HOW TO SET SUBWOOFER GAIN: Free Hack For More POWER!!!

[@Chabulawa]

All I have to say is that, IT WORKS/WORKS BETTER!!!!! to me too. I have two SVS PB-16 ULTRA'S, and after doing these "hack" i can say both PB-16 ULTRAS sound more smooth with more Slam and better. I have on my denon av receiver "Sub Level" 1st at -12db and 2nd at -12db also, with both PB-16 ULTRAS at -8db. Thanks to YOU!! for showing these tip to the public. And thankyou for taking the time for sharing your ideas. For some might not work and they will say bla bla these and that is just a false idea, but its not. Lowering the signal on the av receiver and turning up the amp on the sub sounds much better.

[@Chabulawa]

:-) I was just playing around with the settings you suggested. And BAM!! they saounded AMAZING before but now both PB-16 ULTRA'S sound double the amazing!! Keep up the good work.

[@Subwoofer101]

+MrChabulawa12345 Right on!! Now you're really getting the most out of the best! Now pop in The Accountant and Hacksaw Ridge and buckle up! The Accountant hits me in the chest with the suppressed fire. Unlike anything I've ever experienced! Thanks so much for reporting your experience! Some are afraid to color outside of the lines, and feedback like this might help some people "take the chance".

[@probmxjona]

So what should i do? I have the PB4000 13.5 linked to a yamaha Xv-481 should i set all the gain on the Av reciever all the way down and just turn up the amp on the sub?

[@FURognar]

So I bought an old 10" Energy sub from craigslist. Didnt think it would do much beyond 30-35 hz. Got it setup via Audyssey and it worked pretty well, but as I thought, was about -3db at 35hz, maybe -6 at 30hz and not much beyond that. Played a 25hz signal and got nothing. When I initially set it up, I followed the general wisdom of putting the Gain knob at 50% and Audyssey set the Sub trim at -3.0db so I left it there. It certainly filled in my lower end but wasnt particularly that deep. Then I saw your gain hack video. I just did a preliminary adjustment by increasing the gain to about 80% and reducing the sub Trim a bit more and HOLY COW! That opened up the sub so much more. Gets much louder, actually plays deeper. And even at lower volumes, bass still has some impact. I couldnt believe how much more the sub was opened up after that. So on my next day off, I plan to rebalance my speakers, re-run audyssey. Get the sub to 75db with the gain at 90% and see what that does for me. Lets see if it can actually hit the published specs of 25hz. (I doubt it as its only 10", but it does have decent amp power at 400 watts and has a cabinet the size of a budget 12" sub like a Dayton sub 1200, so I guess its possible) Thanks for posting this video. There is also a mega-thread about subwoofer setup and calibration on AVS Forums, and they have an entire section on Sub Gain where they effectively agree with your assessment here. So you arent alone in using this method.

[@musicman8586]

Thank you for making these subwoofer video's. I kept my Audyssey levels at 75DB but did a manual adjustment and raised the gain levels to +3.5 & +3.0. I also followed your advice from another of your subwoofer video's and raised my speakers crossovers from 60HZ to 80HZ and WOW what a difference these 2 changes made in my theater. My Marantz AV10 has 4 independant sub outputs so I am running (2) SVS SB16 subs and sending the other (2) sub outs to my GoldenEar Triton One.R's with built in subs. I left the sub gain level of the GoldenEar Triton One.R's as set by Audyssey at -8.5 & -8.0 and only changed the levels going to the SVS SB16's to the plus range. My bass is tight and powerful and I am now golden.

[@ajmurray2142]

I thought I had wasted my money when I bought 2, SVS PC 2000s to switch out with my 2, SVS SB 3000s. The 3000s are great but very tight and I wanted a bit more boom, well I got BOOM all right. Even after running Audyssey, turning up the PC 2000s would pressurized the room but with just sloppy boomy bass. Your little hack made all the difference in the world, it reined in the 2000s and now I have tight bass with the boom. Thank you so much.

[@ronmclaren8054]

Thanks for your informative videos. I'm trying to get my head around the Subwoofer Level hack. As I understand it, there are 2 ways you can accomplish this. The first would be before Audyssey calibration, where you would set the subwoofer level control on the sub to result in a reading of +11 more than recommended on the Audyssey subwoofer level adjust screen, then proceed with the full calibration. If you made your adjustments right, the subwoofer level would then be set by Audyssey to be about -11, to result in the desired Audyssey reference level subwoofer output. You would then make any fine tuning via the Subwoofer Level Adjust menu in the Audio screen, which would nominally be centered at zero for calibrated level, but allowing for more headroom should any boost be applied. The other way would be to make the adjustment after calibration. If in a previous calibration, you originally adjusted the gain/level control on the subwoofer to result in a level adjustment of zero in the speaker level menu in the AVR, you would then go to the subwoofer adjustment screen in the first part of the Audyssey calibration screens, increase the level on the sub to result in a reading of +11 higher, then back out and cancel the calibration and go into the Subwoofer Level Adjust screen in the Audio menu and set it to -11, to compensate for the +11 that was made on the subwoofer. (Numbers approximate. ) Am I following correctly so far? Now, my understanding is that the reason for doing this is that the subwoofer/LFE output circuits in the AVR won't have to work so hard, because the level adjustment on the subwoofer is higher, or more sensitive, which results in a lower level, but more dynamic signal being sent to the Sub from the AVR. Am I understanding the process correctly?

[@ksb916]

Great video, but a couple things I discovered. First off: different subs and different AVRs may perform differently, but I am using HSU subwoofers and an Onkyo AVR and this is what works for me. I had originally had my subwoofer volume knob at 10 o'clock and the AVR at +8db (otherwise auto-on would not trigger). After watching this video, I set the subwoofer to 2 o'clock and the AVR to -8db. I did notice that things did get better in general, but I did notice some floor noise due to the volume on the sub set this high. At higher levels, the floor noise is even more apparent. I contacted HSU for comment on this and what I learned was interesting. Unlike you note in this video, the volume control on this subwoofer (and perhaps others) is not a volume control at all, it is an input gain control. I had originally thought that a subwoofer volume control and AVR level is like a car stereo and phone (connected via AUX cable). If you set the car stereo volume to 30%, no matter how high you set your phone volume, you are limited by the car stereo level. A Sub and AVR does not work in this way, so you don't really gain an extra power. What you are doing by setting your AVR super very low such as -12db and your subwoofer high, such as at 3 o'clock is using the subwoofer internals to amplify the input signal. What can happen in this case is extra noise can be introduced as floor noise, cable interference noise, and some distortion by amplifying such a weak signal. The opposite is also a bad idea. Setting the AVR to +8db means the AVR is heavily boosting the signal, this can lead to compression and less dynamic range. The optimum setting would be if you set your AVR near 0db and then adjust your subwoofer volume to where it sounds good. Having the subwoofer near the middle position would be optimum. Sound is subjective sometimes we like things that move away from natural (such as V shaped EQs), but for the best settings, it is best to stay near 0db on AVR and near middle on the subwoofer.

