Augment full range or look at new speakers?

[javaught]

I currently have a pair of Fostex FE126-based horn speakers and a SET tube amp that I built several years ago. Sound is really good but I'm finding I'd like to have fuller range (particularly bass). I'm trying to figure out if I should augment my system with a nice subwoofer and perhaps super tweeters, or if I should look at a high efficiency multi-way system (the 4PI system in particular has caught my eye). My music tastes vary - everything from hard rock to bluegrass. I don't play at super loud volumes typically. I will keep the full range speakers around regardless, but trying to figure out if it would be easier and yield overall better sound to add to my system or if I will have trouble integrating the sub/tweeters and a multi-way or different full range system would be the way to go. Any thoughts as to advantages one way or the other?

 

[GM]

From a purely technical POV, don't 'fix what ain't broke' and add either an IB, OB or BP 'sub' system and super tweeter capped off in the 20-40 kHz range to 'taste'.

From a personal POV, my limited experience with a 126 in a floor loaded BIB left me and its owner wondering why anyone likes this driver for anything higher SQ than a Muzak system.

GM

 

[AlexQS]

From a purely technical POV, don't 'fix what ain't broke' and add either an IB, OB or BP 'sub' system and super tweeter capped off in the 20-40 kHz range to 'taste'.
.......
GM

(Emphasis added by me.)

GM,.. Sorry I think I'm slow in the head some days.... Are you saying DO add a sub, because your FR driver isn't broke? Or are you saying DON'T add a sub because FR design theory isn't broke, and if that doesn't suit your taste build something different?

I don't want to put words in your mouth, so please correct me in my misunderstanding.

Thanks,

 

[planet10]

Add a woofer. Every system, FR or not needs separate powered woofer(s) if they want to plumb the lowest octaves. Separate allows for more optimal placement.

dave

 

[GM]

GM,.. Sorry I think I'm slow in the head some days....

I know I am!

I was saying that if you're satisfied with the horn system as is, then add to it; otherwise try different drivers in the horns and if you find some you like better, then add to it.

Obviously, if you're not that satisfied, then start over from scratch, though like Dave said, one always needs a 'sub' system to be 'full range' these days unless your music listening stops at FM radio and/or pre- PF's 'DSOTM' and Rick Wakeman's 'The Six Wives of Henry VIII' vinyl.

You're welcome!

GM

 

[javaught]

Thanks all for the replies. I think adding the subwoofer is probably the route I'll take.