basic query on subwoofer setting

[haf63]

Just installed my first 5.1 system with with Jamo HC10 system and have placed the active Sub 200 in the front left corner of the room (near to front speakers). Anyway I have no idea what to do with the settings on the back and the manual only has a few pictures

On/Auto/Off : this looks like a power switch and i have it on auto so assume the sub will switch itself on when needed and off when not in use
Cut-off frequency : i have just set it midway between 40hz and 150Hz
Level : seems to be a volume knob so have set it midway
Phase : have set midway (between 0 and 180)

I just want to set it to whatever is 'sensible' for the time being and worry about fine tuning. The Jamo speakers are small cubes so i think that means i need a lower cut-off? My amp is Onkyo 605 and i have everything to default values.
Thanks,

[BillBlank]

Hi Haf, hohoho merry christmas etc.

you've guessed right on most of this, you have common sense after all

Level is indeed volume-ish

Auto on off etc determines if you switch it on or off or the sub goes to standby when not receiving a signal and on when doing so.

Cut off sets the maximum frequency signal that the sub will reproduce. A simple default setting is to look at the lowest frequency your surrounds will reproduce effectively and set it about 5-10hz above that, thus ensuring a smooth transfer from speakers to sub. Your amp will also have a setting for this I'm sure so why not match them?


Phase is trickier to explain, search the sub forum for a really good explanation. In the meantime, have a listen to your system with it set all the way to one side or t'other then listen again with it set halfway and let me know if you notice a difference. Some subs you do, some you just wonder if the knobs attached to anything. Much like some of my managers.

HTH

Bill

[haf63]

Thanks bill,
I will have a fiddle with it tonight (after the sky hd bloke has done his install) and see what sounds best.

[BillBlank]

Do read the sub forum, I was knackered and forgot to say that theres a great FAQ section in it. Positioning is very important

[jimco]

Hi Haf, I have recently hooked up a Jamo Sub 200 to my system (also with an onkyo amp). I'm guessing that it is just normal heat dissipation, but does the back plate of your 200 get really hot?

[paulst10]

Moved to subwoofer section