Hsu Subwoofer Questions and Issues

[jhu]

Per an earlier thread with a Hsu recommendation, I've purchased a 3.1 Hsu setup with a VTF-2 MK 4 sub to go with my Pioneer Elite VSX-45 5.2 receiver.

1.) While setting up the subwoofer with the receiver, I had lots of issues getting the subwoofer to play. Eventually, I switched my output from the Audio Out Subwoofer Pre Out 1 to Pre Out 2 to get it to work. I can't seem to find any documentation that would indicate to me that only one of these pre out will work at a time - it seems to me that if one is working, the other should as well. Do I have a defective Pre Out 1? I have a few days left to exchange the receiver...

2.) While I was at the Hsu store, it was recommended to me to push the sub no more than 50% of the total capable volume. I'm using this sub in an acoustically challenged large room and I'm beginning to think that the VTF-2 MK 4 is not up to the challenge (at least not at 50%). Can someone explain to me why I shouldn't just crank this thing to 100% and save myself some money instead of going to the VTF-3?

 

[j_garcia]

50% is often the starting point. You can adjust up due to your room size, but is is possible it isn't sufficient. Try 75% and see if it helps; if not, then you probably have your answer as to whether or not it is enough.

Those sub pre-outs should be getting the same signal technically, so it does sound like #1 may be dead.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

did you set speakers to "small" and set crossover to 80hz or so?
I agree with John, in larger rooms, don't be shy to set to 75% or even higher, but don't forget to calibrate it to match other speakers. Ether with SPL meter or with AVR microphone

 

[shadyJ]

It's hard to say what its capable volume is. You can't go by the gain knob, or even the LFE output level in the receiver. You can crank it and see what happens, however if any part of the gain structure is too high the signal will undergo clipping, and it will end up distorting the sound. Also, if you run the sub real for a long time, it will shorten the life of the amp. One way to tell if you are running the sub hard is to look at the cone: if it is moving a lot during normal program material, time to get a more powerful sub. I would have sprung for the VTF3.