Definitive Technology ProSub 60 User manual

Congratulations
Congratulations on your purchase of a Definitive Technology ProSub 60
Subwoofer. This revolutionary subwoofer utilizes state-of-the-art components,
anon-resonant monocoque cabinet and low diffraction construction in order to
achieve the most lifelike sound possible in your listening room for many years
to come. The ProSub is a compact, high quality powered speaker system
intended primarily for use as a subwoofer in superior quality music or home
theater systems.
This ProSub 60 powered subwoofer incorporates a high current power
amplifier, electronic crossover and precise equalization in order to achieve the
highest possible level of low frequency performance. The amplifier and elec-
tronic crossover are completely self-contained modules which are housed in
the subwoofer. The ProSub 60 incorporates Definitive’s proprietary
PowerField®technology,by which the amplifier is specifically engineered in
conjunction with the driver for optimum load matching and power transfer
characteristics. The integrated electronic crossover incorporates high level
inputs and outputs as well as low level inputs, precise equalization, continuously
variable low pass filter (between 40 and 150 Hz), fixed speaker level high pass
filter (to match the ProMonitors) and a precision volume control. The
tremendous built-in flexibility allows easy, seamless integration with all main
speaker systems and optimum performance in any room. The crossover incor-
porates circuitry which allows for exceptional performance as either a single
subwoofer (blending left and right bass channels) or when two subwoofers are
used, one each for the left and right channels.
Our engineers have spent many years in developing this product. To ensure
that you only experience the finest performance possible from your subwoofer,
we encourage you to take a moment with this owner’smanual and familiarize
yourself with the proper installation and setup procedures for your subwoofer.
ProSub 60
PowerField®Subwoofer with
Active Crossover & Power Amplifier
Owner's Manual

CAUTION! To reduce the risk of electric shock and fire, do not remove the cover or back
plate of this device. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Please refer all servicing to
licensed service technicians. Avis: Risque de choc electricque, ne pas ouvrir.
CAUTION! The international symbol of a lightning bolt inside a triangle is intended to alert
the user to uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the device’s enclosure. The international
symbol of an exclamation point inside a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence
of important operating, maintenance and servicing information in the manual accompanying
the device.
CAUTION! To prevent electrical shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert.
Attention: Pour eviter les chocs electriques, introduire la lame la plus large de la fiche dans
la borne correspondante de la prise et pousser jusqu'au fond.
CAUTION! To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not expose this equipment to rain
or moisture.
1. Read Instructions—All safety and operating instructions should be read before operating the device.
2. Retain Instructions—The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings—All warnings on the device and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions—All operating and safety instructions should be followed.
5. Water & Moisture—The device should never be used in, on or near water for risk of fatal shock.
6. Carts & Stands—The device should only be used on carts or stands recommended by the manufacturer.
7. Wall & Ceiling Mounting—The device should be mounted on a wall or ceiling only as recommended
by the manufacturer.
8. Ventilation—The device should always be located in such a way that it maintains proper ventilation. It
should never be placed in a built-in installation or anywhere that may impede the flow of air through its
heat sink.
9. Heat—Never locate the device near heat sources such as radiators, floor registers, stoves or other
heat-generating devices.
10. Power Supply—The device should only be connected to a power supply of the type described in the
operating instructions or as marked on the device.
11. Power Cord Protection—Power cables should be routed so they are not likely to be stepped on or
crushed by items placed on them or against them. Special attention should be paid to areas where the
plug enters a socket or fused strip and where the cord exits the device.
12. Cleaning—The device should be cleaned in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
13. Periods Of Non-Use—The device should be unplugged when not being used for extended periods.
14. Dangerous Entry—Care should be taken that no foreign objects or liquids fall or are spilled inside
the device.
15. Damage Requiring Service—The device should be serviced by licensed technicians when:
•The plug or power supply cord has been damaged.
•Objects have fallen or liquid has spilled inside the device.
• The device has been exposed to moisture.
• The device does not appear to be operating properly or exhibits a marked change in performance.
•The device has been dropped or the cabinet becomes damaged.
16. Service—The device should always be serviced by licensed technicians. Only replacement parts
specified by the manufacturer should be used. The use of unauthorized substitutions may result in
fire, shock, or other hazards.
Safety Precautions
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
2

