VANDERSTEEN 2Wq User manual
$
5.00
Thank-you
for
choosing
the
Vandersteen
Model
2Wq
Subwoofer
System.
With
proper
care,
your
new
subwoofer
will
provide
many
years
of
trouble
free,
high
quality
performance.
We
recommend
that
you
read
this
entire
manual
prior
to
connecting
or
using
your
Model
2Wq
Subwoofer
System.
_
Vandersteen
Audio
.
The
Mode!
2Wq
Subwoofer
System
is
the
product
of
extensive
research
into
the
qualities
required
for
realistic
music
and
film
sound
reproduction.
The
engineering,
construction
and
materials
of
the
2Wq
far
exceed
conventional
industry
standards
and
result
in
superior
performance
and
reliability.
The
Model
2Wq
Subwoofer
System
consists
of
one
or
two
2Wq
subwoofers
and
the
appropriate
crossover.
The
2Wq
uses
three
eight
inch
drivers,
each
with
a
mas¬
sive
1.5
inch,
four
layer
voice
coil
and
a
forty
ounce
mag¬
net
structure.
The
integral
300
watt
amplifier
does
not
current
limit
and
has
ample
power
for
the
most
demand¬
ing
situations.
The
amplifier’s
feed
forward
error
correc¬
tion
eliminates
response
and
phase
variations
that
would
How
The
2Wq
Works
Conventional
powered
subwoofers
receive
their
input
signal
directly
from
their
crossover
before
the
main
amplifier.
The
sonic
signature
of
the
main
amplifier
that
is
an
important
part
of
the
sound
you
hear
from
the
full-
range
speakers
is
missing
from
the
subwoofer.
This
causes
blending
problems
as
the
sonic
characteristics
of
the
system
are
different
above
and
below
the
subwoofer
crossover
point.
The
2Wq
Subwoofer
System
uses
a
uni¬
que
connection
method
that
reduces
the
current
demands
on
the
main
amplifier,
but
leaves
the
main
amplifier
in
the
signal
path
to
the
subwoofer.
This
insures
compromise
the
subwoofer’s
performance.
The
2Wq
Subwoofer
System
will
interface
with
a
wide
variety
of
electronics,
main
speakers
and
environ¬
ments.
With
the
proper
crossover
and
sensitivity
settings,
the
2Wq
can
be
optimized
for
the
input
specifications
of
the
main
amplifier,
the
efficiency
of
the
main
speakers
and
the
requirements
of
the
listening
room.
The
innovative
Q
control
then
allows
you
to
tailor
the
character
of
the
bass
response
to
best
suit
your
tas¬
tes
and
the
room
characteristics.
The
2Wq's
pleasing
ap¬
pearance
allows
it
to
visually
complement
your
main
speakers
and
the
decor
of
your
home.
The
Vandersteen
Model
2Wq
Subwoofer
System
is
designed
and
built
in
the
United
States
of
America.
sonic
continuity
as
the
main
amplifier’s
characteristics
that
are
evident
through
the
fuil-range
speakers
are
main¬
tained
to
the
deepest
bass,
but
with
the
power
and
con¬
trol
of
the
2Wq’s
internal
300
watt
amplifier.
Like
conventional
subwoofers,
the
high-pass
portion
of
the
2Wq’s
crossover
is
inserted
into
the
signal
path
just
before
the
main
power
amplifier
to
roll-off
the
low
fre¬
quency
response
of
the
main
amplifier
and
speakers.
The
difference
is
that
the
2Wq
does
not
take
its
input
from
its
crossover,
but
from
the
main
amplifier
in
parallel
with
the
main
speakers.
To
compensate
for
the
low
frequency
roll-
CONTENTS
—1
Model
2Wq
How
The
2Wq
Works
1
Crossover
and
Grounding
5
Packing
List
WX-2
Crossover
Settings
3
3
Maintenance
Service
6
6
Adjustable
Q
Placement
&
Connection
3
Repacking
6
Powered
Subwoofer
Audio/Video
Considerations
4
Troubleshooting
7
System
Optimizing
Settings
5
Common
Questions
7
Optimizing
Placement
5
Warranty
8
J
Operation
Manual
off
induced
by
the
crossover,
the
response
of
the
2Wq’s
amplifier
is
contoured
to
restore
the
low
frequencies
to
the
proper
level.
The
2Wq's
input
impedance
is
high
enough
(over
100k
ohms)
that
it
has
no
discernible
effect
on
the
output
of
the
main
amplifier.
THE
2Wq
CROSSOVERS
A
WX-2
variable
crossover
is
included
with
each
2Wq
subwoofer.
