Got everything hooked up...

[curtis]

Show off! [:D]

So do you know how to use every feature on all the components?

-curtis

[mattepntr]

I don't![:D]

Actually, the Anthem setup is really intuitive
(for a component where practically everything is
user-defineable). The default settings are just what
I need (speakers set to small, Xover at 80hz etc.)
I've got an SPL meter, but I haven't done that part
of it yet. I've got everything balanced by ear today.
And it's remarkable how transparent the sub is when
you've got it right (placement, volume, phase etc.).
When I first plunked it down and plugged it in, the
sound was way too loud, localized and BOOMY, disconnected
from the rest of the soundstage.
But after shifting it around a bit and adjusting the volume,
the change was tremendous! The sub disappeared and the Ascends
themselves became HUGE speakers! I've read about the importance
of your sub "blending" with your speakers, but I wouldn't have
thought the change would be that dramatic when it DID blend!
Both Ascend and HSU have done a tremendous job with this
equipment. I can't believe I paid right around the same for
this setup as some people pay for the **** Acoustimass setup.
WHAT A DIFFERENCE. And what a great value!

Now, I'm off to go listen some more. WOOF.

Rick

p.s.- A hidden advantage to moving to Phoenix- houses out
here are insulated to the MAX, they have to be to keep cool
during the blistering summers out here. I was playing the system
at "no-holds-barred" volume levels and my sister walked around
the house to see if I was going to have neighbor-relations
problems. And the system was virtually silent outside, except
for very very low bass rumbles. And this wasn't even very loud,
but you could hear it. I'm SO happy!

[frankd28]

"But after shifting it around a bit...."
Rick, congrats on your great sound!

Not to get personal but how do you decide when and where to do some "shifting"?

I've read a few base setup procedures and even done it once or twice before but it all seems so fuzzy. I prefer no base to BOOMY base. I have a new setup to put together in the next week or two and getting the base right is the thing that has me most concerned. I guess it's easy enough to turn some dials but I'd prefer to only run the wire once.

[mattepntr]

By moving it around, I mean in small (in my setup) increments,
like 6 inches or so. It's amazing how just a little shift in
position will make a big difference. I started by putting the
sub in the recommended spot (close to the wall, in a corner)
and this was correct. But small adjustments really made the
difference. I have a fairly dead room, but I battled a little
with room resonance.

Every room is different, though. YMMV.