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If you’re using premium speakers, you may wonder how to connect subwoofers to a receiver. After all, a high-quality subwoofer offers strong bass frequencies for surround sound movies, music, and video games. While auto setup options work for some models, you need an AV receiver for dedicated subwoofer output. So, stick around to learn how to hook up subwoofers to a receiver.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Learning how to set up subwoofers is a good first step, but your theater receiver may offer alternate audio system options that may affect your setup. Additionally, investigating what surround sound is can narrow down the placement options for your stereo speakers and subwoofers.
Insider Tip
If you have an older theater receiver, you may need a wireless subwoofer adapter to match the connection types.
This guide covers most passive and powered subwoofer setups but ensures you learn how to connect subwoofers to a receiver without a subwoofer output. That said, you should consider how to connect a subwoofer to an amplifier if you have a passive subwoofer.
So, whether you have a single subwoofer or multiple speaker connections, you can learn how to set up subwoofers on a receiver.
Find the subwoofer output jack on the receiver, and plug the RCA cable into the unit. The port should be marked SUB or LFE channel. Next, plug the LFE channel cable into the subwoofer.
The crossover frequency determines when your subwoofer takes over for the speakers. Check your stereo speaker output frequencies to see where your crossover setting should be. For example, if your speakers have a frequency range between 100 Hz and 30 kHz, set your subwoofer’s crossover setting to 100 Hz.
Since humans aren’t great at pinpointing low-end frequencies, there are many options for where to place the subwoofer. Placing the subwoofer in a corner will maximize the boom, while a center placement produces a more balanced sound.
Ensure your speaker wire connections are secure and connect the subwoofer to a power strip or outlet. Activate your audio equipment and test some of your favorite songs. If your system produces a balanced sound that you like, you’ve completed the setup.
Warning
Your low-end frequencies might lose sound quality if you allow the subwoofer volume to cause vibrations.
STAT: A study from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) shows that always-on audio/video receivers consume up to 40 watts per day, even while on standby. (source)