The
WX-2
is
a
temporary
crossover
to
These
examples
show
the
Interaction
between
the
crossover,
the
2Wq
amplifier
and
the
2Wq
subwoofer
and
how
they
work
together
to
provide
accurate,
extended
bass
response
with
your
main
speakers.
20
40
80
1
50
300
HZ
Response
of
the
main
amplifier
—-
and
speakers
with
the
crossover
induced
low
frequency
rolloff.
This
is
also
the
input
to
the
2Wq’s
amplifier.
Output
of
the
2Wq
amplifier.
The
contour
is
the
opposite
of
the
low
frequency
roll-off
induced
by
the
crossover.
Response
of
the
2Wq
subwoofer.
The
contour
in
its
amplifier
boosts
the
frequencies
below
the
cross¬
over
point
back
to
flat
and
rolls-off
the
subwoofer
above
the
crossover
point.
Main
Speakers
Superimpose
the
response
of
the
sub¬
woofer
over
the
response
of
the
main
speakers
and
the
crossover
point
is
evident.
2Wq
Subwoofer
Composite
Response
use
until
you
acquire
the
proper
fixed
value
crossover
for
your
system.
The
optional
fixed
value
crossovers
are
available
both
in
single
ended
(X-2)
and
balanced
(X-2B)
configurations
and
provide
superior
performance
throughout
the
frequency
spectrum
compared
to
the
tem¬
porary
WX-2
variable
crossover.
If
you
purchased
two
2Wq
subwoofers,
you
will
have
two
WX-2
variable
cross¬
overs,
but
will
only
need
to
use
one
in
the
system.
Mono
Or
Stereo
Bass
There
are
significant
advantages
to
using
two
sub¬
woofers.
Summing
the
channels
into
a
single
subwoofer
reduces
or
cancels
ail
the
low
frequency
information
con¬
taining
phase
differences
between
the
channels.
Stereo
subwoofers
reproduce
ail
of
the
bass
information
com¬
plete
with
the
phase
differences
that
help
provide
the
im¬
aging
and
location
clues
we
use
to
place
people
and
things
at
distinct
points
in
the
sound
field.
Stereo
sub¬
woofers
also
lend
themselves
to
natural
placement
near
the
corners
where
the
low
frequency
room
gain
is
more
linear
and
often
desirable.
Adjustable
Sensitivity
And
Q
The
sensitivity
and
Q
controls
on
the
2Wq’s
input
plate
allow
you
to
match
the
bass
level
to
the
full-range
speakers
and
tailor
the
character
of
the
low
frequencies.
The
sensitivity
control
is
labeled
in
dB
so
it
can
initially
be
set
to
match
the
efficiency
of
the
main
speakers
then
fine-tuned.
With
the
Q
control
set
to
“1",
adjusting
the
sensitivity
control
where
the
low
frequencies
are
the
most
linear
on
a
clean
jazz
recording
with
a
stand-up
bass
scaling
up
and
down
will
quickly
and
accurately
es¬
tablish
the
optimum
setting
for
your
system.
The
Q
control
can
then
be
used
to
tailor
the
2W's
low
frequency
response
to
compensate
for
room
charac¬
teristics
and
best
suit
your
personal
tastes.
The
Q
control
is
labeled
from
1
to
10.
Position
#1
provides
the
tightest
bass
and
best
transient
response
while
position
#10
emulates
the
peaked
response
of
a
typical
home
theater
subwoofer.
The
effect
of
the
Q
control
on
the
2Wq’s
fre¬
quency
response
is
illustrated
in
the
graph
below.
For
clarity,
only
positions
1,
5,
7,
9
and
10
are
shown.
(The
graph
does
not
include
the
effects
of
low
frequency
room
gain.)
When
you
want
more
of
a
con¬
ventional
home
theater
sound,
turn¬
ing
up
the
system’s
bass
tone
control
will
provide
the
extra
low
fre¬
quency
emphasis
that
is
desirable
on
many
movies.
If
your
system
does
not
have
tone
controls,
set¬
ting
the
2Wq’s
Q
control
to
a
higher
number
will
yield
similar
results.
The
Q
control
can
later
be
reset
when
the
low
frequency
peaking
is
no
longer
needed.
90
100
Vandersteen
Audio
2
W
q
System
Setup
Packing
List
The
following
components,
accessories
and
documents
are
included
with
each
2Wq
subwoofer:
Spikes
with
jam
nuts,
(ty
x
16
thread)
Operation
manual.
Five
year
warranty
registration
form.
(2)
Dual
banana
plugs.
(1)
2Wq
subwoofer
with
integral
amplifier.
(3)
(1)
WX-2
variable
crossover.
