Subwoofer Placement In a Small Control Room

Abstract: Low frequencies in small rooms are a problem that can affect the sound quality and therefore give an impaired listening experience if not treated. Even the slightest change of the subwoofer position can make a difference. Measurements have been made for two different subwoofer positions in a small control room, called the original and the alternative position. The original position represents the position that is normally used for the chosen control room. The alternative position was selected by measuring the position that had the flattest frequency response. The positions were tested with listening tests by 20 audio engineering students to see what differences existed between the two. The result shows that the original position was perceived to have more bass, which could be connected to the measurements. The subjects also showed that they could agree on the meaning of three of the given attributes used for the listening tests. If a flatter frequency response is wanted for the chosen control room, the alternative position is an option.