SDA Center Channel... let the fun begin!

24

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  • Ender
    Ender Posts: 603
    edited June 2009
    What do you need to do or know to decide the crossovers?
    SDA 1C, SDA 2A, SDA SRS 2, CMT-340SE, Swan M200MKII, Swan D1080MKII, Behringer MS40

    Outlaw Audio M2200 x2, GFA 555 II, BGW 750C

    GDA 700, Outlaw Audio Model 990, Sansa Fuze, X-Fi Platinum Fatality
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    I am still working that out... there has been a few changes since I started this as now I am trying to build something to keep up with the 1.2TL's rather than 1c's:D.... I am thinking I will need to run 4 mid drivers now, so will need to open up the cabinets and splice the two Csi-a6 cabinets together, so that will throw my crossover ideas out the window.
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • hearingimpared
    hearingimpared Posts: 21,136
    edited June 2009
    Lookin' good thus far.
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  • heiney9
    heiney9 Posts: 25,445
    edited June 2009
    Nice work! How did you know where to mount the tweeter relative to the drivers? Are you using a special program or design................or just willy nilly?
    "Appreciation of audio is a completely subjective human experience. Measurements can provide a measure of insight, but are no substitute for human judgment. Why are we looking to reduce a subjective experience to objective criteria anyway? The subtleties of music and audio reproduction are for those who appreciate it. Differentiation by numbers is for those who do not".--Nelson Pass Pass Labs XA25 | EE Avant Pre | EE Mini Max Supreme DAC | MIT Shotgun S1 | Puritan Audio PSM136 Pwr Condtioner & Classic PC's | Legend L600 | Roon Nucleus 1 w/LPS - Tubes add soul!
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    I positioned it relative to the position of the original location in the CsiA6 cabinet. I hve no special programs or tools. The cabinet is essentially stock with exception to the new baffle. If all goes well, I should get sound out of it by the end of the week!
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited June 2009
    What kind of sound though? :D
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    Face wrote: »
    What kind of sound though? :D
    I'll just settle for sound at this point. I can tune it later:)
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited June 2009
    I know what you mean, I felt the same way about my first DIY project. Best of luck, you may have a long road ahead of you(I did).
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    I have completed all the test fitting today. I am waiting for the wood fill to set up so I can finish sand the new speaker openings and bond the new baffle to the cabinet. Once that is completed I hope to be able to install a crossover and recover the cabinet in a new veneer. I am also considering painting the baffle black as I have not marked up the cherry veneer at all. Any thoughts guys?
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited June 2009
    You can't find wood filler at the local HD/Lowes?

    What do you plan on using to attach the baffle? Plain Elmers or Tite Bond work well, just stay away from Gorilla glue.

    A black baffle wouldn't be a bad idea, it'll match your mains.

    So what are you going to be using for a crossover?
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    why no Gorilla glue? Once it goes down, I have no intentions of removing it.
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited June 2009
    It expands while drying. It may be of some advantage if you plan on filling a void at the same time, otherwise, stay away. Elmers wood glue is stronger than you think. I found that once it's dry, it's stronger than MDF.
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
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  • NotaSuv
    NotaSuv Posts: 3,871
    edited June 2009
    Elmers wood glue surprised me with how strong the bond is............and yes its stronger than the MDF................looking good John

    look forward to hearing it if you ever get back to MN
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  • ShinAce
    ShinAce Posts: 1,194
    edited June 2009
    x3

