Adjusting the controls

There are two main methods for adjust- ing the volume, crossover frequency and phase controls to match a system:

Preferred method: By listening and making the adjustments to suit your taste.

Laboratory method: By measur- ing the output with a microphone and adjusting for a flat frequency response.

Excellent results can be obtained if you make the adjustments based on simply listening. This is our preferred method as it allows the system to be voiced based on what sounds the best, whereas labo- ratory-flat frequency response can often be clinical and less than exciting.

The following procedure is for those who prefer a more methodical and scien- tific approach. This excerpt is from “The Audio Critic,” issue 24, page 31, written by contributing editor David Rich, and is reprinted here with their kind permission.

You will need a test CD with low-fre-

quency warble tones, and a sound pres- sure-level meter. The Radio Shack® SPL meter will do fine, as will the Stereophile® test CD.

“Step 1. Disconnect the subwoofer and run the main speaker with a tone in its passband (80-100 Hz). Measure the level.

Step 2. Disconnect the main speaker and reconnect the subwoofer. Set the subwoofer to its highest crossover frequency. Set the volume control of the subwoofer to give the same sound pres- sure level with the same tone you used in Step 1.

Step 3. With both the subwoofer and the main speaker connected, measure the level of the tones at the available frequencies. Because the crossover is set too high, you will have a peaked response. Adjust the crossover control to get the smoothest response.

Step 4. Use the phase control to make the response even smoother. It has its biggest effect at the crossover frequency. You can iterate between the crossover and the phase controls. Keep your hands off the volume control! It was set correctly in step 2.

Step 5. Listen to the subwoofer. Resist all temptations to turn up the volume control. Play something with really deep bass to confirm that your subwoofer is working.”

Record your favorite settings here:

Note:

Some Home Theater processors and receivers have an internal crossover adjustment which allows you to vary how much of the bass frequency range is sent to the subwoofer.

In these systems, it is recommended that you set your subwoofer's own crossover control to maximum frequency, or "Bypass." You can then make any crossover frequency adjustments using your Home Theater processor or receiver controls.

If the subwoofer’s internal crossover is set to a frequency lower than the one on your Home Theater processor or receiver, there would be a hole in the mid-bass, and bass information would be missing.

User's Manual 15

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Sunfire HRS-8, HRS-10, HRS-12 user manual Adjusting the controls, Record your favorite settings here

HRS-12, HRS-10, HRS-8 specifications

The Sunfire HRS series offers a range of high-performance subwoofers that cater to audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. Among the notable models in this series are the HRS-12, HRS-10, and HRS-8, each delivering exceptional sound quality and powerful bass response.

The HRS-12 is the flagship model, featuring a 12-inch driver and a powerful 2000-watt peak amplifier. It utilizes Sunfire's patented High Pressure Drive technology, which allows for a remarkable output-to-size ratio. This means that despite its compact design, the HRS-12 can reproduce deep, driving bass that fills any room. The subwoofer also incorporates a unique dual opposing driver configuration, which minimizes distortion and enhances sound clarity by canceling out unwanted vibrations.

Next in the lineup, the HRS-10 features a slightly smaller 10-inch driver, but it still maintains impressive performance. With a 1200-watt peak amplifier, the HRS-10 is capable of producing rich, deep bass that complements movie action sequences or music performances. This model also benefits from the same High Pressure Drive technology, ensuring that users experience minimal distortion, even at high volume levels.

The HRS-8, with its 8-inch driver, is designed for those who desire quality sound in a more compact form factor. Despite its smaller size, this subwoofer is powered by a 600-watt peak amplifier and delivers surprisingly deep bass. Ideal for smaller rooms or setups that need discreet audio solutions, the HRS-8 still excels in performance, making it a favorite for apartment dwellers or those with limited space.

All models in the Sunfire HRS series incorporate advanced features such as adjustable phase control, variable crossover frequencies, and a front-firing design that allows for flexible placement options. This means users can fine-tune their listening experience according to their room's acoustics and personal preferences.

In summary, the Sunfire HRS-12, HRS-10, and HRS-8 subwoofers exemplify the brand’s commitment to delivering powerful, high-quality bass in a variety of formats to suit different needs. Whether in a home theater setup or a music listening environment, these subwoofers ensure a deep and immersive experience, making them standout choices in the marketplace. Their combination of advanced technology, thoughtful design, and exceptional performance solidifies their reputation among audio enthusiasts.