Hey there, audio enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of bass with a comprehensive look at the Definitive Technology ProSub 400. If you're on the hunt for a compact yet powerful subwoofer to enhance your home theater or music listening experience, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this popular subwoofer, from its features and performance to setting it up and troubleshooting common issues. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

What is the Definitive Technology ProSub 400?

The Definitive Technology ProSub 400 is a compact, high-performance subwoofer designed to deliver deep, accurate bass in a small package. Known for its impressive power and tight, controlled response, this subwoofer is a favorite among audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. Its small footprint makes it an ideal choice for those who want to add significant bass without taking up too much space. The ProSub 400 is engineered with advanced technology to ensure it delivers clean and impactful low frequencies, enhancing your overall audio experience. Whether you're watching action-packed movies, listening to your favorite music, or gaming, this subwoofer adds a new dimension to your sound. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing audio system, providing a balanced and immersive soundstage. With its combination of power, precision, and compact design, the ProSub 400 stands out as a top contender in the world of subwoofers. It is built to last, ensuring you enjoy high-quality bass for years to come. This subwoofer is not just about adding bass; it's about enhancing the overall clarity and depth of your audio, bringing your entertainment to life. The ProSub 400’s innovative design and robust construction make it a reliable and valuable addition to any audio setup. It's a testament to Definitive Technology's commitment to quality and performance, offering an exceptional listening experience in a compact form factor.

Key Features and Specifications

The ProSub 400 is packed with features that make it a standout performer in its class. Let's break down some of the key specifications:

• Driver: Typically features an 8-inch high-excursion driver, providing deep and powerful bass from a small enclosure.
• Amplifier: Built-in high-current amplifier, usually around 120 watts RMS, delivering ample power for dynamic sound reproduction.
• Frequency Response: Extends down to around 25Hz, ensuring you feel those deep rumbles and low-frequency effects.
• Enclosure: Compact, sealed enclosure design for accurate and tight bass response.
• Connectivity: Includes speaker-level inputs and outputs, as well as an LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) input for easy integration with AV receivers.
• Controls: Adjustable crossover and volume controls, allowing you to fine-tune the subwoofer to match your system and room acoustics.
• Phase Switch: A phase switch (0 or 180 degrees) to help optimize the subwoofer's integration with your main speakers.

The high-excursion driver is designed to move a significant amount of air, which is crucial for producing deep bass. The powerful amplifier ensures that the driver can perform optimally, even during demanding passages. The extended frequency response means you won't miss out on any of the low-frequency content in your music or movies. The sealed enclosure design helps to minimize distortion and provide a more accurate and controlled bass response. The variety of connectivity options makes it easy to integrate the ProSub 400 with a wide range of audio systems. The adjustable controls allow you to tailor the sound to your specific preferences and room conditions. The phase switch is a valuable tool for ensuring that the subwoofer works in harmony with your main speakers, creating a cohesive and balanced soundstage. These features combine to make the Definitive Technology ProSub 400 a versatile and high-performing subwoofer that can significantly enhance your audio experience. Its thoughtful design and robust construction ensure that it will deliver reliable and impactful bass for years to come. The ProSub 400 is not just about raw power; it's about delivering refined and accurate bass that complements your overall audio system. Its ability to seamlessly blend with your main speakers and provide a cohesive soundstage makes it a valuable addition to any home theater or music setup.

Setting Up Your ProSub 400: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up the Definitive Technology ProSub 400 is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Placement: Position the subwoofer in your room. Experiment with different locations to find the spot where the bass sounds the most even and balanced. Corners often provide the most bass reinforcement, but can also lead to boomy or uneven response. Try placing it along a wall or near your front speakers.
2. Connections:
   • LFE Input: If you have an AV receiver with a dedicated subwoofer output (LFE), connect a subwoofer cable from the receiver's LFE output to the LFE input on the ProSub 400.
   • Speaker-Level Connections: If your receiver doesn't have a dedicated subwoofer output, you can use the speaker-level inputs. Connect speaker wires from your receiver's speaker outputs to the corresponding speaker-level inputs on the subwoofer. Then, connect speaker wires from the subwoofer's speaker-level outputs to your main speakers.
3. Power: Plug the subwoofer into a power outlet.
4. Adjustments:
   • Volume: Start with the volume control set to a low level and gradually increase it until the bass is balanced with the rest of your system.
   • Crossover: Adjust the crossover frequency to blend the subwoofer with your main speakers. A good starting point is around 80Hz, but you may need to adjust it depending on the size and frequency response of your main speakers. If your main speakers are small, you might want to set the crossover higher (e.g., 100Hz or 120Hz). If your main speakers are larger, you can set it lower (e.g., 60Hz or 70Hz).
   • Phase: Experiment with the phase switch (0 or 180 degrees) to see which setting provides the most coherent bass response. The correct phase setting will result in a fuller and more impactful sound.
5. Fine-Tuning: Play a variety of music and movie scenes to fine-tune the subwoofer's settings. Pay attention to how the bass integrates with the rest of your system and make adjustments as needed. Use test tones or a sound level meter to ensure that the subwoofer is properly balanced with your main speakers.

