C2 Auto Calibration..not so precise

[rocasi]

I updated my C2 firmware yesterday and decided to run the auto calibrate feature rather than use a sound meter method. After auto calibrating, began to listen to some of my favorite vocalists, and found I had lost all imaging on my speakers. After double checking everything, I looked at the auto calibrated level setting and the mains were off by .5 dB. I matched them up and the vocalists returned to the center. I find that messing with a differance in levels makes a HUGE change in imaging and soundstage.

I would have guessed that the auto calibrate mic would be very accurate, but not so. I do much better with my trusty Rat Shack meter.

[Kingdaddy]

I can’t imagine how a half a db in level difference could affect imaging in any way, my auto calibration experience has shown the Halo to be quite accurate.

[rocasi]

Upon further thought, I also know that the readings put one main speaker a foot farther than the other. To be honest, I don't recall which change moved the image back to center, but the change was most noticeable. I have phisically measured the distances of the mains etc.

After running the auto distance and auto level, I could not immediately discern what the problem was, all I know is that the systems imaging was shot. It almost sounded as if the mains were out of phase. After making the distances and levels the same, the image centered sharply. I had not had that experience before and found it rather disconcerting.

When I get some free time I will try again and compare results.

[Chris D]

My experience is somewhat a mixture of you two. I've found the measured values to be pretty accurate, within .5db and maybe .5 feet. So after I do an auto-cal, I just message a value or two, to even them up.

Works great, lasts long time...

[blownrx7]

I have had similar experience to Chris with the autocal as well in my C1.

[Chris D]

Whoops... I meant "massage" a value or two, not "message". As in "tweak" a value or two.