2.1 Channel Setup

[parodielin]

What amplifier would you recommend if you're building a budget 2.1 setup? Like the NC Budget 2-Way and a small sub.

[djg]

I used the Dayton 2.1 plate amp for just that system, a couple of bedroom/ computer systems. Very happy with results. The NC DIYs are a great sounding little speaker.

[daver]

I also used the Dayton 2.1 plate amp. It was easy to adjust the crossover as well as the woofer and satellite levels for a fairly smooth transition.

[fbov]

I know of three choices
- Keiga ~$150
http://www.madisound.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=369
- Lepai ~$20
http://techtalk.parts-express.com/showthread.php?t=217243
- Dayton MCA 2550 $80 to $120

I, too, have the Dayton, and it has one odd-but-useful feature - no master volume. The 3 knobs adjust stereo pair volume, sub volume and sub LP cut-off fequency. Note that the sub LP has no effect on the stereo output; the HP filter on that output is fixed. (I believe the Keiga adjusts this, too, but it's big advantage is 4 ohm rating all around.)

To set it up, I found it works well to max out speaker and sub volume, and set XO to minimum. Obviously, set source volume low before turning things on.
- increase the LP cut-off until it gets boomy, then back off
- adjust sub volume down if there's too much bass
- adjust speaker volume down if you'd like more bass.
- do master volume control from the source.

For a real budget system, the Lepai's are worth a try. Just be sure to get a 3-channel with sub output...

Have fun,
Frank