(1)
(2)
20
foot
lengths
of
speaker
cable.
(D
When
the
WX-2
variable
crossover
is
replaced
with
optional
X-2
fixed
crossovers,
one
less
pair
of
interconnect
cables
will
be
needed.
Since
the
connection
with
the
WX-2
is
only
temporary,
you
should
not
buy
an
expensive
pair
of
cables
to
complete
the
wiring.
Setting
The
WX-2
Foe
Your
System
A
WX-2
variable
temporary
crossover
is
included
with
each
2Wq
to
use
until
you
acquire
the
optional
X-2
or
X-2B
that
matches
your
system.
Only
one
WX-2
cross¬
over
is
needed
in
a
system
even
if
you
have
two
2Wq
sub¬
woofers.
The
WX-2
has
no
trade
in
value
and
should
be
retained
after
you
purchase
the
optional
X-2
fixed
cross¬
overs
in
case
you
change
your
main
amplifier.
To
set
the
WX-2
crossover,
you
need
to
know
the
input
impedance
of
your
main
amplifier.
This
informa¬
tion
should
be
in
the
amplifier’s
manual
or
available
from
the
amplifier’s
manufacturer
or
dealer.
On
in¬
tegrated
amplifier
and
receiver
based
systems,
the
crossover
will
be
inserted
between
the
“Pre
Out”
and
"Main
In”
jacks.
You
will
need
to
know
the
input
im¬
pedance
of
the
"Main
In”
jacks.
1.
Remove
the
WX-2’s
cover
and
locate
the
internal
set
of
8
dip
switches.
The
exact
type
of
switch
used
may
vary.
2.
Using
the
chart
on
the
bottom
of
the
WX-2,
locate
the
value
one
setting
below
the
actual
input
im¬
pedance
of
your
main
amplifier.
(For
example,
if
your
amplifier
had
an
input
impedance
of
100k,
you
would
select
the
50k
value.)
Placement
And
Connection
Do
not
install
the
spikes
at
this
time.
Without
the
spikes,
the
2Wq
can
easily
be
pushed
across
the
carpet
to
try
different
locations.
The
2Wq(s)
should
be
placed
on
the
same
wait
as
the
main
speakers
with
just
a
couple
of
inches
of
clearance
for
amplifier
ventilation.
Two
20
foot
lengths
of
speaker
cable
and
two
dual
banana
plugs
are
provided
with
each
2Wq
for
connection
to
the
main
amplifier.
Attach
a
dual
banana
plug
to
one
end
of
each
cable
to
plug
into
the
2Wq.
Leave
the
cables
full
length
so
you
can
try
different
positions
for
the
3.
T
urn
on
the
switches
listed
for
the
value
you
found.
The
numbered
side
is
“ON”.
Slide
and
toggle
type
switches
are
on
when
they
are
pushed
toward
the
numbers
and
a
rocker
type
switch
is
on
when
it
is
depressed
on
the
side
of
the
numbers.
Some
switches
are
labeled
“OPEN”
and
“CLOSED”.
OPEN
is
OFF
and
CLOSED
is
ON.
4.
I
n
s
tall
the
WX-2
into
the
signal
path
just
before
the
main
amplifier.
On
receivers
and
integrated
ampli¬
fiers,
install
the
WX-2
between
the
"Pre
Out”
and
“Main
In”
jacks.
WX-2
Connections
Top
WX-2
Dip
Switch
Example
Switches
3
and
7
set
to
“On"
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
The
2Wq
subwoofer
needs
at
least
50
hours
of
use
before
it
performs
up
to
its
potential.
___
J
2Wq(s)
once
the
break-in
period
has
elapsed.
With
the
WX-2
crossover
installed
in
the
signal
path
just
before
the
main
amplifier,
connect
the
2Wq(s)
in
parallel
with
the
main
speakers
as
shown
in
the
illustrations
on
the
next
page.
With
stereo
subwoofers,
only
one
input
on
each
subwoofer
is
connected.
In
bi-wired
systems,
three
sets
of
wires
must
be
attached
to
the
main
amplifier,
Use
spade
lugs
on
the
amplifier
end
of
the
wires
going
to
the
main
speakers
and
banana
plugs
on
the
amplifier
end
of
the
subwoofer
3
2Wq
Subwoofer
Operation
Manual
wires.
After
the
main
speaker
wires
are
connected,
insert
the
subwoofer’s
banana
plugs
into
the
amplifier’s
binding
posts.
If
your
amplifier
has
connections
for
two
sets
of
speakers
(ie.
A
&
B),
do
not
connect
the
main
speakers
to
one
and
the
subwoofer
to
the
other.
