Section 4-Features and Functions of
Your Tyke SW-8 Subwoofer
4.1 Control Panel Features of Your Tyke
Subwoofer (see figure on next page)
1.
Power switch
2.
Frequency Adjustment
– This controls
the high-frequency cut off. Generally this is
set to 100 Hz if used. We will cover this in
detail later in the manual.
3.
Gain (Level)
– This control allows you to
match the output of your main/satellite
speakers to the sub. Set this to the lowest
level when you power your system for the
first time, then try setting the gain at 1/4 of
max to begin calibrating your system. It’s
good to have some room for adjustment, so
try to keep from having either the sub-
woofer's gain or the subwoofer level in your
receiver or pre/pro up near it's maximum
level. This will also minimize the potential for
a distorted input signal.
4.
Audio Inputs (RCA)
– Use standard RCA
type cables. If your receiver has only one
sub out, use either L or R. Both do not have
to be used but a Y-cable can be used to gain
an additional 3 db of output.. If your re-
ceiver has two sub outs, it is OK to use both.
4.2 Tyke SW-8 Setup
Though relatively “plug and play” the following
information will help you configure your Tyke
SW-8 properly in your new home theater envi-
ronment.
Frequency
As shown in the figure on the next page
(please see item # 2), your SW-8 subwoofer
includes a continuously variable crossover
adjustment built directly into the amplifier.
This low-pass filter will allow you to limit the
frequencies at which the subwoofer will pro-
duce an audible response. The number se-
lected with this dial is the
highest
the sub-
woofer will play. Thus, for example, if set to
100 Hz your subwoofer will play ONLY 100
Hz information and below, regardless of what
it is receiving. If used with a home theater
processor or receiver, we recommend by-
passing the SW-8s crossover (set to its
maximum 150 Hz value) and using the elec-
tronic crossover built into your components.
Gain
The Tyke SW-8 Subwoofer also includes a con-
tinuously variable gain control. Adjust this level
until your subwoofer blends seamlessly with
your Tyke surrounds.
Section 5-Setting Up Your Receiver
Though much of this information may also be
found in you’re receiver manual, the guidelines
below are specifically for your receiver to Tyke
speaker connections, and should be followed for
best performance.
5.1 Simple Calibration
First you'll need an SPL meter.
Radio Shack sells an analog
meter that works very well for
this purpose.
Set the meter on ‘slow’ and
“C” weighting. The dial should
be set at either 70 or 80 de-
pending on your pre/pro or
receiver’s test tone level. Con-
sult your owner’s manual to
determine what reference
point your unit uses (most use
75, so the 70 setting on the meter would be ap-
propriate).
