Separate mono for subwoofer

[reldogz]

Hi everyone.

I am looking for some advice on how to properly get a mono signal to my active subwoofer.

I am using a DJ Controller (Hercules Impulse 500) connected to my MacBook Pro. I can then use my controller or the MacBooks audio out to my speakers. I have a few splitters to send audio to four active speakers. Plus I have an active subwoofer.

The challenge I have is getting a mono sound to the sub. I do have a Denon receiver that can help achieve this, but was trying to find a solution where I didn’t need to bring this large receiver with me to places where I need to play music. (I get hired to DJ house parties and such.)

What are the best solutions to help me get mono out (or just a low frequency out) from my controller to the sub? I’ve looked around at DACs, summing boxes, and some other things… but honestly… I’m just confused where to look. Or, should I just continue to use the receiver?

Thanks in advance!

 

[sweetchaos]

In Windows, it’s easy to sum stereo signal into mono. 1) in Windows settings. Or 2) in Equalizer APO.

There must be a way using a Mac.

 

[Chrispy]

Properly is open to interpretation. Your sub might be able to accept L/R signal and sum it to mono. Maybe not. Be specific in the gear involved would help, let alone vague assumptions about full range signal or one that can be bass managed....

 

[DonH56]

The easiest thing to do might be to buy a crossover with a sub output that provides the summed and filtered signal to the sub, as well as a high-pass filtered signal for the main speakers. I have for years suggested the little dbx 223 as a fairly inexpensive pro-level unit; I think it will do what you want.

https://dbxpro.com/en/products/223xs
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/223XS--dbx-223xs -- about $210 at Sweetwater Sound.

HTH - Don

 

[Chromatischism]

I used to use a sound card to do this (PC), setting a crossover in software and using analog outputs (left, right, and sub). Is an external sound card/interface an option?

 

[DonH56]

It's a DJ console, the PC is just the controller, the audio output is from the DJ console/mixer.

 

[Chromatischism]

Right, but I don't know what kind of I/O that thing has, so I just thought I'd throw that out there.

 

[reldogz]

Thanks everyone for the replies.

The sub is a Sony 150 W 12 powered sub. Model: SA-WM500.

I have 4 JBL Boomboxes wired together to create decent highs, mids, and lows. Need the subwoofer for the extra bass.

It isn’t much of a professional look, but it’s just for house parties and it’s sufficient at that.

After much research, I have decided to just use my receiver as it serves its purpose. I do appreciate everyone’s input though