Slickdeals is community-supported.  We may get paid by brands for deals, including promoted items.
Heads up, this deal has expired. Want to create a deal alert for this item?
expiredundisturbed316 posted Dec 14, 2023 03:18 PM
expiredundisturbed316 posted Dec 14, 2023 03:18 PM

Dirac Live Bass Control for Denon AVR-X3800H / AVC-X3800H (Digital License)

from $228.85

$349

174 Comments 45,135 Views
Visit Retailer
Good Deal
Save
Share
Deal Details
Dirac has Dirac Live Bass Control for Denon AVR-X3800H / AVC-X3800H (Digital Licenses) on sale as listed below when you apply discount coupon 30BCDM23 at checkout.

Note: Discount code does not apply to individual 'Room Correction' licenses.

Thanks to Community Member undisturbed316 for finding this deal.

Available (prices after discount coupon):
  • Dirac Live Bass Control Single Subwoofer $228.85
  • Dirac Live Bass Control Multi Subwoofer $327.21
    • Upgrade an existing Bass Control Single Subwoofer license to Multi Subwoofer $110.82
  • Bundle Offer $425.57
    • Room Correction Full Bandwidth
    • Bass Control Single Subwoofer
  • Bundle Offer Multi $523.94
    • Room Correction Full Bandwidth
    • Bass Control Multi Subwoofer
Features:
  • Corrects sound gaps and bass decline
  • Enhances bass crossover area for smoother reproduction
  • Utilizes machine learning for phase co-optimization and supports one or multiple subwoofer (depending on license)

Editor's Notes

Written by citan359 | Staff
  • About this deal:
    • Offer valid through January 15th, 2024
    • Please note that measurement microphone is not included in the software purchase.
  • About this product:
    • Windows 10 or macOS 10.14 Mojave, 10.15 Catalina, or newer required
  • Additional Note:

Original Post

Written by undisturbed316
Community Notes
About the Poster
Deal Details
Community Notes
About the Poster
Dirac has Dirac Live Bass Control for Denon AVR-X3800H / AVC-X3800H (Digital Licenses) on sale as listed below when you apply discount coupon 30BCDM23 at checkout.

Note: Discount code does not apply to individual 'Room Correction' licenses.

Thanks to Community Member undisturbed316 for finding this deal.

Available (prices after discount coupon):
  • Dirac Live Bass Control Single Subwoofer $228.85
  • Dirac Live Bass Control Multi Subwoofer $327.21
    • Upgrade an existing Bass Control Single Subwoofer license to Multi Subwoofer $110.82
  • Bundle Offer $425.57
    • Room Correction Full Bandwidth
    • Bass Control Single Subwoofer
  • Bundle Offer Multi $523.94
    • Room Correction Full Bandwidth
    • Bass Control Multi Subwoofer
Features:
  • Corrects sound gaps and bass decline
  • Enhances bass crossover area for smoother reproduction
  • Utilizes machine learning for phase co-optimization and supports one or multiple subwoofer (depending on license)

Editor's Notes

Written by citan359 | Staff
  • About this deal:
    • Offer valid through January 15th, 2024
    • Please note that measurement microphone is not included in the software purchase.
  • About this product:
    • Windows 10 or macOS 10.14 Mojave, 10.15 Catalina, or newer required
  • Additional Note:

Original Post

Written by undisturbed316

Community Voting

Deal Score
+38
Good Deal
Visit Retailer

Leave a Comment

Unregistered (You)

Top Comments

grayguy1
526 Posts
150 Reputation
I'm in the same boat. I was going to pull the trigger because someone mentioned to me they have a 30 day return policy in case it doesn't perform according to it's desired effect (which makes sense), but I just checked their license agreement and it says to get a refund you "must not have used the Software," which makes no sense at all to me.

If you find evidence that they do give you a no hassle 30 day period to see if it improves your correction beyond what Audyssey MultiEQ X32 + the $20 Audyssey app can do, post the link here to let us know.