[@Subwoofer101]

Sounds like you enjoyed the increased dynamic response from my Hack, but the floor noise from the increased output and dynamics was a problem. Solution: Isolation. Decouple the subwoofer from the floor, and you should be able to enjoy more dynamics without detriment. If the auto on is not sensitive enough, you can also just leave it on. If you detect any hum, get better cables. I have not had a problem with hum. I've not had ANY problem with distortion, in fact it sounds tighter. I don't think the optimum setting is 0 on the AVR. I think it robs dynamics. If you had isolation, or a concrete subfloor, I don't believe you would have had any complaints at all, aside from auto on. You can put some pillows or couch cushions under your subs, and try the hack again. If the floor noise goes away and everything sounds great, I'd get some purpose built isolation and enjoy the improved dynamics.

[@Subwoofer101]

To put it further into perspective, if you had bought a more powerful subwoofer, you would also experience more floor noise, due to a more powerful amp and driver combo. The problem would not have been the more powerful sub, it would still be your floor, and the lack of isolation. The gain hack made your HSU behave like a more powerful subwoofer, subsequently putting more energy into your floor. People spend big money for more powerful subs, and you saw similar gains using a free hack, just using simple adjustments. That's a good thing in my opinion. I think reducing the dynamics is going backwards. I'd address the problems caused by the increased dynamics (floor noise), rather than reducing the dynamics. Granted, it's your system, but to me reducing dynamics is like sending back more powerful subs because they were too awesome.

[@zman-ru3yf]

I think he mean noise floor not floor noise

[@larrydavis3836]

Love your videos Mr. Subwoofer 101. You've been a tremendous help to me in my home theater endeavors. I have dual pb-2000s and have the gain set at 1 o'clock on them both and the avr sub setting at -10db. A perfect setting for tv and music. Movies? Not so much. So, I left the avr setting at -10db and increased the sub gain to almost max and played the opening of Godzilla: King of monsters. Very good sound. I then reset the subs at 1 o'clock and increased the avr sub setting to +3.0db and replayed the opening scene. The sound was much better and shook the room with more authority than the setting you are suggesting in this video. I've read all the comments below and I'm a little surprised it didn't work better for me. I know. I know. All rooms are different and your setting suggestions are not perfect for everyone. I just wish there was one setting that was right for everything so I didn't have to change my avr db when I watch a movie. Just wanted to give you a little feedback because I know how much you appreciate it. Also, Mr. Subwoofer 101, you have no idea how grateful all of us are for all of your hard work, doing your testing, and making all of these informative videos. You're alright in book my friend,

[@arongatt]

This worked very well for me, I’m having deeper bass extensions now and bass feels/sounds better. I was having port chuffing as well on some occasions and now ... nada . Thanks 🙏

[@TysonHook-22-]

For me and my setup consisting of a Denon E300, SB2000, and Kef Q100s I typically just run Audyssey and adjust my subwoofer gain up or down until Audyssey gives me a subwoofer level reading of 0dB. From there I can manually adjust the subwoofer level/trim depending on what i'm listening to... for instance for music I tend to leave the sub level at 0dB, but during movies i'll usually back the sub level off a bit, anywhere between negative 3db and negative 10dB, typically around negative 6dB... which in-turn allows me to set my master volume higher... which to my ears brings the dialog and effects of the movies soundtrack to the forefront slightly, well balancing out the bass to where its still lively and exciting but doesn't overpower the rest of my speakers and end up leaving me constantly adjusting the master volume up and down during a movie... At the end of the day, I feel I get pretty good dynamics out of my SB2000... But once I get an spl meter or upgrade my AVR to something with a higher level of Audyssey I'll begin experimenting with my subwoofers settings a bit more and try out your sub hack to see what kinda impact it has on my systems sound. But for now I find my setup method to work great for my needs, since its simple to accomplish and works great even for the lowest level of Audyssey.

[@rlwings]

I think after doing this hack you would need to re-run Audyssey in order to create new filters based on the shift in dynamic output and it's effects in the room. Also to bring the balance and loudness back to reference.... Basically, if you touch your subwoofer knobs you throw off the current calibration necessitating the need for re-calibration. Otherwise your volume knob on the AVR won't be calibrated to reference levels anymore and the EQ and balance between subs and spkrs will be disproportionate.

[@mikeschneider9049]

yes i agree with you it should be done before calibration

[@DugiDevetCarabolium]

Im glad that you listen to me and finally buy equal dual subs. Now you know the difference. You cant have 2 different subs ass dual subs, its wrong. Im glad you do it.!

[@pnevin98]

The Audyssey subwoofer level you’re doing won’t have the subwoofer filters on. You should use REW to do the subwoofer level. Just make sure that the combined levels of the subwoofers are at the same levels as the other speakers.

[@mikeschneider9049]

in my denon x6500h, audyssey set both svs pb4000 levels at -12, with both sub gains i set at what svs recommends at -10. after calibration i turned avr sub levels up to -8

[@turbotona25]

I have 2 pb12-nsd subs what should I set the gain knobs to in the back of the subs before doing this?

[@wadehoffstetter5576]

You just saved me thousands with this video. My PB1000s are kicking like crazy now! Thanks a ton!

[@jonathanyoung7050]

After you did SW leveling what’s your SW level in test tones? Do you leave it to what Audyseey gives you.

[@dj.excess]

Ok so instead of having the dials of my sub at the middle and then adjusting them with the receiver dials, I should set it higher on the sub dials and lower it on the receiver? I’m trying to understand this. Reading som comments I kinda see why this would be good to get your sub to use it’s true power. I’m using a yamaha rxa2070 fyi

[@Subwoofer101]

+Ki11aBEE You got the concept. Sub gain higher, AVR subwoofer level lower.

[@zelko0768]

Great video. So to clarify after I did my Audyssey calibration on my Denon avr it set the sub trim to -9.5 and the sub volume ended up on -16 on my PB16. My sub level adjustment function is off. So if i turn it on should i set it to -9.5 like it was set or is this a totally different function than what the Audyssey set up is?

[@JoeWilly69]

So I'm new to your videos, but my Denon rec is about 6 yrs old it's x5200w so it was a fine unit in the day. Love the videos, so the gain increases with higher - number like -12 is the highest or the lowest? Thnx for your time

[@Benegeier]

Thanks, thanks, thanks!!! Have an Yamaha rx a880 which goes down to -10 (from normal Setting -2,5) and now Iam much more satisfied with my svs sb2000s performance!! Made my day! After weeks of setting up and changing settings and all the time I missed the bass a bit, now it's a lot better :) Got one subscription and fan more :) Greetings from Germany!

[@racyJace]

I've a Yamaha a3050 and an xtz 12 17 Edge. I'll give this a go and see what it sounds like. I would of thought it should of been done the opposite way round like in car audio. They have a high volt out put on the RCA and then lower the gain on the amp. I'll try both and see.

[@dvan3630]

I just tried the setting you recommend it works amazingly well. I was always looking for a sub setting but couldn't find one but your hit the jackpot thx

[@Subwoofer101]

Thanks for letting me know!

[@gibluap]

Now what about if you run an LFE cable and that's how you run through your AVR. Basically canceling out the crossover on the back of the subwoofer? Then how would you go about setting it then would you set the DB for the LFE output on the receiver accordingly the same way? Let me know if it that didn't make sense

[@Subwoofer101]

I would use the Subwoofer output rather than LFE, LFE will only output movie LFE signal, and possibly bypass bass management when speakers are set to small for music without an LFE channel. I'm not 100% on that, but that's my understanding. Haven't experimented extensively, but I would stick with the Subwoofer output for your subwoofers.

[@gibluap]

So do you not hook up your subwoofer through the LFE output? Or....?

