Need some professional advice here......

[yeahman68]

So, here's the issue. I currently have a 2.1 setup using the tsc p6-pr as fronts, and an tsc asw-8 sub all being run from an onkyo tx-sr304. I'll admit, the system doesn't sound as good as i'd like. I find myself raising or lowering the level calibration on the subwoofer because the bass is either too much or too little...It's really quite annoying. I was thinking of buying a 5.1 system for the downstairs using the 304, and then buying another receiver, maybe the onkyo 507, but i fear that the sound will not improve as much as i'd like...Is it necessary for me to buy a stereo amplifier, or maybe even a preamp? Could it possibly be my sub? Be advised, the 2.1 system will be used for music, and then 5.1 system for HT.

Thanks for your help.

 

[highfigh]

So, here's the issue. I currently have a 2.1 setup using the tsc p6-pr as fronts, and an tsc asw-8 sub all being run from an onkyo tx-sr304. I'll admit, the system doesn't sound as good as i'd like. I find myself raising or lowering the level calibration on the subwoofer because the bass is either too much or too little...It's really quite annoying. I was thinking of buying a 5.1 system for the downstairs using the 304, and then buying another receiver, maybe the onkyo 507, but i fear that the sound will not improve as much as i'd like...Is it necessary for me to buy a stereo amplifier, or maybe even a preamp? Could it possibly be my sub? Be advised, the 2.1 system will be used for music, and then 5.1 system for HT.

Thanks for your help.

Move the sub, especially if it's in a corner. Putting it in a corner gets the maximum output but not the most even response. Also, if you're sitting against a wall, move away from it and move the sub farther from any walls. Also, if the sub has a built in amp, see if it has a phase switch and try both positions before and after making any changes.

 

[Lordoftherings]

Hi,

For a good sounding stero system, I like to use a stereo integrated amp, or a 2-channel power amp, preamp combo. Stereo receivers are great too, if you like FM music from the tuner.
But I also use my Multichannel receiver for stereo listening, and I'm very pleased with it, I'm using an Onkyo 805 for that.

A subwoofer, I found, is always hard to integrate properly with your mains, for tons of reasons, including positioning. For me, some of the best stereo 2.1 system setup are the ones that are specially made with that in mind. Try putting the sub between your two mains.
Some subs match better with a certain type of speaker, that's an important point to consider.
In your case, no worry, you use the same brand (TSC). So, hopefully, they work quite well together.

It's very normal what you're doing with the volume level, every recordings required some volume adjustments from the sub to sound their best, it's an inevitable situation; you just have to dial in for the best compromise. IF you like Blues as your main type of music, you dial in for it. Same with Jazz or Classical, or Electronic type of music.
Is your sub has an 8" driver. If so, have you consider a 10" driver?
Are you generally satisfied from the sound of your speakers? You seem like.
That's the most important point to start with.
The receiver or stero amp is only secondary.

If I was you, and you only use a 2.1 system upstairs, I'll get a stereo receiver with a sub pre out. Denon, Onkyo and others has some. Check their respective web sites. My brother has the Denon 297 and he's very happy with the sdound quality, more than happy actually, he loves his Denon Stereo receiver. Check it out:
@ http://www.usa.denon.com/DRA-297_Lit218.pdf
It retails for only $299, but you can find it for cheaper of course,
perhaps for only $199, I'm quite sure.

Cheers,
Bob

* Tips: Set the Gain on your sub at about 1/3 of it's position rotary knob.
Set the Low Pass filter to it's max position.
Check the Phase switch and leave it at the position where you get the loudest bass.
* Make the final sub channel level adjustment, from your receiver.
* Set the x-over from your receiver at 80hz.

 

[lsiberian]

http://www.audioholics.com/tweaks/get-good-bass/

Check that out. It's got a lot of info.

I suggest you start with a crawl test. You put your sub in place of your seat. Then you crawl around listening for the best bass. Swap spots and Bam! You got it.

 

[tcarcio]

You might want to audition some new speakers because that may be the problem.

 

[lsiberian]

Another thing to do is adjust your crossovers. I know if mine are set at 100hz or higher it sounds great but if I cross at 80hz stuff sounds terrible.

 

[yeahman68]

Thanks a lot guys, I moved the subwoofer out of the corner, and put it to the side of the tv stand where the speakers were placed. The music sounds a lot better.I appreciate all the support.