Low-frequency sounds are normally omnidirectional, meaning the listener can’t tell where they are generated from. However, frequencies between 75Hz and 150Hz can be local- ized, especially at higher vol- ume levels. Positioning your subwoofer as recommended will provide the most natural soundstage and imaging from your loudspeaker system.
It is generally recommended that you install your HTI88 in- wall subwoofer along the same wall as the front loudspeakers. The HTI88 subwoofer is not video-shielded and should not be placed near a video display. Installing the HTI88 near a cor- ner will tend to maximize low- frequency output. Be cautious when installing in a corner, to avoid a “boomy” sound. Also take into consideration any unusual features of the room, such as an alcove, which may tend to create a localized node that may affect bass response in that area of the room.
It is generally recommended that the speaker be installed so that the bottom of the speaker is approximately 12" from the floor. This is to help with the low-frequency loading (bass reinforcement). This also helps hide the speaker in a less visi- ble place. In special circum- stances it is acceptable to install the speaker at any height on a wall.
Remember that these are just guidelines. Since every listen- ing room is different, JBL strongly recommends experi- menting with the positioning of your subwoofer prior to cutting the wall to obtain the most pleasing results in your room. One technique that can help you find the ideal subwoofer location is to temporarily bor- row a stand-alone subwoofer and place it near the main lis- tening location. Then move around the room and determine where you hear the most pleas- ing bass performance. This would then be the ideal loca- tion for the subwoofer.
When using two HTI88 in-wall subwoofers, you may need to be concerned about phase, as the sound waves may cancel each other out. If bass response seems low, try invert- ing the polarity on one sub- woofer – i.e., connect the (+) terminal on the amplifier to the
(–)terminal on the speaker, and the (–) terminal on the amplifier to the (+) terminal on the speaker.
