What frequency do I crossover subs

Im intrigued by Marty's point about bass smoothness. My mains extend to about 20 Hz, but the smaller center and surrounds can't do that. How important are the center and surrounds in setting crossover? I use a Velodyne SMS-1 bass manager to control a pair of HGS-15s.

I set the initial level of all speakers to be equal with my RS SPL meter, but trim the subs 6-10 dB because they seem too loud -- I assume the meter is relatively insensitive to LF. I like the level of the subs to be such that you don't identify them as a source of sound.

I've tried 40, 60, and 80 Hz crossover settings in the Oppo 95 (analog) and Cary Cinema 11a (digital) menus. Maybe I should just standardize on 80 Hz.

db

db,

If you're using the SMS-1 in auto mode, you're only scratching the surface of that unit's potential.

The SMS-1 will output FR <200hz to any video monitor. You could hook that up to get a visual take and see how it correlates with what you're hearing. You'll also see the FR thru the x-over point that you've chosen. If you tweak the parametric DRC settings and slope, phase, etc. (assuming that you haven't already done so) to achieve the flattest FR around that point, you'll hear a really seamless hand-off from the main speakers to the subs.

You should also manually adjust for smooth FR below that point. Unfortunately, Velodyne (IMHO) mangled the auto-correct software and the cumbersome manual set-up is really mandatory for best results.

Marty

Let your ears be the jugde. When it comes to subwoofer integration there are no absolutely right or wrong solution even with DRC. It is up to you to decide how your bass suppose to be sound. You have to play around with sub placement, crossover point, phase, delay to find you ”near perfect” setting. Just my 2cts

Marty,

I confess to having used the SMS-1 auto mode, but I bought an articulated mic stand at a local music shop in anticipation of manual set up. I need to get to it. I think the SMS-1 sends video to the DVDO, so I should be able to use the small (30") TV to monitor adjustments. The SMS-1 sits on a shelf above the DVDO, so if it isn't already connected it should be easy to do.

db

Audionuts,

The OP asked for a "scientific" approach - which I took to mean he wanted an alternative to set-up by ear. I described one such "scientific" approach; set for flat FR at the listening position. In the end, he may prefer the "tune by ear" approach that you recommend, but now he has a different approach for comparison purposes.

BTW, my experience is that the "scientific" approach has yielded vastly preferable results, but that may only indicate my own shortcomings at setting up a sub by ear.

Marty