Your new ProSub 60 Subwoofer contains a built-in amplifier and
sophisticated electronic crossover. There are several ways to install your
subwoofer. One setup is not considered “better” than another; rather,
each is a function of what type of entertainment system you own and
how you plan to integrate your components. Read the installation sug-
gestions below to determine which options best suit your needs. Please
take care to perform all wiring procedures with your system completely
powered down.
Subwoofer Installation
Unpacking
Each loudspeaker leaves our plant in perfect condition. Any visible
or concealed damage most likely occurred in handling after it left our plant,
and should be reported at once to your Definitive dealer or the delivery
company that delivered your loudspeaker. Please unpack your system care-
fully. Save all cartons and packing material in case you move or need to ship
your system. Record the serial number found on the back of the subwoofer
in the appropriate place on your warranty card.
Inputs/Outputs
Your Definitive Technology ProSub 60 subwoofer operates from either
high level (speaker-type) or low level (RCA-type) outputs on your elec-
tronics. Use the low level jacks when connecting the subwoofer to the
left and right low level or LFE output jacks of a receiver,apreamp or a
signal processor. Use the high level speaker terminal inputs to connect
the subwoofer to the amplifier output (speaker) jacks of your receiver or
amplifier. Use the high level output jacks to connect the subwoofer to a
pair of left and right main speakers. (See wiring diagrams.)
When connecting the subwoofer to your system, it is recommended
that you use high quality speaker cable and try to maintain cable runs of
the same length for the left and right channels. Should you perchance
experience any level of ground hum or noise, try plugging the subwoofer
into the same circuit as your amplifier. Also, consult the
“Troubleshooting” section of this manual. To prevent accidental damage
to your subwoofer from overdriving the system, the subwoofer features
an internal overload protection circuit.
3

Your Definitive Technology subwoofer has been designed to operate
at frequencies generally below 150 Hz. Because low-frequency informa-
tion in this range essentially is non-directional, your subwoofer can be
located anywhere in your listening room that is most convenient. Also,
the continuously variable low pass filter operates at a very fast roll-off,
ensuring great performance wherever you place your subwoofer.There
are, however,some general rules that you should bear in mind when
locating your subwoofer:
1. For maximum output the subwoofer should be placed in a corner or
against the wall, leaving roughly 2"-4" clearance between the subwoofer
and the wall(s).
2. Corner placement will increase the subwoofer’s efficiency, which in
turn will increase your system’s maximum output and improve the
dynamic capability of the subwoofer.
3. While one Definitive Technology subwoofer will always sound great,
the use of two subwoofers will definitely enhance your system’sperfor-
mance by providing a smoother and more consistent response pattern.
Here, it is recommended that you locate the subwoofers on the same side
of the room as the main speaker of the same channel.
4. Always remember that frequency response and output level are great-
ly influenced by the subwoofer’s placement. A movement of even a foot
or two can dramatically change your system’s response characteristics.
You should experiment with placement in your particular listening room
in order to achieve the highest performance from your subwoofer.
5. Your subwoofer contains a powerful amplifier inside its cabinetry.
When placing the subwoofer into a built-in cabinet, please be sure it
receives a clear flow of cooling air. If your subwoofer is to be located in
aclosed-back cabinet, be sure to put some ventilation holes in the cabi-
net back behind the subwoofer’s back panel.
6. Since the subwoofer has some output from the rear, if you put the
subwoofer in a cabinet, leave 2"-4" around the outside of the subwoofer
for the sound from the rear to get out.
7. When using the ProSub 60 with Definitive ProMonitors, consult
the ProMonitor instruction manual for other placement tips.
Subwoofer Placement
4

Low Level Connections
One way to hook up your Definitive Technology ProSub 60 sub-
woofer is via the low level input connectors which are RCA-type jacks
designed to accept standard audio interconnect cables. For preamps and
decoders, run an interconnect from the left and right outputs of the pre-
amp or decoder to the left and right low level inputs on the subwoofer. If
you have two sets of outputs, you can use one set of these; if not, you
can put a Y-connector into each output (left and right) and run half of
each Y back into a (left and right) main input on the preamp decoder,
receiver or power amp and the other half into the (left and right) low
level input on the subwoofer.
Additionally, many new model receivers, preamps and decoders fea-
ture a mono (line level) output intended to be used with subwoofers. You
can feed the mono or LFE subwoofer output of your receiver or decoder
to the LFE low level input on the subwoofer and achieve full perfor-
mance. Often these outputs have their own low
pass filter built into the
circuit. If you use these outputs, this low pass filter will work in
conjunction with the low pass filter found in the ProSub 60 subwoofer to
Wiring Diagrams
5

