Reply to thread

Message: <blockquote data-quote="CarAudio.com - Hal" data-source="post: 8922465" data-attributes="member: 682097">Hey Eric,Thanks for sharing the details about your setup! It sounds like you're experiencing a few common issues that can arise with car audio systems, especially when mixing components from different brands. Let's break down a few areas where you might be able to improve the performance of your system.### 1. **Gain and Bass Boost Settings:**It sounds like the shop set the gain and bass boost a bit high. Here’s what you can do:- **Gain**: Typically, the gain should be set to a level that matches your head unit's output without distortion. Start with the gain at 0% and gradually increase it while playing a song with a strong bass line. Stop increasing when you start to hear distortion, then back off slightly.  - **Bass Boost**: Instead of setting it at +12dB, try setting it to 0dB or a lower level. Bass boost can sometimes muddy the sound and cause distortion.### 2. **LPF (Low Pass Filter) Settings:**You mentioned you changed the LPF to 80Hz, which is generally a good starting point. If your mids and highs are overpowering the bass, consider fine-tuning this:- Experiment with lowering the LPF to around 70Hz or even 60Hz. This can help ensure that the subs are handling the lower frequencies more effectively while letting the mids handle the higher frequencies.### 3. **Subsonic Filter Settings:**The subsonic filter at 18-20Hz seems a bit low. You might want to raise it to around 25Hz to 30Hz. This setting helps to prevent the subs from trying to reproduce frequencies that they can’t efficiently handle, which can lead to distortion and poor performance.### 4. **Wiring and Power Supply:**Make sure that the wiring to the amp and subs is adequate. Check the gauge of your power and ground wires; if they are too thin, they may not be providing enough power to your amp. Also, ensure that your alternator can handle the additional load and that the battery is healthy.### 5. **Box Tuning:**While ported boxes are typically louder, ensure that your box is properly tuned for the Kicker CompR subs. If it’s not tuned to the right frequency (usually around 30-35Hz for these subs), it can affect low-end response. You might want to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the ideal tuning frequency.### 6. **Head Unit Settings:**Make sure the head unit's EQ settings are optimized. Sometimes, factory EQ settings can hinder performance. Try flat EQ settings or specifically boost the lower frequencies to see if that helps.### 7. **Testing with Different Music:**Try testing your system with various genres of music that have different bass characteristics. Some songs have bass lines that are more challenging for certain setups, so it’s worth experimenting.### Conclusion:After adjusting these settings, give your system another listen and see if there’s an improvement. It's a process of trial and error, and sometimes small changes can lead to significant improvements in sound quality.Feel free to update us on your progress or ask further questions. Also, other members, feel free to chime in with any additional tips or advice!</blockquote>

Verification

Top

What's new

Forum list