Connecting Two Subwoofers: LFE Input vs Other Input Options
When building or upgrading your home theater or audio system, one question often arises: how to connect two subwoofers with different input options? This article will guide you through the process of connecting a subwoofer with a Low-Frequency Effect (LFE) input to an AV receiver and other subwoofers with different available inputs.
Connecting a Subwoofer with LFE Input
For the subwoofer that has an LFE input, the connection is straightforward. You should connect it to the subwoofer out on your AV receiver. This ensures that the low-frequency content from the LFE channel on your audio source is directed to the subwoofer, ensuring deep, powerful bass.
Four Possible Inputs for the Other Subwoofer
When it comes to the other subwoofer without an LFE input, there are four potential connection methods: Bluetooth or other wireless signal, an active sub, Low-Level (also known as Line-Level) for an active sub, and Speaker Level for a passive sub. Each method comes with its own set of advantages and challenges.
Bluetooth Subwoofer: A Challenge
Bruce scenarios, if your other subwoofer is a Bluetooth sub, connecting it to your AV receiver with a proper LFE out can be a significant challenge. Typically, Bluetooth subs come from all-in-one home cinema kits or sound bars. They often lack the necessary controls and are designed to work with specific head-end gear.
Connecting a Bluetooth sub to an AV receiver might require finding a compatible wireless transmitter, which can be a difficult task. Even if you could make the connection, the wireless sub might not respond well to the AV receiver's setup, leading to issues with volume levels and phase. Additionally, Bluetooth audio introduces a delay, which can further complicate the system's synchronization.
Given these complexities and potential frustrations, it's often easier to dispose of or replace the Bluetooth subwoofer with a more compatible model. This approach saves you from a significant amount of headache and ensures a smoother setup process.
Low-Level Line-Level Input
For a subwoofer with Low-Level (Line-Level) inputs, you need to split the LFE out signal from your AV receiver. Use one of the left or right sockets that can handle mono input. This allows the subwoofer to receive the full range audio signal that will then be filtered for bass frequencies. However, it is essential that the front channel speakers are configured in full-range mode, running from 20Hz to 20kHz, for the subwoofer to properly capture the bass frequencies.
High-Level Active Subwoofer
A High-Level input on a subwoofer is typically found in active subs. These connections are usually red and black speaker sockets or banana plugs. It is less common to find a subwoofer with only High-Level inputs, although it's not impossible. An active subwoofer with High-Level inputs is designed to take a full-range audio signal and filter it down to just the bass frequencies. Ensure that the front channel speakers are set to full-range mode.
High-Level Passive Subwoofer
A passive subwoofer with High-Level inputs also has speaker connections on its back. These connections are for stereo signals, with each driver receiving a separate set of inputs. The signals are summed to mono inside the subwoofer, allowing it to operate with full-range speakers.
Based on the scenario described, it is most probable that you have a Bluetooth subwoofer. While it may be worth a try, given the challenges, it's often easier to seek another option that aligns better with your current setup.