create a very steep crossover slope. Usually, if your receiver or decoder
already has a built-in low pass crossover,you should turn the low pass
control on your ProSub 60 to 150. Also, these subwoofer outputs tend to
have less gain than main line level outputs, thus the gain control on your
subwoofer may need to be adjusted accordingly for proper balance.
For a slight increase in gain, however, you can use a standard, RCA-type
stereo Y-connector to split the mono output into separate left and right
inputs on the subwoofer.Use the LFE input on the subwoofer to hook the
subwoofer up to the LFE (low frequency effects) output on Dolby Digital
AC-3*decoders, receivers, etc. You can hook the L and R low level
inputs on the subwoofer up to the L and R outputs on your receiver,
decoder, etc. at the same time as hooking the LFE input up to the LFE
output in order to reproduce the bass of all three channels with
the subwoofer.
High Level Speaker Wire Connections
Your Definitive Technology ProSub 60 subwoofer can also be hooked
up via high level connections. In this situation, you have the option of
running your main speakers “full range” or rolling off the low end by
using the high pass filter built into the subwoofer. For high level wiring,
your interconnects are simply equal distance lengths of high quality
speaker cable.
6

To hook up your ProSub 60 subwoofer via the high level connections,
simply run speaker cable from the right channel high level connector on
the subwoofer to the right channel speaker connector of your receiver or
amplifier. Repeat this process for the left channel. Please take care that
the red (“+”) terminal on the subwoofer is connected to the red (“+”)
terminal on your receiver or amplifier, and that the black (“-”) terminal
on your receiver or amplifier is connected to the black (“-”) terminal on
the subwoofer. This will ensure absolute phase throughout your system.
Your main speakers can now be connected in one of two ways. If you
wish to utilize the high pass filter built into your subwoofer, simply
connect your main speakers to the high level out terminals on the
subwoofer. Again, take care to make red to red (“+”) and black to black
(“-”) terminal connections. This connection will provide a smoothly
contoured roll-off of the low frequencies going to your main speakers
starting at approximately 60 Hz. We recommend this hook-up (wiring
the main speakers through the crossover in the subwoofer) when using
ProMonitors. For more overall bass output when using full range main
speakers, run the main speakers full range by hooking them up directly
7
AMPLIFIER OR RECEIVER
LR
*NOTE: If you
wish to run your
main speakers
full range with
no low frequency
roll-off, hook
them directly to
the main speaker
output terminals
or your receiver
or amplifier as in
any normal hi-fi
system.

to the amp. In many systems, if your speakers are true full range systems,
you may find that you get a more satisfying sound by running the speak-
ers full-range and crossing your subwoofer in fairly low (40-70 Hz). On
the other hand, if you find that you are overdriving your main speakers,
you will clearly be able to play your system louder by using the built-in
high pass crossover for your main speakers.
The Advantages of Multiple Subwoofers
Definitive’s ProSub 60 subwoofers are engineered to be used singly or
in stereo pairs. With a single subwoofer, both left and right signals are sent
to the subwoofer wherein they are combined via the electronic crossover
into one composite signal. With stereo subwoofers, the left and right low
frequency signals are reproduced by their own individual subwoofers. The
use of one subwoofer achieves outstanding performance; however, the
addition of a second subwoofer (one for the left and one for the right chan-
nel) clearly offers the highest level of performance achievable for both
movies and music. The use of stereo subwoofers smoothes out the peaks
and dips which result from the eigenmodes in your room. Two subwoofers
couple much better to the air in your room (four times better) and of
course offer double the power. In addition, some state-of-the-art home the-
ater installations have begun to use a separate subwoofer hooked up to the
rear (surround) channels and we recommend this for the absolute ultimate
in performance. In addition, some state-of-the-art Dolby Digital* home
theater installations have begun to use a separate subwoofer hooked
up to the rear (surround) channels and we recommend this for the
absolute ultimate in performance.
Dual Subwoofer Connections
When hooking up a stereo pair of subwoofers, wiring is quite similar to
traditional high level connections. Here, instead of running both speaker cables
from your receiver or amplifier to the left and right high level terminals on the
subwoofer, you will run the left channel to the left channel subwoofer and the
right channel to the right channel subwoofer. Again, take care to make red to
red (“+”) and black to black (“-”) terminal connections.
Don’tworry that on your left subwoofer the right channel terminals will
be empty and that on the right channel subwoofer the left channel termi-
nals will be empty—both channels are combined at the subwoofer’s input
stage. There is a possibility that with this type of wiring
you may need to
increase your gain a little bit for proper balance.
Adual subwoofer system using low level connections is equally sim-
ple. From your receiver or preamp, run an RCA-type interconnect from
the left channel main output to the left channel low level input on the sub-
woofer you are using for the left channel. The process should then be
repeated for the right channel. In this setup, main speaker connections are
made between your receiver or amplifier in a traditional man
ner.
8

