Why is good, deep bass so difficult? - Myths and their Busters


This is a theme that goes round and round and round on Audiogon. While looking for good sources, I found a consultancy (Acoustic Frontiers) offering a book and links:

http://www.acousticfrontiers.com/guide-to-bass-optimization/?utm_source=CTA

Interestingly: AF is in Fairfax, CA, home to Fritz Speakers. I really have to go visit Fairfax!

And a link to two great articles over at sound and vision:

https://www.soundandvision.com/content/schroeder-frequency-show-and-tell-part-1
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/schroeder-frequency-show-and-tell-part-2

Every audiophile who is dissatisfied with the bass in their room should read these free resources.

Let me state unequivocally, deep bass is difficult for the average consumer. Most audiophiles are better off with bass limited speakers, or satellite/subwoofer systems. The former limits the danger you can get into. The latter has the most chance of success IF PROPERLY IMPLEMENTED.

The idea that large drivers/subs are slow is a complete and utter myth. Same for bass reflex. The issue is not the speed of the drivers. The issue is usually that the deeper a speaker goes the more it excites room modes, which the audiophile is then loathe to address.

Anyway, please read away. I look forward to reading comments.
erik_squires

Showing 5 responses by tomic601

so...
anybody actually run the curves for your listening position ?
easy to do
but harder than typing this.....
omg Wolf that is funny
when nobody is looking i will flip the fuse on the church organ
......which sounds quite lovely run into those two little ribbons into my high speed B77

i actually know what 16 HZ sounds and feels like....on Sundays
oh and here is an almost free tip
download vandertones
get the analog Radio Shack SPL meter...put meter at listening height at listening position, record what your speakers and the room are doing

use the Vandersteen math based ( there is that damm science stuff again ) to consider placement changes...just download a Vandy manual for free and get out your tape measure...
oh and a high pass phase correct filter so you higher frequency amp dont have to work that hard....
11 band analog EQ tunable for the listening sweet spot :-)
an additional subwoofer if needed for ego or rooms with small hands
push pull aluminum cone driver
decent plots over time
pistonic motion verified with a special laser system so that we know what the cone is really doing...knowing is the key to the scientific method
disc or download 11 band signals, SPL meter to set EQ
power factor corrected monoblock sub amp built into box
stealth enclosure with autoclave bonded low resonant cabinet
adjustable Q
owner answers the phone, calls me during fishing season to make sure I am still alive...

same basic technology available in the line for < $ 15 K

i am happy