[@Subwoofer101]

I use the Subwoofer output, not LFE.

[@gibluap]

What I have recently learned after doing my own research is some AVR's do send out right and left audio for music through the LFE. The way to see if that's the case is to put in some music turn on your sound system if you're getting noise, bass, sound however you want to put it to the subwoofer then it does if you don't get any noise or base to the subwoofer then it does not. You then have to hook it up the other way. Or have both. If it all comes to the LFE then you typically have to make some adjustments for bass quality from music to a movie

[@gibluap]

Actually my bottom on the onkyo is like - 15

[@rmari-sw4sm]

Good video and information. I have watched videos on audyssey and some like it and some don't. Most problems I heard was that audyssey takes a bass away from subs. I have a Marantz sr7012 and would like to know what is the difference between audio subwoofer level and subwoofer channel level. I might end up buying the app just to try it out myself. Thanks

[@FoulBeast666]

Hey there, I run a Yamaha rx1080 and I have 2 pb16 ultras. What -db setting should I run on the subs when I run the initial YPAO setup?

[@sermerlin1]

Can you maybe take measures of the bass pounding before and after the "hack" as audibly it wouldn't make any difference if you do this as in the end the dB volume should be exactly the same and the slams should be of equal power because the signals are all digital. From receiver it is going to the digital processor on the woofer and is listening for the volume instructions. sub has been set on 83dB manually with a knob which sets the processor to produce 83dB of sound and after calibration the audyssey sees that as too much off from the reference levels and it adjusted itself to -11.5dB in order to get it balanced to the reference level. Every time you play something now the receiver is sending the frequencies which it is suppose to play and along it is saying "hey also make all the frequencies -11.5 dB" and processor on sub is going "yeah sure thing boss" and then it plays at corrected in this case 71.5dB volume. So in the end can you maybe add on to this? Perhaps do the measure slam before hack (at reference level fully calibrated) and after hack (do the uped dB then let audyssey correct it to the reference) slam. In theory the measured performance should be pretty much identical... Unless due to the increased amp power with the knob is moving the speaker more but that would mean the processor is not properly functioning... The only real thing that this is actually doing if we confirm the theory, if you are willing to do, is just adding lots of headroom so that you don't have to manually increase the volume on the sub if you wish to as you have now 11.5 dBs before the ceiling and you can just increase the volume with your remote on the receiver. No need to duck behind reach for the knob and then returning back to the seat and go like "Oh shit not enough gotta increase more" but like just increase it incrementally until you are satisfied with the pounding.

[@apilon47]

Excellent tutorial but i have a question. Is that a hack that you do after audyssey auto-setup or before? I would assume after because otherwise audyssey will readjust the sub to 70DB Right?

[@Subwoofer101]

Either way, after works, or before. I do it before myself, as part of my regular set up process. Takes the subs to -12.0 every time, and I usually bump it up to -11.5 or so.

[@apilon47]

@@Subwoofer101 I understand but will audyssey will change the settings to try to get the sub to 70 db then bumping up the avr trim to -1 or so to get the sub down from let say 82 db to 70 db?

[@Subwoofer101]

It's ok, you can adjust the AVR Subwoofer Level later. But if you prefer, do it after. Both will work.

[@NickCrate007]

So if i get you right setting the AV subwoofer level to less so maybe -12 on my Onkyo 838 "i know it's old" and get my SVS PB-2000 level more in the range of 80% ill get better smooth bass?

[@NickCrate007]

So less AVR sub level output and more Sub vol knob output "to match"

[@3WAY-MIRROR]

just found you, one of hopefully only a few questions , you recommend two subs, i have a SVS SB4000. what's your thought on adding a PB4000, or would doubling what i have create a better symmetry ?

[@1964wingman]

Hi Ryan, Now that i have both my PB 2000 up and running and i have done your hack do i have to do the room correction again? My flavor with these subs is i like to feel them through the floor. Is that too much subwoofer? These subs make the hair on my head stand up.

[@Subwoofer101]

Glad you're enjoying them!! If room correction has already been run with both subs, I see no reason to run it again, but if you just added the second sub, I would run it again. Room correction needs to "hear" both subs to get the balance right. But if room correction has already been completed with the current setup, there is no reason to go back through it with this hack. So long as it doesn't sound overdone to you, you're good. You can also check out how I dial in subs: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mnapnIObbLelh6c If you can feel it in the floor, I assume you have a wood floor? Isolation would reduce that feeling, but I feel it improves the sound. You'll still feel it in the floor, just not as much: sub101.link/Isolation

[@RED89P13]

What do you use this set up most for? I've been thinking about using a sub in my closet for a deep rumble for movies. In your opinion what's the most ideal size for movies and some music?

[@AudioClownHT]

I Kinda get it, but can u answer one thing. When i have done the audyssey i put my sub in "test ton mode" to - 5.should i leave it like that?

[@nobodynobody1235]

I have a yahama 7810 and dual pb1000. Have a hard time to get to the impact I want to after multiple tunings. I set the sub volume nob to about 70%, run room correction YPAO, it set the sub to -1.5db......i manually changed the av to 0db. It now sounds better but still not the impact I am trying to get to

[@TheDabbinDave]

I’m not finding videos regarding 3 or 4 subs. Should the two subs Y split on Sub output 1 be measured together or individually?

[@lc3469]

@subwoofer101 I have a pb2000 and a pc2000 in a smaller room. Movies sound great but have you experienced slam or pressurization from your subs? I’ve heard these phrases but don’t know if I’ve actually experienced them. Watching 2016 magnificent seven in the theater I felt the slam of the shot from the gun. Not sure if I get that same dynamic feeling at home. Love these subs otherwise, clean and deep.

[@myonedog]

Hello I’m confused- I set my subwoofer to 120hz , do I set 120hz on my receiver as well ?

[@Subwoofer101]

On your subwoofer, I would disable the crossover function, by setting it to the maximum value (300+ hertz, whatever the max is on the subwoofer itself), and let your receiver/AVR handle the crossover function. To allow the AVR to handle the crossover function, set all speakers to "Small", and set the crossover on each speaker to at least 90 hertz, so 120 hertz is good. Sorry for the late response!

[@myonedog]

No worries thanks you so much !

[@lawrence09151]

For people that like to add 5-6dB to their subwoofer level e.g. -10 in levels to -5 (5dB increase) how is that achieved? Moving the subwoofer level adjust from to say -9 instead of the -11.5?

[@shaapoopiee]

If I turn the gain up by say 5db then go into the avr and turn it down aren't I cancelling out the increase in gain or have a missed something

[@Subwoofer101]

It's counter intuitive, I know. I always find that going to extremes tells you what's going on. So if you turn the subwoofer gain way down and compensate on the AVR, (say +6 or more to get the same balance of sound) you'll still have the depth, but the power behind that depth will seem anemic and soft. Great for apartments, since you're limiting the amplifier on the subwoofer, but it's easier to experience clipping this way. Contrast that against running the gain higher, and the AVR trim at -11.5 (again, with the same balance of sound), that same depth you got with the gain way down will now be much more powerful and dynamic by comparison. This also gives you a sense of what more power does for you. Think of the gain dial on the subwoofer as an amplifier "limiter". This may not translate perfectly because the properties of gain dials can vary, but let's say you have a 1000 watt amplifier. If you run that amp at 50%, the max power that amp would be able to produce would be 500 watts maximum. At 25%, you'd be at 250 watts maximum, and 75% you'd be at 750 watts maximum. The more dynamic you want your bass, the less you want to "restrict" your amplifier.

