KC62 Uni-Core Force Cancelling Subwoofer User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the KEF KC62 powered subwoofer. We are confident that your KC62 will provide reliable, high performance sound for many years to come. Please read this manual fully before you attempt any connection to the KC62.

Safety Warning: The apparatus with CLASS I construction shall be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.

Inside the Box

Contents may vary by region.

The box typically contains:

• KEF KC62 Subwoofer
• Power Cable (x1)
• Accessory Cables (x3)

Controls and Sockets

The rear panel of the KC62 features the following controls and connections:

Rear Panel Layout

Diagram description: The rear panel displays numbered controls and connection ports for setup and operation.

Controls and Connections:

• 1. Expansion port: For optional accessories like the KW1 Wireless Subwoofer Adapter Kit.
• 2. Line out high pass frequency (HPF): Allows adjustment of the high-pass filter for the line output signal, helping to match the subwoofer to your main speakers.
• 3. Phase control: Adjusts the phase of the subwoofer's output, typically between 0° and 180°, to optimize bass integration.
• 4. EQ: Equalizer settings designed to optimize performance based on the subwoofer's placement in the room (e.g., Room, Wall, Corner, Cabinet, Apartment).
• 5. Mode: Selects the operating mode, such as MANUAL for use without a receiver's crossover or LFE for use with a receiver's crossover.
• 6. Crossover frequency control: Adjusts the subwoofer's upper cut-off frequency, ranging from 40Hz to 140Hz, to ensure a smooth transition with main speakers.
• 7. Volume control: Adjusts the overall output level of the subwoofer.
• 8. Line output: Provides a line-level audio signal output.
• 9. LFE/Line in with Smart Connect: Connects to the Low Frequency Effects (LFE) output of a processor or receiver, or a standard line-level input.
• 10. High level (speaker) input block: Allows connection directly from the speaker outputs of an amplifier or receiver.
• 11. Ground lift: A switch to help reduce or eliminate ground loop noise by isolating the unit's ground.
• 12. AC power input: Connection point for the main power cable.
• 13. Power on/off: The main power switch for the unit.
• 14. LED indicator light: Displays the operational status of the subwoofer (e.g., standby, on, error).

Positioning

The KC62 is a side-firing subwoofer. To ensure optimal performance and prevent interference, maintain a minimum clearance of 77mm (3 inches) between the drivers and any adjacent wall.

EQ Modes for Placement

The EQ settings are designed to tailor the subwoofer's output to different room environments:

• Room: A general setting for most listening environments.
• Wall: Recommended when the subwoofer is placed near a wall.
• Corner: Ideal for placement in a room corner.
• Cabinet: Suitable for placement within furniture or enclosures.
• Apartment: This mode reduces the output of very low frequencies to minimize disturbance to neighbors in shared living spaces.

Apartment Mode Usage: Low-frequency sound can travel through walls and be heard in adjacent rooms. To avoid disturbing neighbors, set the EQ to "APARTMENT MODE" to reduce the level of very low frequencies.

Connections

Connection to LINE INPUT from a preamp or receiver

Diagram description: Illustrates connecting the "LINE OUT" from a preamplifier or receiver to the "LINE INPUT" of the KC62 subwoofer.

Connection to SPEAKER INPUT from a stereo amp or receiver

Diagram description: Shows how to connect the speaker outputs of a stereo amplifier or receiver to the high-level speaker inputs on the KC62.

LFE connection to 2 subwoofers

Diagram description: Details connecting the LFE (Low Frequency Effects) output from a surround sound processor or receiver to the LFE inputs of two KC62 subwoofers for synchronized bass.

Stereo connection to 2 subwoofers

Diagram description: Demonstrates connecting the stereo line outputs from a preamplifier or receiver to the line inputs of two KC62 subwoofers.

Connection to small speakers in a stereo music system

This setup utilizes the KC62's "LINE OUT" high pass frequency (HPF) feature to match the subwoofer's frequency response with that of your main stereo speakers.

Steps:

1. Connect the amplifier used for your speakers to the KC62's "LINE OUTPUT".
2. Adjust the high pass frequency using the "LINE OUT HPF" control to optimize the performance of your speakers. Refer to the frequency settings table for guidance.

HPF Frequency Settings Table:

Connection to LINE INPUT from LSX / LS50W / LS50W II

When using the KC62 with KEF LSX, LS50W, or LS50W II wireless speakers, set the KC62's MODE to "LFE". Then, use the respective KEF control application to set the high and low pass frequencies for optimal integration.

Connection to KW1 Wireless Subwoofer Adapter Kit (Optional accessory)

For details on connecting the optional KW1 Wireless Subwoofer Adapter Kit, please refer to the KW1 user manual.

Detailed Controls

Crossover Frequency Control & Mode

The crossover frequency control adjusts the subwoofer's upper cut-off frequency, with an effective range from 40Hz to 140Hz at a rate of 24dB per octave. This control should be adjusted to achieve the smoothest integration between your main/satellite speakers and the subwoofer. Rotating clockwise increases the cut-off frequency, while anti-clockwise rotation decreases it.

Mode Settings:

• MANUAL: Use this setting if your receiver or preamplifier does not have a subwoofer crossover feature. Start with the crossover set to 80Hz on the subwoofer and adjust up or down to find the best match with your speakers.
• LFE: Use this setting if your AV amplifier, receiver, or preamplifier has a subwoofer crossover feature. Start with the crossover set to 80Hz on your AV equipment and adjust up or down to find the best match with your speakers.

Crossover Integration Examples:

• 1. Ideal crossover: Achieves a flat frequency response.
• 2. Crossover point set too low: Can cause a dip or null in the combined frequency response.
• 3. Crossover point set too high: Can cause a hump or peak in the combined frequency response.

Volume Control

The volume control adjusts the output level of the subwoofer relative to the satellite or AV speaker output level. Clockwise rotation increases the output level, while anti-clockwise rotation decreases it. It is recommended to start with the control set at the midpoint and adjust to taste.

Phase Control

The phase control is typically set to 0°. However, setting it to 180° may sometimes yield a higher output level, particularly if the subwoofer is placed a significant distance away from the satellite speakers.

Ground Lift

If you experience ground-related noise (humming or buzzing), first ensure that your entire system is properly grounded, including all antenna, satellite, or CATV lines. If the noise persists, engage the "GND LIFT" button by setting it to "ON" to help reduce or eliminate any remaining ground noise.

LED Indicator Light

The LED indicator light on the front panel shows the operational status of the subwoofer:

• Standby: The LED is Amber.
• On: The LED is White and will turn off after approximately 6 seconds.
• Error: The LED blinks Amber, indicating a potential issue.

Specifications

KEF reserves the right, in line with continuing research and development, to amend or change specifications. E&OE.

Product Registration

For product registration, please visit: https://kef.world/kc62reg

Manufacturer: GP Acoustics (UK) Limited, Eccleston Road, Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP, UK

Product Part Number: P/N: 4301-7599+1