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ENGLISH
1. DB1D, DB2D and DB3D carton contents
1. DB1D, DB2D or DB3D
2. Power cable
3. Spike and rubber feet
4. Cleaning cloth
5. Quick start guide
2. Introduction
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers are extremely
high performance products that will reward
thoughtful installation. We suggest that you take
some time to read this manual before you begin.
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers can be used
for low frequency enhancement in both conventional
stereo and multi-channel home theatre systems.
They incorporate a compressive set of features that
enhance versatility and enable their performance to
be tuned to the listening room, programme material
and type of installation. These features are briefly
described in the following paragraphs:
Control and User Interface
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers are intended
to be set up and controlled via the dedicated
Bowers & Wilkins Sub (app name?) app for iOS
and Android mobile devices. The Sub app provides
full set up and control facilities, including access
to room equalisation functions, and also provides
comprehensive support information. Before you
begin installing and configuring your DB1D, DB2D
or DB3D subwoofer, please download and install
the Sub app on your iOS or Android device. It is
not possible to configure a DB1D, DB2D or DB3D
subwoofer without the app.
Multiple Inputs
The DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers provide
both RCA Phono and XLR socket stereo analogue
inputs. The inputs can be selected for use
independently. Input selection is handled via
the Sub app.
Adjustable Input Sensitivity and Level
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers incorporate
input sensitivity options that enable optimum
matching with source electronics, and variable gain
control to match volume levels with that of the main
speakers. Input sensitivity and level are adjusted via
the Sub app.
Polarity Inversion
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers provide
optional polarity inversion that enables compensation
for the polarity inversion occasionally found in audio
electronics. Polarity inversion is selected via the Sub
app.
Impact Equalisation
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers incorporate a
preset equalisation option that can enhance the low
frequency impact of audio visual material. Impact
equalisation is selected via the Sub app.
Equalisation
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers incorporate
a five-band, half-octave, graphic equaliser that
enables acoustic performance to be modified to suit
the characteristics of the listening room. Graphic
equalisation is adjusted via the Sub app.
Configuration Presets
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers incorporate
five configuration memory locations where groups of
setup parameters can be stored and recalled. The
setup parameters that can be stored are:
Diagram 1
Positioning
• Input selection
• Input level
• Impact Equalisation
• Graphic Equalisation
• Low-pass filter (engaged or not)
Configuration presets enable different subwoofer
performance characteristics to be selected for
different types of program material or different
listening occasions. Configuration presets are
managed within the Sub app.
Room Optimisation
The Sub app, when used in conjunction with optional
acoustic measurement hardware, can automatically
optimise the performance of DB1D, DB2D and
DB3D subwoofers to the acoustic characteristics
of your listening environment. Room optimisation is
managed via the Sub app.
This manual will tell you everything you need to
know to get the most from your DB1D, DB2D and
DB3D Subwoofer.
It begins by describing installation.
3. Installing your DB1D, DB2D or DB3D
Subwoofer
3.1 Positioning
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers are heavy
and are best unpacked close to their final installed
position by two people working together.
DB1D, DB2D and DB3D subwoofers may be used
free-standing on the floor or be installed into custom
built furniture.
The positioning of any subwoofer is generally less
critical than for full-range speakers. DB1D, DB2D
and DB3D subwoofers are also more versatile than
most subwoofers in terms of positioning thanks to
their equalisation and optimisation systems that
can compensate to some extent for less than ideal
positioning. Best results, however, will be obtained
if the DB1D, DB2D or DB3D is placed between the
left and right speakers or in the vicinity of one of
them. Placing a subwoofer to the side, but still to the
front of the listeners is an acceptable compromise
if domestic considerations dictate, however the
subwoofer should not be located behind the
listeners. If two subwoofers are to be used it is best
to position one near the left speaker and one near
the right speaker. Diagram 1 illustrates subwoofer
positioning.
Note: Using two subwoofers in a single
installation can improve performance by
maintaining stereo separation to the lowest
frequencies, averaging the effects of low
frequency room resonances and enabling a
higher maximum volume level. In the case of
two subwoofers used in a conventional stereo
system, stereo separation will only be improved
if each channel has its own subwoofer located
close to the appropriate satellite speaker.
Note: Like all speakers, the proximity of room
boundaries affects the sound of a subwoofer.
Bass volume increases as more surfaces come
into proximity. The more boost gained from the
room, the lower the volume can be set and the
less hard the subwoofer has to work.