[@shaapoopiee]

It kinda makes sense now you've explained it. Il have a play round with my sb 2000

[@johgus96jg]

Subwoofer 101 I've also experienced this but not with subwoofers, but with my speakers. I found music to sound more dynamic and lively when I turned the amplifier on my speakers way up and toned it down around another -6dB on the signal to compensate. On loud volume the sound didn't bacome harsh like it usually did and the quality of the sound didn't suffer as much. I'm guessing it's because the speaker has more amplifier power to work with before it goes into clipping? You're the first person on youtube I've seen discuss this.

[@emiel333]

Great video and explanation ( like most of your video's)! I want to buy a new sub in the near future. I've did some research, watching your video's and articles on your website, and i've made a decision. It's gonna be a SVS sub. The more I see and read about these subwoofers, the more excited I get. One question: does the manufacturer of SVS subwoofers ship to the Netherlands in Europe? And how can I pay. Is it possible to use PayPal? Keep up the good work and friendly regards from Emiel

[@Subwoofer101]

Thanks! Do you shop Amazon? If so, which Amazon do you use? I think you can check Amazon global, enter your address, and it might tell you if it will ship SVS products. You can also try this affiliate link I have for the UK and see if that works: amzn.to/2eGBwKv With Amazon, you'd have to follow this link within hours before the purchase for me to get credit. I'm curious what you find out, my international viewers always have to go through dealers rather than factory direct. Amazon in Australia is still just for books and media. So it's never a simple answer. If you're still stuck, you can chat with SVS directly and they will tell you who supplies the Netherlands.

[@Analog_Being]

I once accidentally ran Audyssey (X1400H) with the Sub (PB1000) gain too high; the sub levels were automatically set to -10.5db as a result. Does it really make a difference to change the dB before running Audyssey? It seems to me that simply turning up the gain before running Audyssey is all we need to do. Correct me if I'm wrong, I might be missing something. Ps. I love your videos. Your channel has helped me a lot :)

[@rmurad38schannel73]

So I tried this hack as per your suggestion but to be honest I didn't really notice anything so understandably I have some questions. To begin, my receiver is a Marantz SR7009 so I have the identical menu system and controls of your Denon. For subs, I run a pair of SVS PC2000's. So I did the adjustment to the 83db. I exited out, and sure enough, the bass was much louder, but way too loud. (my level in the sub trim was at 0db) I went to the level adjust section and tried the -11.5 you had (I know all subs/rooms could be different here) but I wanted to follow what was happening. I really didn't notice an improvement, In my case -11.5 brought me back to something close to the calibrated level. Now, one part that wasn't touched upon here was the Sub level adjustment under Speakers>Levels. In my case, I had run Audessey before per its instructions (subs set to the 75db) and in the end It gave me a level of -11 for one and -8.5 for the other. As many can attest, the calibrated default is lacking in bass. In my case I had gone into Audio>Subwoofer Level Adjust and simply turned it on without setting a level (0db) and like magic, strong great bass. So might I ask, where did Audessey put your subs, or what level might you changed to after the fact? (in Speakers>Levels) and if ive described everything, what might i have done wrong?

[@Subwoofer101]

I think turning on the Subwoofer Level Adjust is what made the difference for you, I always have it on. If both subs are set to the same level using the mic (83 db or 75 db, whichever), your amp should set both subs to the same level. When you take measurements for Audyssey, it should be within a 6-8 foot wide circle or smaller, not at actual seats. Because I set the gain so high, both subs are always set to -12 on the Levels. With this hack, the bass should be about the same "level", just more dynamic and powerful. Now that you have the level adjust on, it might be worth trying it again. Maybe shoot for 81 db this time, 83 is the kid in me!

[@arsenalfan1776]

After running Audessey it set my subwoofers dual pb12nsd to -10db. Seems a bit low to me. Do I adjust the subwoofers from the back of the sub or through my AVR ???? Any help would be appreciated 101.

[@Subwoofer101]

I have another video called adjusting subs by ear, but yes you will turn the gain up on the subwoofer itself, then use the AVR subwoofer level to turn it down a little bit. So probably 65-75% gain on the subwoofers themselves, and -11.0 to -11.5 in the AVR. Turn them up until it sounds overdone, and then back it down just until it doesn't. You want to make sure that your speakers are set to small, and a crossover of at least 80 to 90 hertz. 120 hertz for smaller surround speakers.

[@arsenalfan1776]

@@Subwoofer101 Thanks 101 I'm very pleased with the results.

[@bommareddybrijendrareddy9301]

@@Subwoofer101 On the digital Volume control on the svs app for our PB1000 Pro what Volume number would be 65 to 75%? Is it the default-10?

[@mikeschneider9049]

hello, great videos. would you recommend putting a folded towel under tripod feet to dampen the vibration from speakers so the calibration mic doesnt pick that up to give a false reading. thanks

[@Subwoofer101]

Sure, if you have vibration problems, it's a good idea to resolve it. You're starting in your main listening position, and staying within 2 feet of your first measurement, correct? I'm assuming a Denon or Marantz product. Sometimes people spread out the samples to actual seats, and having made that mistake before, it makes a difference.

[@mikeschneider9049]

@@Subwoofer101 its a denon 4311ci. i use all 6 measurements 2 feet apart. first 3 on couch and other 3 floor in front of couch. centered around main seating position. i use a laser to get perfect reading on first run. i always reset crossovers to 80hrz per thx standard. im a perfectionist. it takes me a good 2 hours to get setup before running calibration. sometimes i drive myself crazy but i love the results

[@Subwoofer101]

Doing it right has it's benefits, but I color outside the lines a little. Does that AVR have Audyssey XT32? Are you able to get updates for the AVR? I run the crossovers between 90 hertz for the bigger speakers and 120 hertz for the smaller ones. Gives the subs more to work with.

[@brentconnell158]

I have 2 klipsch r12sw on a yamaha rxv385 and use ypao,so how would I go about it ?????and what about the sub level??

[@kenzo06ful]

Hello When you do this hack, you first calibrate as audyssey say..? That you calibrate at 75db and when you have done that you go in after and change to 82db-84db..? Or do you calibrate whit rest of the system at 82db-84db first time..? Hope you understand what i mean..:-)

[@Subwoofer101]

+Peter J I typically set the 82-84 dB before calibration. Hadn't considered if it would make a difference to do it after calibration at 75.

[@mecha0061]

I tried this on my two PC2000’s and it sounds great but I do have one question. One of my PC2000’s in the corner and I only had to turn the gain up to about 40% to get to the 83db . My other sub is at about 70% gain. Both subs are at -12db on the trim and they are both at about -10 on the main speaker level. Would it be ok to turn the main speaker level for the corner loaded sub even lower than -10 so I can turn the gain up closer to what the other sub is at? I’m just concerned that the sub that is at 40% would run out of gas during the heavily dynamic scenes in movies.

[@Subwoofer101]

Great question! You can get it to -11.5 for both. That's assuming -12.0 is the lowest. The lowest value is a little less than ideal for reasons I can't articulate. What you are experiencing is corner gain, and I have the same issue in my room. Left sub is a lot closer to the corner of the room, while the right sub is more like in the center of the room. I have to run the gain on the left sub lower to achieve the same output as the right. Normal and nothing to worry about. You might end up at 45% and 80% gain on the subwoofers. So long as they are producing the same output at the main listening position, you are good.

