Audio Subwoofer Problems

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Subwoofers provide listeners with an increased quality of sound, but can have some issues.

Audio subwoofers are used to augment the sound quality that is released by stereos and other audio component systems. As a result of actively using subwoofers, the sounds projected from the sound systems (such as music and voice) not only become louder, but also have a fuller output. Subwoofers, however, are not immune to problems. These issues often result in distorted sound.

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Issues

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Among the most common problems of audio subwoofers is the loss of their bass effect while playing music or other sound files. The majority of people that experience this problem do so because they have installed their subwoofer on a different sound system than the one where it was originally installed. Additionally, there are scenarios where the subwoofer does not produce any sound.

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Troubleshooting

Subwoofer issues are typically caused by one of two things: improper settings or broken receivers. You can troubleshoot the lack of bass or other sound effects that decrease the quality of sound by checking and adjusting the settings of the subwoofer as well as your audio system. Although subwoofers work on almost all types of audio systems, some have to be adjusted to ensure quality sound while utilizing them. Broken receivers, on the other hand, have to be replaced with new ones.

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Significance

Fixing subwoofer problems proves to be important, not only because it will increase your enjoyment while listening to music, but also because utilizing a subwoofer improves the audio system's overall performance. When subwoofer issues go ignored, there is a tendency for the audio system to become overworked, as the user likely works the controls on the audio system rather than using the subwoofer's settings. As a result, additional audio problems may arise due to playing at full-blast volume and making other unnecessary adjustments to compensate for the lack of a subwoofer.

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Recommendations

One way of handling subwoofer issues is by reviewing the owner's manual, paying special attention to the speaker settings. Different audio systems have their own recommended settings to ensure quality sound and that all the effects can be felt and heard while the sound file is being played. If the manual does not provide any recommended settings and/or adjustments, tweaking can be done on the audio system's subwoofer menu to create your preferred sound. Through tweaking, you will be able to find the desired quality, as well as detect and correct any unnecessary noises and vibrations coming from the subwoofer.

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Maintenance

Audio subwoofer problems can be prevented by regularly cleaning and maintaining both the subwoofer and the audio system where it is connected. The speakers should be dusted off periodically to ensure clean release of sound and the wiring should be checked for open exposures. These exposures should be immediately repaired to prevent further damage.

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