VTF-1 Settings for Acoustic Jazz Bass?

[JEmblin]

Hi - I purchased the VTF-1 which I am very impressed with. Can someone give me some suggestions for dialing in a good acoustic bass sound?

More specifically:

1. Crossover in or out?
2. Crossover frequency if used
3. Inputs 1 or 2 cables?
3. Bass extension 1 or 2 ports open?

Thank you,

Jim

[Pete_Hsu]

Hi Jim,

Are you using the subwoofer with an A/V receiver that has bass management features (for crossover/distance/channel level), or are you using the subwoofer in a 2-channel system with separate amp and pre-amp or integrated amp?

Thanks

Sincerely,

[JEmblin]

I am using a A/V receiver with bass management.

[Pete_Hsu]

Hi Jim,

I would use the following settings on the VTF amp: connect to one of the low level rca inputs (either left or right input is fine), keep volume knob at 9 o'clock (~ 1/4 of the way up), set phase = 0, set bass extension switch to '2 port open' mode, set crossover switch to 'Out' (which will bypass the internal crossover on the sub), set On/Off/Auto switch to 'Auto'.

On the receiver, set all speakers to "Small", set crossover to 80Hz for all speakers and subwoofer to start, set distance settings for each speaker and subwoofer to equal distance to your main listening position, adjust the channel level for the main/center/surround speakers so that they sound equally loud at your listening position, and then adjust the subwoofer channel level in 1dB increments to your tastes.

I suggest experimenting with the phase switch on the VTF amp to see what gives you the best integration with your main speakers.

Feel free to experiment with the variable tuning feature on the VTF sub too. You can insert one port plug and flip the bass extension switch to the '1 port open' mode to get stronger deep bass, or you can remove the port plug and flip the bass extension switch to '2 port open' mode to get stronger mid-bass.

Sincerely,

[JEmblin]

Thank you Pete. I will try out your recommendations.

[Pete_Hsu]

You are most welcome Jim!