speaker calibration

[VQLT]

I had originally started this thread in the general audio forum but it is better served here. I am in the process of recalibrating the sound level for all my speakers (left, right, center & surrounds) I have never properly completed this process. I am looking for any tips, suggestions, etc. to get this process right. (sound levels, reference volumes, etc). I believe I start by setting every speaker to 0. after that I am not sure where to go next

[JDaniel]

It's not all that difficult, but you need a couple of "must have" tools:

(1) An SPL (sound pressure level) meter from Radio Shack or somewhere else. They run about $35 at Rad. Shack.

(2) A calibration DVD. There's many out there. Some Blockbuster videos even rent them. I use Sound & Visions Guide to HT. There's also AVIA and others. Alternatively, you can also use just the white noise generator in your receiver. However, I prefer the DVD because they give you step by step instructions to follow.

As to how to do it?

Get a pencil and paper. As you follow the directions below, right down your final settings for future reference.

Pick a relatively loud volume (exact level doesn't matter). I usually set my main volume control at the level I normally listen to movies at. But using your SPL meter, sit in your sweet spot (or use a tripod mounted SPL meter if you are really anal about this stuff) with the meter at ear level.

With the SPL meter set to the correct weighting (C weighting if I remember correctly) and range for the volume you are at as a starting point (usually 70-80 db), you want to run through each channel individually (L, R, C, RS, LS etc.). As you do, you want to adjust each channel's level up/down through the receiver's input menu until the volume reading on the SPL is the same from each speaker. If your AVR has on-screen display, this process is much easier than looking at the little window on the receiver.

I should have noted, before starting the above process, make sure the distance (or time-delay on some AVRs) to each speaker from the sweet spot is entered correctly on the system input menu.

Your goal is to have the volume level the same for each individual speaker.

Don't forget to adjust your subwoofer level too. Most people have them too loud. Your goal is to know the bass is there, but without being able to locate the sub if your eyes are closed (at least that's my goal). You want it to blend in well with your other speakers. You may have to move it around a bunch to find the "right" place - if you have that luxury in your room.

IMHO, calibrating your speakers is one of the biggest differences you can make for enjoying your movies.

I've made 3 tweaks to my system that all made HUGE differences in the performance and my enjoyment of HT:

(1) Calibrating/level-matching the speakers (and remember you must do this anytime you move the speakers or furniture).

(2) Video calibration using the same test DVD. It walks you through adjusting each setting to the proper level (brightness, contrast, color etc.)

(3) A larger, matching center channel speaker. The center channel is so important for HT. When I upgraded mine, the change was incredible.

Enjoy, and good luck. Reply here or PM me if you have questions.

JD