I was wondering if the experts can chime in on this. I was chatting with JL Audio tech support and one recommendation given was to plug all ports on the M80's and run the crossover to 90hz. I was curious if anyone has tried plugging all ports and if they felt mid range was better this way? Their reasoning behind it is they felt the Fathom get do well up to 90hz and by not running the M80s full range it would make the speakers more efficient and have the midrange sound better. Thoughts on this?

Spiroh,

The M80s already have smooth, extended deep bass, and are very efficient. It's unwise to set a crossover frequency for the subwoofer higher than 80 Hz, as bass may become directional above that frequency.

Running the M80s full-range together with a subwoofer usually produces too much bass output. If the latter is the case, move the M80s farther from the rear wall or other room boundaries.
The M80s are already a very linear well-designed speaker. Don't go mucking about with the M80s' frequency response with port plugs.

Regards,
Alan

Yes that's what was odd about the recommendation from the start. These M80's have excellent output and right now currently have the crossover set to 60hz. Btw, I'm really digging these M80 v4s. Such excellent speakers.

Strange advice indeed.

If one is going to 'strangle' the bottom end of powerful towers, why bother with them in first place if decent sub(s) are being used?

That is why I went with M22s plus EP-800s that utilize the full capability if both types of speakers - nothing wasted IMO, ie no tower woofers being underutilized...

TAM

I could see how plugging the port could make the mid-range sound better on a front-ported speaker that didn't have mid-range enclosures or an anti - standing wave cabinet design. That's not the M80 however.

Plugging the ports may reduce low frequency distortion and make the bass sound tighter. It might be worth a try if you play at high sound pressures.

Not sure why you would be seeking advice about Axiom speakers from someone other than Axiom themselves or fellow owners, do you have an issue that prompted this discussion or why were you seeking advice from them?

Yes, they are trying to make the M80 sound worse, not better. Then maybe you'll look at their speaker, which I'm sure will come with recommendations on how to make it sound its best.

Randy's right, ask the company that actually makes it.

I wasnt seeking advice at all as I'm extremely happy with the sound. Recommendations came on improving overall sound by thinking outside the box. Initially started from conversation on improving the subwoofer and recommendations with it. Company does not sell full range speakers.

While I would have to agree with not plugging the ports, there is no harm done in trying something different. As JL Audio is not a competitor to Axiom with speakers I highly doubt there was any bad intent involved.

Agreed. Just don't play them full range for extended periods and high volumes with the ports plugged because the voice coils might overheat.