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Subwoofers - Final Thoughts with Martin Logan ESL 13A

I’ve narrowed this down to 3 choices (I think) and was looking to see if anyone has had some experience with pairing these subs with ML ESLs? I can’t try and return because they are mostly secondhand purchases, so hoping to get it right the first time!

Force Cancelling subs have been highly recommended, so:

KEF KC92 (or KF92 older model) 2, 3 or possible 4 of these:

https://assets.kef.com/product-support/kc92-subwoofer/KC92_info_sheet_EN_V4_20240124.pdf

Martin Logan BalancedForced 210 - Maybe the best as they match up nicely, but I could probably only do one of these as they are HUGE. I have only one spot I could put one as far as the manual's recommendation goes. Martin Logan says these will cover 3000 sq. ft. My room is only 500 sq. ft. Two maybe overkill, but some say, "2 subs or no subs" Maybe I could put another addition on the house :-( 

https://www.martinlogan.com/en/product/balancedforce-210 - click on Specs/Lit

Lastly, The Swarm Subwoofer System - not sure how well this would work with my ESLs.

https://www.audiokinesis.com/the-swarm-subwoofer-system-1.html

Any advice would greatly be appreciated (as usual).

Thanks, and all the best of the season to you all!

 

 

 

navyachts
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
8,080 posts
 

I'm starting to get cold feet about this whole subwoofer thing,
 

LOL

@navyachts you essentially have tone controls now. Turn up the bass level knob in the back of the ML woofer cabinets. 😂

ricred1
2,147 posts
 

navyachts,

"@ricred1 sorry, I missed the point, are you in agreement with @rauliruegas ?" I submit audio is personal and there are no absolutes. I personally don't like REL subwoofers that use a "passive radiator", because my listening room is upstairs and I could hear the radiator. My point was REL does have "true" sealed subwoofers(No.31 and 32). In my system, I prefer sealed REL subwoofers and I use dual REL No. 32 subwoofers. In my room/system, it isn't just about bass, but how adding the No. 32s have improved everything across the audio spectrum and the soundstage. I prefer the 32s to every previously owned subwoofer...dual JL Audio F110, dual JL Audio F112 v2, HSU, Martin Logan Depth i, and SVS 16 Ultras. I prefer my system with subwoofers, some don't.

rauliruegas
13,384 posts
 

Dear @navyachts  :  The SVS App will be tell you all about the placement of 2 subs and everything around:

 

SVS App Specs:

  • The most powerful and flexible Bluetooth controlled subwoofer DSP app, works with both iOS and Android operating systems.
  • Easiest and most convenient way to adjust crossover frequencies, parametric EQ, polarity, room gain and all other bass management functions.
  • Three convenient custom presets allow for perfect tuning in any room or system, from your favorite seat.
  • Single tap adjustment for controlling variable port tuning with standard, extended and sealed modes.
  • Unique bidirectional feedback shows adjustments in real time on both app and subwoofer interface.
  • Easy-to-follow tutorial provides clear guidance for all functions

You need a High-Pass filter for your main ML speakers, this is critical.

 

Yes the 4000 can function for your room/system

 

R.

 

R.

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
654 posts
 

@ricred1 at almost $13K a pop you better prefer them to the measly priced SVS 16 Ultras :-)

@rauliruegas thank you!

ricred1
2,147 posts
 

It's what I prefer, but it certainly doesn't mean they're for everyone. In my opinion it has nothing to do with price, but what I value. Everything impacts a system and in my particular case, purchasing REL No. 32 subwoofers and a Antipodes Oladra music server has been two of the best decisions I've made for my system. I submit SVS and RELs impact systems differently. 

 

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