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Sub volume very low at low volume vs mains

shilent

Member
Joined
Oct 31, 2020
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KEF R3 Meta
Dual RSL 10S MKII
MiniDSP Flex Digital w/ Dirac
SMSL M500 MKIII (mains)
SMSL AO200 MKII
Topping E50 (subs)

When listening at moderate to high volume, everything sounds great. When listening around 55db, my subs aren't putting out much. Bass sounds better if I just listen through mains.

I don't remember having this issue with my previous single sub SVS SB-1000 non pro.

I could just switch profiles to just play mains when listening at low volume, but it takes so long to do so on the Flex and the subs would sound better overall if this could be remedied.

I tried different gain settings on the subs, different volume combinations on the Flex, DAC, and amp, it all ends up the same when listening at low volume.

Anyone know a fix for this? The Flex does not have a loudness feature.

Would an all-in-one like the NAD C 3050 help with this?

See picture below.
110Hz crossover, must be high due to my small room.
When listening at low volume, there's a dip and my house curve is gone.

1000001772.png
 
Having a different preset with a high or low shelf filter preset on the Flex is probably the easiest way without changing processor. How long does it take? I have the Flex HT and it might take 5-10 seconds when I switch to a different preset, not bad if if you are not going between them too often.

Other than that, a processor, integrated amp or receiver with a loudness, bass knob or other type of intelligent volume feature would be easier.
 
I just timed it, about 4 seconds. Doesn't sound like a lot, but it definitely ruins the music for me when switching during playback. If I remember to switch profiles before I start listening, then it's OK, but the only time I remember is when I realize those bass notes are missing.
 
A processor or receiver with intellignent volume is probably the only solution. Even having a loudness button or bass knob will require a few seconds of user control when noticing these problems.
 
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