Specifications

5.1-Channel Production Guidelines Production Environment
3-8
3.2.3 Subwoofer(s)
The LFE channel requires the use of at least one subwoofer in the monitor system. It
is equally important to include one or more subwoofers and bass management when
some or all of the speakers may not cover the deepest bass in soundtracks or music
recordings. The bass from any channel that is not reproduced in the main speaker for
that channel must be redirected to the subwoofer(s). There are now various products
that handle bass management (crossover filters, bass mixing, and combining with the
LFE channel in the proper mixing ratio) that can help achieve a proper monitor setup
in the studio. It is essential to integrate the subwoofer(s) with the main speakers
correctly to ensure a wide, smooth, and uniform frequency response from all five
main channels. In addition, it is critical to have the LFE channel reproduced in the
proper relation to the other channels.
Positioning the subwoofer(s) can often be an arduous task and the relative location(s)
will not be the same for all rooms. A certain amount of experimentation should be
expected particularly when retrofitting an existing production room. Initially, place
the subwoofer(s) near the listening position. Play program material with significant
low frequency content and listen at likely subwoofer locations in the room. Locations
delivering the smoothest bass response are apt to be the best choice for final
subwoofer placement.