How to Tell When Subs Are Broken In?
Like me, many audiophiles understand the importance of breaking in new subs for the ultimate audio experience. A well-optimized subwoofer can literally upgrade your listening experience.
However, it is not easy to say whether your newly bought subwoofer has successfully gone through this process.
The biggest change you will discover in a successfully broken-in subwoofer is an increased ability to produce rich, deep, precise bass that adds a new dimension to your favorite tunes.
However, that’s just the one thing. In this guide, I aim to provide the necessary knowledge and tips to recognize the signs of a well-broken-in subwoofer. So, let’s get started and delve into the nuances of audio systems.
What Does Subwoofer Break in Period Mean?
Before diving into the signs, let me clear your mind with the definition of today’s topic.
The subwoofer break-in process refers to the time needed for the subwoofer, specifically its driver or speaker cone, to adapt to the stresses of performing under normal operating conditions. It involves loosening the subwoofer’s suspension system, allowing for more significant movement.
You will notice that the subwoofer’s performance steadily improves during this period, and its sound output becomes smoother and more resonant.
5 Signs Your Subwoofer Is Broken In
Before we dive into the signs, I would just clear again that subs get louder as they break-in. However, now that we know about the definition! Let’s move forward to the signs that will help you to understand the case more deeply!
1. Consistency in Bass Output:
A subwoofer, when fresh out of the box, possesses components that are still stiff and unyielding. As a result, it may produce an inconsistent bass output, significantly affecting the overall audio experience.
However, as it undergoes a ‘break-in’ method, the mechanical parts loosen up, enabling the subwoofer to deliver more stable and consistent bass sounds (better lower frequencies).
This break-in activity is essentially a period of adjustment where the subwoofer becomes accustomed to the operational demand. Therefore, a consistent bass output clearly indicates a successfully broken-in subwoofer.
2. Absence of Distortion or Crackling at High Volumes:
As you use the subwoofer for the first time, its parts are rigid and unyielding, making the sound quality at high volumes less than ideal, with distortions (distorted signals) and crackling sounds often observed.
You may experience this because the spider and the surround have not yet adjusted to the rapid back-and-forth motion caused by the high-volume bass notes.
However, as the subwoofer plays more and more music, these components “break in” and become more flexible, allowing the subwoofer to handle high volumes without distortion.
This process is similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes. Just as shoes become more comfortable with use, the subwoofer’s performance improves with usage.
Thus, if you notice the absence of distortion or crackling at high volumes after using your new sound system subwoofer for a few hours for a few days, it indicates you have successfully gone through the break-in process.
3. Depth and Richness of the Sound:
A well-broken-in subwoofer doesn’t just produce louder sounds; it brings an enhanced quality of deep and rich bass. Sound depth refers to the perception of distance and dimension within the music.
This allows for a fuller, more resonant bass that doesn’t just create noise but forms an integral part of the musical landscape. Richness, on the other hand, refers to the texture and detail within the bass notes.
A broken-in subwoofer will deliver textured bass notes that add detail, enhancing the overall musical experience. Hence, when a subwoofer successfully breaks in, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the sound’s depth and richness.
4. Flexibility and Movement of the Cone:
Now, if you inspect the sub physically, the cone becomes more pliable, enabling it to move more freely and displace more air, producing superior sound. The flexibility and movement of a subwoofer’s cone indicate the device’s successful break-in.
This change in flexibility can be manually assessed by gently pressing the cone when the audio system is turned off. A stiff, resistant feel signifies a new, unbroken cone, while some giving indicates that the cone has successfully broken in.
Therefore, the improved flexibility and increased cone movement serve as tangible signs of a well-broken-in subwoofer.
5. Absence of Undue Heating During Prolonged Use:
A subwoofer successfully broken in exhibits a significant reduction in heat generation during prolonged use, indicating that its internal components operate with reduced resistance.
Initially, a new subwoofer tends to heat excessively due to the rigidity of its fresh parts, causing increased resistance and heat production. However, as the break-in procedure progresses, these components become more flexible.
This flexibility leads to decreased resistance, resulting in less heat generation. Efficient heat management is a clear sign of a well-broken-in subwoofer.
This not only indicates efficient operation but also promises a longer lifespan for the components and makes the subwoofer safer to use.