Often
there
are
dif¬
ferences
between
the
two
sets
of
outputs.
Some
systems
may
also
benefit
from
connecting
the
2Wq
with
the
same
type
of
cable
as
the
main
speakers.
It
is
important
that
all
connections
be
in
the
proper
polarity.
If
one
of
the
2Wq's
inputs
is
connected
out-of-
phase
from
the
other
input
in
a
mono
subwoofer
system,
the
inputs
will
cancel.
With
stereo
subwoofers,
connect¬
MQNO
Main
SUBWOOFER
Speaker
2Wq
Main
Ampler
Preamp
I
ifi
er/PFocessor
Audio/Video
Considerations
When
a
2Wq
is
used
In
an
audio/video
system,
the
basic
configuration
is
similar
to
a
music
system.
The
crossover
is
inserted
into
the
signal
path
just
ahead
of
the
main
amplifier
and
the
2Wq
is
connected
to
the
amplifier
in
parallel
with
the
right
and
left
main
speakers.
With
Separates
(External
Processor)
The
crossover
is
inserted
into
the
signal
path
after
the
processor
and
just
ahead
of
the
main
front
left
and
right
amplifier.
The
surround
processor
must
be
programed
to
blend
all
the
low
frequencies
into
the
main
front
left
and
right
channels
rather
than
routing
them
to
the
center
channel
or
to
the
processor's
subwoofer
out¬
put.
Information
on
configuring
your
processor
for
these
parameters
is
available
in
the
processor’s
manual
or
from
its
manufacturer.
With
An
A/V
Receiver
The
crossover
is
inserted
into
the
signal
path
be¬
tween
the
“Pre
Out"
and
“Main
In”
jacks.
The
receiver
must
be
programed
to
blend
the
low
frequencies
into
the
main
front
left
and
right
channels
rather
than
routing
them
to
the
center
channel
or
to
the
receiver’s
sub¬
woofer
output.
Information
on
configuring
your
receiver
for
these
parameters
is
available
in
the
receiver’s
manual
or
from
its
manufacturer.
Discrete
Multi-Channel
Discrete
multi-channel
audio
formats
can
use
up
to
Main
Speaker
ing
one
subwoofer
out-of
phase
from
the
other
one
will
seriously
affect
the
amount
and
quality
of
bass.
Once
the
crossover
and
cables
are
properly
in¬
stalled
in
the
system,
the
subwoofer
should
be
plugged
into
a
nonswitched
AC
outlet.
As
it
is
plugged
in,
the
2Wq
may
produce
a
low
frequency
thump.
Special
Instructions
For
Bi-Amped
Systems
In
horizontally
bi-amped
systems,
install
the
WX-2
crossover
before
the
bass
amplifier
Connect
the
bass
amplifier
to
the
2Wq(s).
In
vertically
bi-amped
systems,
install
the
WX-2
before
the
channels
being
used
for
bass
Connect
the
bass
channels
to
the
2Wq(s).
Main
Speaker
STEREO
SUBWOOFERS
2Wq
Main
Amplifier
Pre&mptifierfProcessor
[_
2Wq
IE
Main
Speaker
four
subwoofers.
The
best
way
to
integrate
subwoofers
into
the
system
depends
on
how
many
you
use.
All
discrete
multi-channel
formats
have
a
Low
Fre¬
quency
Effects
channel.
Experience
and
research
have
convinced
us
that
these
formats
sound
much
better
when
the
processor
is
programed
to
redistribute
the
LFE
information
to
the
right
and
left
front
channels
at
a
-6dB
level.
You
should
check
with
your
processor’s
manufacturer
as
to
its
capabilities
in
this
regard.
The
following
recommendations
assume
that
the
LFE
information
is
redistributed
to
the
right
and
left
front
channels
at
a
-6dB
level.
Number
of
subwoofers
in
the
system:
1
Subwoofer:
Connect
the
subwoofer
to
the
left
front
and
right
front
channels.
2
Subwoofers:
Connect
one
subwoofer
to
the
left
front
channel
and
the
other
subwoofer
to
the
right
front
channel.
Two
subwoofers
are
a
quantum
improvement
over
a
single
unit
and
are
the
preferred
configuration
in
high-quality
multi-channel
systems.
Systems
that
have
reached
the
level
where
there
are
no
significant
advantages
to
improving
the
elec¬
tronics
or
speakers
can
benefit
from
the
addition
of
two
more
subwoofers
for
the
surround
channels.
Vandersteen
Audio
4
4
subs:
Left
front,
right
front,
left
surround
and
right
sur¬
round.
Like
the
main
amplifier,
the
surround
amplifier
will
need
a
crossover
one
setting
below
its
input
impedance.
