Would Appreciate Suggestions

[sub_junkie]

Hello, I am getting one Mach 5 IXL 18.2.2 driver, maybe two, but would like to use REW to see the response graph after moving the box(s).

I have a Dell Inspiron B130 Laptop that REW is installed on, and everything is stock (except for the battery but that doesn't matter lol).

I would like to keep the price of the mic below $20 if possible, but could do around $40 if the more expensive mic is needed.

Would I just need a mic? What kind of mic should I get? The results don't have to be VERY accurate, just enough to see the differences in moving the driver(s) around.
It would be In-Room testing also, if that would matter any,

Thanks for any help

[brucek]

I would like to keep the price of the mic below $20

The cheapest new meter (with a cal file from our download site) is the RadioShack meter.

To measure above ~3KHz and generally more accurate you would require the Galaxy CM-140.

The best mic and preamp would be the ECM8000 and XENYX802.

You also require an external USB soundcard for most laptops, as they don't have a line-in facility. Mic-in is not suitable.

brucek

[sub_junkie]

Hmm, that seems pretty expensive. Would I need the preamp for just using REW?

Thanks for the help brucek

[brucek]

Would I need the preamp for just using REW?

Yes, the level from a mic needs to be raised to line-level to be usable, and also requires a phantom voltage to operate the internal electronics. Note if you use a mic, then you also require an inexpensive SPL meter for the REW setup.

An SPL meter has the advantage of being a (mic with preamp and meter) all-in-one package. That's why many people choose that route.

Some of the more expensive soundcards have internal mic preamps.

brucek

[robbo266317]

Hi Dylan,

If this is going to be in your bedroom you will not have many options for sub placement so REW measuring isn't a big deal. Personally, I wouldn't bother with the added expense until you can afford it.

If you follow Mike P's suggestions, plus read the other IXL builds you won't be disapointed and you WILL have a grin from ear to ear.

[sub_junkie]

I can't wait to see how much better the IXL will be. It will be awesome I'm positive. I will just wait on REW I guess, unless I absolutely need it.

Thanks for the help guys