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If you are new to the world of stereo system setups, you may wonder how to test a subwoofer. Many of the best speakers, after all, are subwoofers, and these speakers require adequate connections and a fair amount of testing to ensure optimal operation. So what are the various methods for testing the best subwoofers, and why should you conduct these tests? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
If you have ever wondered how to tell if a subwoofer is blown, conducting some simple tests is an easy way to get an answer. Subwoofers are often plug-and-play, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to learn some basics, such as how to tune a subwoofer. Testing is the best way to ensure your subwoofer and the rest of your components are working within normal parameters, even if you have just learned how to connect a subwoofer to an amplifier.
Insider Tip
Make sure to keep the subwoofers clean and away from debris and food items to ensure a decent lifespan.
Beyond that, it is a crucial maintenance step if you are learning how to wire a dual-voice coil sub.
There are a few things to do when testing to ensure your subwoofer is working as it should be. Here is how to get started.
Before doing anything, check on the various connections to ensure everything is in working order. Cables often fail, so it is a good idea to have plenty of replacement options on hand for emergencies. If anything feels loose, tighten it up, including the power cable and any stereo wires within your system. After you are your connections are up to snuff, power everything in the order indicated by your stereo manufacturer.
The best way to test to see if a subwoofer is working is to simply use your ears. Play a preferred piece of music and get one to two feet away from the sub. Put the volume loud enough that you can hear the bass response from where you are sitting. Listen closely to the subwoofer to check to see if it is adding valuable bass frequencies. In the words of Duke Ellington, “If it sounds good, it is good.”
STAT: A subwoofer can be described as a Loudspeaker that produces Bass frequencies that are lower. The frequency is what makes a woofer different from a subwoofer. A subwoofer has a lower frequency or bass level than a woofer. (source)
Using a digital multimeter can tell you exactly what your subwoofer is doing and whether or not it is blown or undergoing any other serious issue. Multimeters boast different designs, so follow the instructions.
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