Topic: 3 way speakers v. 2 way with a sub

[Tim]

So as I plot my next move (speaker upgrade) I started thinking about the types of music I listen to and what qualities I want in a speaker. In my current setup I run an active sub with my B&W 602.5's, the sub has a crossover on it as well as a volume knob. Given the  fact that some of the tapes I listen to are boomy having the ability to turn the sub volumes up or down, or even off is very helpful. If I move to a 3 way speaker I'm worried that the boomy tapes in my collection will be unlistenable. So perhaps I should stick with 2 way mains and get a stereo pair of subs?

Any thoughts?

[MattD]

Do you have a means of EQ in the system? I'm a minimalist, so I'd rather have 2 full-range speakers than 2 "bookshelf" + sub. I think the only way I'd add a sub in a music (not HT) system is if I had 2 full-range speakers that had some bass extension issues and I was pretty much set with the placement in the room.

[ducati]

This is a conundrum with "taper music," especially my own as my rig tends to get a little flabby in certain venues that I frequent.  My ProAc D25's aren't as full-range as some, but I go strongly down to ~30Hz and this can cause issues with a few of my tapes. 

I am of the "purist" mindset, too, and honestly I like full-range speakers much better than monitor w/sub.  So I stick to that tack.  But sometimes, I do wish for that bass contour/attentuation control...  I seriously considered McIntosh for my pre because of it!

No real advice, I just feel your pain. 

[Tim]

Do you have a means of EQ in the system? I'm a minimalist, so I'd rather have 2 full-range speakers than 2 "bookshelf" + sub. I think the only way I'd add a sub in a music (not HT) system is if I had 2 full-range speakers that had some bass extension issues and I was pretty much set with the placement in the room.

I do not have any EQ means other than what is on the sub...

that is what has me wondering if giving up that flexibility is the "right" decision

Ducati - thanks for your thoughts... glad to know I'm not alone

[BCostigan]

Yup....tapers do a fine job of recording what they listen to....which can mean some boomy bass.  The bass is a bit much on some stuff I recorded with the TLs.   Better to have to tame it than have none at all I guess.

I'm guessing ya run some kinda fancy-schmancy pre/amp combo with no treble/bass adjustment.  If so I think the 2 subs ( with volume & crossover control)  is the way to go with your 602.5s.  Being able to control the treble/bass is an invaluable tool for me listening to all the live recordings that I do....I can't imagine not having that ability.  Maybe a pair of full range speakers and a decent eq?


Tough question Tim......

[Tim]

you are correct Brian, my NAD had a tone control but my integrated ASL does not...

fwiw - Phil Lucks thinks I should stick with the 2way/sub combo...

[pfife]

I'm gettin a sub to get there too.

[wboswell]

just go with some vr4jr's and kwitcherbitchin

[Tim]

just go with some vr4jr's and kwitcherbitchin

yeah, I've got plenty of room for those