User feedback on subs


While it’s not a path I want to go down, it turns out I need some subs for my cabin system. After trying lots of positions with little success, and after having discussions with people who’s experience and knowledge I respect, I’ve concluded it’s the only way for me to deal with some serious modes in an odd shaped room and to produce adequate bass in the large volume. Sigh.

Subs are relatively unfamiliar territory for me. Based on the conversations noted, I am leaning toward sealed subs - no ports/passive radiators -  to better blend with my main speakers. 

While I’m leaning toward REL #31s, also under consideration are Sonus Faber Gravis VI, Perlisten D series, and Martin Logan Balanced Force (now Depth?). All are subs I can get from dealers in my home state. The SF dealer also carries Paradigm but he hasn’t suggested any of those models - even their reference ones. While available at the same dealer who can provide Perlisten, I’ve ruled out JL Audio for reasons I’d rather not discuss here.

The SF have a high level connection very similar to REL - intuitively my preferred connection. SF and Perlisten (I’m unsure about ML) have an app which assists in setup though I’ve been reviewing enough setup routines that I “think” I’ll get better results with a manual process. 

The Perlistens are completely unfamiliar though appear well designed and solidly built. However, they do not have a high level connection which means I’d have to send my preamp feed to them and output from there to the amps. I have what I think is a very nice sounding preamp and I do not want to harm that purity. Perhaps my worry is misplaced. I have the same concern with the ML. 

All the subs under consideration can do what I need. But they are obviously not all equal. The REL is the easy (safe?) choice, though significantly more expensive than the others. The Gravis can be ordered to match the finish on my main speakers - not important, but nice to have. 

So - given the above, any user feedback on the subs I’m considering?  I welcome pros and cons.

Importantly, auditioning them in system is not possible as that location is a 4 hour drive each way from any of the dealers. So, I want to get it right. 

TIA

mgrif104

@soix 

My apologies, but I’m not understanding how I could do what you’re suggesting with only one preamp out. How could I get a feed to my amps without using a pass through connection? I suppose I could use the recorder out, though that’s single ended only. 

It’s never been suggested to me to split with a y adapter either. May I ask you to be a bit more specific on how you’re recommending I do this?

Thanks,

I thought your preamp has two preamp outs — one balanced and one RCA.  No?

The floor is two parts: 1.5” tongue and grove yellow pine over 6x10” hewn logs exposed to the main floor, with 2x6” sleepers glued and nailed down on top of those

what a detailed description, must be beautiful flooring! Who cares about the hifi stuff after this

I will look for the Copeland you speak of. Reference Recordings always excellent. Might I suggest 2L also… the Nordic Sound.

yes model of your actual room is something that might strain a Cray… the advantage of a split analog system running your mains and a preamp line out to a DSP with microphone at listening position is reality governs vs a model.

there is an all analog option but I think it is outside your budget at about $10K with 2x Vandersteen Sub3 and a required high pass filter - which will improve your midrange. 

Checking with your preamp manufacturer is prudent, using both an SE and XLR out as same time… may or may not present a problem.