SETTING UP A STEREO SYSTEM
TROUBLESHOOTING
Before investigating a problem, switch off the system at the mains.
Excessive bass distortion at low volumes
Subwoofer level set too high; LFE level set too high; Subwoofer incorrectly wired
Excessive or distorted bass at high levels
System level set too high; Bass control set too high;
Indistinct sound; Poor localisation of
effects. Poor localisation of dialogue
One or more loudspeakers is out of phase. Check all system connections and rectify.
(Read the manual for correct connection procedure)
Distortion / rattling at high levels
System level too high; Objects too close or on top of speakers/subwoofer.
Sound lacks bass content
Bass reproduction indistinct
Front loudspeakers out of phase. Check all system connections and rectify.
Subwoofer not switched on; Subwoofer phase incorrect; Subwoofer crossover control too low
No Sound
System not switched on; Speaker cables shorting terminals out; Wrong source selected
Symptom
Possible Cause
SETTING UP AN AV SYSTEM
Most digital AV processors require you to specify the size of speakers in all operational channels. These are usually ‘Large’
or ‘Small’. Set all the bookshelf speakers to “Small“. This will direct all the bass in the system to the subwoofer for clean,
deep and louder bass. The floorstanding loudspeakers should be set to “Large“. It is normal for centre and effects
speakers to be set to “Small“. Set the ‘Subwoofer’ option on the processor to “on”. If there is no subwoofer in the system set
all the speakers to “Large” and set the subwoofer to “Off”
When the loudspeaker settings are finalised, put the AV amplifier into its “Test” mode (see your processor instructions),
Adjust the levels until all channels are equally loud.
Ensure that the listening seat is central to the loudspeakers.
Adjust the speakers for the optimum performance. You will find that a few
degrees more or less “toe in” can affect the sound dramatically.
Play some music with which you are familiar.
The sound should be well balanced with a firm bass. If the sound lacks definition or the bass is indistinct, the speakers
could be incorrectly wired (out of phase). In this case check the wiring to the loudspeakers.
Please read the relevant sections of your AV amplifier manual and familiarise yourself with the various
issues. If you are unsure, consult your dealer for help.
IF YOUR LOUDSPEAKERS ARE NOT WORKING SATISFACTORILY, PLEASE WORK THROUGH THE TABLE BELOW BEFORE
CONTACTING YOUR DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE.
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