SV Subwoofers
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reading is still too high then turn down the sub’s amp volume a little with each run.
But what’s “too high”?? Tastes vary, and so do movie soundtracks, but your SVS is capable of tremendous levels of low distortion, low frequency bass — far more than most commercial subs. Take advantage of this, especially if you like action movies with lots of “.1” channel (LFE) action, and give the sub a bit more “bump” during calibration. Keep in mind too that the human ear is relatively insensitive to low frequencies. This, coupled with the fact most folks don’t watch movies at Dolby Digital reference level (fairly loud), means raising the bass up a few dBs usually yields a more satisfying movie and music experience.
What sub levels do we recommend? If you watch movies at relatively moderate sound levels, a good start is a range of +1dB to +3dB above your other channels (as measured with your sound meter). This means the test tone will waiver about 78 dB for the subwoofer portion of the calibration run (88dB with Avia). (Note: You may want to rotate the sound meter SPL meter dial to 80dB to get a good reading with these higher levels.) Note too that many modern surround sound receivers allow a variety of different subwoofer level settings, depending on the “listening mode” you are in. With “Dolby Digital” as your “mode” use the above calibration routine. You may well find that CD “Stereo” music calls for a lower bass settings adjusted by ear. The above is a guide… experiment. The louder your master volume though, the more you should back off the subwoofer’s level to compensate. Audible distress is a sign to lower things a bit. Avoid your driver bottoming, resulting in a loud “clack”!
Location and measurement. You should take the above measurements from your typical preferred seat for watching movies. Be advised, strong bass levels can vary tremendously simply by moving your seat or your subwoofer a few feet. Such is the nature of long
Powered Box amp. We looked the world over for the best performing sub amp that’s still affordable. What resulted is an SVS custom- designed, North
Volume/Gain. Use gain (in conjunction with your receiver’s subwoofer output level control) to dial in a bass calibration to your liking. Start calibration with the sub’s volume 1/4 to 1/3 of the way up (turned clockwise from the left).
Phase. Think of long bass waves as conflicting or enhancing each other, depending on the timing of their arrival at your listening location (either
