Using a 2-Way System w/ Additional Woofer

[TubeHead Johnny]

Happy Holidays Folks!

Is there a simple way I could hook up a small 2-Way bookshelf system (8 ohm) to an larger auxiliary woofer (also 8 ohm) using one amplifier? I would like to be able to control the 2-way system with an L-pad to dial in just the right amount of bass.

Thank you,
John.

 

[Pano]

Unless it's a powered subwoofer, you're going to need a crossover of some kind. Could be as simple as a coil and cap.

Getting both channels into that woofer in a passive hook-up ain't going to be easy - unless it's a dual coil woofer. Or you have a "Sub Out" of your preamp.

But someone clever here may know a trick or two.

 

[TubeHead Johnny]

Actually, it would be one woofer per side. If I put the attenuator (connected to the 2-way) in parallel with the woofer, that would make a safe 4 ohm load, no?

 

[planet10]

Given the cost of plate amps, and how hard and expensive it can be to cross low, you might be further ahead just going active.

dave

 

[Pano]

I agree with Dave.

But if you want to go passive, it may be the highs you need to attenuate, not the lows.

 

[TubeHead Johnny]

That's what I meant....the L-pad connected to the small 2-way system, then connect the outer legs (#1 and #3) in parallel to the woofer making it a 4 Ω load. Is there any reason why this WOULDN'T work? The L-pad is rated 100 watts, which I believe will be O.K. since the amp puts out 50 watts per side.