For me, if that company isn't willing to let you see if it's worth the money, it's a bad policy. It's not like they have to absorb return shipping costs or resell a discounted used product.
FranksAndBeans
1595 Posts
680 Reputation
Dirac experts can chime in, but my limited research shows that if you only have 1 sub, especially a modest one that isn't doing a whole lot below 20Hz, regular full-bandwith Dirac is arguably enough. Yes I know even a regular 10 or 12" will technically play below 20 Hz. But you need some heavy subwoofers in a controlled room to be really pushing usable output at 10-15Hz.

Seems to me you could use bass control as a standalone if you only want it tuning your subs, or go with the live + the multi-sub license if you want it doing everything in a multi-sub system. I've always been happy with XT32 but want to give Dirac a try because there seems at least some agreement that is superior. I missed the BF deals on full-bandwith but though somewhere in the ~$250 - 300 range might be worth a shot. XT32 does handle 2 subs, but not to the complexity that the multi-sub Dirac bass control is described to.

I'm probably oversimplifying this but based on the descriptions, to me it seems:

For a no sub or 1 sub system - Dirac full bandwidth is arguably superior to XT32.

For a 2 sub system - XT32 is arguably superior to Dirac full bandwidth alone. Dirac FB + multi-sub bass control would be superior to XT32.

I'm really struggling with seeing the value of Dirac bass control for a single sub, except as a standalone product where you only want sub calibration. Maybe that's the point?

But for me, the $799 package to cover multi-sub systems... I'm not doing that. I'd rather wait until my next AVR upgrade to see how their market / built-in options pan out. Not saying it isn't worth it, but $800 is far too big of a gamble to me to try it. Maybe if the licenses were transferable at least once or twice maybe, but locked to one AVR? Nah.
zubikov
163 Posts
54 Reputation
Unpopular opinion: Dirac live is not worth it for 90% of us. It's not gospel.

All mid-to-high tier receivers will have basic speaker distance correction. So you can take a tape measure and tell the speaker how far each channel is. That will give you a pretty good (not perfect) timing delay. But then, you modern high end receiver also mostly likely has some free flavor of room correction software. That will do 90% of what Dirac does.

Dirac does three things on top of all else: it flattens each speaker's curve, chooses a good crossover, and adjusts the level of each speaker. Of all those, I'd argue adjusting the level is the most valuable feature. In my view, you're paying $100's more to get the level correct out of each speaker on top of what you can do for free. Is that worth it?

I'll go a step further. I did my own calibration on a new Onkyo receiver, listened to it for a few weeks, and then did a Dirac calibration. Dirac nailed all 5 speakers, but completely underpowered the sub no matter how hard I tried. I just don't think I'd pay so much $$ out of pocket on top of the brilliant Marantz / Denon / Pioneer etc capabilities that come free with the receiver.

174 Comments

Sign up for a Slickdeals account to remove this ad.

Dec 15, 2023 10:05 PM
164 Posts
Joined Mar 2013
J1102gDec 15, 2023 10:05 PM
164 Posts
Look if you have mid to high end speakers if you're not sure where yours falls into lets call it @ $500+ per speaker, probably $800+ per sub then you will want dirac, if not than x32 is for you.

I have the polk LSIM707's line with sides/back/center from same line and 4 inwall atmos in ceiling with 4 PSA 15" SUBS. I have spent more than $8k on my system, this software is for my demographic.
1
1
Dec 15, 2023 10:14 PM
74 Posts
Joined Dec 2010
techtoys617Dec 15, 2023 10:14 PM
74 Posts
Quote from zubikov :
Unpopular opinion: Dirac live is not worth it for 90% of us. It's not gospel.

All mid-to-high tier receivers will have basic speaker distance correction. So you can take a tape measure and tell the speaker how far each channel is. That will give you a pretty good (not perfect) timing delay. But then, you modern high end receiver also mostly likely has some free flavor of room correction software. That will do 90% of what Dirac does.

Dirac does three things on top of all else: it flattens each speaker's curve, chooses a good crossover, and adjusts the level of each speaker. Of all those, I'd argue adjusting the level is the most valuable feature. In my view, you're paying $100's more to get the level correct out of each speaker on top of what you can do for free. Is that worth it?