[@joelane4670]

Using a slp meter, would still run the volume at 0.and then adjust the gain?

[@Quetzalcoatl0]

Will there be a lot of difference on a PB-1000 ? Also using a Denon receiver.

[@Subwoofer101]

+Quetzalcoalt So long as they aren't complaining, you should be good. If they start acting up, back it down a little. True for any subwoofer. 60-70% on the PB-1000 gain dial should be just fine depending on how loud you listen.

[@fabiozagoo]

Since you have 2 identical subs, the ideal is not to equal the gain say -9 on both sub, and -11 on the receiver on both? Or do you want it to be equal to the pink noise measurement?

[@Subwoofer101]

Both subs identical on the receiver, equalize the white noise using the subwoofer's gain dial. My left sub is lower than the right because it is somewhat corner loaded.

[@fabiozagoo]

@@Subwoofer101 But how he are the same model, if you do not equal the gain of both (In sub + Receiver) the sound is not impaired? Since one will get less "Strength" than the other. Wouldn't it be right to let both be identical and do audy to make the correction with EQ in peaks ?

[@Subwoofer101]

If the AVR subwoofer level is bottomed out, to get the same output level, the subs might have different gain amounts to get the same SPL. That happens due to boundary gain, or a lack of boundary gain. The sub on the right in my room does not benefit from corner loading, so it needs more power for the same output. The left sub in my room does benefit from corner loading, so it doesn't need as much power to get the same SPL. If you tried to adjust for it in the AVR subwoofer level, the gain will have to be lowered on one of the subs to get the right balance of sound. Of course, you can do whatever you prefer. There are no hard rules.

[@fabiozagoo]

@@Subwoofer101 Thanks.

[@sonesunny7632]

Will the settings for Subwoofer Level Adjust still be there after Audyssey auto calibration?

[@dtmaciolek]

Trying to understand a few things. I have a Denon 4300H and dual subs. I have ran the calibration as described by Audyssey 75db. I will adjust them to your recommendation when I try this. If i go in to my speaker detection results after calibration both of my subs are -6.0db. Now if i go in to the audio settings and adjust the sub levels in that menu to -11.5db, wouldn't the total be _17.5db? According to the manual changing the level in the audio menu changes the db from the calibrated starting point. Or do you go into the manual mode and change the setting to 0db first and the adjust in the audio menu to get a true -11.5db? Or, couldn't you just adjust the manual speaker settings to -11.5db and not mess with the audio trim menu?

[@Subwoofer101]

It can be confusing. I enable the Subwoofer Adjustment in the Audio menu and ignore the levels in the test tone menu. It's my understanding that the Audio menu Subwoofer adjustment overrides the test tone levels. I might be wrong, but if you do the hack, the AVR will set the levels to -12.0 anyway, so it will be irrelevant.

[@MusclesAVS]

Any recommendations for people with 4 subs to get this done? Should I do one at a time, but turning on the other is also a +6db gain, correct?

[@Subwoofer101]

+Vinny Diesel I'm not 100% on this, but this would be my process: Get each sub to 80 db and see where it puts your AVR subwoofer trim. If it sounds right at -10.5 to -12.0 when you dial it in by ear, you're pretty much there. If it ends up anywhere between -3.0 to -10.0, bump it up another db to 81 and compensate on the AVR again. Repeat the process until you get a target AVR subwoofer trim between -10.5 to -12.0 and still have it sounding balanced. The lower your AVR subwoofer trim is while still sounding balanced, the more dynamic the sound should be. Going in steps like that would be my strategy. If you can, let me know what individual subwoofer db, subwoofer gain value, and AVR subwoofer trim you end up with.

[@MusclesAVS]

I'll give it a whirl when I get home from work tonight and see what I come up with. I have a Marantz SR7012 and I can also use a DB meter if needed.

[@FalconsATL]

But.. after you've run Audyssey and set everything up, when you go back to Audyssey does it not automatically lose or reset the last calibration? Does that make sense?

[@Subwoofer101]

+Falconsfan 71 That's the beauty of this trick, it only changes things if you run through the entire set-up. You're just using part of the set-up process to adjust the subwoofers' gain, not replace or erase any previous calibrations. I get your concern though, the idea of losing all of your settings and having to go through all of that again would be annoying. Adjust the subs' gain, then back out. Your previous adjustments will stick. Not that you would need to in this case, but say that you really mucked up your distance settings or something and you don't remember where Audyssey set them, you could use the restore feature and it would be like you just ran Audyssey.

[@fcannici]

I agree 100%. Use your ears. I don't use the calibration crap on my denon and I have it manually set to where it sounds much better than their auto garbage. I've made multiple attempts using their auto crap with the same muddy ass results.

[@HeavyMetalSonicRM]

Every time I try Audyssey, I hate it, and I end up doing a factory reset. Manual adjustments all the way.

[@lohanette]

What about the sub trim in audyssey manual setup trim level? Does that go to -11.5db as well as the trim yoi showed in video? Do I use a meter after doing these adjustments turning vol on sub to hit 75db on meter with in built test tones? Thanks.

[@Subwoofer101]

I take the 75db point out of the equation. If you disable the subwoofer level adjust in the Audio menu, then you could use the settings in the manual menu, but I always use the audio menu adjustment. The key is that once you get a low value on the AVR subwoofer level (trim) and still have plenty of bass by turning up the gain on the subwoofer, you have accomplished the hack.

[@lohanette]

Subwoofer 101 thanks I'll try it tomorrow. Audyssey set my sub at -6.5db, but I had to turn it up to -5db to hit 75 on a meter. I will turn it to -11.5 and turn up volume on sub tomorrow and see how it sounds.

[@lohanette]

Subwoofer 101 done it. Huge difference. Bass much clearer and seems to go deeper.

[@Darklighter43]

How do I do this if I don't have Audyssey because I've got an Onkyo receiver? Thanks

[@ZhgooN]

Hello! I have a question.. Year ago, I bought used svs pc-12 and hooked it up to my system. Unfortunately, immediately after I plugged in the power cord, the white noise came from the speaker. And volume of that noise depends on the sub crossover knob - loudest noise was on the LFE position.. Noise is easily audible o the listening position. I wrote about my problem to Ed Mullen, and he agreed that this is not normal situation and sent me new amp for my sub.. Unfortunately, new amp has the same problem. My question is about lfe knob. If i understand correctly, when I use LFE in for connection with avr, sub' s crossover doesn't work and I can turn the knob to 30 hz and don't loss any sound( only in this position my sub is completely silent as it should be, in my opinion? Thank you very much for your channel and videos!! Sorry for my English))

[@Subwoofer101]

You have some weirdness going on there. Sounds like a crossed wire, interference, or something out of the ordinary. If it's not in the amp, logic suggests it should be somewhere else. Try a different power cord, just to see. Then, if that does nothing, try another power outlet on a different circuit, one not on the same breaker. Lastly, try a better RCA cable. If the cable is not shielded, it could be picking up interference. Aside from that I'm kind of stumped. If it was interference at 50-60 hertz, it would make sense that the crossover (basically a filter that filters off everything above that setting) would quiet the noise at the 30 hertz setting. SVS cables are known for reducing hums. sub101.link/RCA (affiliate link) Another idea is to pick up and move your RCA cable around to see if moving it changes the sound. If moving it around changes the noise even a little, that's likely the culprit. You may find that if it lays across other wires, it gets worse. Even a quality cable can go bad. One last idea is that it could be coming from your AVR. You'd have to try another AVR to see if that's the problem or not. You can also power down the sub, wait 20 seconds, disconnect the LFE in and power it back up. If it still makes noise without any input, it's the sub itself or the power circuit, somehow. Just be sure not to pug or unplug the RCA with the sub on, that's a big no-no. When you do figure it out, let me know what fixed it, seems like an odd problem.

