Simple Explanation

The output from an AV processor, receiver, or preamp that sends a low-level signal to a subwoofer for amplification.

Concise Technical Definition

Sub Out, or Subwoofer Output, refers to a line-level (low-level) output found on AV processors, receivers, or preamps. This output is specifically designed to transmit only low-frequency (bass) or mono signals to the subwoofer, where the signal is then amplified. The Sub Out ensures that the subwoofer receives the proper signal to handle low-frequency content, allowing it to focus on reproducing deep bass sounds without the need for additional amplification at the source.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Think of the Sub Out like a special lane on a highway just for the bass. It's a signal from your AV equipment that directs only the low sounds (bass) to your subwoofer, where it's then "amplified" and played loudly. The Sub Out helps your subwoofer focus on what it does best—producing deep, powerful bass sounds.

Industry Usage Summary

Sub Out is a key feature in home theater systems, audio receivers, and AV processors. It allows for a dedicated, optimized signal to be sent to the subwoofer, ensuring that it handles only the bass frequencies. This is critical for achieving deep, impactful low-frequency reproduction without overloading the main speakers or other audio components. Sub Out is commonly used in residential and professional audio systems to deliver high-quality, low-end sound. In more advanced systems, a dedicated subwoofer output is essential for controlling and fine-tuning bass performance independently from the rest of the audio signals.

Engineering Shortcut

The line-level output from an audio source that sends only low-frequency signals to the subwoofer for amplification.

Full Technical Explanation

Sub Out, or Subwoofer Output, is a line-level (low-level) output on audio-video processors, receivers, or preamps that is specifically intended to transmit only the low-frequency or mono signals to a subwoofer. The subwoofer amplifies this signal to produce deep bass sounds. The Sub Out is an important feature in multi-channel audio systems, as it allows for dedicated processing and amplification of low-frequency content, without the need for additional amplification for the main speakers. This helps optimize the performance of the subwoofer and ensures that the low-end frequencies are reproduced with clarity and power, independent of the other audio channels.