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Subwoofer 101 Needed...

I have just picked up a used custom made 15" subwoofer to supplement my existing speakers. It came with an extensive array of variable control parameters. (Please see included photos.)

Sub 1

Being a Newby to the world of subwoofers, I would like to ask for a bit of guidance in their use. What would I expect to hear/measure (using REW) using them? (For example: varying Q?)

I am not interested in thunderous AV, but rather an unobtrusive refined extension to the bottom end for listening to classical, jazz, world and occasional pop music.

I look forward to your thoughts and appreciate any assistance. Thank you!

tsampa
erik_squires
15,801 posts
 

 

My thoughts are to measure measure measure

tsampa OP
21 posts
 

Thanks Eric,

That link is quite a discourse on 'Q'! I will tinker, listen and measure in that order...

erik_squires
15,801 posts
 

Hey. Listen, the most important thing you need ot know is that the actual response of any speaker in the bass is a crap shoot. I mean it’s not very closely related to it’s specifications or settings anymore because the room/speaker interaction is fierce. Knowing what a setting, like the Q does really only gives you the ability to make RELATIVE changes.

To achieve what you want, you need a gently descending FR from 16 Hz to ~ 80 to 120 Hz. Descend about 1-2 db / octave. Then you may need the overall level to be raised up, around 4-6 dB vs. your main speakers. Also, if your mains are ported, plug them, it will make things easier.

You may also suffer from big peaks which need to be clipped with an EQ.

Lastly, check out the AM Acoustics room simulator web site. It will show you were the worst room modes are. Try to keep all 3 of your speakers away from the lowest one’s as well as your listening chair.

tsampa OP
21 posts
 

Hi immatthewj,

The links are little rectangular boxes labelled Sub1 and Sub2. If I tap on them with my (Android) phone I have the option to preview or download.

tsampa OP
21 posts
 

Eric,

Some interesting ideas, thanks. (Like blocking the ports of my main speakers!)

I will tinker and explore.

 

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