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Hi, I'm new in this forum. I have Lowther PM7A and will add front horn (Azura) to it soon. The Horn supposed to be good down to 200-300Hz. I would need bass module. I prefer not too big (around 100 liter max). I doesn't need to go to 20Hz, I think 40Hz would be good enough. Sensitivity is not that crucial since I will bi amp the woofer, but more important is the bass to "fast" enough to keep up with the horn and can integrate seamlessly. Would 3pi sub suitable? or maybe pi4 with JBL 2226? Thank you in advance Regards
I'd go with the four π and JBL 2226, especially since you want to use it up to 200-300Hz, into the vocal range. I think you'll find it to be a good match.
Thanks Wayne, The pi4 enclosure size, 26 X 18 X 14, is that internal or external size? Thanks again
Wayne, What do you think Delta 12LF in pi3? do you think they will be a good match? Thanks
Those are external dimensions.
The Delta 12LFA is an excellent sounding woofer. It is full sounding and does a great job of putting out the bass without sounding bloated. No notes are overemphasized, nor are there any suckouts. But it doesn't have a shorting ring like the JBL 2226 does. That makes the JBL much cleaner sounding and more articulate.
Hi Wayne, Do you have the link to this pi4 box plan/instruction? Thanks
Please excuse my ignorance, what are these bass modules? Lots of people are talking about them but they are not listed on the website?
He's talking about using a three π or four π speaker minus tweeter as a bass bin. The three π uses the Delta 12LFA and the four π uses an Omega 15 or JBL 2226. Plans are also available for a couple of dedicated subs that aren't listed on the website. There is a three π sub, which uses a LAB12 and a four π sub, which uses a JBL 2245.
Oh I see. So what do people use for the tweeter/midrange? Just conventional speakers? And how do you bend the bass module with the main speakers? With active crossover and bass amp? So basically just use them as subwoofers? This is an interesting idea as I am building the 3pi with externally placed tweeters. I may try to use the bass module as subs for my main speakers.
Usually people build or buy completed loudspeakers. Occasionally, someone already has a favorite full range horn or something, and they just need a bass bin that operates up through the lower midrange. In this case, something like the four π is perfect. Just make it without the tweeter. Whether a standard model is used or some kind of hybrid, the bass is good and most people don't augment their speakers with a sub. Room gain tends to lift the very deepest bass, so a gradual rolloff is desirable in many cases. However, in large rooms or in other situations where a sub is desired, one of the dedicated subwoofers can be used. Dedicated subs are tuned differently than a full-range model. The woofers chosen for the subs are designed to be used between 20-200Hz, and the cabinet is tuned for this range also. In contrast, woofers chosen for full-range models are designed for a much higher bandwidth, but don't go as deep. If you need a midwoofer to go from say 40-400Hz, then the bass bin used in a three π or four π is perfect. It sounds nice in the midrange and bass goes pretty deep. Rolloff is gradual and smooth, making it a nice compliment to room gain. On the other hand, if what you're interested in is to augment the very deepest bass frequencies, then a subwoofer is better. It can be used down to 20-30Hz. A dedicated sub should be crossed over no higher than 100Hz for best integration. Any higher and you will be able to hear the sub as distinct speaker, which is not what you want. You want a subwoofer to add a foundation, but not to call attention to itself. It should not be louder than the rest of the system, nor should it "thump". If done right, no one can tell the subwoofer is on, it just sounds like the mains go deeper in bass.
Thanks for your explanation. I don't really need deep deep bass, but adding another 10-20 hz to my merlin tsm monitors will be great. Since I am building the 3pi anyway, able to run the bass bin with other speakers as well as a full range with the tweeters is a plus and just add more fun. I am really looking forward to receiving the kits and completing the speakers. Such a new and exiting journey for me! Thanks again!
Wayne - - can I see the plans for the 3 pi sub using a lab12