The Test Setup
Contents
We tested this sub on your author’s private set. A system consisting of:
- DALI Epicon 2
- Isoacoustic Gaia feet
- Metrum Acoustics Adagio (DAC2)
- 2 x NAD C298 in bridge mode
- Metrum Acoustics Ambre streamer
- Custom ROON Rock NUC
- Grimm SQM interlinks
- Custom power cords
- Isotek Isoplugs
- Separate hifi group
One very handy feature of the Adagio is that it has both XLR and single ended outputs. And the outputs are both active (without issues). In short: we pick a single ended output from the Adagio and connect it to the Bowers & Wilkins DB3D. We set up the app so that the sub has to take the line input (stereo) and that it can go on and off automatically. That works flawlessly without plops or clicks, by the way. A very nice feature. We walk you through the other settings:
- Input gain: 6dB (single ended is softer than xlr)
- Input EQ custom
- Stereo settings: other speaker
- Low pass: 55 Hz
- Slope: 12dB
- Phase: 0
In the custom EQ we subtly adjusted some for our room that has a dip around 35 and 70 Hz.
Note: these settings are for OUR room and OUR speakers. Copying them 1:1 makes no sense, as your room and speakers require different settings
Price and availability:
The Bowers & Wilkins DB3D is available for a price of €2,449.