setting crossovers

[gonoles92 10+ year member]

hey guys, so I just had a shop install my very first amp and sub in my car, and i'm truly in love! However, I did some research before hand and noticed something when I got the car back.

My head unit, the JVC KDHDR60 has a built in LPF from the subwoofer out which can not be turned off, in addition. I noticed that the LPF on my amp was switched on and is being used as well. Is this a problem and should it be turned off?

From what I've heard, you should use one or the other, I'm just afraid if I turn it off I'm going to have to reset my gains again, which I have no idea how to do.

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[ciaonzo 5,000+ posts]

Generally, you should use one or the other but if you like the way it sounds I would leave well enough alone. It won't hurt anything. Graphically, it would probably appear to be crossed over very sharply, or steep. Or, it's producing a cascade effect. Either way, if you like the way it sounds....

 

[gonoles92 10+ year member]

I do like the way it sounds, however I have nothing to compare it to since this is my first system. So could it sound better? Possibly. If I do go ahead and flip the switch from "LPF" to "flat" will I have to reset the gains?

 

[ciaonzo 5,000+ posts]

I do like the way it sounds, however I have nothing to compare it to since this is my first system. So could it sound better? Possibly. If I do go ahead and flip the switch from "LPF" to "flat" will I have to reset the gains?

That's quite possible and if the shop put a lot of time into tuning it correctly, you will have undone their efforts if you begin tweaking levels and what not.
If you want to experiment a little to simply satisfy your curiosity, you can try switching the LPF on the amp to FLAT, while the system is not powered, and do not adjust the gains. Power the system back up, and beginning with the volume on a low setting, listen for the difference. If you like it better, but you think the levels could use some adjustment, you might want to mention this to your installer. If you don't like the way it sounds, simply re-engage the LPF on the amplifier.