crossover?

grb3963

Is there any kind of rule of thumb for setting cross-over frequency for speakers or is it just by what sounds best?

kuntasensei

It varies based on speaker placement, phase of your sub, etc. A good starting point is to set each speaker to a half-octave above its -3dB point. Take the -3dB point and multiply x1.5 - set your crossover to the number closest to this. That will give you sufficient room for the speaker to transition to the sub without any noticeable gap in frequency response. Again, this is a starting point. Depending on your room, placement, speakers, etc., you might find a better setting. The only real way is to use a RTA to see if it makes a smooth transition from speaker to sub... or do basic test tones with a SPL meter to get a coarse reading.

Or just set 'em all to 80Hz. Works for most people.

grb3963

How do i find out what 3d is?

DollarDave

What make and model are your speakers?

grb3963

polk monitor 50 ll series front
sony f6000 rear
sony cn5000 front
polk sub (no help needed with sub)

if i new how much better polk sounded before i bought sony i never would have bought them.

DollarDave

The polk product page - http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/specs/recent/monitor50/ puts the lower -3 Db at about 60 Hz.

That would equate to a crossover setting of about 90. I would try 80, see how it sounds/feels, then try it at 90 and 100. I don't like anything much higher than 100 as dialog will go that low and I don't want to hear that from the sub.

grb3963

thanks

kuntasensei

Dave's right. If the lower -3dB point is 60, you can probably get away with 80Hz without losing too much sound.