Should I use the high level inputs on this system

[Carl08]

So I'm in the process of setting up a 2.1 channel system in my office. Here's what it consists of...

Amplifier - NAD D3020 amplifier
Digital Media Player - Sonos Connect
Turntable - Audio-Technicia AT-LP60
Compact Disc Player - Onkyo C-7030
Mains - NHT SuperZeros
Subwoofer - Outlaw Audio M8

I found that the NAD D3020 has a sub out with the low pass filter set to 100Hz however, there is no high pass filter. As a result, my SuperZeros play full range. Should I output from the amp to the M8 sub and use the high pass filter on it to send signal to the SuperZeros?

 

[XEagleDriver]

Carl08,
I believe using the speaker high-level signal inputs/outputs to connect your Superzeros may achieve what you want.
However, I took a look at the M8's manual and could not find any statement definitively stating the speaker high-level outputs do in fact pass through a high pass filter (fixed or variable).
- The Crossover Frequency knob's function is described in the manual as follows:
"LOW-PASS CROSSOVER CONTROL"
"This control sets the frequency of the built in variable low pass crossover"
Some subs have an output signal path that does pass through a high pass filter (typically a fixed value) and the manuals are very clear about this (i.e. my SVS SB12-NSD).
- On my SB12 this HP out is provided for a low-level signal that I feed back into my reciever (a HK 3485) which has no bass management, but does have stereo Pre-amp Out/Amp In connectors/bridge.

Therefore, I think the connection scheme you propose will probably divert low frequencies to the sub only and away from the Superzeros, but I am not sure. At worst you would be no different than now with the Superzeros receiving a full-range signal from the NAD. I would advise giving it a try.

Cheers,
XEagleDriver

 

[Carl08]

I called Outlaw Audio. The high-level outputs are full range. That means I'd be no different than using the NAD's sub preout. I'll just stick with the pre-out

Carl08,
I believe using the speaker high-level signal inputs/outputs to connect your Superzeros may achieve what you want.
However, I took a look at the M8's manual and could not find any statement definitively stating the speaker high-level outputs do in fact pass through a high pass filter (fixed or variable).
- The Crossover Frequency knob's function is described in the manual as follows:
"LOW-PASS CROSSOVER CONTROL"
"This control sets the frequency of the built in variable low pass crossover"
Some subs have an output signal path that does pass through a high pass filter (typically a fixed value) and the manuals are very clear about this (i.e. my SVS SB12-NSD).
- On my SB12 this HP out is provided for a low-level signal that I feed back into my reciever (a HK 3485) which has no bass management, but does have stereo Pre-amp Out/Amp In connectors/bridge.

Therefore, I think the connection scheme you propose will probably divert low frequencies to the sub only and away from the Superzeros, but I am not sure. At worst you would be no different than now with the Superzeros receiving a full-range signal from the NAD. I would advise giving it a try.

Cheers,
XEagleDriver