I am surprised that more is not discussed about Raal SR1a's baffle step correction issues.
I understand this baffle step correction is being applied by Raal's interface box and Schiit Jot R.
RaalBaffleStep by
drjlo2, on Flickr
Note that up to -4.2 dB of correction is being applied. Since doubling of amplifier power increases acoustic power by +3 dB, baffle step correction is effectively hobbling the amp's power by more than half. Note how many people have complained their "powerful" amp is not up to task when using Raal's interface box. I am not sure if Jot R's baffle step correction uses a different method than the interface box, thus not resulting in as much power loss, but either power loss and/or transparency loss must be giving the impression of better SQ when Jot R's baffle step correction is turned off.
Jot R is a great pairing with SR1a for most music, but when cranking up (WAY up) alternative/progressive rock like my faves Rasmus and Muse, the dynamic ceiling and/or loss of transparency/life could be felt. When baffle step was turned off, I could feel the SQ and liveliness of music improve quite a bit. Of course, this results in LOSS of bass by 4+ dB's, resulting in mid/highs sounding exceptionally free and dynamic while overall sound becomes severely thin and bright.
This will hopefully improve when Raal releases their premium amp, or an improved interface box is used with seriously powerful and clean (read expensive) amps.
Since my custom speaker setup lets me use just the bass modules via active crossover. I utilized Jot R's passive preamp output to feed my bass amp/bass modules while playing Raal full range. To blend the Raal bass with speaker bass, much experimentation including where you sit was necessary (very near the speakers). But when the sweet spot was achieved, I was able to power the Raal with Jot R baffle step correction off while bass modules filled in the missing bass. Added benefit was the physical, visceral bass vibrations that you could feel with your bones, which is a huge plus when listening to bombastic music.
I realize this is quite a complicated path, but if you already have good bass modules, it's worth checking out.
0324201855a by
drjlo2, on Flickr