Wanted to share an interesting experiment I've been testing. Using a 5.1 AVR for a 2.1 channel active system. Not the usual way using pre-outs, but instead using the multiple channels built into the AVR.
For one 2 way speaker I'm using the left main channel and the left surround channel. Woofer on main, CD on surround. Woofer and Cd both set to small. Woofer high pass set to whatever you like for your sub situation. CD set to the highest setting available which is 250hz. AVR set to multichannel stereo.
When using multichannel stereo the AVR does not send any of the bass from the surround channels to the sub, it only uses the L&R main channels. Bass from the surrounds is tossed out, so the high pass for the surround only protects the CD (a little). The CD also has a cap on it to protect it from accidents.
Next up is level matching, which is simply done via the channel trim adjustments in the AVR. You can also adjust distance/delay but the steps are large, so only slightly useful.
Then I'm using manual eq. I have +6 to -20db of adjustment for 7 bands. I set the out-of-bandwidth ranges to -20db to act as a high/low pass filter.
Between the level trims and the manual eq, you can get quite a bit of adjustment range, add in the 250hz HPF and you can get enough filtering for the CD.
I looked around and couldn't find any other threads about this, but I can't see why this wouldn't be a viable option for a simple active 2 way with or without sub. You can find a 5.1 AVR for next to nothing. Could even use a 7.1 and still keep your surround channels working. You won't be able to use the auto room eq though.
Thoughts?
For one 2 way speaker I'm using the left main channel and the left surround channel. Woofer on main, CD on surround. Woofer and Cd both set to small. Woofer high pass set to whatever you like for your sub situation. CD set to the highest setting available which is 250hz. AVR set to multichannel stereo.
When using multichannel stereo the AVR does not send any of the bass from the surround channels to the sub, it only uses the L&R main channels. Bass from the surrounds is tossed out, so the high pass for the surround only protects the CD (a little). The CD also has a cap on it to protect it from accidents.
Next up is level matching, which is simply done via the channel trim adjustments in the AVR. You can also adjust distance/delay but the steps are large, so only slightly useful.
Then I'm using manual eq. I have +6 to -20db of adjustment for 7 bands. I set the out-of-bandwidth ranges to -20db to act as a high/low pass filter.
Between the level trims and the manual eq, you can get quite a bit of adjustment range, add in the 250hz HPF and you can get enough filtering for the CD.
I looked around and couldn't find any other threads about this, but I can't see why this wouldn't be a viable option for a simple active 2 way with or without sub. You can find a 5.1 AVR for next to nothing. Could even use a 7.1 and still keep your surround channels working. You won't be able to use the auto room eq though.
Thoughts?
I have tought now and then to make 2- or 3-way speakers using Yamaha 7.1 receiver. Party mode on and use level, delay and parametric EQ with some passive crossover components.
The big limitations are shallow filter slopes and lack of ability to choose the frequency that you want. You’re stuck with 1k, 2k, etc. Can’t pick 1.3k. With the protective cap, the natural roll off of the Cd, and the eq, I’m able to get what I want. It is really nice to be able to tweak it from my sofa chair with the remote. I can see why so many like active crossovers.