Re: Powered Subs

[Bill Fox <billyfox@soundscapes.us>]

Qua Veda wrote:
>
> Correct, you don’t need to go stereo since the ‘separation’ at the sub 
> 100hz frequencies is minimal or non-existant. However, systems with a 
> sub for each main channel can be smaller and very effective. – but 
> probably net out to be more expensive.
>
Actually, Bose has perpetrated this myth all too well. Because the low 
frequencies involved *are* omnidirectional in nature, everyone believes 
this myth. However, the human ear does use arrival time in this 
frequency range in order to get some directional information. Robin 
Miller <http://filmaker.com>, who is an expert in multichannel sound, 
can play you a recording of a church pipe organ. Using only one 
subwoofer, it sounds OK since this is how most people hear it in typical 
sound systems. But using stereo subs, the recording opens up and becomes 
amazing, revealing details that usually are only heard in the original 
chuch environment while the pipe organ is being played.

Having revealed that, however, for your performing needs, one sub is all 
that you'll need, Kris. I doubt that you have much directional 
information being produced in that frequency range. Out of curiosity, 
what is the lowest tone you typically produce in a show? The low E on a 
guitar? If so, then even one sub might be more than you'll need in order 
to get your point across! ;-)

Cheers,

Bill