How to Muffle a Subwoofer

A subwoofer is often a component of surround sound systems.

Often a component of surround-sound systems in home cinema set-ups, a subwoofer is a freestanding speaker dedicated to low-pitched bass frequencies. Because the noise they make tends to travel through walls and floors, subwoofers can be a source of friction with family and neighbors. To muffle a subwoofer, isolate it from direct contact with your walls and floorboards and use soft furnishings to absorb some of the sound.

Things You'll Need

• Polystyrene sheet/packing
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Make sure the subwoofer isn't pressed directly against the wall, or against a wooden baseboard. This will stop the sound from traveling directly from the speaker into the fabric of your house, and should therefore make life slightly easier for anyone on the other side of the wall.

2. Prevent bass notes from resounding through floorboards by standing the subwoofer on something absorbent. For instance, cut out four small, equal squares from a piece of polystyrene packing. Place one piece under each corner of the subwoofer. The subwoofer will no longer be in direct contact with the floorboards and the pieces of polystyrene act as mufflers.

3. Tuck the subwoofer away behind a bulky armchair or in one of the more cluttered corners of your living space. Soft furnishings such as drapes, curtains, cushions and padded furniture are great for absorbing sound and should therefore help muffle your subwoofer. The more Spartan your décor, the more booming the subwoofer is likely to seem. If you dislike traditional soft furnishings, try standing items such as beanbags, large houseplants or even cuddly toys in the proximity of your subwoofer.

References

• "Home Audio"; Andrew Yoder