Comparison Table: New Subwoofer vs. Broken-in Subwoofer
| Feature/Aspect | New Subwoofer | Broken-In Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Bass Consistency | Might have an uneven bass output due to stiffness of components. | Delivers a consistent bass level, regardless of the audio being played. |
| Sound Distortions | Prone to distortions or crackling sounds, especially at high volumes. | Handles high volumes gracefully with minimal to no distortions. |
| Depth & Richness of Sound | Sound may lack depth; bass might feel shallow and not as detailed. | Produces bass notes with depth and richness, enhancing the overall audio experience. |
| Cone Flexibility | Cone is relatively stiff, leading to restricted movement. | Cone becomes more flexible, allowing for freer movement and better sound production. |
| Heat Production | May heat up more than usual due to increased resistance in its new components. | Manages heat efficiently due to reduced resistance, ensuring safer, prolonged operation. |
| Performance at High Volumes | Might struggle to maintain quality and clarity at higher volumes. | Can operate at high volumes without compromising sound quality. |
| Efficiency & Power Consumption | Might consume slightly more power due to resistance in components. | Operates more efficiently, leading to potentially lower power consumption. |
Tips for a Smooth Break-in Process:
If you need to learn how to break in a subwoofer fast, please follow my tips below:
1. Appropriate Volume Levels:
Just as you wouldn’t start a new car engine and immediately rev it to its maximum RPM, you shouldn’t blast a brand-new subwoofer at full volume.
Therefore, I recommend initially playing audio at moderate volumes to break in a subwoofer successfully using any pink noise. This allows the parts to move and flex progressively, avoiding undue stress that could damage them.
After a reasonable period of consistent use at moderate volumes, the parts will become more flexible, effectively improving the subwoofer’s performance and lifespan.
Therefore, gradually increasing the volume over a break-in operation significantly contributes to the subwoofer’s durability and sound quality.
2. Duration and Consistency:
A subwoofer’s break-in activity also involves consistently playing it for a certain duration to enhance its performance and music quality.
According to my experience, this process requires an average of 20 to 50 hours of playtime, but the exact duration can vary depending on the make and model of the subwoofer.
I would also advise you to read the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially for high-end models, as they may have specific requirements. Consistent, daily use of the subwoofer during the break-in period is more effective than intermittent usage.
This not only benefits the break-in process but also allows you to observe changes in the subwoofer’s audio quality over time.
3. Monitoring Physical Parameters:
As you know, excessive heat can damage the subwoofer’s components, so it’s crucial to routinely check the temperature by touching its enclosure.
If it feels unusually hot, allow the subwoofer some time to cool down before continuing the process. You should also ensure adequate ventilation for the subwoofer.
Proper airflow assists in effectively dissipating heat, preventing its accumulation in the sound system. Therefore, avoid placing the subwoofer in tight spaces or corners where heat can build up. Instead, please put it in a location with good ventilation.
Remember that we are doing the break-in process to ensure your subwoofer’s longevity and reduce the risk of component damage.
Why Should You Not Underestimate the Sub Break in Period?
The subwoofer break-in period is a critical stage that you should not ignore. The break-in operation, which usually lasts several hours to a few days of playing the subwoofer at moderate volume, allows these parts to loosen up and reach their optimal performance levels.
Here are three key reasons why you should never underestimate the subwoofer break-in activity:
- Improved Performance: Breaking in your subwoofer allows it to operate as intended by the manufacturer, delivering the best possible performance and sound quality.
- Longevity: A properly broken-in subwoofer lasts longer, as the stress on its components is evenly distributed over time, reducing the risk of premature failure.
- Avoidance of Damage: Playing a new subwoofer at high volumes without allowing for a break-in task can cause the parts to wear out unevenly. This could potentially result in damage to the subwoofer.
General FAQs
How Long Does It Typically Take To Break in a Subwoofer?
The break-in period for a subwoofer typically ranges between 20 to 30 hours of play music at moderate volume (but should be played in delays, not at once). However, the exact period can vary depending on the subwoofer’s design and manufacturer.
Can I Speed up the Break-in Process?
Yes, you can make the break-in process fast, but remember that it’s essential to do so carefully to avoid damaging your equipment. Follow the manufacturer’s initial charging and setup instructions for a new audio system subwoofer.
What Happens if I Don’t Allow My Subwoofer to Break in Properly?
If you don’t allow your subwoofer to break in properly, it may not perform at its optimal level. The mechanical parts, particularly the spider and surround, remain stiff, restricting the movement of the cone, which can lead to a lack of depth and resonance in the bass output.