Need some help with my SVS PC-Ultra 16s (1 Viewer)

[Scott Burke]

I have two of these subs hooked up, and one seems to do all the output. I have levels set the same, but I'm barely hearing anything out of one. I know it's working because I put my hand over the grate and can feel the sub moving. I have always had this set up and no problems previously. Not sure what's going on here.

 

[Wayne A. Pflughaupt]

Not much information to go on. For instance, “same levels:” Is that measured SPL in the room, same knob setting on the sub, or same output setting in the receiver sub output? If the median or latter, different locations in the room can generate different SPL levels, e.g. one in a corner vs. one in the center of the room.

Bottom line, why not just turn up the level on the one that appears to be putting out less?

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[JohnRice]

Yeah, you really need to provide more details. How are they connected? Are you using a splitter or do you have separate 2 channel sub outputs? Are you certain one of the cables isn't damaged? I could go on.

 

[DaveF]

I have two of these subs hooked up, and one seems to do all the output. I have levels set the same, but I'm barely hearing anything out of one. I know it's working because I put my hand over the grate and can feel the sub moving. I have always had this set up and no problems previously. Not sure what's going on here.

Things to check:

• Check their offset volumes in the AVR that they're the same
• Check their volume knobs that they're the same
• Check cables are firmly connected
• Listen to a known scene with only one sub powered at a time
• Try different seat location in case of a strong room null affecting your perception
• Disable any Audyssey-type processing to check if that's the issue
• Rerun Audyssey cal
• Send both subs to me... buy new subs for yourself...

 

[Scott Burke]

Sorry guys, I didn't mean to be so vague. I'm talking about the gain and levels knob when I speak of levels. Adjusting either doesn't seem to make a difference in output. I have individual cords going to the subs split at the receiver by a Y-jack. Not sure why I never thought to use my SPL meter to check the levels. I guess I'll do that. I will also try in plugging one and then the other to test them out. Placement wise, I have them along the same wall in front on either side of my tv. However, one is in a corner the other is not. I'll try to take a picture later so you can see. Thanks for the suggestions, I'll report back.

 

[Scott Burke]

Phase not levels knob

 

[DaveF]

Gain (volume) knob should have an obvious effect on output volume. If it doesn't -- especially on an Ultra 16 -- the sub isn't turned on.

That makes me wonder if you've inadvertently disabled LFE output to one or both subs in your AVR?

 

[David Willow]

Gain (volume) knob should have an obvious effect on output volume. If it doesn't -- especially on an Ultra 16 -- the sub isn't turned on.

That makes me wonder if you've inadvertently disabled LFE output to one or both subs in your AVR?

If they are split with a 'y' cable this would impact both subs equally.

My guess is based on your description of the placement and the fact that you can't equalize them separately because of the y-cable connection, you have one sub in a good location and the other in a bad one. The way I would handle this (assuming I didn't move the subs) would be to setup one at a time. Get the volume correct at your listening position using the volume control on the sub. Then disconnect it and do the other. Once you have them both dialed in, reconnect with the y-cable and then use the trim on the AVR to dial in the correct volume. I still think one will seem louder than the other but it will be closer.

 

[Scott Burke]

Thanks guys I'll try that

 

[Scott Burke]

Here is my sub placement. They are behind my mains.

 

[DaveF]

Have you checked the basics yet: power, gain, Audyssey, LFE, etc?

 

[David Willow]

Here is my sub placement. They are behind my mains.

I'm guessing it is the left one that you don't hear as loudly?

 

[Scott Burke]

I'm guessing it is the left one that you don't hear as loudly?

Correct

 

[Scott Burke]

Have you checked the basics yet: power, gain, Audyssey, LFE, etc?

Haven't yet been busy with family this weekend.

 

[DaveF]

I'm guessing it is the left one that you don't hear as loudly?

If it's the corner boost vs open space, what are the options? I'm thinking:
A) dial corner sub down and open sub up on the individual gains and then adjust avr gain to taste

Or

B) upgrade AVR to one with two sub outputs and Audyssey XT(?) to tune the individual subs

 

[David Willow]

c) Move the sub from the corner.

Dual subs are good for evening out a difficult room. If you want a boost in overall volume they need to be next to each other.

How big is this room that you need 2 Ultra 16s? I have 2 PC 12-Plus' and it is enough to make my neighbor's house sound good.

 

[DaveF]

I was guessing (c) is out due to room /
Spouse limitations.

Looking forward to learning more