(When
2Wqs
are
used
with
Vandersteen
VSM
surround
speakers,
the
crossover
should
be
set
two
settings
below
the
surround
amplifier’s
input
impedance.
Settings
Polarity
The
2Wq’s
polarity
may
need
to
be
reversed
with
some
main
speakers
to
provide
the
best
integration.
To
reverse
the
2Wq’s
polarity,
simply
turn
the
banana
plug(s)
up-side-down
to
connect
the
main
amplifier
posi¬
tive
to
the
subwoofer
negative
and
the
main
amplifier
negative
to
the
subwoofer
positive.
Sensitivity
The
2Wq’s
sensitivity
control
should
initially
be
set
to
match
the
approximate
sensitivity
of
your
main
Placement
While
the
2Wq($)
should
be
on
the
same
wall
as
the
main
speakers
and
close
to
the
wall,
the
exact
placement
will
probably
depend
as
much
on
practical
as
acoustic
considerations.
Placement
affects
the
subwoofer’s
sound
so
you
should
try
all
the
placements
that
will
work
in
your
domestic
situation.
Be
flexible,
it
is
only
important
that
a
single
subwoofer
be
centered
when
it
is
mated
with
small,
limited
range
main
speakers.
With
full-range
main
speakers,
the
subwoofer
may
work
better
in
the
corner.
In
general,
a
subwoofer
will
sound
fuller
and
more
powerful
when
it
is
in
a
corner
and
leaner
when
it
is
away
from
walls.
The
2Wq’s
adjustable
Q
allows
some
compensation
for
these
effects
and
expands
the
place¬
ment
options
in
most
rooms.
Crossover
And
Grounding
Once
the
subwoofer(s)
is
broken-in,
you
should
use
a
jazz
recording
with
a
stand-up
bass
to
evaluate
the
blend
between
the
2Wq(s)
and
the
main
speakers
with
the
WX-2
crossover
set
one
setting
above,
one
setting
below
and
at
the
nominal
setting
determined
on
page
3.
(Some
adjustments
to
the
level
and
Q
controls
may
be
necessary.)
When
you
determine
the
best
crossover
set¬
ting
for
your
system,
you
should
purchase
the
matching,
This
will
avoid
an
interaction
with
the
VSM
series
speaker's
integral
high-pass
filter.)
We
do
not
recommend
using
a
subwoofer
with
the
center
speaker.
Research
has
demonstrated
that
full-
range
reproduction
in
the
center
position
actually
com¬
promises
the
naturalness
and
intelligibility
of
dialog.
speakers
and
then
be
fine
tuned
per
the
instructions
on
page
2.
Adjustments
to
the
Q
control
or
polarity
may
be
needed
when
the
sensitivity
is
changed.
Q
Control
The
Q
control
allows
you
to
tailor
the
character
of
the
bass
to
your
particular
tastes
and
room
charac¬
teristics.
(See
the
chart
on
page
2.)
When
you
make
sen¬
sitivity
or
polarity
changes,
you
may
aiso
need
to
readjust
the
Q
setting.
As
you
try
different
placements,
you
may
also
have
to
readjust
the
2Wq‘s
sensitivity
and/or
Q
setting
to
main¬
tain
the
best
balance
with
the
main
speakers.
Installing
The
Spikes
When
the
best
location
for
the
2Wq(s)
has
been
found,
turn
the
2Wq(s)
over
and
install
the
spikes
with
the
jam
nuts
tightened
against
the
bottom
of
the
sub¬
woofer.
If
the
2Wq(s)
will
be
on
a
hardwood
floor,
place
a
coin
under
each
spike
to
reduce
the
likelihood
of
damage
to
the
floor.
With
the
spikes
installed
and
the
placement
finalized,
the
cables
from
the
main
amplifier
to
the
2Wq(s)
can
be
shortened
as
needed.
higher
performance
X-2
fixed
crossovers
from
your
Vandersteen
dealer.
The
X-2
crossovers
are
3-inch
long
cable
extensions
that
fit
on
the
amplifier
ends
of
your
preamplifier
to
power
amplifier
interconnect
cables.
X-2
crossovers
are
available
in
the
same
values
as
the
WX-2
crossover
settings
and
maintain
a
more
direct
con¬
nection
between
the
preamplifier
and
power
amplifier.
Only
one
set
is
needed
for
one
or
two
subwoofers.
2
W
q
System
Optimization
—
The
following
information
assumes
that
the
break-in
period
has
elapsed.
Finalizing
the
2Wq’s
placement,
sensitivity
or
Q
setting
before
the
it
is
fully
broken-in
could
compromise
the
ultimate
performance
level.
