Video Asylum

Posted by Bob Wanamaker on October 23, 1999 at 16:24:25:

In Reply to: running main speakers "large" or "small"? posted by RichardH on October 23, 1999 at 08:23:05:

Richard,

Depends.

Basically, what you are seeking to do is to have the most dynamic system possible to handle the high peaks in action movies. By setting to "small", you offload a tremendous amount of work from your main speakers and amp to the sub. But it's a double-edged sword: can your sub take this extra work?

Listen to both on films with some dynamic effects. Which setting produces the greatest sense of ease? A really great test is to play back dynamic passages at the same relatively high level---maybe higher than you normally listen---and listen for distortion with both settings. This should give you a great idea of which way is best for your gear.