Problem with my sub and my Onkyo TX-SR

[dmorris395]

For some reason, I can't get a good sound out of my subwoofer. I have a polk audio sub connected to my Onkyo TX series receiver via a y adaptor. I've checked the connections. I've even had the sub serviced to make sure that it is working properly. I have the dial on the sub set at 12 o' clock. I've used an spl meter to calibrate the other speakers, but I keep getting a weak to nonexistent response from the sub. I would greatly apreciate any advice that anyone can share. Thanks

 

[Unregistered]

When you calibrated the other speakers, did you calibrate the sub as well? Maybe the subwoofer level (in the receiver speaker setup) is set really low.

What are you playing as a source and what listening mode are you using? Play a cd in plain old stereo mode - that should exercise the sub. Make sure you are not using 'direct' or 'pure audio' mode as these do not use the sub.

 

[cam]

Sometimes on some receivers, when your mains are set to large you will find that your sub is not all that alive. Try setting all speakers to small, sub on, crossover at 80, and your sub crossover set to max. Spl all your speakers to 75 db at your listening position with your sub about 3-6 db higher. Also shove your sub into the corner and then tell us if your sub has awoken.

 

[dmorris395]

Thanks for the advice. Unfortunately, I've tried everything I know of. I've cronked by receiver's sub gain up to 12 and turned the sub's volume all the way up. While I get a response, it dosen't have that BOOM that I remember hearing. It now has a muffled sound at best. I don't know what's wrong. I had it tested by Circuit City and they said it worked fine. I might have a bad sub cord. Who know's?

 

[Mr.T]

Try to isolate the problem by borrowing a sub from a friend. You might have an internal problem with your sub, regardless of what Circuit City tells you.

There is a good chance that something is wrong with the internal amplifier of your subwoofer, a bad filter capacitor could very well cause your problem.

When an electronic problem becomes tricky, finding the problem by elimination is the fastest way.

Mr.T