[geeks] Audio Channel Identification

[Sridhar Ayengar]

Geoffrey S. Mendelson wrote:
>> Anyone have an audio file that plays through each channel one at a time? 
>>   I need to hook a subwoofer to my video editing rig, and I can't tell 
>> which output is for the sub.  There's an output labeled 
>> "Center/Subwoofer" in the manual, but I don't know if the "right 
>> channel" side of the stereo pin is the sub, or if it's the "left 
>> channel" side.
> 
> It may not be "stereo". Since true subwoffers are by nature mono, it
> may just be the same as the center channel. At 20Hz or so, you can't
> tell direction anyway.

But this thing decodes Dolby Digital 7.1.  That would mean that it 
replicates the subwoofer channel on the center channel.  That would be 
exceedingly stupid.

> Many subwoofers are really not, because of power line noise. Since there
> is an abundance of 50/100 or 60/120 Hz noise (power line frequency and
> it's first harmonic), many computer systems just cut out near 120 Hz.
> 
> Speakers that do reproduce sounds that low are often sold as "subwoofers".

This is a 15" powered Velodyne.  I'm pretty certain it's actually a 
subwoofer.

> Most likley if you but a package of a center speaker, a subwoofer and
> "satellite" speakers,  The center speaker is the best, with no real
> bass response, the subwoofer is really a standard woofer that goes to
> around 30-50 Hz, and the right left speakers are not very good on their
> own. 
> 
> Rear speakers are just for effects fill, not real listening.

I am aware of all this.  This is not a pre-packaged system.

I'm trying to hook a Krell multi-channel integrated amp and a Velodyne 
powered sub directly to the computer.  I am using full-size speakers, 
including two pairs of dipole surrounds, all of which are THX certified. 
  I just don't feel like spinning my wheels screwing around with the 
computer's connectors.

Peace...  Sridhar