Your Definitive Technology ProSub 60 subwoofer is equipped with a full
complement of operating controls to ensure complete flexibility and maximum
performance in any installation. Most of them basically are the “set and for-
get” type, although occasionally certain controls will require minor adjust-
ments.
Gain Control
On the back panel of your subwoofer is a gain (volume) control. This control
is used to raise or lower the output level of your subwoofer in relation to the
other speakers in your system.
Low Pass Filter
Your subwoofer’s back panel features a continuously variable low pass filter.
This filter is continuously variable between 40 and 150 Hz. This low pass fil-
ter control is used to obtain the optimum transition between the subwoofer
and your main speakers. This control should be set by ear for best perfor-
mance in your room. Set it to where it sounds best to you. If you are running
your main speakers full range, we would generally recommend setting the
low pass filter fairly low (40-70 Hz).
When using the ProSub 60 with
Definitive ProMonitors, please consult the instruction manual section
“Using the ProSub 60 with Definitive ProMonitors.”
Your subwoofer contains a built-in, active powered subwoofer section as
well as an electronic crossover and so each subwoofer must be plugged into an
electrical socket of the appropriate voltage (as indicated on the back of your
unit) using the plug on the end of the black cord attached to the electronics
module on the back of the loudspeaker.The subwoofer has a special circuit
which automatically turns the powered subwoofer section on when a signal is
fed to the loudspeaker and does not require an on-offswitch. The red LED on
the back panel will light up when a signal is sensed and the amplifier turns on.
It will automatically turn off a little while after the signal is discontinued.
The ProSub 60 has a special circuit which automatically turns the powered
subwoofer section on when a signal is fed to the loudspeaker and does not
require an on/off switch. We suggest plugging the ProSub 60 into a circuit
which is on all the time and not into a switched outlet. When the ProSub 60
is plugged into a circuit and receives AC current, initially you will hear a rela-
tively loud pop which is completely normal as the system first activates itself
to stand-by mode. Then, when a program signal is fed to the speaker it will
fully activate itself with a lower level pop which is normal. If you unplug the
speaker or turn off the AC current going to it, it will reactivate itself with a
pop when AC current is restored, which is normal.
Please note that after the cessation of a signal, it may take up to an hour
for the amplifier to actually turn off from active to standby mode.
In some
instances, because of RF presence in your area, the red LEDs may not turn off.
However, this is nothing to be concerned about as the amplifiers draw almost no
power when they are idling.
Operating Controls
Powering Up Your Subwoofer
9

If you experience any difficulties with your subwoofer, try the sugges-
tions described below.If you are still having problems, please consult
your Definitive Technology Authorized Dealer for assistance.
1. Make sure all your system interconnects and power cords are solidly
in their place.
2. Should you experience any level of ground hum or noise, try plugging
the subwoofer into the same circuit as your amplifier.Please note that
some cable TV hookups induce hum into the whole system and require a
special isolation device. Please consult your dealer.
3. The system is provided with sophisticated internal protection
circuitry. If for some reason the protection circuitry is tripped, please
turn down your system’svolume and wait five minutes before trying the
Troubleshooting
When using the ProSub with Definitive ProMonitors, please consult
your ProMonitor instruction manual for specific information regarding
hookup, wiring and placement.
Setting the Level and Crossover Frequency When Using
the ProSub 60 with ProMonitors
When you have the ProMonitors wired to the speaker level outputs on
your ProSub 60, the following are our suggestions for starting settings
on your controls. Remember,these are just approximate settings and we
suggest experimenting to determine the best-sounding settings for your
particular set-up.
1. Set the variable low pass crossover control on the back of the ProSub 60 to
approximately 2 o’clock. Please note that the exact frequency will depend on
many factors including specific positions of the speakers in the room, so you
might experiment with a slightly higher or lower setting to achieve
ideal blending between the sub and the satellites for your particular
set-up. Listen to a wide variety of music to determine the correct
setting for this in your system.
2. Set the subwoofer level control to the first dot left of center.Please note
that the exact level depends on many factors including your
room size, position of the speakers, etc. as well as your
personal listening taste, so you might experiment with the
subwoofer level while listening to a wide variety of music
until you achieve the ideal setting for your system.
Using the ProSub 60 with Definitive ProMonitors
10

