Atlantic Technology T70.1PBM instruction manual Subwoofer Tuning Using the Variable Level Control

Figure 3: Assymmetrical arrangement for 2 subwoofers in a home theater, for example, one closer to a corner than the other.

Atlantic Technology®

Subwoofer Tuning Using the Variable Level Control

Assuming that you do not have access to a Sound Pressure Level meter for system set up, start your listening with the subwoofer crossover control set at approximately two-thirds of its range (which corresponds to approximately 100Hz), the phase switch set to normal, and the variable level control set to the bottom of its range (fully counterclockwise facing the back of the woofer). Play some music that you know has good bass content, and turn the level control up until you just start to hear the subwoofer working. Now, from your normal listening position, determine whether the subwoofer is playing loudly enough and filling in the bass frequencies of the music evenly. If adjustment is necessary, start by changing the setting of the rear mounted level control to compensate.

If the bass seems too heavy, move the subwoofer away from the wall/corner. If the bass seems too thin, move the subwoofer closer to the wall/corner. Small differences in positioning can make big differences in bass response. When you find a position that seems to work well, have someone switch the phase switch between its two settings, while you’re in the prime listening position. Pay particular attention to the transition from the subwoofer to the satellites.

Sometimes people prefer more bass impact for movies than sounds natural when reproducing music. You may wish to determine both a video level and an audio level if you find yourself falling into this camp. Remember however, the most common error people make when setting up their system is to play the subwoofer (and surround speakers) too loudly. Of course, the Bass Police will not arrest you for this act. But should you desire the most accurate overall reproduction, a well balanced sound from deepest bass to highest treble is the best way to get it.

Using the Crossover Control

When used with the complete T70.1 system, the T70.1 PBM crossover control should be set at two- thirds of its range as stated above. The goal is to optimize the performance of the system by ensuring that the subwoofer and satellites produce a cohesive and well integrated sound “picture.” The low frequency response of the T70.1 satellites has been optimized to work with approximately a 100Hz crossover point. This provides maximum performance and the smoothest integration with the subwoofer.

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