Optimizing Bass Performance with a High-Level Connection: Guidance for Setting Crossovers
If you are setting up a high-level connection between a Norma amplifier and a KEF KC62 subwoofer with Spendor A1 speakers, this article will guide you on how to achieve the best possible sound. This involves understanding the principles of subwoofer integration and crossover settings to ensure seamless audio performance.
Understanding Bass Response with Spendor A1 Speakers
Your Spendor A1 speakers, being sealed cabinet speakers, naturally roll off at -12dB per octave to achieve boundary compensation from the back wall. This helps in filling in the bottom end, although the amount of boundary reinforcement depends on your room setup and the specific positioning of the speakers.
Given the sealed cabinet design and small size, even with boundary reinforcement, the bass output will not be greatly enhanced. These small bookshelf speakers are more limited in output compared to larger systems, which means the subwoofer plays a crucial role in providing the desired deep bass frequencies.
High-Level Connection: No High-Pass Filtering Options
In your current setup, the high-level connection runs in parallel from the amplifier to both the subwoofer and the A1 speakers. You don’t have the option to high-pass filter the signal through the subwoofer. This means the subwoofer will reproduce low frequencies without any attenuation.
To achieve the best integration, you need to set the subwoofer’s crossover point manually. Start with a reasonably high crossover setting, perhaps between 90 and 100Hz, ensuring that you can just hear the subwoofer. It is essential to monitor the phase and focus on producing the strongest bass response at your listening position. Use music with high bass content to help you fine-tune this setting.
Adjusting Crossovers and Balancing Bass Response
Once the phase is set, concentrate on the crossover setting to avoid overlap and ensure no gaps in the sound. The KEF KC62 manual provides diagrams that can guide you in finding the optimal blend point. This ensures a smooth transition between the subwoofer and the main speakers.
After these settings are dialed in, the final step is adjusting the volume. The goal is a level where the subwoofer’s contribution is barely noticeable. You should not be able to discern the subwoofer’s role unless it is turned off, indicating that the crossover and volume settings are perfect for seamless integration.
Advanced Integration Options
For those with a stereo amplifier that includes both high and low-pass filters, you have additional flexibility. You can set the high-pass filter for the Spendor A1 speakers at 80Hz and the low-pass filter for the subwoofer between 65 to 70Hz. This setup reduces the bass load on the Spendor A1 speakers and allows them to focus on midbass and the upper frequencies more effectively.
Leaving a gap in the crossover point ensures flat bass response at the crossover frequency, providing a more balanced sound. With these advanced settings, you can achieve a more expansive soundstage and a more consistent listening experience.
Finalizing the Setup
To ensure the overall setup is perfect, make sure the subwoofer is in the correct position, the phase is aligned with the stereo speakers, and the gain levels are set accordingly. Thankfully, the KEF app can assist with these settings, making it easier to manage and fine-tune the system without having to go back and forth adjusting knobs.
Once everything is dialed in, the subwoofer should contribute naturally to the entire sound image, with no discernible sound coming from the subwoofer itself. Instead, you should perceive a seamless, cohesive sound.
Conclusion
By carefully adjusting the crossover settings, phase, and volume levels, you can achieve an ideal integration between your Norma amplifier, KEF KC62 subwoofer, and Spendor A1 speakers. This setup ensures that the bass is well-balanced, providing a rich, immersive audio experience. Good luck with your audio setup!