The best crossover frequency for live sound is generally between 60Hz and 80Hz. This is the range of frequencies where the human ear can begin to localize sound, so it is a good place to transition from the main speakers to the subwoofer.
However, the best crossover frequency for your system will depend on a number of factors, including the type of speakers you have, the size of your venue, and the type of music you are playing.
If you are playing in a small venue, you may want to choose a lower crossover frequency, such as 60Hz. This will help to ensure that the subwoofer can reproduce the full range of bass frequencies that your main speakers cannot.
If you are playing in a large venue, you may want to choose a higher crossover frequency, such as 80Hz. This will help to prevent the subwoofer from overpowering the main speakers. If you are playing heavy music, such as rock or metal, you may also want to choose a higher crossover frequency. This will help to ensure that the subwoofer can reproduce the low frequencies that are characteristic of this genre of music.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the best crossover frequency for your system is to experiment. Try different settings and see what sounds best to you.
Here are some additional tips for getting the most out of your subwoofer in a live sound setting:
- Place the subwoofer in a corner. This will help to project the sound and make it louder.
- Use a stand to raise the subwoofer off the ground. This will also help to project the sound.
- EQ your amp to boost the low frequencies. This will give your subwoofer more volume and presence.
- Use a compressor to compress your bass signal. This can help to even out your sound and make it sound more professional.
- Be mindful of the volume. Even a small subwoofer can be too loud for some live sound situations. Be respectful of your audience and turn the subwoofer down if necessary.
If you are not sure where to start, a good rule of thumb is to set the crossover frequency to 80Hz. This is a good starting point for most systems, and it is a frequency that most people will find to be acceptable. Once you have set the crossover frequency, you can experiment with different settings to see what sounds best to you.