Subwoofer recommendation please!

[jetsetter439]

Hi all,

Long time lurker, first time poster.

I'm in the process of putting together my first hifi setup and have selected the NAD C 316BEE as integrated amplifier, however am having a hard time finding a compatible subwoofer. I believe it would have to have high level speaker inputs as well as outputs, but am only able to find brands such as Polk, which remind me too much of Best Buy.

Others have mentioned that I could go with a variety of other subs that don't include the above-mentioned connections but would have to instead be connected "in parallel". However, try as I might, I am still not sure how to establish this parallel connection given the outputs on the NAD C 316BEE.

Any input regarding the above would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!

 

[Frank Harvey]

I'd choose an amplifier with a pair of pre-amplifier outputs in order to give yourself a much wider choice of subwoofers, otherwise you're severely limited to either MJ Acoustics or REL - one of those I haven't heard, and the other hasn't really produced a decent sub for many, many years.

 

[jonathanRD]

I have a BK XXLS400 from http://www.bkelec.com/HiFi/Sub_Woofers.htm

It has both low and high level connections. The low level is connected to my 'subwoofer out' on my home cinema receiver. The high level is connected to my two channel amplifier. My amp (Rega Brio) only has speaker outputs (no pre-outs) so the high level connection cable splits into 3 wires (amp end) which are connected to 3 of the 4 speaker posts (along with the speaker cables for your speakers). So in my case my speaker cable is connected to the amp using banana plugs and the 3 subwoofer wires are connected by the bare wire screwed to the binding posts. Maybe hard to explain but easy when you see it. When purchasing from BK they ask you what type of connections you require.

However, you do not mention what speakers you have in mind? Subs can help support the bass with bookshelf speakers but you may not need a sub with floorstanders. Room layout and size may also be a factor. Subs can be tricky to set up properly and some room layouts can significantly affect a subs performance.

 

[Deleted member 116933]

I'd choose an amplifier with a pair of pre-amplifier outputs in order to give yourself a much wider choice of subwoofers, otherwise you're severely limited to either MJ Acoustics or REL - one of those I haven't heard, and the other hasn't really produced a decent sub for many, many years.

I would secound this advice. Somthing along the lines of rotel ra10 would be better but it may mean you will have to bump your budget a little or go secound hand. Very good exampals of old nad can be had for less and with pre amp outputs. C320BBE spings to mind. Then the worlds your oyster!! then you could look at SVS and alsorts.

 

[MickyBlue]

I agree REL subs are not as good as they used to be, something like this http://www.bkelec.com/HiFi/Sub_Woofers/P12300SB-FF.htm would be a much better option.

 

[bebelacus]

Have a BK XXLS400 and very happy with it. It may br too big for you and you can try their smaller options

 

[MickyBlue]

REL are bring in a replacement to the T SERIES in august called the Ti range, might be worth checking out.

 

[ellisdj]

I personally like the look of this from Rel a lot - buit it would take a lot for me to part with my SVS

 

[DocG]

I may have missed this, but what's your budget, jetsetter?

Personally, I'm interested in the Rythmik subs. Made in Austin, Texas. Very reasonable prices. Very well respected on hifi forums (many prefer them over Velodyne, or SVS). Their Direct Servo technology (in theory) makes a lot of sense to me. And they sell finished subs, as well as Custom Install packs (drivers, plate amp and a manual, so you can have the cabinet built locally -- or DIY), so you can reduce shipping costs.

I haven't heard them myself, mind! All hearsay...