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extension of the main speakers, rather than a box in the room making noise!
Setting Subwoofer Crossover
This adjustment is between 40Hz-150Hz. If your preamplifier/processor has a dedicated
“LFE” or “SUB” output, then you should be using the input jack labeled “
SUBWOOFER
INPUT
”. This input bypasses the crossover because the filtering function is handled
upstream in the Dolby Digital/DTS processor. When your processor is not on a Dolby or
DTS source format, it will make the necessary filtering for the LFE output so this input
configuration will yield the best result for that equipment. If you have a home theater
system, this is more than likely the input you should use.
If you do not have a dedicated output for the subwoofer, you should be using the left
and right “LINE INPUT” jacks. In this situation it is recommended to use the adjustable
crossover in the subwoofer. Begin at the highest setting and slowly dial it down until it
seems as if the bass is anchored in the front speakers rather than just the subwoofer.
We strongly recommend settings above 80Hz because this will allow a nice blend with
the other ELT525 speakers without making them work too hard with reproducing the
bulk of the low frequencies. Note that the front speakers are “protected” only if the
pre/pro is switched to SMALL. If you are a traditional 2 channel enthusiast or are using
components free of a dedicated LFE output, this method is then the correct choice.
The easiest way to test different methods and frequencies for crossing over your
subwoofer is by using bass sweeps from the AVIA Guide To Home Theater DVD.
Specifically, the tones that descend in frequency from the individual satellite speakers
to the subwoofer are quite useful and effective. Using your SPL meter, watch for the
smallest amount of overall needle fluctuation while you direct and descend the tones
from the main speakers to the subwoofer going around your system. If you are not sure
about how to do this or where to locate the AVIA disc, please call AV123 at (877) 543-
7500 for assistance or email us at [email protected].
Setting Subwoofer Phase
The Phase Switch controls the relative phase of the subwoofer to best reinforce the other
loudspeakers in your system. Adjustments to this control will change the subwoofer’s
interaction with the rest of your speaker system, providing the least cancellation, and
thus the best response in any room. With SPL meter in hand (or, better yet, on a tripod
in the listening position), play an 80Hz tone (for this exercise the crossover point must
be set to 80Hz if you are not using the LFE Subwoofer Input) and switch the Phase
Switch from “0” to “180°.” Watching your SPL meter, select the setting that results in
the biggest peaks in sound pressure levels (i.e. reads highest on the meter).
To verify your measurements, go back to the listening position and listen for yourself
using music you know. If the bass from the subwoofer seems to be coming from the
front speakers rather than noticeably separated from them and reduced in output level,
you have got it right. The optimum setting indicates the least amount of bass wave
