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How to hook up a subwoofer with an integrated amp?

I am quite happy with my current 2-channel system, but given that it's driven by a tube integrated (EL34) amp, I have been thinking of adding a good quality subwoofer to enhance the bass department. The question is: how do I hook up a subwoofer with an integrated amp since it doesn't have a sub-out?

Should I:

(1) use Y adapters for each channel to split the signal from the cdp to both the sub and the amp? (cross over concern? degradation of signal to the amp?)
(2) long interconnect to go from cdp to sub's pre-in, then pre-out to the int. amp? (using sub's cross-over, but not prefer due to long I/C's)
(3) Speaker wire from amp to sub, then sub to speakers? (any cross-over concern? degradation of signal to the speakers?)
(4) Any other ideas?

While we are at it, what would be a good quality sub (hopefully under $1,200 used) that goes well with my system:

VAC Avatar Tube Int. Amp
Sonus Faber Grand Piano
Cary 303/100 Cdp
Nordost Blue Heaven Bi-wire spr/IC

All input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys!
stevenkc

Showing 2 responses by stevenkc

stevenkc OP
49 posts
 
Thanks James for your input, especially with the tape out. Unfortunately, my Cary (303/100) doesn't have a volume control (unlike the 306), therefore the tape out option may not work.

So, between using the Y adapt and running parallel speaker cables, which one is lesser of the evil? Or the parallel run, besides the drawback that James mentioned, what about cross over concern sonically? i.e. say the subwoofer's cross over will fiter out any signal above 80Hz, but what about the existing speakers, since there is no cross over that "tells" them not to drive below 80Hz. Would that be a concern, especially within the frequency range of, say 40 to 80Hz, when BOTH the SW and the speakers are driving together. Any inputs? Anyone?
stevenkc OP
49 posts
 
Seth,

Yes. After much reading, I'm currently leaning towards a REL. Question on the Neutrik conector: how long is that cable? I also read about the ground wire. Where do you connect that? Lastly, which REL do you have? I'm thinking either the Strata or the Storm, but have no idea which one would match better with my system. Then there is also the original vs. II vs. III. i.e. should I get a Stata III or a Storm for similar price?!?
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