Variable Tuning Ultra-X12 Subwoofer
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The goal of an audio system is to recreate the source mate-
rial as accurately as possible. The components needed to
perform this task are an audio source, a receiver, or proces-
sor/amplifier combination, and speakers.
In the era of digital, multi-channel sound, many listeners
have chosen to use frequency-limited “satellite” speakers
for the front, center and surround channels. By limit-
ing their frequency range, these speakers may be made
smaller, to more easily fit into a wide range of spaces.
However, by eliminating the capability to reproduce bass
frequencies, a separate speaker that is custom designed to
deal with signals below 200Hz is required. That speaker,
along with its accompanying, built-in amplifier, is a
powered subwoofer.
Even in two-channel systems with traditional bookshelf or
tower speakers, the bottom two octaves of sound (20 Hz to
80 Hz) are frequently rolled off or not reproduced at all. Here,
too, a specialized speaker/amplifier combination is required
to deliver the full spectrum of sound from a system.
Finally, many multi-channel digital soundtracks contain a
special audio channel devoted specifically to extreme low
frequency extension. This signal is the “.1” in 5.1, 6.1 and 7.1
systems and is sometimes referred to as the LFE channel.
Subwoofers, Bass, and Overall System Performance
Typical Multi-channel System
with Satellite Speakers
Typical Two-channel System with
Traditional Bookshelf or Tower Speakers
Typical 7.1 Multi-channel
Digital System
Powered Subwoofer
Restores frequencies below 200Hz not
reproduced by satellite speakers
Powered Subwoofer
Augments or restores bottom two octaves
of sound (20Hz to 80Hz) often missing from
traditional tower or bookshelf speakers
Powered Subwoofer
Provides the LFE (low frequency
extension) output in a 5.1, 6.1 or 7.1
multi-channel digital system
Regardless of which of these situations create the need,
a subwoofer is absolutely essential for accurate audio re-
production of both movies and music. A properly designed
subwoofer, such as the Outlaw Ultra-X12, can provide a vis-
ceral impact that most speakers are not able to provide on
their own. No matter what type of speakers comprise the
rest of your system, or what your favorite movie or music
is, the Ultra completes the sonic presentation by providing
the impact that only a subwoofer can deliver.