When we're talking about active crossovers, setting the gain is pretty straightforward when we're talking mid-to-high frequencies; just give the stereo channels a flat response. But I have a question about what happens when you have a mono sub. Do you make it so that the sensitivity of the mono channel is (up to) 6 dB higher because there is only a single channel, or match the sensitivity with the stereo channels because the summed signal will automatically be at a higher voltage and result in the appropriate higher SPL? I'm leaning toward the latter but would like to hear others' opinions/facts.
If you have one mono sub, given that music is generally mixed mono below 100Hz you would assume L+R is correct (so 6dB up on a single channel)
... Except all of that will be swamped by the often low sensitivity of the typical subwoofer.
Chris
Chris
You can increase the "volume" at the plate amp, typically, if you want to match sensitivity - at least at the upper end of its passband.
As with a lot in home stereo, there may be a theoretical answer but just a starting point in fine-tuning. For example, results may depend on the degree of correlation of the stereo sub signals which the engineer chose.
With two subs, I find about the same loudness for stereo bass as for mixed bass. And have never yet decided which makes for better bass.
With two subs, I find about the same loudness for stereo bass as for mixed bass. And have never yet decided which makes for better bass.
a lot depends on subs placement
you get some gain by wall or corner loading
ideally one should measure
you get some gain by wall or corner loading
ideally one should measure