06-Nov-2021, 15:53
Quick update on SAM.
I'm now using it with the A5s, but at 0%, so just the phase correction, not the EQ. I do prefer it on to off; there is a marginal increase in image size. Bass extension is already taken care of as I use the big REL subwoofer (visible in the photo above) for 8Hz-26Hz with a sharp upper rolloff, now driven at line level courtesy of the Expert's subwoofer output.
Despite my previous comments, there isn't any issue with the SAM implementation for the A5, I wasn't listening carefully enough and using the right test material. That's what happens when you have two new shiny toys and jump through lots of music, changing lots of things at the same time!
Subjectively, SAM on at 0% brings up the <25Hz bass from the A5s substantially. Increasing the SAM percentage increases this further, too much for my tastes and the reflective room. Also, much above 0%, when playing sustained heavy-bottom-octave music (pipe organ 32ft) at real-world levels, SAM woofer protection kicks in. Whereas, at 0%, there is plenty of headroom on the woofer excursion.
I'm now using it with the A5s, but at 0%, so just the phase correction, not the EQ. I do prefer it on to off; there is a marginal increase in image size. Bass extension is already taken care of as I use the big REL subwoofer (visible in the photo above) for 8Hz-26Hz with a sharp upper rolloff, now driven at line level courtesy of the Expert's subwoofer output.
Despite my previous comments, there isn't any issue with the SAM implementation for the A5, I wasn't listening carefully enough and using the right test material. That's what happens when you have two new shiny toys and jump through lots of music, changing lots of things at the same time!
Subjectively, SAM on at 0% brings up the <25Hz bass from the A5s substantially. Increasing the SAM percentage increases this further, too much for my tastes and the reflective room. Also, much above 0%, when playing sustained heavy-bottom-octave music (pipe organ 32ft) at real-world levels, SAM woofer protection kicks in. Whereas, at 0%, there is plenty of headroom on the woofer excursion.
1000 Pro / Magico A5 / REL Studio III
