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Step 3: Hookup
We will refer to receivers, integrated amplifiers, and pre-
amps as
controllers
. Take a look at the back of your controller.
The output connectors available determine the best method
of hooking up your subwoofer.
Method A. Connecting to controllers
with a SUBWOOFER or LFE output
If you have this, you should use it. All Dolby Digital, DTS,
THX, and Dolby True HD equipped controllers have a low
level Subwoofer pre-out (not to be confused with a subwoofer
input – many customers have hooked up their subwoofer to
the subwoofer input on their controller only to get no sound!).
This offers the easiest and best connection.
Wireless Connection
Connect the subwoofer pre-out to both inputs on the wireless transmitter using a splitter.
Set the wireless channel on the transmitter so that it is the same as that on the subwoofer.
Set the wired/wireless switch on the subwoofer to ‘Wireless’. Place the transmitter as high
as practical, and away from metal surfaces if possible.
Method B. Connecting to controllers with HIGH LEVEL speaker outputs.
Use this method only if you do not have any other choice. Integrated amplifiers or stereo receivers with no pre-outs fall in this category.
The subwoofer will operate in bass augmentation mode. i.e., the main speakers will be running full-range. You dial in the subwoofer to
come in just where the main speakers start to fade out. Since the subwoofer uses its own amplifier, and has a high input impedance, it
will not alter the loading on your main amplifier.
It is important to know if your controller has true ground or not. Bridged amplifiers, and amplifiers like Carver (which inverts phase to
one channel making their black terminal on one channel the signal instead of ground) should not be used. Similarly, digital amplifiers
that have unfiltered outputs are also not suitable.
Since the subwoofer will not be drawing any significant current, any gauge wire will do. No need for heavy gauge wires.
Wired Connection
Connect the subwoofer pre-out to either one of the two
RCA low level inputs on the subwoofer. If your con-
troller has a balanced output, connect to either one of
the two XLR balanced inputs.
Enable your subwoofer out on your controller. We highly
recommend setting all your speakers to SMALL so all
bass will be routed to the subwoofer, freeing the main
amp and main speakers from the rigorous demands of
reproducing bass.