location suggestions which exacerbated exactly the frequency range at issue here.

Relocating the REL within my rooms bass mode and using an optimized low level signal from a Velodyne DD subwoofer the $9K REL came into its own. Unfortunately, its limited -6dB low frequency response clearly choked the program material that the Velodyne easily conveyed. I can't imagine simply adding five more units filling that void.

Again, my apologies. All the best with your project. M

 

 

avatar:  Gene Czerwinski