    I use plain carpenter's glue, just not Elmer brand. A joint with enough meat in it will split the wood before the glue cracks. That's basically any joint thicker a 1/4" butt joint.
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    here are a few pics of the completed cabinet in the rough. I have decided to re-veneer the cabinet and stain to match my TL's:)
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • ben62670
    ben62670 Posts: 15,969
    edited June 2009
    Don't make it pretty first. Us an RTA8 xo design, and see how it goes.
    Please. Please contact me a ben62670 @ yahoo.com. Make sure to include who you are, and you are from Polk so I don't delete your email. Also I am now physically unable to work on any projects. If you need help let these guys know. There are many people who will help if you let them know where you are.
    Thanks
    Ben
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    lol... agreed. I just ordered walnut veneer to cover it. I should have a crossover ready for it by Friday. If all goes well, it will sound fantastic! If not, I will try again...
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • CLPolk
    CLPolk Posts: 133
    edited June 2009
    looking good John
    • SDA SRS 2
    • SDA 1A
    • Monitor 11
    • Monitor 7B
    • CS350lsi
    • RM-6600
    • FX500i
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    I have a crossover from an RTa8 installed and it actually sounds pretty good! I do have a small problem with dialog as the Esss sound in speach is quite harsh. I would like to address this issue, but as far as pressence is concerned, the modded center does a nice job of bridging the soundstage from left to right.:cool: Thanks to Leroy for the crossover and the extra a6 cabinet...
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • megasat16
    megasat16 Posts: 3,521
    edited June 2009
    So, it's a completely sealed design? Did you add some polyfill or cotton wool or any acoustics foam inside the enclosure to dampen the internal vibrations.
    Trying out Different Audio Cables is a Religious Affair. You don't discuss it with anyone. :redface::biggrin:
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  • zingo
    zingo Posts: 11,258
    edited June 2009
    I like how the original grill still works; nice touch.
    Jake
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    yes.. I added two layers of polyfill internally. The cabinet is still ported from the rear using the power ports that Polk designed into the cabinet.
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    ok... the initial listening tests appear to have accomplished all that I set out to achieve with this project. The center is VERY musical with exception to the ESSS sound in dialog.
    The transition between L/C/R is very smooth, natural and seamless. It has no difficulty whatsoever in holding it's own with the big Polks. Center channel information stays localized and focused, however they SDA's do still have a tendency to carry some of the dialog as well. Having said that, because the drivers are matched to the SDA's this effect to my ear is a benefit rather than a detraction as it tends to bring the soundstage together.
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • megasat16
    megasat16 Posts: 3,521
    edited June 2009
    nooshinjohn wrote: »
    The center is VERY musical with exception to the ESSS sound in dialog.

    John, What is Essssss sound you are talking about? It's like an air leaking from the teeth if an old man speak?

    You need to either change your tweeter or play with Crossover components. What crossover did you use?
    Trying out Different Audio Cables is a Religious Affair. You don't discuss it with anyone. :redface::biggrin:
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  • hearingimpared
    hearingimpared Posts: 21,136
    edited June 2009
    megasat16 wrote: »
    John, What is Essssss sound you are talking about? It's like an air leaking from the teeth if an old man speak?

    You need to either change your tweeter or play with Crossover components. What crossover did you use?

    Could it be sibilance he is referring to?
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    I agree the crossover needs some tweaking. For movie viewing the center has no impact whatsoever, and no depth.
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    The pronuciation of the letter "S" has a very sharp edge to it...
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • megasat16
    megasat16 Posts: 3,521
    edited June 2009
    nooshinjohn wrote: »
    I agree the crossover needs some tweaking. For movie viewing the center has no impact whatsoever, and no depth.

    I think it's also something to do with the rear firing port. The woofers you've got may need bigger cabinets to breathe. First, seal up the rear ports with a towels and see if that makes any difference in sound.
    nooshinjohn wrote: »
    The pronuciation of the letter "S" has a very sharp edge to it...

    Tweeter too bright. You need to bring the upper frequency down in XO or put a small thin piece of foam sheet taped onto the tweeter temporarily and see if still makes the sssss....
    Trying out Different Audio Cables is a Religious Affair. You don't discuss it with anyone. :redface::biggrin:
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  • nooshinjohn
    nooshinjohn Posts: 25,931
    edited June 2009
    I had the same thought on the ports. I do know the crossover needs some adjustment, and am researching this now... I have sealed both ports, and this helped only a touch. The mids and tweeter are both crossed over at too high a frequency and need to be stepped down a bit.
    The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2800 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon MiND2 Shunyata Triton

    “When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson

    How many flies need to be buzzing a dead horse before you guys stop beating it?
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  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited June 2009
    http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=248-625
    http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/Edirol-UA4FX-USB-Audio-Capture-Interface?sku=241810&src=3WFRWXX&ZYXSEM=0&CAWELAID=26020141
    http://www.fesb.hr/~mateljan/arta/ (free)

    Budget measurement setup. Then you'll need to buy some spare caps for testing.

    As for dynamics, you probably do have the wrong Polk woofers in that cabinet.
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
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