Powered subwoofer - AVR power

[hanfrac]

This is probably a dumb question, but I need to ask.

If using a powered sub, what is the importance of the quality of the AVR as a power source? I ask because I am experimenting with a Yamaha Media Controller, which is a low power AVR (replacing an H/K AVR635). The Yamaha doesn't have an official power rating, but I doubt it's much.

Is this an issue? I just placed an order for an Outlaw LFM1-EX. Thanks.

 

[markw]

I'm unclear as to what you are asking. An AVR provides a signal to the powered subwoofer. Both do need to be plugged into a power source, like an AC socket, though.

I don't recommend using a power plug on an AVR to power your subwoofer though. They are generally useful for low current draw devices, say a Blu-ray player or some such. The sub's power draw may exceed what that plugs rating.

 

[hanfrac]

Sorry - I'm asking whether there's any risk to using a cheaper, lower power AVR with a better quality sub.

I understand that the fidelity of the signal from a cheaper AVR will be worse than with a higher quality one, but we don't play particularly loud.

 

[templemaners]

A powered sub has it's own power source - either a plate amp attached to the actual subwoofer, or an outboard source, like a pro amp. Your receiver just needs to send the signal to the subwoofer - the amplification of the signal will happen in your LFM1-EX and does not care at all about your receiver's power source.

So, to answer your question, it doesn't matter. You would just run a cable like this from your sub to your Yamaha Media Controller.

If I use this YMC-700 as a representation of your unit, you would just plug the cable into the Subwoofer Outlet connection.

Edit: The only problem you would have is if your main speakers are not loud enough, since that does use the power supply of your YMC. But the sub - you're A-OK.

 

[hanfrac]

Thanks. That's what I thought. Just wanted to be sure.

The issue will be whether the sub with a big power source overwhelms the L/C/F speakers. I'll adjust that with the sub's volume control.