Subwoofer cardioid setup is among the most demanded topics in the PA system hiring industry. If you do not set up subwoofers correctly, you won't be able to get the maximum sound quality from them. You need to place your subwoofers in a specific way to gain the maximum low-frequency impact. One of the best method to achieve the best performance for subwoofers is the cardioid setup.
At Star Sounds Limited, we hire QSC and RCF subwoofers. We can setup them correctly using cardioid system to achieve the best performance.
Learn More About Subwoofer Cardioid Setup
When a subwoofer works, it produces bass frequencies 360 degrees. Because of this, your main audience won't get the maximum output from your subwoofers.
However, Using a cardioid system, you can project bass frequencies in one direction, primarily toward your audience. This way you can get the maximum from your bass bins.
What is Cardioid setup?
It is a technique of setting bass frequencies in one direction, reducing unwanted reflections. When you set cardioid using two or more subwoofers, you can get the following benefits:
- Powerful and strong bass response to the audience area.
- Minimise bass frequencies ( low frequencies) behind subwoofers, mostly on the stage.
- Better sound quality with clarity and more definition.
- Better control of the low frequencies towards one direction.
How to Setup Cardioid Subwoofer Configuration
- Front-to-back (End Fire) Setup: To set up an end-fire configuration, you need to place two or more subwoofers in a straight line (one behind the other). Thereafter, you need to apply delay according to the distance of the subwoofer. For example, if the distance is 1.5m from the front to back subwoofer, you must apply relevant ms of delay according to the 1.5m distance. You also need to reverse the polarity of the rear subwoofer. This setup is best for outdoor events and large concerts.
- Gradient Cardioid Configuration: When one subwoofer faces the front and the other faces the back directly behind the other, it is a Gradient Cardioid system. You still need to reverse the rear subwoofer polarity and add delay. This setup is best for indoor and stage events where excessive bass reflection matters.
- Stacked Cardioid Setup: In this setup, you place the bottom subwoofer towards the stage and the front subwoofer towards the audience. You then need to reverse the polarity of the bottom subwoofer and add delay. This system is good for nightclubs and other events where you need more bass response towards the audience.
Why should you use the cardioid setup in your Events?
You get many benefits by using cardioid configuration rather than the normal way. Below are a few key points why you should use them,
- It can improve the overall bass response and clarity. The total amount of low frequencies produced by subwoofers now travels toward the audience and not to the unwanted areas.
- It can also help minimise feedback and other noises that are generally caused by low subwoofer frequencies.
- It is also suitable for both indoor and outdoor events. It gives you a cleaner and more defined bass response.
Hire a Cardioid Subwoofers System in Auckland
At Star Sounds, we have branded and professional subwoofers. All our subwoofers are active, so you do not need external power amplifiers. Also, our subwoofers, like RCF 8006As, have an inbuilt cardioid setup. So simply press the cardioid button, and you do not need to worry about any other delay setting or complicated calculations.
At Star Sounds, we have over 10 years of experience setting up subwoofers in live events and other events. Our team is well-versed in setting subwoofers properly to get the maximum output, including cardioid configurations.
How to Contact Star Sounds?
You can reach us anytime, our 24/7 contact number is always on! Alternatively, you can send us a message using our contact form or email. Once we receive your inquiry, we will respond to it as soon as we can.
Below are our contact details:
Phone - 021 091 78 190
Email - [email protected]
