Thinking of using an Audio Control System 90 Model 11 Center channel processor for the center channel I just installed in my car. I'm doing this so I don't have to have an amp setup just for the single speaker. Was just wondering if this thing was worth using in my new setup, Sound Q, reliability..etc...etc. Thanks for the help. I hope someone checks these forums.
As far as what is "worth" using in your system this decision is really up to you and your ears.
although I am not familiar with that particular audiocontrol piece (and can not even find specs anywhere on line) I have use center channel processors from audiocontrol in the past with great results.
The last one I used was on a USAC competition camaro which placed 7th in the finals. The proceesor had an attenuate control and "spacial" control which I mounted in the drivers door hidden in the storage pocket area. The unit worked in unison with the front mids/highs and the center channel (boston pros 5 1/4's components in the kicks, and one boston 5 1/4 mid/tweet in the dash stealthed under the defog grill.
Now as far as if it was worth it is hard to say but it gave us some adjustment for the front stage that would not be avaiable without this processor. IMO it was nice.
https://myeporia.eporia.com/resources/company_38/technote%201008.pdf
This link is for a PDF by audiocontrol all about center channel processing. Check it out as it might help you decide if you really need the piece.
Good luck.
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Appreciate it. In your own opinion, I have two Alpine MRV-F345's. One is for the rear speakers, and the front is in three channel configuration for the doors and the center channel. Would this be the best way or should I switch to the Processor? Here's the catch though....I checked it out the other day (the processor) and the knobs don't do anything. I can't hear a difference when I adjust them. Is there something I'm missing or will the changes only be noticeable on a scope?
Ok, using the amp 3 channel config can work...but unless just wiring it happens by chance to sound perfect first try..it can be time consuming to adjust everything..you will need special resistors to attenuate (or can use a potentiometer for level adjust if you can find an appropriate one)and possibly experiment with passive cross-overs...not to say this isn't worth a try..but in 3 channel mode the center channel will be bridged....another option is if you can find a single 8ohm speaker (or use 2-4ohm in series) to prevent the center from overpowering.
But from an audiophiles standpoint that is not the right way..and the reasons are stated in the link I posted (about the staging).
As far as you trying out the audio control piece..(I assume it was an ESP center channel processor?) the controls should have been very noticable by ear. Where and what was the situation that you tried it? Perhaps it was hooked up wrong or the controller was not plugged in...or defective? I can only guess. But the few times I have used it I could clearly attenuate the center and the spacial control would clearly move the sound stage.
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