Setting the crossover frequency too high can have a number of negative consequences, including:
- Less bass extension: A higher crossover frequency limits the amount of bass extension that your system is capable of. This is because the subwoofer will not be reproducing as many low bass frequencies.
- More noticeable transition between subwoofer and main speakers: A higher crossover frequency may result in a more noticeable transition between the subwoofer and the main speakers. This is because the main speakers will be reproducing more bass frequencies.
- More likely to cause phase cancellation: A higher crossover frequency is more likely to cause phase cancellation, which can muddy the sound. Phase cancellation occurs when two sound waves of the same frequency are out of phase. This can cause the sound waves to cancel each other out, resulting in a loss of volume and clarity.
- Increased distortion: Setting the crossover frequency too high can also lead to increased distortion in the main speakers. This is because the main speakers will be reproducing more bass frequencies than they are designed to handle.
- Less precise bass reproduction: A higher crossover frequency can also result in less precise bass reproduction. This is because the subwoofer will be reproducing a wider range of frequencies.
In addition to these general negative consequences, setting the crossover frequency too high can also have specific negative consequences in home theater and audiophile systems.
Home theater: In home theater systems, setting the crossover frequency too high can make the bass sound more localized. This means that the bass will sound like it is coming from the subwoofer itself, rather than from the entire soundstage. This can reduce the immersion of the home theater experience.
Audiophile systems: In audiophile systems, setting the crossover frequency too high can make the bass sound less accurate and realistic. This is because the subwoofer will be reproducing frequencies that it is not designed to handle.
How to set the crossover frequency
The best way to set the crossover frequency is to experiment and see what sounds best to you. However, there are a few general guidelines that you can follow:
- Start with a crossover frequency of 80Hz. This is a good starting point for most systems.
- Play music that has a lot of bass and listen for the transition between the subwoofer and the main speakers.
- Adjust the crossover frequency until the transition is as smooth as possible.
- Experiment with different crossover frequencies to see what sounds best to you.
If you are unsure how to set the crossover frequency, you can consult the user manual for your subwoofer or receiver. You can also use a room correction system, such as Audyssey or Dirac, to help you calibrate the crossover frequency.
Setting the crossover frequency too high can have a number of negative consequences, including less bass extension, a more noticeable transition between the subwoofer and main speakers, increased distortion, less precise bass reproduction, and localized bass in home theater systems. The best way to set the crossover frequency is to experiment and see what sounds best to you. However, you can start with a crossover frequency of 80Hz and adjust it from there.