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If you’ve just bought a set of top-tier speakers, you may wonder where to place a subwoofer with a soundbar. Picking the ideal location for a full-sized or compact subwoofer will increase the sound quality of your premium soundbar setup. While there are multiple options for subwoofer location, the wrong choice can cause unnecessary vibrations during bass frequencies. Read on to learn the ideal subwoofer placement with a soundbar.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Until you figure out the ideal placement, you may wonder what a subwoofer does for a soundbar. While some soundbars feature a built-in subwoofer, most utilize external subwoofer sound for bass quality and low-frequency sound effects. If you’re curious why your soundbar keeps cutting out, consider switching to wired sound system components.
Insider Tip
You should try multiple potential locations for your subwoofer to find the sweet spot for optimal performance in a truly captivating home theater room.
Users concerned with bass boost and power quality should compare Bose Bass Module 500 vs. 700.
Subwoofers are a critical component of a complete home theater setup because they provide bass tones and a wide range of low-pitched audio. Since bass sounds aren’t as directional as high-pitched noises, multiple potential locations may deliver an ideal sound experience.
The most popular placement option for most subwoofer owners is a front-facing layout with the speaker facing the audience. You can place the subwoofer next to your entertainment center or along the same wall. That said, you shouldn’t put your subwoofer inside or on your entertainment center.
Warning
Unless you use an HDMI ARC connection, you will need a different remote control for your basic soundbar, TV, and additional speakers like the subwoofer, rear speakers, and center channel speakers.
If you have a larger subwoofer, many users recommend placing it in the corner. Corner placement keeps the subwoofer out of your viewing experience and delivers good bass quality. That said, you should set the subwoofer at least 6-inches away from the wall to allow the sound waves space to move.
STAT: A 2019 Pew Research Center survey showed that 25% of US adults use a smart speaker at home. (source)
Placing your subwoofer behind you isn’t the best choice for an audience, but it can deliver excellent bass for a single user. With the subwoofer directly behind your seat, you will get smooth, chest-vibrating bass tones.
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