[@ZhgooN]

Subwoofer 101 thanks for your reply! Unfortunately, all the methods that you described doesn't work. I have tried all this many times. That's why I'm asking you about crossover knob, because it's the only way to reduce the noise is to turn it to 30 hz..

[@paulbodovinac8257]

I just did this hack and very low bass coming out of my svs pb3000 and my Denon avrx4400.i followed this and where is the punch in your chest.my subwoofer level adjust is on and level is -11.5 db on receiver and my subwoofer volume is set Around 83 84 85 dB and the svs app on phone the volume is set at -19db.can anyone help me because now I hardly have no bass like I had before ,before I had the subwoofer level to off on receiver and had more bass and the app on my phone was at -3db for volume ,thanks

[@Subwoofer101]

Turn up the sub until it sounds overdone, then back it down until it doesn't. -19 on a single PB-3000 is too low. At least -12 or higher I would imagine. -9 might be the spot with the AVR subwoofer level at -11.5 With dual PB-3000's the level could be anywhere from -12 to -17 on the PB-3000's. Duals put out more output, and sound a LOT better than a single.

[@paulbodovinac8257]

Subwoofer 101 ok thanks for getting back to me sir.i had set my phone svs app to -19 dB so I could get the 83 84 85 dB range for the subwoofer volume on receiver and I set the level on receiver to -11.5db.i will try your recommendation later when I get home,I sure hope it sounds better,so if I go higher to like -12 or -9db on the subwoofer volume,I will leave that 83 84 85 dB range right?but leave the level at -11.5 dB correct ????thanks again for your help and input sir

[@chefp2010]

Stupid question but I was reading one of your replies to another viewer and you had made a statement that when you take auddysey measurement you do it within a 6 to 8 foot circle.....so my question is ......Is this statement true for just this hack or does this apply for all circumstances for take measurement for auddysey

[@Subwoofer101]

+paul stamant I actually tightened it down to a 4-5 foot circle, which should be done regardless of the hack since it's what Audyssey calls for. It's counterintuitive since chairs are rarely that close, but it seems to make a difference. Just pick the most central listening position and don't go further than 2 feet from your first measurement/sample. Of course, future changes to room correction software may override this advice, but that's what it calls for at the moment. Good question!

[@chefp2010]

That makes sense ....so one more question bc I get so many different answers which is common in home theaters but if my mlp is 13 to 14 feet away from my speakers is this too far ?

[@Subwoofer101]

+paul stamant I don't think it's "too far", but closer would be better. I'm 10 feet away, but we scoot the chairs forward when we watch movies, to about 5-8 feet. It's better that way, but doesn't look right for the flow of the room. That's the struggle of a mixed use room vs a dedicated room. If you can close the gap a little, it can make a difference. You can give it a shot, and if it's good, I'd run room correction again to account for the change. Being 13-14 feet away means you will probably need to turn it up more, and if you listen loud already, you could reach amp limits easier. I wouldn't go so far as to say that it's detrimental, but closer would be better. It also depends on layout and other variables of course.

[@theatremad9797]

@@Subwoofer101 Even in a dedicated room like my own, i never go more than 600mm from the first measurement and in feet it would be around 2 feet. I can confirm the results being much better and i have witnessed a better overall balance in sound especially if i move from one listening chair to the next. No need to go outside the boundaries of the first position. I am using a single Velodyne DD15+ sub and have not yet tried your method as i am happy with what i can hear but might give it a go in the near future. Handy little video though and it don't hurt to try. Thanks mate.

[@jdmsz9378]

What happened to your pb 16 ultras? EDIT: nevermind found that out 0:55 later 😁 I have one question though does it makes a difference placing your subwoofers on the outside vs inside of your speakers?

[@Subwoofer101]

It makes a difference, and many prefer corner loaded. They will run a little louder corner loaded, and you'd need to adjust for that and run room correction after moving them. I run mine this way because it's all I have room for, and couldn't say which would be "superior". I could corner load 1 sub but not the other due to a door.

[@letterphase]

At what Hz should I set my SB-16?

[@antoinebaylor4166]

Can you do this with a PB2000 and a PB4000?

[@MegaF1guy]

So what do I do if i have two subs and two sub outputs, but my receiver only see's 1 sub? Great video! BTW.. I have done ur bass hack on one sub and it really worked, Thanks for the advice. Cheers

[@Subwoofer101]

In your speaker menu, make sure 2 subwoofers are selected. Then run room correction again. If the AVR didn't measure both subs together, you're missing out.

[@superdan43]

Nice looking NEW Subs, not sure if they are available here in the UK, but still Very interested in your thoughts on them.. I remember you had problems with the down firing PC2000's.. any issues with your Floor this time round..? P.s.. Nice reviews on the SVS PB16 Ultra's... Your Videos are Great!... :-)

[@Subwoofer101]

I appreciate that! There is a difference compared to the PC-2000. Did you notice a change between the PC-2000's and the PC-12 Plus? If one was "worse" than the other in terms of floor vibration, I think I might know why, but I don't expect the difference to be huge between the PC-2000 and the PC12-Plus. I have a theory...

[@superdan43]

Yeah your Right.. there wasn't a major difference between the PC-2000 & PC12 Plus in regards to floor vibrations.. even though the PC12 Plus had a Bass Plate underneath.. Love to know your theory... :-)

[@Subwoofer101]

Weight. The heavier the sub is, the less it will travel "up" and therefore the less it will travel down, transmitting less physical energy into the floor. So imagine 2 down firing subwoofers with equal moving driver mass, and one weighs 500 pounds, the other weighs 50 pounds. The 50 pound box is much more likely to jump around vs the 500 pound box. I imagine isolation would help the PC-12 Plus. I also imagine adding weight to the PC-2000's would help, though it could be a bigger tip hazard.

[@superdan43]

Interesting... you know... you might be on to something there.. I did have less problems with the PC12 plus's ( which have now gone to a VERY happy new owner ) I thought it might be due to the fitted base plate underneath.. but thinking back... the Pc12 plus's where Much Much heavier to lift... Huuummmm... Food For Thounght... Thanks... :-))))

[@Subwoofer101]

Mentioned you in today's video due to this conversation, hope you don't mind!

[@TheDuckbacker]

Can't the subwoofer gain and receiver trim be adjusted post Audyssey calibration and achieve the same results? I go by the 75dB recommendation that Audyssey recommends during pre calibration subwoofer setup. When Audyssey is completed, and my receiver's volume now set to 0, I use my hand held digital dB meter to measure Audyssey's measurements using my front left speaker's measurement as a guide for the remaining speakers including the subs. In my case the front left speaker was at 78dB. When it comes to the sub numbers, they are not even on the chart so I immediately turn up the gain on the left sub to 73dB and do the same to the right sub where together they yield 78dB, right in line with the other speakers. Am I not achieving the same results as do you only going about it in a different direction?

