DVD Volume Level

gsdvip

I am using Polk Monitor 50s and CS1 for my front speakers, and Monitor 30s for my surrounds. My receiver is an HK AVR 230, and I have a HK DVD 22 Player.

When I listen to music from my Polk XRt12, it can get pretty loud, and I usually listen around -20dB setting.

However, when I play a DVD via Optical, I can turn it to -10dB, and it still is not as loud as the -20dB with music.

I am wondering, because at -10dB, it can only get twice as loud as it is since 10dB changes double the volume. Even then, it still is not really that loud.

Are there any tips I am probably missing to get the most out of my system? I know it can get loud, but I have not yet experienced the fullness of the receiver or speakers.

I've heard of some systems where someone only goes 25% and they can't stay in the room. I could crank this to 100% on a DVD and still be somewhat comfortable, which is not what I expected.

I know Polk and HK have more power than this.

Whadyasay

It's all about dynamic range....DVD's in general play at a lower reference level than CD's or radio, mostly for the headroom. This way, they can put in sound effects that are very loud (when they need to be), and the receiver/amo has enough headroom to make it loud in comparison to everything else. Movie soundtracks also contain a lot more low-level material than music recordings.

Also, have you calibrated your system, in terms of speaker levels and such?

I listen to most radio and TV through my receiver at around -30 to -25, even with a digital input. DVD's are generally at -19 to -17. I have an external amp hooked up, but still, you can see there's a difference in overall recording levels.

Willow

I asked this question as well way back as I too was worried.

When we watch TV (digital tv) it's usually between -60-55dbl
dig cable music (using analog) -30-25
dvd -40-25 (dig coax)
cd -50-40 (analog)
vcr -45 -40 (analog)


Don't be worried it's like this for most peeps

steveinaz

It's just minor differences in output voltages. Not at all uncommon.

gsdvip

Originally posted by Whadyasay
Also, have you calibrated your system, in terms of speaker levels and such?

I listen to most radio and TV through my receiver at around -30 to -25, even with a digital input. DVD's are generally at -19 to -17. I have an external amp hooked up, but still, you can see there's a difference in overall recording levels.

No, I haven't done much calibration because I was unsure how to do so. I've noticed that sometimes, even with Surround Off and just using two Speakers, my Polk XRt12 on some songs sounds a bit hollow, as if it was adding reverb.

I have my towers about 3 feet off the ground on stands so that my dog won't knock them over. I read that speakers should be at least as high as the TV, which is a 60" HDTV. I separated the speakers about 5 feet from the TV each way to give more stereo separation.

I've used the built in microphone to set up speakers, but I believe that was under one of the receiver settings which I don't remember, such as Video1 or DVD. Each channel I choose has its own settings.

I don't know much about crossover, but I've heard it used.

- Thomas Sweet

Frank Z

Here are a few links that you really need to read.

Polk Audio Home Theater Handbook

Speaker Placement

SPL Meter use/Calibration

gsdvip

Originally posted by Frank Z
Here are a few links that you really need to read.

Polk Audio Home Theater Handbook

Speaker Placement

SPL Meter use/Calibration

Great! I ordered the Stereophile Test CD Package just now. I will pick up the SPL Meter at Radioshack later. Are there detailed instructions on how I can do the testing?

When I test, should I turn off Logic 7?

Also, I am using a Velodyne Sub. Are they usually a good brand?

Frank Z

Are there detailed instructions on how I can do the testing?

The calibration procedure is pretty straight forward, take a look at the calibration link I posted and you'll see what I mean.

When I test, should I turn off Logic 7?

It won't matter, the test tone generator in your receiver will override any processing modes.

Also, I am using a Velodyne Sub. Are they usually a good brand?

There are better subs and there are worse subs. Get your system properly setup, calibrated, etc. before doing any upgrades. You may find that the sub is perfect for you, or you may decide that something different might be needed.