One reason they sound slow is if you have them placed the same distance as your speakers. Placing the sub as close to the listening position is best. The bass notes take longer than the mids and highs to reach you if they are placed next to your speakers.My rel t2 $800 msrp is placed 2 feet from my chair .Which also makes changing the volume on it very easy when neccesary.Never place it in a corner as you might for home theater. I sugest to anyone to try this location. You will not be dissapointed .
Why do subs sound bloated or slow?
The use of subs in 2 channel audio is controversial around A’gon. Detractors argue that subs usually make a system sound bloated or slow.
IME, the two biggest challenges for integrating a sub into a 2 channel system are optimizing frequency response and optimizing transient response. When frequency response isn’t flat, the bass sounds bloated. When transient response isn’t time aligned, the bass sounds slow.
Here is my pet theory about why systems that use subs often sound bloated or slow: Under many circumstances, optimizing frequency response and optimizing transient response is a zero sum game. In other words, getting one right usually means you get the other wrong.
Thoughts?
Bryon
IME, the two biggest challenges for integrating a sub into a 2 channel system are optimizing frequency response and optimizing transient response. When frequency response isn’t flat, the bass sounds bloated. When transient response isn’t time aligned, the bass sounds slow.
Here is my pet theory about why systems that use subs often sound bloated or slow: Under many circumstances, optimizing frequency response and optimizing transient response is a zero sum game. In other words, getting one right usually means you get the other wrong.
Thoughts?
Bryon