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View Full Version : Why is it a bad idea to mix subs?



akillj
04-13-2012, 06:32 PM
Title says it all. I've heard its bad to mix subs and that they would sound bad if two different subs were mixed. But what's the actual reasoning behind this?

Al Poulin
04-13-2012, 06:59 PM
Title says it all. I've heard its bad to mix subs and that they would sound bad if two different subs were mixed. But what's the actual reasoning behind this?

Different subs have different frequency response. Because of this, certain frequencies will actually cancel each other out when you mix them - leading to possibly LESS sound/low frequency than you previously had...

If you use a pair of the same subs however (which have the same frequency response), these will couple perfectly and reinforce each other's output - increasing overall SPL in these frequencies - which is exactly what you want.

Al

sss18734
04-13-2012, 07:04 PM
In addition, different subwoofers have different timbres based on the design of the enclosure, materials used, bracing etc, which somewhat molds the overall sound. When you have two subs that don't sound exactly the same, it can result in a muddiness.

If you already have the drivers and can't afford to sell them to buy matching ones, give it a shot. Can't hurt.

akillj
04-13-2012, 07:27 PM
Ah thanks guys, was just curious on this .

Incognito
04-13-2012, 10:08 PM
Not to mention different timings on each individual sub design (yes even among the sane sub types) that will also lead to muddiness & frequency cancellations.

DJ Higgumz
04-14-2012, 12:16 AM
Not to mention it looks silly. Everyone else covered the science behind it. It is also not too nice on your amp to have 2 different subs on the same channel, if you were to go that route.

Incognito
04-14-2012, 02:04 AM
Not to mention different timings on each individual sub design (yes even among the sane sub types) that will also lead to muddiness & frequency cancellations.
You REALLY need to watch out for the insane subs...:teef::P