Sub Calibration (1 Viewer)

[Ranga]

After you have calibrated your sub to read 85db (using AVIA) to match the level of the other speakers, when you adjust the volume on the receiver for normal listening, isn't the sub now louder than the rest of the speakers?

Should I be calibrating at the normal listening level instead, so that the sub's volume level remains at the same level as the rest of the speakers?

 

[jeff lam]

The sub outpul level is controlled by the master volume just as the speker outputs. It should stay the same level as the mains no mater what volume you use.

 

[Ranga]

That was a quick and precise reply .
My situation is a little peculiar. When calibrating for HT, I use the 5.1 inputs on my pre-amp and all the bass mgmt is done on the DVD player. When listening to music through the CD inputs on my pre-amp, I use the 80Hz Xover on the pre-amp.
Does your answer hold for both these situations?
Thanks Jeff.

 

[Dennis B]

Ranga,

You're probably feeling bass is too loud after calibration because you have one or more strong resonant peaks in your room. If your sub is in a corner, try moving it around to see if things improve. For the ultimate solution, do a search on "BFD".

Rgds.

 

[Ranga]

Dennis

For the ultimate solution, do a search on "BFD".

Yup.. for more info on my posts, do a search on "Ranga"

 

[jeff lam]

Simple way to test this with your SPL meter and Avia:

Calibrate as close as you can with your calibration disc. Avia I guess. Play the test tones used for calibration. they should all read about 85dB right? Do it again at several different volume points. Try 75dB or 80dB or 70dB. if they still all measure the same, your master volume is consistant with the sub output level and the speaker outputs. If not, then you may want to just calibrate at your normal listening level (say it's 75dB on Avia) just calibrate your speakers and sub to the same level using your normal listening volume on your receiver. That way you are right on at your normal listening level.

 

[Ranga]

Perfect.. that's exactly what I was planning to do.