I'll go a step further. I did my own calibration on a new Onkyo receiver, listened to it for a few weeks, and then did a Dirac calibration. Dirac nailed all 5 speakers, but completely underpowered the sub no matter how hard I tried. I just don't think I'd pay so much $$ out of pocket on top of the brilliant Marantz / Denon / Pioneer etc capabilities that come free with the receiver.
Agree 100%! Very happy with the standard Audyssey auto-calibration on my Denons.
1
Dec 15, 2023 10:56 PM
52 Posts
Joined Dec 2018
SorikuXDec 15, 2023 10:56 PM
52 Posts
Quote from zubikov :
Dirac didn't remove sloppy bass; it removed most bass, period. From EDM, to rap, to Nolan movies, everything sounds really weak on the low end, and definitely not how it was intended. At the end of the day, you buy a subwoofer for....it's power and ability to supplement your fancy speakers on the low end. What is the point of having a big rattling sub that's castrated by Dirac. Mine was cut off by 14.5dB!! from a level that I've previously calibrated to sound good to "my ears". It was barely audible during any music or movie. I love the sound signature of my speakers out of the box, and I sure don't want third party software messing with the curve that the manufacturer built for me. We buy this expensive home theater / audio equipment to enjoy it, not to sit there and be happy that we're conforming to some theoretical curve. I have an RSL Speedwoofer, and I want to hear some bass!
I agree with you but Audyssey also neuters bass. Usually have to go back in the receiver or sub and turn up the sub level after calibration.
Dec 15, 2023 11:11 PM
1,702 Posts
Joined Jun 2023
LovelySparrow901Dec 15, 2023 11:11 PM
1,702 Posts
Quote from SorikuX :
I agree with you but Audyssey also neuters bass. Usually have to go back in the receiver or sub and turn up the sub level after calibration.
Have you tried running it through the app? You can pick your own cure versus letting audyssey pick it for you.
2
Dec 15, 2023 11:52 PM
97 Posts
Joined Oct 2015
thehundredsslcDec 15, 2023 11:52 PM
97 Posts
Quote from malba2366 :
I would be willing to bet that Dirac removed the boominess of the bass, and you are taking that to mean it underpowered the sub. Most people are conditioned to appreciate boomy sloppy bass vs clean tight bass.
A lot of people first starting out with Dirac don't know that they have to add either a Harman or Pinksoda house curve after finishing the calibration. Without those house curves. You aren't getting much bass at all after calibration. And if the bass is already boomy before Dirac calibration. Then it's already gonna be boomy for different reasons that's not related to Dirac. And more related to either the sub itself, placement, and size of room. I can honestly say it didn't come alive till I added a +6 Harman house curve and I have 2 power sound audio s1512 in an enclosed 14ft by 16ft room.
1
2
Dec 16, 2023 12:31 AM
1,699 Posts
Joined Jan 2009
guitarguy316Dec 16, 2023 12:31 AM
1,699 Posts
Quote from thehundredsslc :
A lot of people first starting out with Dirac don't know that they have to add either a Harman or Pinksoda house curve after finishing the calibration. Without those house curves. You aren't getting much bass at all after calibration. And if the bass is already boomy before Dirac calibration. Then it's already gonna be boomy for different reasons that's not related to Dirac. And more related to either the sub itself, placement, and size of room. I can honestly say it didn't come alive till I added a +6 Harman house curve and I have 2 power sound audio s1512 in an enclosed 14ft by 16ft room.
Or use the +10dB house curve for more oomph!
Dec 16, 2023 12:31 AM
1,038 Posts
Joined Feb 2015
BuenoBonitoYBaratoDec 16, 2023 12:31 AM
1,038 Posts
I just got the X3800H for $900. Should I get this? I have high end speakers and dual SVS PB-3000 subs.

Sign up for a Slickdeals account to remove this ad.

Dec 16, 2023 01:19 AM
73 Posts
Joined Jul 2013
BryanW1509Dec 16, 2023 01:19 AM
73 Posts
Quote from BuenoBonitoYBarato :
I just got the X3800H for $900. Should I get this? I have high end speakers and dual SVS PB-3000 subs.
Debating the same. Don't forget, you'll need a proper mic to do Dirac, too. Per their site: "Dirac Live requires an omnidirectional calibration microphone with an associated calibration file."

