I wonder why you can't simply use the line-level RCA output from the Raven preamp and connect it directly to the REL T/9x's low-level RCA input, which is specifically designed to accept a line-level signal from a preamp. You could do this with either a single RCA cable (using the left or right output) or a proper Y-summing cable that combines both channels into a mono signal for the subwoofer. Maybe I miss something...
Subwooofer with Monoblocks set up question
A recent post by @patrickalston got me to thinking about my own potential monoblock situation.
In a few days, I plan to start testing out replacing my CODA CSiB (V2) integrated for a pair of Gato PWR-222 monoblocks with the Spatial Lab Raven preamp. The Raven has one set of XLR outputs and one set of RCAs, and they can be used simultaneously. In that room i have 1 REL T/9x and no room for a 2d sub. Gato and REL are quite clear that you cannot connect 2 monoblocks to a single subwoofer.
My plan is to connect the Raven to the PWR-222s via XLRs and to use the single-ended outputs to connect the Raven to a Schiit GJALLARHORN F and connect the REL T/9x to the stereo speaker outputs of the GJALLARHORN F. My theory is that this will avoid the potential shorting of the Gatos and allow both right and left channel bass signals to get to the REL. (The Schiit will actually be connected to the REL Arrow transmitter, so the T/9x is electrically safe in any case, i think.).
As the GJALLARHORN F is Class AB non-differential, I can connect the REL high-level cable in the normal/simple way without needing to float the ground cable or ground it to the amp chassis.
Gemini agrees that this approach is technically sound.
Does anybody on here think i am about to do something very bad or stupid? I really don’t want to damage the Gatos.
Thanks!
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@lanx0003 i think that would work as well. I’ll try that and compare the sound with the path using high level and the Schiit. The Schitt has a 15 day return window. |
@knock1 this is what i was wondering about. Does the amp’s current capacity matter with the high level input given that the REL (Arrow or direct to the T/9x) isn’t drawing current from the amp at all (the subwoofer high-level impedance is 150k ohms)? Is the timing of the subwoofer affected and out of sync because the speakers would be driven by the 250 wpc monoblocks and the Arrow transmitter is taking the signal only from the flea watt Schiit, even though the T/9x is actively driven by its own amp? |
Kirk, I fully understand what you are trying to do. You want to use a spare stereo amp to preserve a speaker (high) level connection to Rel sub. For the sake of simplicity, let us set aside air transmitter for now. One coveat (you might have already been aware) is, by doing so, the Rel sub hears (sees) the spare amp while your main speakers hears (sees) the Gato MBs. Since the sub / main speakers do not hear (see) the same amp, is the high level connection advantage that the Rel sub is designed for is still there? You will find out if the unconventional method works sonically by auditioning both. As you mentioned, if it does not provide sonic benefit, you have already know what to do. Less is more! Good luck on your experiment and I would love to hear your feedback. |
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