Airport Express - audio frequency limitation

[cdsuggs]

Equipment in use:

- Macbook Pro Snow Leopard 10.6.1

- iTunes 9.0.1

- Apple Express 7.4.2

- minijack to RCA cable

- Outlaw Model 990 Preamp/Processor

- Outlaw LFM-1 Compact Subwoofer

 

I just replaced my Logitech Music Anywhere (it died) with an Airport Express.

 

Works great except the sub (which is set to automatically come on) does not engage. I did not have this problem with the Logitech and changed no settings during the switch-out.

 

I then tried to resolve by changing the surround mode - 5-channel stereo, 2-channel stereo, bypass, Neo, PLII, etc - all yield the same bassless result. Forcing the subwoofer into an On state and placing my finger on the cone, I can feel the slightest vibration; not enough to be audible.

 

I have a feeling that frequencies below 200hz are not transmitted fully through the Airport Express. Have any of you had a similar issue?

 

Any and all suggestions are much appreciated.

 

Many thanks,

Chris

 

[CharlyD]

Does the subwoofer respond correctly with other sources (e.g. DVD)?

 

[cdsuggs]

It does!

 

[Audio_ELF]

If I read correctly, you are currently using a Mini-Jack to 2 RCA analogue connection between the AirPort Express and your Outlaw 990. While it's not 100% going to solve your problem, it is probably worth you getting hold of a Mini-TOSLink to TOSLink cable and connecting it to a spare optical digital input on your pre-amp/processor - the analogue out of a AirPort Express is very poor compared with the potential through optical/digital connection.

 

Eloise

 

[cdsuggs]

I am definitely interested in picking up the better cable, just haven't had a chance yet. Thanks for the tip.

 

I'm going to fiddle around with it some more and see if anything magical happens.

 

[cdsuggs]

Looking for magic and I suppose I found some.

 

It was the 'ol "my hand brushed against the audio input cable on the sub and it clicked on". It was pretty snug but perhaps it just wanted a little extra push.

 

Can't believe my first post here was to solve an oversight. But hey, now my music is sounding as it should!

 

Thanks for your suggestions!