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Low-Pass Filter: The low-pass filter determines how well the bass from the
subwoofer blends with the mids and highs from the satellite and center channel
speakers. Because the satellite and center channel speakers have a frequency
response that starts at about 110Hz, we want the subwoofer to handle all
frequencies up to 110Hz. A good starting point is to set the low-pass filter at 110Hz
and then adjust it slightly up or down according to how it sounds.
Volume: The overall volume of the subwoofer will increase or decrease with the
volume of the other speakers. The volume control on the subwoofer is therefore
used to match the audio output level of the satellite and center channel speakers so
that they blend into one smooth, continuous sound. In general, unless your musical
material is particularly bass heavy or light, once you have set the volume on the
subwoofer you shouldn't need to adjust it again.
Phase: Depending on the location of your subwoofer, the sound that reaches your
ideal listening location could be out of phase with the sound from the rest of the
system. If the bass sounds out of timing, muddy, or attenuated, try flipping the
phase switch to the other position. The default, which will provide the best bass
sound most of the time, is with the phase set to 0°.
As the speaker system breaks in you may find you need to make minor adjustments to the
low-pass filter and volume level to ensure the proper blend between the speakers.