More $$$. Though, what's another $100 when we're paying $560 to unlock software. I'll likely do XT-32 + butt kicker.
Dec 16, 2023 01:20 AM
1,038 Posts
Joined Feb 2015
BuenoBonitoYBaratoDec 16, 2023 01:20 AM
1,038 Posts
Quote from BryanW1509 :
Debating the same. Don't forget, you'll need a proper mic to do Dirac, too. Per their site: "Dirac Live requires an omnidirectional calibration microphone with an associated calibration file."

More $$$. Though, what's another $100 when we're paying $560 to unlock software. I'll likely do XT-32 + butt kicker.
I agree, I am thinking if I don't pull the trigger who knows when the discount will be back. It might not be back until next year.
Dec 16, 2023 02:34 AM
526 Posts
Joined Mar 2005
fidelityDec 16, 2023 02:34 AM
526 Posts
Quote from konster :
Its not just for the Denon. I was able to use on the Marantz Multi bundle.
Anyone know if the Onkyo's will have this upgrade?
Pro
Dec 16, 2023 03:12 AM
12,626 Posts
Joined Jul 2010
supermanrob
Pro
Dec 16, 2023 03:12 AM
12,626 Posts
Quote from BuenoBonitoYBarato :
I just got the X3800H for $900. Should I get this? I have high end speakers and dual SVS PB-3000 subs.
Don't know how comfortable you are with room correction, if semi comfortable,
I would suggest getting the editor app and giving XT32 a try.
Audyssey is really good so you may find you don't need Dirac especially for the price.

If you need more time, buy the two and try Audyssey before the return window expires.

DLBC alleviates many of the work arounds everyone keeps bringing up, it's the main benefit to Dirac imo.
2
Pro
Dec 16, 2023 03:14 AM
12,626 Posts
Joined Jul 2010
supermanrob
Pro
Dec 16, 2023 03:14 AM
12,626 Posts
Quote from fidelity :
Anyone know if the Onkyo's will have this upgrade?
Only the newer RZ70 does, without the discount right now.
2
Dec 16, 2023 04:10 AM
1,038 Posts
Joined Feb 2015
BuenoBonitoYBaratoDec 16, 2023 04:10 AM
1,038 Posts
Quote from supermanrob :
Don't know how comfortable you are with room correction, if semi comfortable,
I would suggest getting the editor app and giving XT32 a try.
Audyssey is really good so you may find you don't need Dirac especially for the price.

If you need more time, buy the two and try Audyssey before the return window expires.

DLBC alleviates many of the work arounds everyone keeps bringing up, it's the main benefit to Dirac imo.
Thank you this was helpful. I bite the billet and purchased. I am always traveling due to my job so I don't have the luxury to take my time with calibration. Dirac will solve a lot of headaches.
1
Dec 16, 2023 05:48 AM
163 Posts
Joined Dec 2011
I3lackI3oxDec 16, 2023 05:48 AM
163 Posts
Quote from BuenoBonitoYBarato :
I just got the X3800H for $900. Should I get this? I have high end speakers and dual SVS PB-3000 subs.
I ended up getting the bundle with multi sub. I also have an x3800, arendal speakers, dual monolith thx 12" subs. plan to add transducers later. This will be a good setup for a good while.

Sign up for a Slickdeals account to remove this ad.

Dec 16, 2023 06:47 AM
552 Posts
Joined Nov 2014
StreetJediDec 16, 2023 06:47 AM
552 Posts
So may get booed for this but Dirac is not a god send, it may actually may make your system sound worse depending on your room.

A miniDSP-HD unit with REW freeware can get your multiple subs aligned and EQed very well but you will have to learn this. Many youtube videos on this.

IMO Audessey-X (the newer $200 program) is better than Dirac since it gives you direct control over filters and curve. Dirac does not. But again, there is more of a learning curve with Audessey-X.

In a standard rectangular room with acoustic treatments, Dirac can work great. In an atypical open concept floor plan, or otherwise not ideal home theater environment, with poor acoustic treatments, and given limitations of the room, Dirac may make things worse or no better then Audessy XT32 (free that comes with upper end denon/marantz receivers).

YMMV; don't necessarily expect miracles.
2

Leave a Comment

Unregistered (You)

Popular Deals

Trending Deals