A Guide to Positioning Dual Subwoofers
Article summary
- Learn how to maximize your audio experience with effective subwoofer placement.
- Corner placement is ideal for achieving deep bass efficiency.
- Mid-wall positioning enhances direct energy without overwhelming room acoustics.
- For optimal sound, consider placing subwoofers by your front wall for a cohesive audio experience.
- Enhance your audio-visual setup with the 1723 Subwoofer 2V, delivering powerful and precise bass for any setup.
The benefits of multiple subwoofers are becoming common knowledge in home audio. In this guide we will cover the best locations to place your subwoofers in order to leverage the maximum benefit.
Corner Placement
In a typical room, it is best to hide your subwoofers by placing them in corners. In a rectangular room, you will achieve good frequency response by positioning subwoofers in opposite corners, i.e. one in the front right corner and the other in the back left corner or vice versa. Keep in mind that it is best to place subwoofers away from openings like doors or open walls. This is the most efficient way to maximize room gain for deep bass.
Mid-Wall Placement
Another option is to place a subwoofer at the mid-point along the left side wall and the other on the right sidewall. The subwoofers will couple less with the room than corner placement, but if your seating position is near the middle of the room, you will have more of a tactile experience from the direct energy of your subwoofers.
Front-Wall Placement
A popular and esthetically pleasing option is to place both subwoofers on the front wall near the front left and right speakers. This makes the two subwoofers sound like one larger subwoofer placed on the front wall. That being said, the two strategies above will yield a smoother frequency response across all listening positions.
Front Corner / Near-Field Placement
If you have the space behind the main listening position, another strong option is to place one subwoofer in the front corner of the room and the second behind your seat, with the driver/vent at least 10 cm/4 inches away from the nearest surface. This will provide a nice mix of room gain in deep bass and the punchy, tactile direct energy from the subwoofer behind you, while still smoothing out bass response throughout the room.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of using multiple subwoofers in home audio?
Multiple subwoofers enhance frequency response and provide deeper, more immersive bass throughout the room.
Where is the best place to put subwoofers in a room?
For maximum benefit, place subwoofers in corners, mid-walls, or along the front wall to optimize sound performance and room gain.
How does corner placement affect bass response?
Corner placement enhances room gain, resulting in deeper bass and a better frequency response when positioned in opposite corners of the room.
What is mid-wall placement for subwoofers?
Mid-wall placement involves positioning subwoofers in the middle of the left and right sidewalls, which can enhance direct energy for a more tactile sound experience.
Is front-wall placement effective for subwoofers?
Yes, front-wall placement near the left and right speakers creates a unified sound experience, but may not provide the same frequency response as corner or mid-wall setups.
What is near-field placement for subwoofers?
Near-field placement involves putting one subwoofer in the front corner and another behind the seating position, balancing deep bass with tactile energy for an immersive experience.
Can you explain the importance of avoiding openings when placing subwoofers?
Avoiding openings like doors or open walls helps prevent sound leakage and enhances the overall efficiency of the bass response.
How far should a subwoofer be from surfaces when placed near the listening position?
When placing a subwoofer behind the listening position, it should be at least 10 cm (4 inches) away from the nearest surface for optimal performance.
What is the advantage of placing subwoofers on the front wall?
Placing subwoofers on the front wall can create the impression of a single larger subwoofer, delivering cohesive sound while maintaining an aesthetic appeal.
Do I need to worry about subwoofer placement if the seating is in the middle of the room?
Yes, mid-wall placement can be particularly effective if the seating is in the middle, as it increases tactile response and enhances the listening experience.
