Limited Warranty, All Applications | Bowers & Wilkins ASW 12CM

portrayal, and one more satisfying in the long term, is to be had by setting the subwoofer level lower than the standard calibration level.

2-channel Audio

Set the system up in the preferred position and play some programme with a steady bass content.

The optimum settings of the PHASE switch and the LOW-PASS FREQ control are inter-related and also dependent on the low-frequency cut-off characteristic of the satellite speakers. However, the settings recommended above for the LOW PASS FREQ control and PHASE switch have been chosen to integrate well with most satellite speaker bass alignments.

Using the initial settings, first check the setting of the PHASE switch. Choose the option that gives the fullest sound. Normally the recommended option will be optimum, but may not be in certain circumstances. These may be that the power amplifiers feeding the satellite speakers invert the signal or that the subwoofer is not placed close to the satellite speakers.

Next, adjust the VOLUME (LINE or SPEAKER) of the subwoofer relative to the satellite systems to your liking. Use a wide variety of programme material to get an average setting. A setting that sounds impressive on one piece may sound overpowering on another. Listen at a realistic volume level as the perception of musical balance varies with sound level.

Finally, adjust the LOW-PASS FREQ control to give the smoothest transition between the subwoofer and satellite speakers.

All Applications

The BASS EXTENSION switch offers three options of subwoofer bass extension. Position A gives the greatest extension and position C gives the least extension. Position B provides a compromise setting. If the system is to be used at very high volume levels or in a large listening room, restricting the bass extension by selecting either B or C may help ensure that the subwoofer is not asked to exceed its performance limits. In most situations the BASS EXTENSION switch should be left in position A.

The EQ switch alters the subwoofer bass roll-off alignment. The bass you hear is a combination of the subwoofer plus the effects of the room and you should choose the position that best complements your room and the location of the subwoofer. Position A gives a “drier” alignment, more suited to placing the subwoofer in a corner or compensating for a resonant room. Position B is suited to a less resonant room acoustic and use away from a corner.

If you get problems with uneven bass – certain bass notes are exaggerated more than others – then you probably have a room interface problem and it is worth experimenting with the location of the subwoofer. What may seem like small changes in position – 15cm (6in) or so – can have a profound effect on the sound. The use of multiple subwoofers can smooth the effects of room resonances, as each subwoofer will tend to excite resonances at different frequencies. If you appreciably alter the relative distances from the

subwoofer(s) and satellite speakers to the listening position, re-assess the PHASE switch setting. You should also check the volume of the subwoofer (using either the processor output levels or the VOLUME control on the subwoofer amplifier as appropriate), but only after setting the phase correctly.

Aftercare

The cabinet surfaces usually only require dusting. If you wish to use an aerosol or other cleaner, remove the grille first by gently pulling it away from the cabinet. Spray aerosols onto the cleaning cloth, not directly onto the product. Test a small area first, as some cleaning products may damage some of the surfaces. Avoid products that are abrasive, or contain acid, alkali or anti-bacterial agents. Do not use cleaning agents on the drive unit. The grille fabric may be cleaned with a normal clothes brush whilst the grille is detached from the cabinet. Avoid touching the drive unit, as damage may result. Switch off the subwoofer before cleaning.

We have chosen the finest wood veneers for the surface of the cabinet, but please be aware that, like all natural materials, the veneer will respond to its environment. Keep the product away from sources of direct heat such as radiators and warm air vents to avoid the risk of cracking. The wood is treated with an ultra-violet resistant lacquer to minimise changes in colour over time, but a degree of change is to be expected. This effect may be particularly noticeable where the area covered by the grille, or areas kept in shadow, change more slowly than other areas. Colour differences may be rectified by exposing all the veneer surfaces equally and evenly to sunlight until the colour is uniform. This process can take several days or even weeks, but may be accelerated by careful use of an ultra-violet lamp.

Do not use the subwoofer as a table. When in use, objects left on top of the subwoofer are liable to rattle. In particular, avoid the risk of liquids being spilled (e.g. from drinks or vases of flowers).

If the system is taken out of use for a long period, disconnect the subwoofer from the mains supply.