Dear tpigeon,
I know it should sound better with the subs. Vandersteen subs are not for making bass to shake your room, they will make mids sound more open and add definition to the bass.I have one older 2W. I dodn't use it since I changed the amp and now would need new crossover. Thinking about adding one more sub and then buy proper fix balance crossover. As it is now, I have more then enough bass in the room and would do it only to open up speakers. Are we thinking in the same direction?
I played phantom mode long time ago when I used to have B&W 800 in my main system and added Dolby ProLogic processor with a couple of small rears. By the way, this is what B&W recommended with 800, NO CENTER ?! With digital surround I didn't think it made sence and this is why I never played without it. Also, some people add 2W to the VCC5 to make it full range. With about 60% of the material coming through the center channel, this could be the way to go.
Ultimately, in case it works, there could be five 2Ws and one or two V2W in the system unless I buy 5A anytime soon. But, they could end up in my Audio system... Fortunately, my WAF is fine, she likes movies and would OK it if the sound is right. And, my room is 34x18.
Will try phantom this weekend and let you know what I think.
I would like to recommend you Synergistic's "The Line Doubler" component cable. Result is amazing. Without active shield, picture is very good... With the shield on, you will feel like someone took filter from the screen and you have just a "clean" window. I would never believe if I didn't see it my self. Colors are more correct and reach at the same time. Try it!!
One more thing for me to experiment with are Tuning Feets from Harmonix under the Titan. In my Audio system I have them under the amps and sound is so much lifelike. Without them system is "dead". Most of the dynamics and presence are gone. If you never heard it in the system, you would never know what you are missing. This alone may improve my Video system as much as would adding subs, and it will be a lot cheaper. I am not a tweek addict but this Feets made me wonder.
Thanks for a good coment and advise. Will keep you posted.
PS. After I wrote my answer, I found from your comments to the other poeple that you own Model 5. GREAT!!! You coudn't do any better. As I mentioned before, I am thinking about 5As since I have one of the best T/T (look in my Audio system listing)and would like to have upgraded drivers. It looks like we both belong to the "Vandersteen Club". I have been since 1984. Cheers.