Proper placement is crucial for achieving the best possible bass response. Experiment with different locations and listen carefully to how the bass sounds in each spot. The LFE input is the preferred method for connecting the ProSub 400 to your AV receiver, as it allows the receiver to handle the crossover and bass management. However, the speaker-level connections provide a viable alternative if your receiver doesn't have a dedicated subwoofer output. When adjusting the volume, start low and gradually increase it to avoid overpowering your main speakers. The crossover frequency determines where the subwoofer takes over from your main speakers, so it's important to set it correctly for a seamless blend. The phase switch can have a significant impact on the overall sound quality, so be sure to experiment with both settings to find the one that sounds best in your room. Fine-tuning the subwoofer's settings is an ongoing process, so don't be afraid to make adjustments as needed to achieve the desired sound. With a little patience and experimentation, you can get the Definitive Technology ProSub 400 sounding its best in your system.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a great subwoofer like the Definitive Technology ProSub 400, you might encounter some issues. Here are a few common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

• No Sound:
  • Check the power connection: Ensure the subwoofer is plugged in and the power switch is turned on.
  • Verify the connections: Make sure the LFE cable or speaker wires are securely connected to both the subwoofer and the receiver.
  • Check the volume level: Ensure the volume control on the subwoofer and the receiver are turned up.
  • Test the input signal: Try a different input source or cable to rule out a problem with the input signal.
• Weak Bass:
  • Check the crossover setting: Ensure the crossover frequency is set correctly for your main speakers. If it's set too low, the subwoofer might not be producing enough bass.
  • Adjust the volume level: Increase the volume on the subwoofer to see if that improves the bass response.
  • Check the phase switch: Experiment with the phase switch to see if that improves the bass response.
  • Consider placement: Try moving the subwoofer to a different location in the room.
• Boomy Bass:
  • Adjust the crossover setting: Lower the crossover frequency to reduce the amount of overlap between the subwoofer and your main speakers.
  • Consider placement: Move the subwoofer away from corners, as this can often cause boomy bass.
  • Use room correction: If your receiver has room correction features, use them to optimize the subwoofer's response.
  • Try acoustic treatments: Adding acoustic panels or bass traps to your room can help to reduce boomy bass.
• Humming or Buzzing:
  • Check the ground connection: Ensure that all of your audio equipment is properly grounded.
  • Try a different power outlet: Plug the subwoofer into a different power outlet to see if that eliminates the hum.
  • Use a ground loop isolator: If the hum persists, try using a ground loop isolator on the LFE cable.
  • Check the cables: Ensure that the cables are properly shielded and not running near any power cords.

When troubleshooting, start with the simplest solutions first and then move on to more complex ones. Always double-check your connections and settings before assuming there's a problem with the subwoofer itself. If you're still having trouble, consult the Definitive Technology ProSub 400 owner's manual or contact Definitive Technology customer support for assistance. Remember, a little patience and troubleshooting can often resolve common issues and get your subwoofer sounding its best. Don't be afraid to experiment with different settings and placements to find the optimal configuration for your room and system. With a little effort, you can enjoy the deep, impactful bass that the ProSub 400 is capable of delivering. Addressing these common issues can significantly improve your listening experience and ensure that your subwoofer performs at its best.

Is the Definitive Technology ProSub 400 Right for You?

So, is the Definitive Technology ProSub 400 the right subwoofer for you? Here’s a quick rundown to help you decide:

• Consider the ProSub 400 if:
  • You need a compact subwoofer that doesn't take up too much space.
  • You want deep, accurate bass for music and movies.
  • You have a small to medium-sized room.
  • You want a subwoofer that's easy to set up and integrate with your existing system.
• Maybe look elsewhere if:
  • You have a very large room that requires a more powerful subwoofer.
  • You need extremely deep bass that extends below 25Hz.
  • You prefer a subwoofer with more advanced features, such as built-in room correction.

The Definitive Technology ProSub 400 is a great choice for those who want to add significant bass to their system without taking up too much space or spending a fortune. Its compact size, powerful performance, and easy setup make it a popular choice among audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. However, if you have a very large room or need extremely deep bass, you might want to consider a larger and more powerful subwoofer. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the ProSub 400 is right for you is to listen to it in person and compare it to other subwoofers in its class. Consider your specific needs and preferences, and choose the subwoofer that best meets your requirements. The ProSub 400 offers a great balance of size, performance, and price, making it a compelling option for many users. Its ability to deliver deep, accurate bass in a compact package is a testament to Definitive Technology's commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you're watching movies, listening to music, or gaming, the ProSub 400 can significantly enhance your audio experience and bring your entertainment to life. So, if you're looking for a reliable and high-performing subwoofer that won't break the bank, the Definitive Technology ProSub 400 is definitely worth considering.