Multiple subwoofers system

In current market, many of the av receivers have multiple subwoofer pre-out. Previously, most system is only a 5.1 system. Now, we have 11.3, 9.2, and the getting common by the day 7.2 system.

However, getting multiple subs to work perfectly is not easy. There will be cancellation if it is not being set up correctly. Many will recommend to use the same model in order to make it blend well. Normally, the subs will be located in front with equal distance from walls.

Many people will ask what if the subs are not the same model. In this scenario, one has to play with position, phase and delay. It is not easy though and needs a lot of time and patience to get it correct.

All is not lost. Audyssey has came out with MultEQ XT32. It also has Sub EQ HT which is a powerful software that properly integrate two subwoofers in a home theater systems. Sub EQ HT makes the integration seamless by first compensating for any level and delay differences between the two subwoofers and then applying Audyssey’s room correction MultEQ technology to both subwoofers together. The result is great sound with fantastic bass minus the headache. For those av receivers without XT32, you can buy Antimode 8033 or AS-EQ1 which is very effective.

It may not 100% eliminate the integration problem due room acoustic and different subs. Here we explore different positions of dual subwoofers system and the respective result.

1. Both subs in front

There is a serious dip after 31Hz until 63Hz. The graph is not flat. Many details are lost in this region making the sub less punchy and dynamic.


2. One sub in front and another at the back

In this graph, we see a big improvement with lesser and smaller dip. The graph is also flatter from 54Hz and below. The tactile bass becomes more apparent. It also improves on the bass texture as well as details.

In both occasion, Denon AVR-4311 is being used since it has MultEQ XT32. Many people believe that the subwoofer is non-directional and it does not need specific placement. It is a MYTH as past experience has proved otherwise.

You need to do find the best placement in order to bring out the best from a sub. Some will resort to proven and tested Sub Crawl Method while some will be busy with REW, XTZ or other similar gears to plot the FR graph of different positions to check any abnormalities in order to improve or troubleshoot it.

It is never been easy for multiple subs system but once you are able to find the best positions for both and also the correct setting, the end result is very rewarding.

Are you ready to Ruummmbllleee?