Can't get sound right with MP1ks

rallyshark

Now that I've had my two micropro 1000s for a few days, I can't seem to get the sound where I want it I have attached a quick diagram of my room layout. Hopefully, this will help you guys give me better advice here:) Not much can be changed as far as placement goes. The bass just doesn't sound right for some things, but with other things, it's great. It shakes my chair, but doesn't seem to have the impact it should. It's like the kick drum doesn't "kick". I'm not sure how to correctly explain it:( On movies, like Transformers 2, or Star Trek, the low rumbles etc. sound great. Almost like I have bass shakers in my chair, but gun shots don't have that quick pop. They are more like a low thud? It almost sounds mistimed. It's like there is a dip in the 40-70hz range from what I can tell by ear.

I think I may have a combination of issues(phase,audyssey distance setting, sub placement settings), The arrows in the diagram show the direction the subs are facing. The only change I'm considerings as placement goes, is possible stacking the mp1ks between the 11T and the corner on the right. That way they would be facing the same direction as the fronts, and that would likely solve my phase as I could just set it at 0 and move on. FYI, I have them crossed over at 100hz. What do guys think my problem(s) may be? I've been adjusting until I can't tell if I'm making improvement or not. I'll try again later, but I just had to walk away for now. I'm getting frustrated, but I know it can be fixed. Any help or advice is GREATLY appreciated:)

rallyshark

Ok, I changed the position of the mp1ks and it definitely made some improvement. They are now stacked with phase at 0 and set to "mid wall". I just wish I knew what the room position settings did to the frequency curve, so I wouldn't second guessing myself:o I think maybe more progress can be made with the audyssey/distance settings? Oh, and don't worry, the subs have two sided tape under the feet to keep them from wandering around/falling:) Do you guys think I'm on the right track now? I'm not sure I trust my own ear, since I've been **** with this since yesterday, any input is appreciated:) I attached the "revised" diagram below:

rallyshark

Opinions? Statements? Advice,or Ideas? Have you all decided I'm a dumbass and think I can't be helped? How 'bout a smart **** comment at least? Anyone?:D

rallyshark

Why won't anyone help?:(

GTB

rallyshark wrote: »

Opinions? Statements? Advice,or Ideas? Have you all decided I'm a dumbass and think I can't be helped? How 'bout a smart **** comment at least? Anyone?:D

Opinion: Those have gotta rock....I agree that something is amiss.

Statement: Handy room drawing.

Advice or idea: Start with one sub, run Audussey. Then tweak. I can only relate what I have done with my sub (lousy PSW10) and Denon 790.

Before running auto analyze in AVR:

1. Sub crossover setting to highest point, volume at half, phase to 0. Try setting one beside each main speaker, pointing out, ONLY ONE turned on.

After running Audussey, assuming no phase error message on sub. (If there is a phase error message adjust accordingly until no error message.)

2. Main speakers set to small, crossover set to 80 or 60hz.
3. SW out set to Main + LFE.
4. LFE set to 80hz.
5. Play with receiver db out setting for sub, leave distance alone. (The term "Distance" is used but it really means how the AVR wants to time the sound output of each speaker relative to your main seating position.)

Once this is done to your satisfaction turn on the other sub, set it up as the first and see how it effects your sound. Tweak accordingly.

Are you a dumbass: Nope. I wish I could have your problem, I really want a Micro 1000.

Smartass comment: Not today, just hope you have a Merry Christmas.

Greg

concealer404

100hz is crossed over too high. Those 11Ts will dig way lower than that with no problems. I'd try 80hz, maybe even 60hz.

sandworms

if you have access to computer in that room you should try REW from hometheater shack.com it's really not that difficult to set up and once you see your room response graphs you will understand what you will need to do to get the flattest response from your subs. short of buying traps it's all location, location, location

rallyshark

concealer404 wrote: »

100hz is crossed over too high. Those 11Ts will dig way lower than that with no problems. I'd try 80hz, maybe even 60hz.

Thanks for the responses guys, I really appreciate it:) I'm sorry I didn't completely clarify how I was using the subs in conjunction with the rest of my speakers. I actually do cross them over at 80hz when I use them with the 11Ts. I cross them over at 100hz when I use them with the OWM5/RM20s. Also, I use the LFE, so the crossover setting on the subs is irrelevant.

Sandworms, I will have to check out the REW when I get back home from visiting the family for Christmas:)

GTB, Don't feel bad, I started out with a sony HTIB receiver, AND sub not so long ago:o

Thanks again guys, and have a merry christmas:)

mak99

rally - I also have two mP1K's, and have them on either side of my AV cabinet. Though I haven't done critical listening from all seating positions, this arrangement sounds great for normal movie watching. I see your second diagram is closer to my current arrangement than your initial posting's sketch. Glad that the second arrangement works better for you.



On another note, I was in the process of upgrading these dual mP1Ks to dual mP3Ks, but my first mP3K from Polk's ebay auction had a popping sound when pushed to not-to-high levels*, so it's being sent back for repair or possible refund. I will say the single mP3K introduced me to lower bass than the mP1Ks could produce, esp. during the opening Paramount logo for Transformers 2 and the EMP burst towards the end of the movie (1:48-ish mark, IIRC). I can only imagine what dual mP3Ks would sound like, both operating perfectly...yikes!

I'm actually debating whether to abandon these dual microPros and just go for the SVS PB-12 Plus and be done upgrading my sub for the next 10+ years...

* mP3K volume at 22/40 after AutoPRO setup and 75 dB level matching with other speakers, Onkyo TX-SR805 volume at -15 dB (+18 dB is max), watching opening scene to Casino Royale Blu-ray with PCM soundtrack via Oppo BDP-83.

rallyshark

Thanks for the input! Getting them off the floor helped a lot as well(see "stop that rattling"post) I'm getting them closer now. Shut up about the 3k! I have to block the upgrade bug for a while, haha! I want to stick with the micropros for a while, and I like the size...The SVS is bad ****, but it just don't have the room for it. My room is only about 12x17, so the dual mp1k can damn near tear it apart anyway,lol! Oh, and nice set up!

mak99

^^ Forgot to mention my mP1Ks are on carpet/pad/slab on grade, so they don't sink too low for the passive radiator to bottom out. When I was testing the mP3K for the popping noise, I visually verified that its radiator was not hitting the carpet. the mP3K is in the car tonight, waiting for a trip to the UPS store tomorrow...

BTW, note that the mP3Ks are only 1.5" wider, 1.5" taller and 3/4" deeper than the 1000s. Surely you can fit a pair of these in your room!

bevo

sandworms wrote: »

if you have access to computer in that room you should try REW from hometheater shack.com it's really not that difficult to set up and once you see your room response graphs you will understand what you will need to do to get the flattest response from your subs. short of buying traps it's all location, location, location

Exactly what all do you need ot run REW. I would love to use it to dial in my sub, but I'm not sure what all you need.

rallyshark

bevo wrote: »

Exactly what all do you need ot run REW. I would love to use it to dial in my sub, but I'm not sure what all you need.

Yeah, same here! I think it would be a fun tool to play with. I am worried it may be a little over my head though:o The only tool I know I do have is my laptop, so what else would be needed exactly?