[brucek]

No, they must be referring to the fact that it also has a high-pass filter and outputs (line level) for the main speakers?

Steve

I think most subs have high pass filter inputs and outputs (line high level) for the mains don't they?

I thought dual crossovers allowed you a separate setting for the LFE input (from a home theater system) and then a setting for the high level input for a stereo music only setup (but I may be wrong).

[So There]

I'd certainly recommend that you listen to various subs, Oswego, rather than just follow the dealer's recommendation. Velodyne's DD+ series, Paradigm's Signature subs (Sub 1, which Robert pictured above, and Sub 2), and JL Audio Fathom series are well known brands. If the footprint is an issue, there are in-wall subs that are reputed to do a creditable job, and this option might let you use multiple subs. There are certainly many other worthy contenders. Manuals, specs, and reviews should be posted online.

I don't understand what the dealer is saying about blending, vis-a-vis brands other than Aerial. Most high-end subs have both high and low pass filters, as previous posters have noted, and most have auto and manual EQ. Several audio gurus suggest using two subs, even two smaller ones, to even out room response. You may wish to look at reviews to ascertain not just the response of the subs but the power that they can bring to your large room. You might ask those forum participants who have such subs about their experiences and satisfaction relative to the size and nature of their rooms.

Best of luck, Oswego. You have fine equipment and merit an excellent audio experience in your room.

Cheerio,

Rich
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Whiney Napa Valley

[srb]

Most high-end subs have both high and low pass filters, as previous posters have noted, and most have auto and manual EQ.

Well, maybe you should say many.  Neither of the Pardigm subs, S12 or  SUB 1 (there is no current S1 model) nor the JL Audio subs have high pass filters (or speaker level inputs either).

As far as the Velodyne Digital Drive Plus 15, it has both high pass inputs and simultaneous line level and speaker level inputs, but I still think the dealer was favoring the Aerial SW12 because it looks like it may have greater adjustability with its high pass options:  stepped high pass filter adjustment for 50, 60, 70, 80 and 100Hz with selectable 6dB or 12dB per octave slopes.

Steve

[brucek]

Well, maybe you should say many.  Neither of the Pardigm subs, S12 or  SUB 1 (there is no current S1 model) nor the JL Audio subs have high pass filters (or speaker level inputs either).

As far as the Velodyne Digital Drive Plus 15, it has both high pass inputs and simultaneous line level and speaker level inputs, but I still think the dealer was favoring the Aerial SW12 because it looks like it may have greater adjustability with its high pass options:  stepped high pass filter adjustment for 50, 60, 70, 80 and 100Hz with selectable 6dB or 12dB per octave slopes.

Steve

Good point, any sub that has only a single LFE input certainly wouldn't be adaptable to someone without an HT processor. He requires either a stereo line level input with cutoff filter or a high level input with cutoff filter. The high or line level crossover outputs aren't absolutely required as he could rely on the natural low end dropoff of the mains.

[Oswego0522]

Great feedback.

I have some homework to do to better understand line levels, speaker levels and filters as mentioned in your posts.

If I were to go with two subs, from an aesthetics/small footprint perspective, I prefer the Velodyne Digital Drive 12+.

The dealer stated, however, that if I place the subwoofer(s) against the same wall against which my Dalis are located, the room will likely undermine their sound as it has done to the bass from the Dali speakers. His recommendation is that he bring an Aerial SW 12 sub to the house and then experiment with its location until optimized. Only then would he be able to say whether I will need a second sub.

[HsvHeelFan]

Since you're having bass problems, I'd measure the room response first.  You'll need a calibrated mic and test tones and test software to see the response.  See "The Bass Place" circle here at Audio Circle on how that's done.

There are a lot of very good subwoofers in the price range of that Ariel.  Heck, I'd audition one of the Bryston subwoofers or 2 of the mini-subs if there are available in your area.

HsvHeelFan