5
2Wq
Subwoofer
Operation
Manual
Crossover
And
Grounding
Once
you
have
determined
the
crossover
setting
that
is
one
value
below
the
input
impedance
of
your
main
amplifier,
you
should
purchase
the
matching,
higher
per¬
formance
X-2
fixed
crossovers
from
your
Vandersteen
dealer.
The
X-2
fixed
crossovers
are
3
inch
long
cable
ex¬
tensions
with
a
female
RCA
jack
on
one
end
and
a
male
RCA
jack
on
the
other
end.
They
are
available
in
the
Service
In
the
unlikely
event
that
your
2Wq
Subwoofer
Sys¬
tem
requires
service,
please
follow
these
procedures
1.
Verify
that
the
2Wq
has
been
set-up
and
connected
according
to
the
instructions
in
this
manual.
Review
the
troubleshooting
guide
on
the
next
page.
2.
Contact
Vandersteen
Audio
with
your
2Wq’s
serial
number,
information
ors
your
associated
components
a
description
of
the
problem
and
the
steps
you
have
taken
to
isolate
it
to
the
2Wq
and
correct
it.
Maintenance
All
system
connections
should
be
cleaned
peri¬
odically
with
alcohol
or
a
solution
made
specifically
for
cleaning
electrical
contacts.
The
wood
veneers
are
oiled
at
the
factory
and
can
be
maintained
with
a
light
applica¬
tion
of
Pledge
or
a
similar
product.
The
grille
can
be
The
2Wq
weighs
over
90
pounds
in
its
box.
Please
use
the
cut-out
hand
holds
and
proper
lifting
techniques
to
prevent
strain
or
injury.
v___
'
Packing
The
2Wc
To
prevent
physical
or
cosmetic
damage,
always
pack
the
2Wq
in
its
original
box
with
complete
inner
pack¬
ing
prior
to
transportation
or
shipment.
The
proper
method
of
packing
the
2Wq
is
shown
in
the
illustration
to
the
right.
When
you
pack
the
2Wq,
be
sure
that
the
top
and
bottom
spacers
are
oriented
as
shown
in
the
illustra¬
tion.
A
replacement
box
and
packing
is
available
from
Vandersteen
Audio.
—
Vandersteen
Audio
\
116
WEST
FOURTH
STREET
HANFORD,
CA
93230
(559)
582-0324
_
www
.vandersteen.com
J
same
values
that
can
be
selected
on
the
WX-2
variable
crossover
and
accomplish
the
required
subwoofer
cross¬
over
while
maintaining
a
more
direct
connection
between
the
preamplifier
and
power
amplifier.
The
X-2s
fit
on
the
ends
of
your
preamplifier
to
power
amplifier
interconnect
cables
and
then
plug
into
the
amplifier
inputs.
Only
one
set
is
needed
for
one
or
two
subwoofers.
3.
The
2Wq
is
a
modular
system
to
reduce
the
cost
of
shipping.
Should
Vandersteen
Audio
determine
that
a
module
of
the
2Wq
needs
to
be
returned
to
the
factory
for
repair,
you
will
be
instructed
on
how
to
remove
that
module
and
a
Return
Authorization
Form
will
be
sent
to
you.
4,
Return
the
damaged
or
defective
module
and
the
completed
Return
Authorization
Form
to
Vander¬
steen
Audio.
Any
shipment
of
a
complete
2Wq
to
the
factory
wiii
be
refused.
vacuumed
using
a
brush
attachment
that
will
not
snag
the
cloth.
Care
should
be
taken
that
objects
that
could
mar
the
finish
are
not
placed
on
top
of
the
2Wq.
The
sub¬
woofer
should
not
be
exposed
to
excessive
sunlight
or
heat
which
can
damage
the
fit
and
finish
of
the
veneer.
TOP
SPACER
□
_o
BOTTOM
SPACER
O-O
Vandersteen
Audio
Troubleshooting
Guide
Problem:
Subwoofer
hums.
Audible
at
the
listening
position.
Solution:
Try
different
grounding
methods.
Run
a
ground
wire
from
the
2Wq’s
ground
terminal
to
either
the
preamplifier
or
main
amplifier.
If
the
ground
wire
does
not
help,
try
floating
the
ground
connector
on
the
2Wq's
or
main
amplifier's
power
cord.
Problem:
Still
hums,
grounding
changes
didn’t
help.
Solution:
Check
your
interconnect
cables.
Route
cables
away
from
the
amplifier.
Position
the
WX-2
crossover
away
from
the
amplifier.
Verify
that
the
top
cover
is
installed
on
the
WX-2.
Try
the
system
at
a
very
low
volume
levei
without
the
WX-2
crossover
installed.
