How to Set Up Different Brand Subwoofers in a Live Sound Setup - When you have different brands of subwoofers, it is a challenge to set up all of them in one event. However, it is not impossible. At Star Sounds Limited, Auckland’s trusted name for PA system hire, we always assist our customers and event organizers in matching different brand subwoofers to get the best and most powerful low frequencies. In this article, we will discuss how to set up different brand subwoofers together to achieve the best results.
How to Set up Different Brand Subwoofers in Live Sound Setup - Easy Methode
Why Use Different Brand Subwoofers?
There is no one answer to this question. Most of the time, we have to use different brands of subwoofers in front of the stage to meet the requirements of the event organizers and sound engineers. This can also be due to stock availability and customers' budgets. Sometimes, due to the event requirements, you may need to combine subwoofers from different brands. However, to achieve the best results, you must properly set up these subwoofers to avoid phase cancelations.
1. Match Frequency Ranges and Crossover Points
This is one of the most important factors to consider when balancing different types of subwoofers. Because different brands of subwoofers have different frequency responses and internal crossovers. Let's see how to mitigate this issue:
You can use a separate crossover or DSP system to set up the crossover points for all subs.
It is also important to set the same low-pass filter frequency for all subwoofers. This will ensure that they work together instead of against each other.
🔧 At Star Sounds, you can hire separate crossover units and DSPs like DBX drive rack PA2.
2. Phase and Polarity Check
One of the biggest challenges is phase cancelation. When you use different brands of subwoofers, you sometimes notice bass frequency cancelation due to improper setup.
How to Overcome This Issue?
You can use an audio analyzer or phase alignment tool to ensure all subwoofers are in the same phase.
If you don't have proper audio testing tools, you can use your ear. Change the polarity of each subwoofer one by one and determine the best settings. When you hear tight and deep bass, those are the settings you need to use.
3. Level Matching
Different brands of subwoofers have different input sensitivities and output power.
You need to set the input levels of each brand to match the power output. If you do this properly, none of your subwoofers will be over-stressed.
You can also use a pink noise generator and an SPL meter to measure the output level. Then, make the necessary changes to match the output levels of each subwoofer.
4. Placement and Delay Alignment
Placement matters just as much as brand matching.
Remember to Stack or cluster subwoofers together. This will avoid phase cancelations and uneven bass coverage.
You can also use delay settings to time-align the output of subwoofers. When you do this properly, you can hear tight, nice low frequencies.
🎶 Star Sounds technicians are trained in subwoofer placement and alignment techniques to help you achieve tight, punchy bass on every setup.
5. Test Before the Event
This is one of the most important parts of the PA setup. You must do a full sound check before the actual event starts.
How to do it?
You can play a bass-heavy track and walk around the venue to ensure the bass is spread evenly.
Identify dead spots where there is no bass. Accordingly, you can change the subwoofer placement or apply EQ to get the desired sound.
Bonus Tips from Star Sounds Limited, Auckland
Try to use powered subwoofers rather than passive ones. Because it makes setup easier and safer.
Connect all subwoofers to the same power circuit. This will help you to avoid grounding issues or hum.
If you’re unsure, hire a sound technician or use a reliable PA hire service in Auckland—like Star Sounds.
Need Help with Your Live Sound Setup in Auckland?
At Star Sounds Limited, we specialize in PA system hire, including line array speakers, RCF subwoofers, Yamaha mixers, and more. Whether you're mixing brands or need a full professional sound system with setup and support, we’ve got you covered.
✅ Free delivery, setup, and collection across Auckland
✅ Professional technicians for live events
✅ Affordable daily hire rates
📞 Contact Star Sounds Limited today for expert advice on live sound setups or to book your equipment hire!
