Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Technical Questions Hsu VTF-2

I have a Hsu VTF2 hooked up to a HK 7200. I was told my bigjohn someone here might be able to help me. Is it surprising to everyone to hear that my sub clips? Espcially when listening to movies like Matrix Reloaded (when Neo takes off into the sky after big fight scene) and also in movies like "Underworld". Of course I can turn down the volume on the sub but then its no fun. I like to feel bass.
Anyway, is clipping normal for subs or should I look into getting mine fixed. Again, it migth be because of its location but I was told its location is okay.

If the sub is being overdriven (i.e. it's too loud), then it's normal for it to clip.

Have you calibrated your system with an SPL meter (available at Radio Shack)? I highly recommend doing it, as it will ensure that all your levels are at the correct levels relative to each other. It's very tempting to crank the level on the subwoofer, but it often leads to distorted/bloated bass.

If your sub doesn't crank out enough bass for you, then you may need to trade it in for something more powerful.

In reply to:

---

If your sub doesn't crank out enough bass for you, then you may need to trade it in for something more powerful.

---

Or sit directly on top of it.

Bren R.

I've had my VTF-2 for over a year and have never had it do anything but sound good.At what db's are you running it at?If you're clipping the amp and over driving it you should turn it down.How large is the room you have it in?The VTF-2 is said to be able to hit over 100db @25hz thats pretty loud.

I called Hsu and was told to set my VTF2 to 32 and take the plug out. It happens during movies with low bass at about -15 on my HK (whatever that means). My room is about 20 by 15 with vaulted ceilings and lots of open areas behind the listening area. I have the sub positioned in the front right corner. I moved it around a litte tonight and listened to the same movie without the clipping. I also turned down the volume after using an spl meter. Hopefully this does the trick. Thanks for the input.

jc - this hasn't been mentioned. Have you tried placing the sub in a corner? Once you place it in a corner, sometimes moving it just a few inches makes an impressive difference.

Also, a proven (but odd) way to determine the right placement is to put the sub in the sweet spot/listening position and crawl around the floor until you find the best sounding bass. That's where you place the sub.

Ray

I realize that I'm coming into this a bit late, but I was wondering if you could describe what the sub is doing when you say it "clips"?

if your wallet allows,add a 2nd sub,youll be amazed....ron

That's the third time I've read about getting down on all fours to find the sweet spot for the sub. I'm going to do it, but in the back of my mind I know you guys are really just having fun at my expense. So I'll be mumbling "Oh how I loathe them" while down there. I guess the next post will be "to finalize configuration, stand in the optimum listening area, drop trou, flap your arms, cluck like a chicken.......".