Help with Pro audio question?

[ondrums]

I am using a powered sub in a pro audio situation where I play an acoustic bass drum mic'd through a mixer and then through a Velodyne sub for added bottom end in small venues. This has worked great due to the small size and weight of the sub. I know this is not the intended use for this sub, but it works so well; and "PRO" subwoofers for this purpose are $$$, huge and weigh 100 lbs. The size and weight of powered subwoofers for small stages/performances is perfect. I am truly surprised at the quality of bass I get from this setup. My apologies to the audioholics for this obscene use of a sub, but I do not know where else to turn for advice! I am using a Velodyne sub currently. Any brand/size/power suggestions for this application of a sub?

 

[KEW]

I'm not sure I understand what your question is.
Are you asking for suggestions for a different sub?

If so:
Which model Velodyne do you have now?
Why do you want to replace it (what don't you like about it)?
What is the most weight you are willing to handle?

 

[ondrums]

Using a older 10" 100 watt Velodyne sub I had in a 5.1 system. I am afraid the SPL level will damage the sub. I had tried so many other "amps" for this application and finally tried a powered sub I had in a home audio setup. It worked great. I want to know the forums opinion of a suitable subwoofer for this application keeping the weight, size, and cost to a minimum. I know the SPL (Sound pressure level) will be high on the sub due to the acoustic bass drum impact. I have really searched for a solution to this application, and the powered sub seems to be the best solution. The PA system is so small for vocals that it is impractical to run the drums through a small PA, so I am left to implement my own "system" in these small venues. What about the BIC models?

 

[Irvrobinson]

Any brand/size/power suggestions for this application of a sub?

I say keep using the Velodyne. It seems to be meeting the need. Pro audio subs are meant to play very loud (like 130db) with high efficiency and don't go all that low. Most roll off at about 38Hz or so. The Velodyne probably plays lower, though nowhere near as loud. It sounds like you don't need the loudness of a pro sub anyway. Save your money for when and if you blow out the Velodyne.

 

[ondrums]

Thank you Irvrobinson! You are definitely on target with what I am trying to do!

 

[KEW]

One benefit of a powered sub is the amp can be optimized to the driver.
Modern subs should limit the power before they actually self destruct.
The problem is knowing for certain this is the case.
You might want to call BIC and ask about this. I don't know if you will get to a good technical person or get the word from a hype salesman, try to use your intuition on that.
If you go with an ID company you can usually get to speak with someone who knows what they are talking about. Lava Subs might be a good option to check out.
Also Energy makes some smaller subs and I think you might be able to talk to someone there who knows what he is talking about. (Hopefully their CS has not been consolidated with Klipsch).

 

[Nestor]

Using a older 10" 100 watt Velodyne sub I had in a 5.1 system. I am afraid the SPL level will damage the sub. I had tried so many other "amps" for this application and finally tried a powered sub I had in a home audio setup. It worked great. I want to know the forums opinion of a suitable subwoofer for this application keeping the weight, size, and cost to a minimum. I know the SPL (Sound pressure level) will be high on the sub due to the acoustic bass drum impact. I have really searched for a solution to this application, and the powered sub seems to be the best solution. The PA system is so small for vocals that it is impractical to run the drums through a small PA, so I am left to implement my own "system" in these small venues. What about the BIC models?

Are you handy with a table saw, or know someone who is?

http://billfitzmaurice.net/

You've mentioned size, weight, SPL, and $$ as factors. I'm sure there is a design on Bill's site that would fit your needs.