ADAM Audio F Series - Handbuch (Seite 13)

13 F-Series Manual / english
It is common knowledge that single sources at low frequencies (below about 100Hz) are perceived
as being non-directional under free field conditions, meaning they can hardly be located by the
listener. It is, however, a common misunderstanding that therefore the placement of a mono
(or two stereo) subwoofer(s) does not matter. It does matter. Due to the fact that every room
(geometry, furniture, etc.) is unique, the following descriptions intend to be a first introduction to
the subject. The aim is to assist you tackling the most common problems with subwoofers and
room acoustics, notably interference and standing waves.
6.1 Distance to satellites
In most setups it is advisable to place the subwoofer not too far (preferably less than 2
meters) from the satellites and at about the same distance to the listener to minimize the
chance of Interferences. Interference means the superposition of two or more waves result-
ing in an attenuation/cancellation or enhancement of the specific frequency/frequencies.
Furthermore, big reflecting surfaces in close range of the subwoofer should be avoided if
possible.
6.2 Walls/Distance to walls
Generally, every wall in relative close distance to the subwoofer enhances its sound pressure
by about 6 dB. For instance, placing the subwoofer in a corner of a room will make it about
18 dB louder. It is likely that this will result in an impairment of the precision of the musical
reproduction.
Another problem related to the geometrics of the room concerns the so called
‘standing waves’. These are sound waves being reciprocated between reflecting ob-
jects, so they ‘stand’ (don’t seem to move) in between these objects. The speaker
continues to produce new waves that combines its force with the first wave(s):
a vicious circle that results in local imbalances of the particular frequencies.
6.3 Finding the optimum position
Give it a try! The most important tool for finding the best position for your subwoofer are
your ears. There are two rather easy ways:
You can determine your listening spot first and then compare the sound of the subwoofer
at different positions.
Another option is to place the subwoofer at the listening position and then move around.
Whereever the sound is the best the subwoofer should be positioned.
6. Subwoofer Placement