subject: Understanding When You Need A Subwoofer For Your Sound System [print this page] Sound systems nowadays usually have many separate speakers whose job is to transduce a particular band of the frequency spectrum. And subwoofers speakers, otherwise known as bass bins or subs take very good care of the realm of the bass frequencies that mid frequency range speakers cannot cover. So knowing when you need some bass reinforcement can be the making or the breaking of your event, gig or music venue.
Subs can be added to an already existing system so you can upgrade and not need to replace the whole set up you have already invested in. Subs can handle as low as 20 Hertz which is actually lower pitch than our ears can pick up. But of course we can feel it physically. Whereas other normal speakers tend to start from around 40 Hertz and can therefore not handle low bass frequencies. Also, it is worth noting that the lower the frequency the more acoustic energy is required to carry it. So if you have a larger space, room or venue that needs to be filled, then extra bass reinforcement may be the only way to satisfactorily deliver the sounds.
Perhaps your kick drums make more or a slapping sound than a deep warm thump, or bass lines are not coming through fat and deep. Then adding a sub speaker to your PA system will add more depth, warmth and impact to the music you are playing through it. Furthermore, with a sub taking care of the bottom end you can run the rest of the speakers at less volume. In other words you do not have to crank up the system so much in order to get a full rich sound.
You can purchase subs to fit with the rest of your system. They can be passive or active. In other words they will need an external amplifier and power source in order to function (passive) or they will come with their own amplification unit built in (active). Active subs are more of a plug in a play device, so this may be advantageous for you. A passive subwoofer will require an amp with lots of power capacity (given that bass frequencies take more power to be transduced and travel any distance) and a crossover unit to ensure a smooth transition between the bass sound and the mid-range frequency speakers.
So if you are looking to invest in a speaker installation or replace or upgrade an existing system then it is worth considering whether you will require or desire a more full and reinforced foundation to the sonic experience you are offering.
