ADAM Audio GTC Sub - Handbuch (Seite 11)

11 GTC Manual / english
It is common knowledge that low frequencies (below about 100Hz) are non-directional,
meaning they can hardly be located by the listener. It is, however, a common misunderstanding
that therefore the placement of a subwoofer 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 set ups it is advisable to place the subwoofer not too far from the satellites to
minimize the chance of Interferences. Interference means the superposition of two or
more waves resulting in an attenuation/cancellation or enhancement of the specific
frequency/frequencies.
Furthermore, big refelexion faces 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 ‘stand-
ing waves’. These are sound waves being reciprocated between reflecting objects, 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 sub-
woofer 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