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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
ricred1
2,147 posts
 
m-db,

My subwoofers were set-up by my dealer using REW, listening, and the No. 32 parametric equalizer. They are on the outside of my speakers.

"you are the only staunch sub user I can recall who prefers a -6dB sub-bass speaker to the -3dB subwoofers you’ve owned." Subwoofers aren't just about bass and that's why I prefer the No. 32s. It’s what I prefer based on actually owning several subwoofers. As I always say, no absolutes in audio, only preferences. I don’t understand why people care what people spend their money on. It’s simple, if you don’t like REL subwoofers, don’t purchase them.

navyachts's avatar
navyachts OP
654 posts
 

@ricred1 - by the way, that’s a beautiful system you have there!

ricred1
2,147 posts
 

navyachts,

Thanks for your kind words.

ricred1
2,147 posts
 
rauliruegas,

"Dear @ricred1 : In this link and in any REL information you can’t find out which is the 31/32 THD that is essentially a meaning of the true quality subwoofer performance levels. If you have information about then please share with us:"

Sorry and I don't want to be rude, but I simply own REL subwoofers. I don't work for them, I'm not a REL fanboy(I don't like their subs with a passive radiator), and I don't get into measurements. In my system/room, I prefer the NO. 32s because adding them has improved everything across the audio spectrum. The 32s disappear and you can't tell they are on, until you turn them off. I'm not telling anyone to buy them or saying they are the best for everyone.

m-db's avatar
m-db
1,089 posts
 

ricred1,

My apologies that my lack of specificity led you to feel the need to justify your personal taste. You have been very clear about your current level of satisfaction with your systems speakers. 

Could you describe where in your room you positioned the dual JL Audio F112 v2's the SVS Ultra's and the Martin Logan Depth i and HSU subwoofers?

Example: Between the speakers, corners of the front wall, same plane next to the speakers etc? 

 

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