[@Subwoofer101]

+TheDuckbacker If you are turning up the gain higher than Audyssey recommends, then yes I suppose so. I haven't had a bunch of luck using an SPL meter to dial in my subs and prefer to do it by ear, but that's just my preference. So long as the net effect is a lower AVR subwoofer trim, and higher gain on the subwoofer to compensate, and it still sounds balanced, then I suppose so. But if your AVR subwoofer trim is any higher than -6.0 (mine is at -11.5) then you probably still have room for improvement, depending on the subs. Luckily, you can do it the way I described without going through the entire set-up process.

[@TheDuckbacker]

I should have said in my previous post that I own dual SB16-Ultras that are dialed in at -6 and -8 respectively with both AVR trims at -11.5 just like your setup. Together they put out 78dB with the AVR set to reference. I have deployed all of your other recommendations such as advancing the sub distance by 4' and raising the front speaker crossovers to 90dB. Without taking the time to invest in REW, I think that I am about as close as I can get to achieving optimum LFE in my room. I just have one Westie though which is a fraction of your output with Bear Bear and Angel!

[@Subwoofer101]

Yeah, you're doing great there!! Room EQ Wizard would be the final step. About 10 hours or more to learn the program, $200+ in equipment for the MiniDSP 2x4 and Umik -1, and then you would just a touch better response. I can't say it's worth it, I did it on the PB-2000's, but didn't bother on the PB-16 Ultras yet. I may do it again, but even already knowing how to do it, it's still a 2-3 hour commitment. The end result is better, but I wouldn't say night and day. You can end up with a worse sound too If you make a mistake. True, Bear and Angel do put out more bass, but I think you're ahead in the dog food department. A 50 pound bag of dog food is not fun to bring in the house every 3 weeks. I need a conveyer belt!

[@fabiozagoo]

The manuals always recommends 50%, if you put it say 70%, would not it be inducing too much noise in the system?

[@Subwoofer101]

If that was my experience, I wouldn't recommend it. Depends on the subs.

[@fabiozagoo]

@@Subwoofer101 What would you recommend as a general rule, 60% 50% ... ? Just to be aware, what`s % do you use in yours sub`s? And thanks a lot !!!! Your tutorials help me a lot.

[@Subwoofer101]

It varies, some subs will be way too loud over 20% because of their gain dial, others at 75% are perfect, then you have some with the digital scale, and I'll run those between -10 and -20 on a 0 to -60 scale, but that isn't absolute either. So it's not universal. As a general rule, more gain on the sub itself, less gain in the AVR Subwoofer Level to compensate. I like my AVR subwoofer level sitting around -10.0 to -11.5, and whatever it takes on the subwoofer to give me enough bass.

[@JavonDGreen]

Just for clarification. You are adjusting the subwoofer trim? Or are you doing the subwoofer speaker level that is set by Audyssey? I have a Yamaha so my screens are different. However there is a subwoofer trim option outside of the speaker gain level adjustment. Thanks!

[@brentconnell158]

Same here and no answer!!!!???

[@oletheos]

lower end versions of audyssey don't have that subwoofer setting when you run it. might make a note of that. i know my denon x2300w version of audyssey doesn't.

[@Subwoofer101]

+oletheos Thanks for the heads up! It must be a Sub EQ HT feature. I didn't know if that was specific. I have an X-2000 but it has a single subwoofer output, so it wouldn't have it either. Thanks for letting me know!

[@FURognar]

I think it does have it but it doesnt activate until you have more than one sub hooked up

[@CRC05021]

My Audessey on my maranta sr5012 doesn’t measure the dB of my subwoofers! Are there different tiers of auddessey?

[@jjlnguess7354]

CRC05021 yes. Depending on how much your AVR cost you.

[@razvanmel]

Hey, I love your videos but I was wondering what is the subwoofer level, from the manual settings ?

[@Subwoofer101]

Thanks! Not sure I understand the question. The dial that changes the decibels in Audyssey is usually on the subwoofer itself. So when it asks for the subwoofer to put out 75 dB, you accomplish that by adjusting the subwoofer itself by using the gain/volume adjustment, usually on the back of the subwoofer. If you're asking about the subwoofer levels in the Speakers/Manual Setup/Levels/Test tone settings, its that same as what I call the AVR subwoofer trim found in the Audio menu. The Audio/Subwoofer Level Adjust allows you to either adjust the subs yourself (on) or let Audyssey decide (off) in which case the value found in the Test Tone are in effect. Little confusing, but that's my understanding. Is that what you were asking?

[@razvanmel]

Subwoofer 101 I know it sounded a little confusing, I didn't know the diference betwen setting the subwoofer level from the AVR in Speakers/Manual setup/Levels/Test tone settings or Audio/Subwoofer Level. I ussualy set the knob in the back of the subwoofer at 12 o' clock, let Audyssey decide the level on the AVR and than change it from Manual Setup/Level/Test Tone settings mostly by ear, almost always ~8,9 db lower than the rest of my speakers.

[@nubin.stanley]

What exactly is happening here? 🤔 During audyssey setup you set it higher and then you trim it down later. So, what gets fed to the woofer is the same? Then why is there a difference in behavior?

[@darrenlafreniere5518]

I think it has something to do with what is controlling the gain / volume of the sub. When the gain is higher in the receiver, and lower on the sub, then the receiver is controlling the output. When he gain is lower in the receiver (or bottomed out), then the gain is controlled by the sub amp. I believe this arrangement results in more dynamic output. Not sure why, but this is my basic read on what he means in the video.

[@blakewillson18]

Definitely considering some Outlaw Ultra X-13 subs down the road, absolutely LOVE my Outlaw LFM-1EX.

[@dontmesswiththelopez]

Good stuff man, this really helped me out! Running dual 10" subs, this helped me get the right balance.

[@rodstawaa]

Worked great for me

[@SubhashUnnam]

nice little interesting hack.. cant wait to do it on my system..right now i have a single pb-2000 and base managed on AVR (denon x3300W) to LFE + Main having my R-28F's to help smooth peaks and nulls. I can definetly do with some my dynamics on my subs.. lets see how it pans out...will keep you posted.. nice video btw

[@Subwoofer101]

Right on, keep me posted!

[@SubhashUnnam]

Ok, I tried it today. Increased the volume on sub during Audyssey to 83db and then manually increased subwoofer level to -7.5, I clearly feel much better impact in base outputs on music and movies. I started from -11, it wasn't doing much at that level so ended up at -7.5. May be because I am on single PB 2000. I am going to have it this way for now.

[@SubhashUnnam]

After a few days on this tweek I went back to my original setting that used audyssey setting setting it up at ~75db which sounded better over a period of time. Setting up at 82-83db during Audyssey setup and manually doing -11 on subwoofer level i was feeling odd base sounds. It was disturbance rather than impact. When i went back to no manual subwoofer level and 75db on audyssey setup it gave me purity in the punch and impact. I guess horses for courses. :) Cheers!!

[@AT-wl9yq]

You need to learn the difference between volume and gain. Some of the issues you brought up in the video can be fixed by setting a proper gain structure. Only a gain control can distort the signal. A volume control can't.

