Two subwoofers vs an antimode processor

3t3P · 10 Apr 2015 at 21:09

** Please don't hotlink images **

Hypothetical question I've not seen posed and am contemplating for my next setup.

It is well documented that two (or more..!) sub woofers, correctly setup, will provide a more even bass to more listeners.

My question is thus:

What would give greater perceived bass fidelity (not maximal SPL, not my goal)

1) A good subwoofer with an antimode to reduce room standing waves
http://www.dspeaker.com/uploads/pics/AM8033CS_configs1_03.gif

2) Two good subwoofers (same hypothetical sub model as in example above) placed well in the room
]http://cdn.ecoustics.com/db0/wblob/...DSLBv1Rmo2VE1GfpqBzqJIeq4w/675849-610x303.jpg

3) Two good subwoofers and an antimode (subs would be run in mono?)
http://www.dspeaker.com/uploads/pics/AM8033CS_configs5_03.gif

Mainly when talking of multiple subwoofers, it is said that it sounds better due to less likelihood of being at a positive or negative room mode.

But people never mention if there is also syngergistic cancellation of room modes
i.e. you still have resonance/room modes in the dual sub setup

The antimode processor aims to flatten out peaks in your room bass response, usuallly leading to more articulate, less bloated bass.

So is the ultimate solution multiple subs eq'd by an antimode?

Sorry, couldn't resist:
http://imgfave-herokuapp-com.global.ssl.fastly.net/image_cache/1387665606739348.jpg

Lowe · 11 Apr 2015 at 07:15

On phone so will be brief.

Multiple subs (4 is generally best) gives more even response for a larger proportion of seating area. Not a flatter response in the primary listening. Obviously also more headroom and less strain on single unit.

Anti mode gives better response at primary listening position.

So best solution is multiple subs with anti mode. (Which is what I have).

3t3P · 12 Apr 2015 at 00:19

Cheers for that its kind of what I'd hashed out in my minds eye.

So multiple sub's does nothing for the primary position experience?

Its only for other listeners?

I'll probably go dual subs + antimode at any rate

Lowe · 12 Apr 2015 at 07:17

It does help the response in the PLP, but not much - certainly not as much as you might imagine; you get a little bit more depth. Still recommend the antimode with multiple subs though, but YMMV due to your room layout, size, furnishings etc.

Lowe · 12 Apr 2015 at 07:19

On a side note - antimode was the best thing I ever bought when I was in my old place, it totally transformed the performance of my old REL. In my newer (bigger) home with dual Monoliths it's not quite the same impact but I wouldn't be without it.

3t3P · 12 Apr 2015 at 14:26

Thanks, sounds like a good idea to start with one sub and an antimode.

I can't decide between the new BK P12-300SB which has auto power on/off or the XXLS400.
Difference is £45 between them.

The P12 is marketed as being able to run in 2.0 and 5.1 but I don't see why the XXLS400 couldn't also do that.

I quite like the idea of auto power on/off which is what I am used to on my Dali E9F setup.

I might put the sub directly behind the couch as close as possible to the PLP instead of at the front wall.

Raymond Lin · 12 Apr 2015 at 15:21

I have 1 sub and 1 anti-mode, reason being the positioning of my sub is rather limited and it's helps because of that.

The effect is very subtle though.

Lowe · 12 Apr 2015 at 22:38

Not that big a surprise, you've got a sealed sub. A large ported sub is different - it'll light the room modes up far quicker.

With regards the choice iirc the new bk is a replacement for the 300. I'd go 400 or Monolith and be done with it. Turning it on and off is hardly a chore. You'll be turnin on an Antimode anyway.