I very nearly purchased a used set of RM-40s a few weeks ago. They were offered at an excellent price, but I hesitated and so they went to someone else. Although I don't presently own any VMPS speakers, I often find myself drawn to this forum for the interaction of the faithful. There is always something exciting going on with development. Dust doesn't settle too long on these models before a new tweak, or some better way of doing something surfaces. The last thing I probably need is a new speaker system, but I always seem to find myself drawn back here to learn more about what is new.
Hi Dave,
I thought I got you a pair of RM40s years ago.
You're certainly correct that Brian doesn't let any grass grow between his toes. There are always developmental things coming around.
Lately I have been working on getting my soundroom in order:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=31520.0
I have certainly seen your room before, and remember the sculpture you have on the front wall. Very striking!
But, I have also been doing some thinking about the RM-40. This is what I was thinking about. If I went this way, I would want to add in two larger subwoofers to create a complete system. I know folks do that quite regularly, with them and the RM-30s. However, I was wondering if the RM-40s were ever built from the start with that in mind? What I mean is, if a separate subwoofer was part of the system from the beginning of design, would the tower sections be built the same, or would changes be made to optimize them for the frequencies they would be running? For example: Would there still be a mid bass and low bass driver, or would two mid bass drivers be used instead?
The RM40 is certainly a "full range" speaker, but for some, there is an extra layer of sound from 24Hz down that adds that certain something. All Brian's speakers are designed to work with his subs in a complementary way.
When the VMPS subs are used properly with any of the systems, they need only be "blended". This blending is sometimes different than many think. The RM40 has a roll off in the mid 20Hz region (-3db) depending on your room.
The best sub to use with the RM40 in a large room is the LARGER.
To achieve the best "blending" you need two primary elements:
1) the LARGERs need to have their "acoustic centers" in alignment with the acoustic centers of the RM40s based on your seated listening position.
This will maintain "proper phase".
2) The Larger need be "rolled in" to produce the least "overlap" of frequencies, while still covering them to produce no dips in frequency. That is, if the RM40s are run full range, the LARGER should be rolled in around 28-30Hz. Most people run this "roll in" too high, so that you have too many drivers producing the same frequencies and "MUD and FOG" will be the result.
Now comes the question of How Many Subs?
Well many know that I have "FOUR" LARGERS, and that is NOT, because they are low in output. It is because I want the cleanest and most pure bass that can be produced.
It is because of this that I use two "pushing" subs, in frontal flank, and direct alignment with my main speakers, and two pulling subs, directly behind me, that fire away from my listening position. causing the air at the listening position to have greater energy and accurate, clean movement.
But your needs will depend on your room, and interest in DEEP BASS.
I see that you like the BASS tower RS1B, which too is high output. I assume you have them flanking your mains, and as you already know, this type of arrangement, adds a spatial presence and quality that you do not want to give up.
Two LARGERs will certainly give that too you.
If you are so inclined, I certainly can also suggest the more "crazy" application of a third, or as I use, a fourth, by adding them in behind you. The affect is "stunning" and enveloping, and for practical purposes rather inexpensive.
When you consider a LARGER sub (base price $699) fully loaded is around $1.4k, which includes SR-71 and the 1000w amp. Plus I'm sure the dealer you choose will perfrom some "courtesy pricing magic" to make 2 mains and at least 2 subs quite attractive.
For the sake of discussion lets make the subwoofers self-powered and the bass sections of the RM-40 towers as well. Would that effect the crossover points and selection of bass drivers?
Dave
When Brian adds the PBS to the RM40 (I'm just now placing an order for that very combo in MLS Light Maple RM40's today) he "adjusts" the amp to accommodate the frequency and power needs of the RM40 Woofer system.
This 1000w amp then powers the the two active woofers and the PR "only"!!!!!
Bass does not come much cleaner and with more authority than this.
Add a LARGER, or FOUR, and you have a speaker system that will equal or match "any" thing on the market today, in overall performance and musical enjoyment. Not to mention incredible physical presence.
And one other thought. Since you do notice that Brian "keeps swimming", ordering with the OXO is helpful in future=proofing your speakers for any new electronic developments, down the road.
B, has promised to look into adding his magic to some of the "digital" machines on the market. This will be down the road, but by going OXO, you are ready for that "bridge" should you wish to cross it.
This would offer you even more "flexibility" to adjusting that "exact" blend of the RM40 woofer system and the LARGERs.
You have to love the fact that you will have a system that will allow you to have SOTA now, and grow as high as you want to grow in the future