If
the
WX-2
is
the
source
of
the
hum,
it
will
have
to
be
replaced
before
the
system
can
be
used.
Problem:
Still
hums,
cable
and
crossover
changes
didn’t
help.
Solution:
Disconnect
the
inputs
from
the
2Wq,
if
the
hum
is
still
evident
at
the
listening
position,
please
Common
2Wq
Questions
To
make
the
connection
of
the
2Wq
easier,
can
1
con¬
nect
the
2Wq’s
wire
to
the
inputs
on
the
main
speakers
along
with
the
regular
speaker
wires
instead
of
to
the
main
amplifier?
Although
connecting
the
2Wq
to
the
main
speakers
may
seem
easier
and
on
the
surface
would
look
like
it
should
work,
our
tests
have
shown
that
the
performance
of
the
2Wq
is
compromised
when
it
is
connected
to
the
main
speakers
rather
than
directly
to
the
main
amplifier.
Can
the
X-2
fixed
crossovers
be
plugged
into
either
the
inputs
of
the
main
power
amplifier
or
the
out¬
puts
of
the
preamplifier?
While
it
is
physically
possible
to
connect
the
X-2s
either
way,
it
is
better
to
connect
the
X-2s
to
the
inputs
of
the
main
power
amplifier
to
minimize
their
interactions
with
the
cables
ahead
of
the
power
amplifier.
Since
I
won’t
need
the
WX-2
variable
crossover
after
I
get
the
optional
X-2
fixed
crossovers,
can
I
trade
in
the
WX-2
on
the
X-2s?
The
WX-2
is
intended
only
as
a
temporary
device
and
has
no
intrinsic
or
trade-in
value.
It
should
be
retained
even
after
you
purchase
the
optional
X-2s
in
case
you
later
change
your
main
amplifier.
Is
the
2Wq
designed
for
use
only
with
Vandersteen
main
speakers?
The
2Wq
will
work
well
with
almost
any
quality
loudspeaker.
With
its
multiple,
moderately
sized
drivers,
superior
pitch
definition
and
adjustable
sensitivity
and
Q,
the
2Wq
subwoofer
is
an
excellent
match
for
quality
electrostatic,
planar,
ribbon
and
dynamic
speakers.
Our
warranty
records
indicate
that
many
different
speakers
contact
Vandersteen
Audio.
(It
is
normal
for
the
amplifier’s
high-voltage
transformer
to
produce
a
slight
hum,
but
it
should
not
be
audible
more
than
a
few
feet
away.)
Problem:
Low
output
level.
Solution:
Verify
the
actual
input
impedance
of
the
main
amplifier
and
that
the
crossover
is
set
one
value
lower.
(See
page
3.)
Check
the
sen¬
sitivity
and
Q
control
settings.
(See
pages
2
and
5.)
Try
different
placements.
Positioning
the
subwoofer
near
a
corner
will
make
the
subwoofer
sound
fuller
and
more
powerful.
(See
page
5.)
Problem:
No
output.
Solution:
Verify
that
the
2Wq
is
plugged
into
a
live
AC
outlet.
(It
should
thump
when
you
plug
it
in.)
Verify
polarity
of
the
2Wq’s
input
wires.
Un¬
plug
one
channel’s
inputs
from
the
2Wq;
if
you
then
get
output,
the
input
wires
are
out-of-
phase
from
each
other
and
are
cancelling.
(See
pages
3
and
4.)
have
been
successfully
mated
with
2Wq
subwoofers.
Since
bass
is
omnidirectional,
what
are
the
ad¬
vantages
of
using
two
subwoofers
instead
of
one?
Modem
digital
sources
maintain
full
stereo
separa¬
tion
down
to
the
lowest
frequencies.
Bass
with
phase
dif¬
ferences
between
the
channels
is
canceled
when
the
two
channels
are
summed
into
a
single
subwoofer..
Stereo
subwoofers
reproduce
all
of
the
bass
information
com¬
plete
with
the
phase
differences
that
help
provide
the
im¬
aging
and
location
clues
we
use
to
place
people
and
things
at
distinct
points
in
the
sound
field.
Stereo
sub¬
woofers
also
lend
themselves
to
natural
placement
near
the
comers
where
the
low
frequency
room
gain
is
often
desirable
on
spectacular
film
sound
effects.
The
manual
says
to
use
a
jazz
recording
with
a
stand-up
bass
to
set
the
sensitivity
control.
Can
I
use
a
test
disc
with
test
tones?
Single
tones
are
not
representative
of
the
way
we
hear
and
can
result
in
gross
misadjustments.
