stereo

tixer

Lincoln Evangelist
From what I can see, it is probably set pretty well as it is. Assuming you are using this amp only for subwoofers, here's what you've got right now.

the "LPF" switch appears to enable all three of those knobs. it stands for "Low Pass Filter" its purpose is to eliminate the high frequency (pitch) sounds from the signal, so your get cleaner bass. (since subs can't do high sounds anyway, they don't need to be there.)

This is on right now, so you're good.

"Filter" is probably the most important. That sets the cut off frequency. It is probably about right where it is, but that can be adjusted "on the fly" if you feel you want higher or lower pitch sounds to make their way through the sub. In my own experience, I keep this somewhere between 100-140. See the image I've attached for a great example of what instruments operate at what frequencies.

"Level" simply boosts the input voltage to the amplifier. If your subs aren't loud enough, this is what you would adjust to give it a boost. keep in mind that pushing it too hard will cause distortion. I wouldn't go any higher than "4"

"Low Boost" is basically a single channel Equalizer. it will give the extra low end a bit of a punch. Note where 40hz is on the chart below. Basically anything with electronic synthesizers will get a boost from this. (rap, hip-hop, electronica.)
 

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driller

El Presidente
"Level" simply boosts the input voltage to the amplifier. If your subs aren't loud enough, this is what you would adjust to give it a boost. keep in mind that pushing it too hard will cause distortion. I wouldn't go any higher than "4".
It helps to have a test tones and an oscilloscope to accurately set the amp level(s). Bill set mine once at a MI meet. It's surprising how low the level will actually need to be to prevent clipping and distortion. Especially, if like me, your hearing is not as good as it should be.
 

Lownslowlsc

New member
(Now that I can see pictures)

Mike, if need be you can set the "Level" @ 2, rule of thumb is that it shouldn't exceed half way. This is all dependent on what the source voltage though. A deck w/ 2v preouts will generaly have a higher gain setting vs a 4v deck cause the signal isn't as strong. Also stay away from any artificial bass enhancers on the deck, no magic bass, bass boost ect ect. All those will do is increase distortion and make the amplifier more prone to clipping.


I won't say anything about the 2 mismatched subs. :p
 

izackary

Nomad
My 2¢ is to raise it so the bass is plenty noticeable, with flat EQ, then back it off slightly so that it's a little more subtle, sounding more even with the full-range speakers. From there, adjust EQ and bass boost, etc to your liking. The lower you have to leave your level/gain adjustment, the better. You are far less likely to hear clipping and distortion in subs from the trunk when it's masked by the rest of your music as you are to hear it in the full-range speakers in the cabin. Much advice is also found at http://www.crutchfield.com
 

tixer

Lincoln Evangelist
Also stay away from any artificial bass enhancers on the deck, no magic bass, bass boost ect ect. All those will do is increase distortion and make the amplifier more prone to clipping.
This! Times a million.

I kept my mouth shut on this the first time around 'cause when even Badsax calls me a "purist," I can't help but feel that my tastes lie somewhat outside (above?) the mainstream. It's nice to know that if I'm certifiable, at least I am in good company. :D

My old Panasonic head unit had this "SHDB" button on it that I always called "Super High Distortion Bass." I never knew what it actually stood for, but it did appalling things to my music.
 
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