Newbie question about adding an active subwoofer to a stereo setup

[ovi]

Lets assume this is the chain of devices I am looking at:
Network Streaming Device -> DAC -> Preamp -> Power Amplifier(s),

possibly without the pre-amp:
Network Streaming Device -> DAC -> Power Amplifier(s)

First I assume I need an active sub, as the power amp(s) only have stereo out.

Now if I would like to add a subwoofer to this setup, where in this chain of devices would you add it so that I can control the volume of the stereo speakers and the subwoofer in one place (i.e. from my phone which is controlling Spotify which uses Spotify connect to stream to my network streamer).

 

[DVDdoug]

Look for a subwoofer that has a built-in crossover and line-level pass-through. The output of the preamp (or DAC) goes to the subwoofer and the output from the subwoofer goes to the power amp.

 

[ovi]

Look for a subwoofer that has a built-in crossover and line-level pass-through. The output of the preamp (or DAC) goes to the subwoofer and the output from the subwoofer goes to the power amp.

Thank you. How about the volume control? Any input on that part of my question?

 

[ViperDom]

Replace DAC&Proamp with MiniDSP 2x4HD, or Flex, or SHD

 

[Kal Rubinson]

Now if I would like to add a subwoofer to this setup, where in this chain of devices would you add it so that I can control the volume of the stereo speakers and the subwoofer in one place (i.e. from my phone which is controlling Spotify which uses Spotify connect to stream to my network streamer).

If the VC is controlling volume at the source (only source?), it will equally affect all the items downstream including the added sub.

 

[Salt]

Reduced:
Streaming device DAC and Vol-adjustement included--> T-cable--> active sub with volume adjusted & speaker amp

 

[Ron Texas]

Buy a calibrated microphone like a UMIC-1 and learn to use it with REW software. Subs always need room EQ.

 

[Timcognito]

Lets assume this is the chain of devices I am looking at:

Do have any? If not there many options for the front end, pre-amps with onboard DACS and all in ones with streaming through dsp and amplification. One key feature is a high pass filter upstream that cuts off the low frequencies (LF) from going to the mains and allows for smaller main speakers, often less expensive or higher quality than full range. The filter stops your mains from working too hard, distorting or competing/interfering with your sub. Most subs come a low pass filter than keeps the HF out of the sub.

 

[kemmler3D]

Buy a calibrated microphone like a UMIC-1 and learn to use it with REW software. Subs always need room EQ.

Can't emphasize this enough. Integrating a sub without room EQ is like trying to decorate a cake with a shovel. Recently added a sub to my office setup and the before / after without and with EQ is just insanely different.

 

[ovi]

Alright, plenty of info here. I'll go do my homework based on all your input and also read up on MiniDSP devices.

Whether I already have any of the devices in that chain: yes, but I haven't mentioned them on purpose as I am very happy to them existing ones to another room and repurpose them.