It is our pleasure to offer assistance if you have any questions
regarding your ProSub 60 or its set-up. Please contact your
nearest Definitive Technology dealer or contact us directly at
410-363-7148.
Service and warranty work on your Definitive loudspeakers will nor-
mally be performed by your local Definitive Technology dealer.
If, however, you wish to return the speaker to us, please contact us first,
describing the problem and requesting authorization as well as the loca-
tion of the nearest factory service center. Please note that the address
given in this booklet is the address of our offices only. Under no
circumstances should loudspeakers be shipped to our offices or
returned without contacting us first and obtaining return authorization.
Definitive Technology Offices
11433 Cronridge Drive, Suite K
Owings Mills, Maryland 21117
Phone: [phone]
Technical Assistance
Service
* Dolby Pro-Logic, AC-3 and Dolby Digital are Registered Trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
system again. If the amplifier should overheat, the system will turn itself
off until the amplifier cools and resets.
4. Check to be sure that your power cord has not been damaged.
5. Check that no foreign objects or liquid has entered the cabinet.
6. If you cannot get your subwoofer to turn on or if no sound comes out
and you’re sure the system is set up properly, please bring the subwoofer to
your Definitive Technology Authorized Dealer for assistance.
11
ProSub 60 Specifications
121/2"H x 91/2"W x 131/4"D
23 Hz – 150 Hz
One 8" long-throw woofer
150 watts RMS
6dB/octave speaker level at 100 Hz
24 dB/octave continuously variable (40 – 150 Hz)
Dimensions
Frequency Response
Driver Complement
Built-in Amplifier
High Pass Filter
Low Pass Filter
Visit us at www.definitivetech.com
Specifications subject to change

This product complies with the essential requirements of
EMC directives 89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC (inclusive of
93/68/EEC) and carries the CE mark accordingly.
CNAT 012809
Definitive Technology warrants to the original retail purchaser only that this Definitive
Technology Loudspeaker Product (the “Product”) will be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of five (5) years covering the drivers and cabinets, and three (3) years
for the electronic components from the date of the original purchase from a Definitive
Technology Authorized Dealer. However, this warranty will automatically terminate prior to
the expiration of five (5) years for the drivers and cabinets and three (3) years for the electronic
components if the original retail purchaser sells or otherwise transfers the Product to any other
party. The original retail purchaser shall hereinafter be referred to as “you.” Defective Products
must be shipped, together with proof of date of purchase, prepaid insured to the Authorized
Dealer from whom you purchased the Product, or to the nearest factory service center.
Product(s) must be shipped in the original shipping container or its equivalent; in any case the
risk of loss or damage in transit is to be borne by you. If, upon examination at the Factory or a
Definitive Technology Authorized Dealer, it is determined that the unit was defective in
materials or workmanship at any time during this Warranty period, Definitive Technology or
the Definitive Technology Authorized Dealer will, at its option, repair or replace this Product at
no additional charge, except as set forth below. All replaced parts and Product(s) become the
property of Definitive Technology. Product(s) replaced or repaired under this Warranty will be
returned to you, within a reasonable time, freight collect.
This Warranty does not include service or parts to repair damage caused by accident, mis-
use, abuse, negligence, inadequate packing or shipping procedures, commercial use, voltage in
excess of the rated maximum of the unit, cosmetic appearance of cabinetry not directly
attributable to defects in materials or workmanship, or service, or repair or modification of the
Product which has not been authorized by Definitive Technology. Definitive Technology makes
no Warranty with respect to its Products purchased from dealers or outlets other than
Definitive Technology Authorized Dealers. This Warranty is in lieu of all other expressed
Warranties. If this Product is defective in material or workmanship as warranted above, your
sole remedy shall be repair or replacement as provided above. In no event will Definitive
Technology be liable to you for any incidental or consequential damages arising out of the use
or inability to use the Product, even if Definitive Technology or a Definitive Technology
Authorized Dealer has been advised of the possibility of such damages, or for any claim by any
other party. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages, so
the above limitation may not apply to you.
All implied warranties on the Product are limited to the duration of this expressed
Warranty. Some states do not allow limitation on how long an implied Warranty lasts, so the
above limitations may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you
also may have other rights which vary from state to state.
Limited Warranty:
5-Years for Drivers and Cabinets,
3-Years for Electronic Components