If a cable must encounter other wiring, do your best to have them cross at 90 degrees.

Generally, there are two ways to connect a subwoofer to a stereo or home theater system.

Subwoofer prefs

Before playing the subwoofer, adjust the crossover.

Polk Audio HTS Subwoofers

Polk Audio

If you have large floor-standing main speakers, set the subwoofer’s crossover between 40Hz and 60Hz.

If you have smaller bookshelf speakers, set the crossover slightly higher at around 50Hz to 80Hz.

For small satellite speakers, set the crossover between 80Hz and 160Hz.

Turn on the power and set the subwoofer volume to the desired level.

Adjust the phase control if it’s available.

The phase control compensates for a delay between the subwoofer and the main speakers.

Start with the phase control in the 0 or normal position.

If the sound from the subwoofer is adequate from the listening position, no further adjustment is necessary.

If the sound is thin or lacks bass, adjust the phase control until the bass is satisfactory.

Make minor adjustments to thestereo audio equalizerfor preferred sound.

Because low-end frequencies are less clear than mid-range or high-end frequencies, people tend to blast subwoofers for volume.

But this habit can quickly drown out audio definition, resulting in bloated or boomy bass.

That sweet spot varies depending on the system and the size and shape of the room.