Should I change my subwoofer level or gain level on amp?

[n2audio 5,000+ posts]

The amp is 0.2-6v on input sensitivity. HU is 2.5v

So assuming the gain adjustment is somewhat linear the 50% mark would be about 3v. The 75% range would be around 1.5v. So that along with some bass boost would have had you clipping at high volume especially in the 40-50hz range.

I prefer the DMM method over by-ear. You can get a functional DMM for ~$10.

 

[wew lad 5,000+ posts]

The amp is 0.2-6v on input sensitivity. HU is 2.5vSo assuming the gain adjustment is somewhat linear the 50% mark would be about 3v. The 75% range would be around 1.5v. So that along with some bass boost would have had you clipping at high volume especially in the 40-50hz range.

I prefer the DMM method over by-ear. You can get a functional DMM for ~$10.

why? there's blatant issues with using that equation without knowing power factor. sure it works, with a gain overlap, on amps that can take some abuse via hard clipping on songs recorded high. you'll be missing output on rock songs though, i need about -10db to take full advantage of disturbed. by ear, you can account for everything, you just have to know what to listen for. i trust my ear more than my scope, dmm, and my clipping indicator when it comes to subwoofer amps, although a scope and clipping indicator is the next best thing.

 

[n2audio 5,000+ posts]

why?

Because clearly the by ear method fails for some people. The DMM method almost guarantees the sub/speaker won't be damaged -- at least not by high power clipping.

I'd prefer someone give up a little volume by setting the gain on the safe side than have to replace their $500 sub because distortion is hard to hear at 140dB.