MTX Audio MWA040 External Amplifier Bass Control

External bass controls (EBC), often referred to as remote bass controls (RBC), offer a convenient way to fine-tune the bass in your music. Whether you're in the mood for the deep beats of rap or the subtler sounds of country, these controls allow you to adjust the bass levels without needing to stop and tweak the amplifier settings.

Understanding EBC Functionality

A common misconception is that EBCs serve as volume knobs for your subwoofers. It’s essential to grasp that this knob is not merely adjusting volume; instead, it functions as an external gain control for your amplifier. When you connect an EBC, you're essentially bypassing the amplifier's built-in gain control, allowing for real-time adjustments to your bass levels.

The Importance of Careful Adjustment

When using an EBC, caution is crucial. Turning the knob too far to the right can lead to distortion. Distortion occurs when the audio signal being sent to your subwoofers becomes overly amplified, resulting in clipped sound waves. This happens when the input sensitivity (gain) on your amplifier is set incorrectly, causing the audio signal to shift from smooth sine waves to jagged square waves. Such distortion degrades the listening experience.

Setting the Gain Properly

Before using an EBC, it’s vital to ensure that the internal gain on your amplifier is correctly set. This initial setup helps prevent distortion by maintaining the quality of the audio signal. After adjusting the gain for optimal bass output, you can use the EBC to decrease bass levels when needed, allowing for a more balanced sound tailored to your preferences.

Monitoring for Distortion

If you experience distortion while using your EBC, it may indicate that the input sensitivity on your amplifier requires adjustment. Distortion manifests when sound waves exceed their intended amplitude, leading to poor audio quality. Utilizing tools like an oscilloscope can help visualize the output wave, while a multimeter can measure the voltage at the speaker terminals to ensure your gain is set correctly.

For example, if you have a 1000W RMS amplifier connected to a 2Ω subwoofer, the ideal output voltage would be around 44.72V. Adjusting the gain while monitoring this voltage will help maintain sound clarity and prevent distortion.

Utilizing the EBC Effectively

Ultimately, while the EBC provides a valuable means to tailor your bass experience on the fly, remember that it should complement, not replace, proper gain settings on your amplifier. With the gains set correctly for maximum bass output, you can enjoy the flexibility of adjusting your bass levels as desired, making your music experience more enjoyable and dynamic.