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Vandersteen 2Wq subwoofers with M5-HP crossovers - help needed

I have been happily using a pair of Vandy 2Wq subs with single-ended M5-HP crossovers for a few years now. My system was dialed in the way I like it (bass a bit on the full side, but still tight and defined). I just had my amplifier repaired and upgraded, and the new input impedance is 22k ohms vs. the 10k ohms before the upgrade. I followed the Vandersteen recommendation for the jumper settings in the M5-HP (6 and 7 only, "on" or not open), and the bass is just about MIA altogether. As per the Vandy web site, I disregarded the chart on the case of the M5-HP and followed the chart on the web site.  Because I am an idiot, I didn’t bother to mark down the settings of the jumpers prior to changing them. Anybody have any suggestions for me that will restore the bass? I am pretty sure the issue is the jumper settings. Thanks in advance!
bondmanp
Ag insider logo xs@2x
gdnrbob
2,421 posts
 
+1 hifiman.
If you find the bass lacking, just move down a step. The M5-HP settings list is on the Vandersteen site.
And, you can always call Johnny Rutan at audioconnection. He is only second to Mr. V himself.
B
mr_m
1,087 posts
 
The 10k setting for Bondmanp's amp would be the one step down from his 20k input imp. Just as Hifiman5 stated. That should restore the bass. One has to be careful not to go to low below the input imp. as this can damage the subs internal amplifier. This is according to Richard V.
mr_m
1,087 posts
 
Correction. I see his amp is now at 22k. Was told you can experiment one or two steps down. Using caution of course...
audioconnection
1,015 posts
 
Sounds like 10 K should work but confirm it .
 If you go to Vandersteen website under resources download the Vandertones make a CD or file turn preamp volume down.
 track 27 is 1000 hz track 31 is 80 HZ  get a Voltmeter set to AC Volts looks like a sideways  s snake and connect probes clipped to amps speaker posts Red is Plus Black is Minus
Play track 27 and slowly raise preamps Volume up till Volt meter says 1 V AC then play track 31 if your dips are set right it should now read.707
 once you get it set a few days of run in should sound great again.
  JohnnyR
bondmanp OP
1,465 posts
 

Thanks, all!  Before I read your helpful suggestions, I decided to live on the edge and try the dip switch settings on the M5-HP cover (as opposed to the Vandy web site).  Using the 20k ohm setting, my bass has been restored to levels very similar to what I had prior to the amp upgrade.  Now, shortly before the amp upgrade, I installed new cables between my DAC and pre.  While they were overall a big improvement, the bass levels seem a bit reduced.  So, follow-up question:  If I want to goose the bass a little bit, am I better off monkeying around with the 10k ohm settings on the M5-HP or just dialing back the efficiency knob on the 2Wqs a bit?  I would hate to fool around with the Q setting - I love the tight bass I get with the current settings. 


@audioconnection Johnny - when you say to connect the voltmeter to the "amp's" speaker posts, are you referring to the main amplifier or the plate amps on the 2Wqs?  Thanks!

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