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Subwoofer Question

I have a subwoofer question. I've just acquired a top-of-the-line Paradigm Servo-15 powered sub (with Paradigm X-30 crossover), which replaces my next-to-top-of-the-line Paradigm PW-2200 powered sub (it's being demoted to the home-theater system). The Servo-15 is a servo-controlled 15" subwoofer with 400-watt RMS amp; it weighs about 90 pounds and comes with rubber feet, but offers as an optional extra "gold-plated metal feet with adjustable spikes." Sounds silly to me that they should be gold-plated, but I'd like to ask if anyone has experience with this or similar subs with the metal spiked feet, and whether or not they make much difference (and if so what kind of difference) in audible performance. I'll be using this sub to fill in the bottom octave in an audiophile stereo music system (with a pair of Paradigm Studio 100 v. 2 speakers), not for home theater. I'm reasonably familiar with the use of such metal spiked feet for full-range floorstanding speakers, but have no experience of their use with subs, and would appreciate some feedback on this question before investing in them. Many thanks. Dave Kemp, Plano, TX
texasdave
cytocycle
1,034 posts
 
If you have carpet the spikes should be used. If you have tile/or hardwood the rubber should be used (unless you want to put down a disc protector).

The goal of the feet are to keep the sub from moving.
sstark
63 posts
 
I've used spikes on speakers including sub's and noted no noticeable difference. The X-30 crossover is great. I use 2 of them on 2 different systems and I don't even use Paradigm speakers. Best most affordable active X-over. Experiment with the X-30 instead of the spikes. Gold plated spikes, didn't they use them in the transcontinental railroad when the east met the west in Utah?
amandarae
512 posts
 
Hello,

You can search info for the pros and cons of this by searching the threads here at Audiogon or at Audio Asylum regarding "Coupling" and "Decoupling" of speakers in a room with carpets, wooden floors, etc.

Maybe, that can get the answer you want and decide which is best in your application.

Hope this helps....
warrenh's avatar
warrenh
2,286 posts
 
Couple that baby. Go to audiopoints.com and ask for Robert. He'll set you free. They have a wonderful stand, just, for subs: about $185. Amazing. I love mine. I'm a coupler. You might, after, you do the sub bit, couple your whole system to mother earth. It's impossible to isolate, but easy as pie (and not ridiculously expensive) to couple. For my ears: the way to go. You'll freak. peace, warren
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