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Model SB-900DF Powered Subwoofer

Placement and Operation

Generally speaking, the best location for your new subwoofer is the 
front of the room, close to a corner (Figure 5). Every room has its own 
unique sound characteristics, and flexibility in the exact placement of 
the subwoofer is always desirable. The closer the subwoofer is placed to 
a wall and especially a corner, the more and deeper the bass response 
you will hear. However, in some rooms, corner placement can produce a 
“one note” boomy effect. Under such circumstances the subwoofer may 
work better away from the corner. Experiment to find the best position 
in your room.

Figure 5

Typical arrangement for a single subwoofer in a home theater.

1. 

Start here

2. 

Move to 

corner for 
more bass

3. 

Move away 

from wall for 

less bass

Using the Subwoofer Crossover Control

NOTE: Set this control to "BYPASS" if 
you are using a receiver that has its own 
subwoofer crossover. Set this control to 
"ACTIVE" if your electronics do not have 
a bass management function. The goal is 
to optimize the performance of the sys-
tem by ensuring that the subwoofer and 

satellites produce a cohesive and well integrated sound “picture.”
Most surround sound receivers and processors offer a choice of cross-
overs, typically between 60Hz and 150Hz. We recommend using a setting 
between 120Hz and 150Hz when using small speakers such as those in 
a soundbar. Consult your electronics owner's manual for more details.
It’s generally undesirable to have the main speakers and the subwoofer 
overlap too much. Larger speakers means a lower Low-pass crossover 
frequency, smaller speakers means a higher Low-pass crossover fre-
quency. Consult the manufacturer’s specified low frequency response 
for your main speakers to determine the appropriate Low-pass setting 
on your subwoofer. In the end, however, a little time spent experimenting 
will generally result in dramatically better bass response.

Care of Your Subwoofer

Your subwoofer is  constructed from Medium Density Fiberboard. MDF 
is a non-resonant material ideal for speaker system enclosures. To clean 
the cabinet you may use a soft cloth either dry or slightly dampened with 
clean water. Be careful not to wet the cabinet or allow any water to enter 
the cabinet seams. Avoid placing your speakers in direct sunlight or near 
a source of heat that may, over time, damage the finish.

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Subwoofer Troubleshooting Guide

Once your subwoofer is set up, you should have many years of maintenance free enjoyment from your system. However, if you should encoun-
ter a problem, refer to the following guide to help you find the solution. If a problem persists, you should contact your local authorized Atlantic 
Technology dealer.

Problem 

Possible Cause 

Possible Solution

No bass output 

AC power cord unplugged or  

Plug into a working outlet. 

 

plugged into a non-working outlet. 

 

Input cables not securely  

Check all connections, then try another  

 

connected or defective. 

input cable.

Audible buzz or hum  

Input cable not securely connected  

Check all connections, then try another  

 

or defective. 

input cable.

 

Ground loop through antenna or  

Test by disconnecting antenna and/or cable  

 

cable TV system input. 

system input leads. If hum goes away, install  

 

 

isolation balun(s) at that point.

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