EP4000 Clipping with Single THT

[dsl1]

I have built a THT and purchased a EP4000 that is connected via an rca -> xlr adapter from an Onkyo RC180.

I calibrated the system with Audyssey with the EP4000 at both 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock gain positions. The resulted in a -5.5db and -11.5db calibration on the Onkyo (80hz low pass). However, the 2 o'clock gain seems to sound better.

However, playing a tough scene (Iron Man missile demonstration) at reference levels causes the ep4000's clip light to flash.

Is the ep4000 not getting enough signal from the Onkyo? Or is it just a tough scene that should clip at reference levels? It doesn't seem to be doing any damage and nothing else clips but if I am doing something wrong I'd like to fix it.

Thanks!

[Bill Fitzmaurice]

An occasionally flashing clip light isn't that big a deal, but if you're concerned add a compressor/limiter between the receiver and amp. Some CDs do have scenes that are literally over the top with the LFE, and damaging both the driver and your relationship with your neighbors is a possibility.

[Radian]

Is the ep4000 not getting enough signal from the Onkyo?

Bingo. The "subwoofer out" pre-amp in the Onkyo is in fact clipping.

Does the back of your EP4000 look like this? Is so, then ditch the RCA-XLR patch and use a RCA-1/4" TRS patch instead (unless you're certain pins 1 & 3 are bridged together). Take advantage of the unbalanced input instead of attenuating what little signal makes it out of the Onkyo (The impedances are different). Set Mode Switches 1&3 to OFF. Crank the knobs wide open on the EP, then trim the receiver accordingly (like -13 dB or whatever it ends up during setup) lest you'd like to continue listening to an overdriven signal.

[dsl1]

Okay will try that.

Thank you

[Radian]

Let us know how it works out for you.

[dsl1]

Still happening.

Think I just need a HP at 18hz or so.