What satellites can be used with the RM1000W?

IntgrtdAMP

I just got my hands on a RM1000W passive bass module (sub). I'd like to use the RM2000 satellites but they are hard to come by. I've been doing a lot of research on this particular system and I get conflicting information regarding what satellites can be used. Some say you should only use the RM2000's, others say any of the RM series is fine (new or old), and further still, any satellite or bookshelf speaker can be used. I've also read about using an external crossover from the sub to the satellites, if they're not the RM2000's, since the RM2000's have a very specific crossover built in. As of now, I'm running a 1984 Pioneer SA-1050 integrated amp with both A+B channels. Ive already tried connecting my Sony bookshelf speakers to A and the sub to speakers B but lost all highs doing this. So I found a manual and connected the Sony's to the sub and then the sub to the amp. So far it sounds great, but I'm concerned with this setup, that I'll either hurt the amp or the Sony's (which i could care less about, as I will be replacing them with Polks). Just want to do this right so I can go on listening to this system in my man cave, aka, the garage. Thanks in advance for any and all information.

[Deleted User]

Hello,
Welcome to Polk's forum. If it were a perfect world you would use a pair of the RM2000 satellites that would have a self contained high pass filter and efficiency to match the output of the RM1000. Sometimes on certain integrated amplifiers the A and B channels are run in series when activated together as opposed to running them in parallel. This could account for the unsatisfactory results when you tried the "A+B" setting.
If the satellites and woofer sound alright as connected then there's no worry about using them, they behave as any regular three-way type speakers.
Regards, Ken

IntgrtdAMP

Thanks so much for a fast and informative response. Since I've seen other posts from you on here, and you seem to be highly regarded in the community, I've got one more question; if you could choose any Polk bookshelf/satellite speakers to nicely accompany the RM1000W, which would you choose? A few different speakers at various price points-say$100, $250 and $500 for the pair would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again!

[Deleted User]

You're welcome, glad the information was helpful. The problem with matching any speakers to the RM1000 is that there isn't any way to adjust the relative levels between the woofer and whatever else it's being used with, except by moving it closer or further away from a large reflecting surface. The best approach would be to use a medium power integrated amp or receiver just for the woofer. In effect turning it into a powered unit. The setup would involve two amplifying components, one receiver or integrated amplifier for the main audio system that would have all of the source components connected. Also, it would need to have a "preamp out" connections, normally used to provide a signal to an external amplifier. This signal would go to another amplifier or receiver and be connected to the "aux" inputs. This amplifier would, in turn, be connected to the RM1000 and would be able to be controlled independently of the first amplifier.
I would consider the Polk Audio RTiA1 as an example of excellent sound performance and value, here is a review: http://www.stereophile.com/standloudspeakers/908polk/#K50AivJ68W6ijT7R.97
The RM1000 is a very advanced design, using two active bass drivers and a unique cabinet design incorporating a 10" passive radiator. In my opinion it has a difficult to find musicality that is often not found in home theater subwoofers.
I hope this is helpful.