subwoofer for micro system

audiogm

New member
May 23, 2011
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Obviously micro systems (like the Denon DM39) lack bass because of the speaker size, but adding a subwoofer seems to distort the cost equation pretty drastically. Why is there not a category of subwoofer purpose-built to compliment the size, power output and cost parameters of micro systems? These sytems often have subwoofer outputs, but there don't seem to be sensible options for using that output.

For anyone who has owned such a system and wanted some extra bottom end, what did you end up opting for?
 

bluedroog

New member
Mar 4, 2010
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The simple fact is with a decent cabinet that needs to be well built and braced, a sufficiently engineered woofer and then suitable amp to drive it there is only so cheap a manufacturer can build one and still have profitable mark-up.

There was a Yamaha ‘sub-woofer’ which I use in the loses terms I remember seeing that was very cheap and compact that has the dimensions more of an amp and can sit on a shelf, but I’d be amazed if this actually enhanced the sound, I suspect it sounds more like a farting box.

BK sell subs direct and therefore reduce a lot of the costs, I’m yet to hear of a better value company for sub woofers and for people on a budget they’d be the first port of call, the entry level model in the range is the Gemini at around £215. With 150w and a 10” drive unit this isn’t going to shake the house down but it will produced decent tuneful bass that would no doubt enhance a smaller system.

If that price is too dear then without going 2nd hand (or DIY if you have some competence in the area) then I’d say you’d be better off keeping your money and either putting the money towards some larger speakers (albeit efficient ones with a micro system) or just learn to live with it.
 

magnus78

New member
Jul 14, 2012
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I use it with my exisiting yamaha HT subwoofer(yst-sw315). But after since i changed the stock speaker to Wharfedale Diamond 121. i have stop using the subwoofer for music as the Wharfedale Diamond 121 produce good bass.
 

nopiano

Well-known member
I suspect the sub woofer output is so that people can use it as a home cinema rig as well as for audio. But I'd far rather have a some reasonable stand mount speakers than waste money on a boombox, because it sure isn't music.

Far better to accept limited bass and let your brain fill in the missing bits, just like the miilions who listen on headphones do. Just my view...
 

empacher

New member
Dec 4, 2012
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Micro systems are not just about reducing costs. Many purchase microsystems or 'lifestyle-systems' to better fit a small room (or don't have the benefit of a dedicated sound room or study and have dominating partners that absolutely refuse to have several big boxes awkwardly placed in a main sitting room). When I lived in a smaller appartment I picked up an 8" sub for my small Nakamichi system. The sub was about 50% of the cost of the system (250-300lb) but it made a large difference and was worth it.

Some micro systems are capable of very good quality sound so if you go for a cheap sub it will likely have a negative impact. Don't scimp on a sub.
 

audiogm

New member
May 23, 2011
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Just thought I would document my chosen solution.

I was intending to get the Paradigm PDR-80 (8-inch driver) to go with my Denon CEOL Piccolo, which could be had for about half the price of the Denon. Unfortunately, I couldn't find one to demo.

There were a couple of cheap Jamo subs available, but the sales guy who didn't stock them but could get them wasn't overly enthusastic about the benefits for 2 channel music listening.

Eventually ended up with the Wharfedale SW150 (10-inch driver), and at about half-volume, it seems to compliment the Denon nicely to my un-audiophile ears.
 

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