Systemic Development > Speakers

2 Channel with Sub - optimum setup

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ik632:
So, I've got the new/old receiver back and running but I have a new issue. I'm using Bose 201 with a Klipsch KSW10 sub to reinforce the bottom end. When I had it hooked up to my new technology HK receiver there was a dedicated sub output which varied with volume control of the receiver (as well as input signal change when I changed the SB volume). Now, I don't have a remote for the receiver and I'm using the SB for primary volume control. I have the sub hooked up to one of the tape outputs currently and it seams to work pretty well for SB use (using the volume control on the SB and keeping the amp set at one point). My problem is that I also use a tuner and when using that, the volume level of the sub does not change because it's hooked to the tape out.

After looking at the sub a bit more I noticed that it also had high level inputs so technically I could hook it up to the speaker b outputs of the receiver and have the benefit of level control from preamp or SB. My question for you guys is; is this a kosher setup and could I have any adverse affects connected this way? The sub has it's own internal amplifier, so the high level signal is just for signal and it won't be pulling much power from the amp. It seams the least elegant solution to this problem though,

miklorsmith:
Ah yes, the solution that leads to a problem.  Zis ees extreeemly common.   :D

I might be wrong, but I'm guessing the high-level inputs on the sub are just that - speaker level, bypassing the internal amp which runs solely off the line (low) level feed.  Somebody please correct if I'm wrong.  In any event, taking a speaker-level feed and reducing to line level then re-amplifying to power the sub is not ideal.

If true, this would mean you'd need another amp which would need its own line input and you're right back where you started.

If you're using your SB for volume, try an RCA splitter out of the SB where one output goes to the amp and the other to the line inputs on the sub.  I've used these in the past with mixed results.  If the SB has sufficient output, it will be able to drive both "amps".  I don't think there's any easy way to predict how it will sound but you're not in danger of blowing anything up, so give it a try.

I have an old Audiolab integrated that will power its own speaker terminals and also include a variable-volume RCA out for outboard subbing - a nice feature.

Side note on using the SB volume - try to tailor the receiver volume so you're using the SB above 80%.  Below that (according to Slimdevices) the digital attenuation starts having deleterious effects on sound quality.

Give 'er a go and let us know what you find.

ik632:
The way you described with using a splitter off of the SB is almost like I have it now. The tape outputs are not level controlled by the volume of the integrated amp, so when I turn it up with the big shiny knob the level going to the sub doesn't change. However, when I change the SB volume, I get attenuation of the level going to the sub.

I just need to figure out how to get the tape output level to vary with the volume and I'm set.

Now, my other issue is that when I have the SB above 80, I can't turn the volume on the amp up past 1 without it being too loud. It's not a problem when I want to listen to things loud, but at dinner/background music levels, I have the volume setting just a wisker above 0.

Carlman:
I think your A/B speaker outputs are the only solution available to have consistently variable output to both the speakers and sub.  There's no way to make the tape outputs variable with the preamp section... and if there are no variable outputs (pre-outs) then the circuitry just doesn't exist. 

Also... you could install a graphic eq and adjust volume with the equalizer.. and then you'd have 3 volume controls (SB, receiver's pre, and EQ).

Now if you really wanted to get your hands dirty... and risk it all on the big prize... ;)  You could try to find the preamp out section of the receiver, and tap into that to make a set of preamp-outs.  I don't know how to do this but I would think it'd be possible.

I don't see that there would much of a detriment using the method you've already considered.  Let your ears be the judge.  I would even consider running your A-channel to the sub and then running the output of the sub to the speakers to experience what the crossover does.  It won't cost anything to try.

-C

rollo:
   Try connecting the sub from your speaker terminals with speaker wire. Or directly from speaker output from receiver. Your gonna be suprised. Run the speakers full range and dial the sub in as required. Then put on a bass heavy recording [ use Ab on CDP remote to play approx. 30 seconds and set on repeat mode ] and determine proper phase [ polarity switch back of sub ].  Then be prepared for some kick ass bass.
    You should be in like Flynn. Tighter, lower and most important better focused. No yopu won't harm the amp or sub.

rollo

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