[@Subwoofer101]

I think I'm good, but thank you for your advice. Audio can be intimidating, because a LOT of people aren't very kind, especially with basic questions, and as a result, people seeking knowledge approach any inquiry delicately, just to avoid being flamed, or worse. It's not a healthy culture to promote, so I encourage a very welcoming atmosphere, and I use layman's terms in order to be more approachable. Most people tend to appreciate it. Just to make sure, if everything else is equal, and I adjust the gain on a subwoofer higher, does the subwoofer get louder at the same volume on the AVR, say -23.5 on the volume control of my Denon AVR? If I'm not mistaken, it does. I understand that they are 2 different things, but I don't find it helpful to get deep into the weeds about it, if the overall effect is still achieved by keeping it simple and easy to understand. It's how I do things, for better or worse. I personally think it's better.

[@shaolin95]

Yes indeed

[@enkrypt3d]

Yamaha doesn't have that gain setting and does not detect more than one sub and the sub trim goes from -6 DB to +6bB... I tend to run it at +6dB and the PB12+ is at 0dB which seems to be the loudest I can get it.... not sure how the Denon is different? Or what?

[@Subwoofer101]

+enkrypt3d Not super familiar with Yamaha, but look into the dynamic range control and YPAO volume options. You shouldn't have to run the sub that hot.

[@enkrypt3d]

yea I ran YPAO and it set everything to OK levels... not sure why I have to run the sub at max volume though... hoping the addition of the PB13-Ultra will help! :)

[@Subwoofer101]

+enkrypt3d There are options called "YPAO volume" and "Dynamic range control" that might improve bass output. Again, I'm speculating, I haven't had significant Yamaha seat time. The PB-13 Ultra will help, but there is still something amiss.

[@enkrypt3d]

Well I leave the sub at 0dB and when I want extra punch I turn the sub trim to max which is only +6dB. At night when the wife and kids are sleeping I turn down the sub trim to 0dB or lower.... and with YPAO volume on, I do get more bass which is nice...

[@enkrypt3d]

One thing I just tried is the 2nd LFE output seems to be much much louder than the other. This is why I thought my Polk PSW505 was louder than my PB2K (Both of which have been returned in favor of the PB12+ & PB13-Ultra... should I just run both subs off a Y cable and forget about the weaker output?

[@skunkendilly]

Another great video. Nice to see that the dogs are managing to relax a little bit too! lol

[@Subwoofer101]

+Paul Upton Thanks!

[@gibluap]

And how would I do what you're trying to do on an Onkyo receiver

[@Subwoofer101]

Turn the Subwoofer level on the Onkyo down to .5 from the bottom. -11.5 or 13.5, whatever the bottom is. Then turn up the gain on the subwoofer itself to taste. Most of the time, you get more kick out of it that way.

[@MALICIOUS330]

James Wiens I have my subwoofers close to the middle on the gain (on the back of the subwoofers) & then Onkyo receiver trim @ -14 for subwoofers after the calibration thru the receiver.

[@jake24680]

im using YPAO. For best listening experience, the guys at SVS suggest to me, to Set the gain on the sub at around one o'clock. Let the receiver do it's thing, and it should set the sub at around negative 8, or even less is good. I'd rather have it that way anyway. it gives me more room to raise the gain on the sub if needed.

[@kenzo06ful]

You don't crank up the volym to half way back in the subbwoffers and adyust to around 6-7 db no more like' t you described in a another video of your's..? You yust live it att 83-84 db and lower the subb volym in the reciver in stead now..? Is this better for the punch in the sound you think..? Around 84db back volume isent to low..? /Peter

[@Subwoofer101]

The way I've described it in other videos gets to the same result, this is just a reliable way to get there. I think I was trying to explain this process in other videos, but didn't do a very good job of describing it.

[@kenzo06ful]

Subwoofer 101 Ok maybe me how did not understand either..:-) Which way do you prefer..? Half volym back on the subbs or 83-84 db i got 2 klipsch R-112sw 12". And i got the Denon avr-x7200WA reciver.

[@Subwoofer101]

I'd go with this trick vs just setting it at 50%, as you might not have both subs putting the same volume. My left sub always puts out more sound than my right due to the room.

[@kenzo06ful]

Subwoofer 101 You feel that you get enough power frome the subbs att 83-84db And draw it back to 11.5..? Have to test this tomorrow . .:-)

[@Subwoofer101]

Yeah, you'll see what all the fuss is about. If you're subs start to complain, you may have to back it down a bit, but you should get much better dynamics. Someday you'll have to give dual PB-2000's a spin: sub101.link/PB-2000 (affiliate link)

[@Mr1bigsal]

how high do you run subwoofer gain. and what does feet do in the reciever does it and gain like 10 feet away vs 15 feet

[@Subwoofer101]

It really depends on the sub. I run the gain on the sub as high as I can, running the AVR subwoofer level as low as I can. If I have the AVR Subwoofer level bottomed out (like -12.0 on the Denon) and it's still too much bass I back down the subwoofer gain until it sounds appropriate at -11.0 to -12.0 on the AVR Subwoofer level. Adding 3-4 feet to the distance (as determined by your room correction) alters the timing and reduces cancellations between the sub and main speakers.

[@shaolin95]

Free hack for more power? That is such a mileading title. Obviously there is no such thing as getting more power from what the sub was designed to do

[@Subwoofer101]

That wasn't my message. Technically, you could modify a subwoofer for more power by changing parts, voltage, etc...but that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about getting more of the *available power* at normal listening levels, within the design of the subwoofer. Say a subwoofer has its gain set to 40%. That's a bit like a speed limit. Setting the gain to 70%, and adjusting the AVR subwoofer out level to compensate, reduces some limitation, reducing the tendency to clip. Going the other way, increasing the AVR subwoofer level to maximum, and reducing subwoofer gain to compensate, will lead to clipping. From extreme to extreme, the difference is obvious. If it didn't work, I wouldn't bother continuing to do it.

[@mikeschneider9049]

i listen to music and watch movies at reference level 0, what audyseey set it to be, im not worried coz pb4000s can handle it

[@PeteNice29]

This is a car audio trick, only in reverse.

[@T-gamerNL]

You got 4 woofer.s

[@goran2081]

i think you need 4 woofers more

[@sunnyvalejedi]

You have the Faux News app?

[@bc454irocz89]

Audysse makes my system sound like crap

[@lawrencegenereux8567]

From the written text: "By running the gain higher and the AVR Trim lower, you are essentially turning up the amplifier's power, getting more bang for your buck". Really? The amplifier becomes more powerful? Well then, here's my suggestion to get more amplifier power. Replace the power fuze with one with twice the current (amperage) rating. It will let twice the current go to the amplifier, making it twice as powerful! Of course, it won't work either, but apparently some people will believe anything they see on KZbin. And BTW, it will fry the amplifier with the first current overload it sees, but hey, it's on KZbin so it must be good.

[@Subwoofer101]

Lawrence Genereux So I'm guessing you don't believe this works. Have you tried it?

[@nodoubt46able]

go away stupid........

[@mikeschneider9049]

@@nodoubt46able be nice please. this guy knows what hes doing. ,have a good day

[@calebhughes5767]

BBC radio

[@fcannici]

Audyseey sucks. Every thing sounds better with it off and calibrate manually. If you have a good ear that is.

[@Subwoofer101]

Everyone has an opinion. I look for AVR's that specifically have XT32 because of how well it works.