As
a
stand-
up
bass
scales
up
and
down,
the
notes
pass
directly
through
the
crossover
range.
Simply
adjust
the
sen¬
sitivity
control
so
that
the
lower
notes
are
the
same
loud¬
ness
as
the
upper
notes.
Can
a
2Wq
and
an
older
mode!
2W
be
used
as
a
stereo
pair
of
subwoofers?
No,
the
performance
differences
between
the
models
will
prevent
proper
integration.
If
you
have
a
2W
that
you
wish
to
use
with
a
2Wq,
we
recommend
that
you
have
the
2W
updated
to
2Wq
status.
Please
contact
Vandersteen
Audio
for
2Wq
update
program
pricing
and
scheduling
information.
7
2Wq
Subwoofer
Operation
Manual
Limited
One
Year
Warranty
VANDERSTEEN
AUDIO
loudspeakers
are
warranted
to
the
original
purchaser
be
free
from
defects
in
materials
or
workmanship,
SUBJECT
TO
THE
FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS,
for
one
(1)
year
from
the
date
of
purchase
from
an
authorized
VANDERSTEEN
AUDIO
dealer.
THIS
WARRANTY
IS
SUBJECT
TO
THE
FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS
AND
LIMITATIONS:
This
warranty
is
void
and
inapplicable
if
the
loudspeaker
has:
a.
not
been
used
in
accordance
with
the
instructions
contained
in
the
operation
manual.
b.
been
subject
to
misuse
or
abuse,
examples
of
which
would
be
burned
voice
coils
and/or
burned
crossover
parts.
c.
been
modified,
repaired,
or
tampered
with
by
anyone
not
specifically
authorized
to
do
so
by
Vandersteen
Audio.
d.
been
subject
to
inputs
in
excess
of
the
maximum
rating,
or
inputs
from
an
unstable
or
clipped
amplifier.
e.
been
damaged
by
accident,
neglect
or
transportation.
IF
A
VANDERSTEEN
AUDIO
LOUDSPEAKER
FAILS
TO
MEET
THE
ABOVE
WARRANTY
AND
THE
ABOVE
CONDITIONS
HAVE
BEEN
MET,
THEN
THE
PURCHASER’S
SOLE
REMEDY
SHALL
BETO
RETURN
THE
PRODUCTTO
VANDERSTEEN
AUDIO
WHERE
THE
DEFECT
WILL
BE
REPAIRED
WITHOUT
CHARGE
FOR
PARTS
OR
LABOR.
The
speaker
must
be
packed
in
the
original
packing
and
returned
to
VANDERSTEEN
AUDIO
via
insured
freight
by
the
customer
at
his
or
her
own
expense.
A
returned
product
must
be
accompanied
by
a
Return
Authorization
Form,
(available
from
VANDERSTEEN
AUDIO
upon
request)
which
includes
a
written
description
of
the
defect
and
return
shipping
information.
ANY
IMPLIED
WARRANTIES
RELATING
TO
THE
ABOVE
PRODUCT
SHALL
BE
LIMITED
TO
THE
DURATION
OF
THE
ABOVE
WARRANTY.
THIS
WARRANTY
DOES
NOT
EXTEND
TO
ANY
INCIDENTAL
OR
CONSEQUENTIAL
COSTS
OR
DAMAGES
TO
PURCHASER.
Some
states
do
not
allow
limitations
on
how
long
an
implied
warranty
lasts,
or
an
exclusion
of
incidental
or
consequential
damages
so
the
above
limitations
or
exclusions
may
not
apply.
This
warranty
gives
you
specific
legal
rights,
you
may
also
have
other
rights
in
your
state.
VANDERSTEEN
AUDIO
reserves
the
right
to
modify
the
design
of
any
product
without
any
obligation
to
previous
purchasers
and/or
to
change
the
prices
or
specifications
without
notice
or
obligation
to
anyone.
--
>
A
Personal
Note
I
have
been
doing
volunteer
work
for
several
years
with
elderly
people
with
severe
hearing
Bosses,
and
I
have
seen
the
frustration
and
anger
that
are
brought
on
by
these
losses.
We
now
know
that
many
of
these
people
developed
their
hearing
problems
because
of
exposure
to
high
noise
levels
when
younger.
Many
audio/video
systems,
as
well
as
home,
portable
and
auto
stereo
systems
are
capable
of
volume
levels
potentially
damaging
to
your
hearing.
Please
use
common
sense,
and
listen
to
your
movies
and
music
at
safe
levels
now
so
you
will
still
have
the
ability
to
hear
and
enjoy
them
in
the
Model
2Wq
Operation
Manual
Copyright
1997
Vandersteen
Audio,
Ina
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