Just upgraded my speakers - do I still need the subs


I just purchased a used pair of KEF reference one Meta speakers to upgrade from my LS 50 Metas which I have paired with 2 KC 62 subwoofers. I am looking for some opinions on whether I need to keep the subs or whether I can go ahead and sell them along with my LS 50s.

fritzenheimer

You can download test tones here Source: Hsu Research https://share.google/et8a6EKJnUpEbnrRL

A/B test.  Listen to music you know by heart that has a lot of low bass or organ with the subs.  And then without the subs.  Do you notice a difference?  You should if the sub crossover settings are correct for your subs and speakers.  The subs not only deliver more low Hz output but they also allow your speakers to focus on producing mids and highs.  If not consider upgrading your subs to match the excellent speakers you just purchased.  A lot of great choices available. 

By all means keep the subs. I've R7 Metas with a pair of those same subs you have and they add a new dimension to those KEF's in a very seamless way.  You don't hear them until you take them out.  I had LS50's before, albeit without the subs.  I wouldn't sell the subs unless you just need the money.  They are very good and very unobtrusive. 

The -3db at 45hz rating is taken at about 10 inches away from the speaker at very low volume, and is essentially non existent at the listening chair...I believe a pair of subs can help any speakers...

While I have no experience with the KC62 it does at least seem to be more appropriate for LS50's than Ref 1's. But like most others here have expressed it's you that will have to let your ears be your guide. You definitely want 2 (at least) of whatever sub you go with, though. It'll be obvious why once you get them positioned correctly.

I have Focal Sopra 1's, a direct competitor to the Ref 1 and they also have better in-room bass response than the specs would indicate. But I already had and still use a pair of Rythmik G22 subs, turned down to about a quarter of their capacity. The sound is sublime and effortless. These are a sealed design, dual 12" driver (each) subs with DSP control and an 800 watt amp. I have mine mounted on Townshend Seismic Bars and can recommend them, too. The home theater guys don't care much for them because they were designed to be used in a music system (though if you demand more bass than these things are capable of producing then I have no interest in listening to your system). They produce tight, nuanced bass and won't break the budget, at least compared to upper end Kef subs or REL's. I think they complement the Sopras extremely well and even though I'm still considering moving to a floor-stander at some point I doubt very much that I will get rid of the subs.