Patching Subwoofers - A Step-by-Step Guide for Using an Aux or Matrix Depending On Your Application

A matrix output is used when you want to create a mix that is based on your main Left/Right (L/R) mix but has some level of independence. In the context of a subwoofer, you might use a matrix output if you want your sub to primarily follow the main L/R mix, but also want the ability to tweak the sub level independently.

Independence and Control:

A matrix output allows you to have an independent level control for the subwoofer, which can be adjusted separately from the main mix.

Flexibility:

You can add additional inputs into a matrix mix, so if you have specific channels that need to be sent to the subwoofer in addition to the main mix, a matrix output provides this flexibility.

Consistency:

Since a matrix is typically derived from the main L/R mix, changes to the mix (such as EQ, dynamics, or effects) will be reflected in the matrix. This ensures consistency between the main mix and the subwoofer feed.

An auxiliary (Aux) output is often used when you want full control over what gets sent to the subwoofer, separate from the main L/R mix. By routing to an Aux, you can choose specific channels to send to the subwoofer, rather than simply deriving it from the main mix.

Full Control: An Aux feed gives you complete control over the mix that's sent to the subwoofer. You can send any combination of channels to the Aux, with independent level control for each.

Tailored Sound: Since you're creating a separate mix for the subwoofer, you can tailor the sound specifically for the sub's frequency range. This might involve sending only the channels with significant low-frequency content to the subwoofer.

Avoidance of Phase Issues: By carefully choosing which channels are sent to the subwoofer, you can avoid potential phase issues between the subwoofer and main speakers, which can arise when the same signal is sent to both.

Matrix and Aux outputs provide two different ways to patch your subwoofers. Here are the main use cases for each patch type.

Matrix Output

Patch your subwoofer to a matrix output if you want your sub to primarily follow your main Left/Right mix, with some independence. Matrix is especially useful when you need:

• An independent level control for the subwoofer, separate from the main mix.
• To add specific channels to the subwoofer feed in addition to the main mix.
• Consistency between changes to the main mix (such as EQ, dynamics, or effects) and the subwoofer feed.

Aux/Mix/Mon Output

Patch your subwoofer to an Aux output if you want full control over what gets sent to the subwoofer, separate from the main Left/Right mix. An Aux is especially useful when you need:

• Complete control over the mix that's sent to the subwoofer, allowing any combination of channels to be sent with independent level control for each.
• To tailor the sound specifically for the subwoofer's frequency range, such as sending only channels with significant low-frequency content.
• To avoid potential phase issues between the subwoofer and main speakers, which can arise when the same signal is sent to both.

In conclusion, your choice depends on the level of control and flexibility you need over your subwoofer feed. Both Matrix and Aux outputs have their own advantages and are beneficial in different situations.