Connecting an Onkyo SKW-350 Passive Subwoofer to an Onkyo TX-NR616 Home Theater Unit
Connecting your Onkyo SKW-350 passive subwoofer to your Onkyo TX-NR616 home theater unit can be a straightforward process, ensuring you achieve the best audio experience possible.
Understanding Your Components
The Onkyo SKW-350 is a high-quality passive subwoofer, meaning it doesn't come with its own amplifier. On the other hand, the Onkyo TX-NR616 is a home theater receiver that provides the necessary amplification for the subwoofer. Both devices have pre-out subwoofer jacks and line-out jacks.
Connecting the Subwoofer
To connect your passive subwoofer, you need to use the correct cables. Typically, you'll have a red and a black wire leading from the subwoofer. These wires should be connected to the appropriate terminals on the subwoofer input on the Onkyo TX-NR616.
Step-by-Step Connection Guide
Locate the RCA subwoofer input on the Onkyo TX-NR616. It is usually marked 'Sub Out' or 'Subpre'. These jacks typically feature a RCA plug, either color-coded red for the positive wire and black for the negative wire, or simply a pair of terminals.
Strip the ends of the subwoofer cables to expose the bare wire, if necessary. Ensure you have the correct colored wire connected to the corresponding terminals or RCA plugs.
Connect the red wire of the Onkyo SKW-350 to the positive terminal or color-coded red terminal on the Onkyo TX-NR616. Connect the black wire to the negative terminal or color-coded black terminal.
Press the connections firmly to ensure a secure connection.
Adjusting the Audio Settings
After connecting the subwoofer, you'll need to adjust the settings on your Onkyo TX-NR616 for an optimal sound experience.
Setting the Crossover Point
The crossover point is crucial in ensuring that only low-frequency sounds are directed to the subwoofer, while the mid and high-frequency sounds are handled by the main speakers. For the Onkyo SKW-350, you should set the crossover point around 100–120 hertz. This range ensures a smooth and balanced audio distribution.
On the Onkyo TX-NR616, navigate to the Subwoofer Setup or Subwoofer Crossover menu. Here, you can set the crossover frequency to an appropriate level. A setting around 110–120 Hz is ideal.
Tuning the Volume
It's essential to ensure that the subwoofer volume is balanced with your main speakers. Start by turning up the volume on the subwoofer until you can feel the bass. Then, backed off a bit to ensure the sound blends naturally with the main speakers. You may hear the subwoofer a bit more pronounced to start with, but gradually adjust until the bass is subtle yet impactful.
Alternative Solutions
If you're finding that the Onkyo SKW-350 doesn't meet your expectations, you might want to consider alternative options. For example, the Dayton Audio APA150 Power Amplifier offers a more robust solution with a power output of 150W. Alternatively, the Onkyo SKW-208 Subwoofer is a great choice for a system where you want a strong bass response. It's worth investing in a quality subwoofer that matches your system's capabilities.
Conclusion
Connecting a passive subwoofer like the Onkyo SKW-350 to your Onkyo TX-NR616 is an excellent way to enhance your sound system. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a seamless connection and optimal sound performance. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between the subwoofer and main speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Expensive Cables for Better Sound Quality?
No, there's no significant difference in sound quality between expensive and affordable cables, especially in audio systems where the focus is on amplification and not transmission cable quality. A digital lead and an analog lead, such as RCA cables, perform similarly, and spending more than $10 on each lead is often unnecessary.
What Is the Best Crossover Frequency for My Subwoofer?
The optimal crossover frequency for your subwoofer depends on the specific model, but a common and effective range is 100–120 hertz. This range ensures that only low-frequency sounds are sent to the subwoofer, allowing the main speakers to handle the mid and high-frequency sounds effectively.