What is LFE (Low Frequency Effects)?
The LFE (.1) provides a dedicated channel for the low bass that is used in theaters to add impact to the movies. The LFE signal is band-limited to frequencies below 120 Hz.
The goal of the LFE channel is to store very loud low frequency effects, which would not fit inside the dynamic range of the other speakers. That is why LFE is recorded -10dB lower in the relations to the other 5 or 7 channels to leave enough headroom to help follow the equal loudness contours. This means that it takes more energy in the low bass to sound equally as loud as the midrange. LFE is boosted by +10dB in playback to compensate for this.
When the player is connected to the receiver/processors digitally through the HDMI, Optical, or Digital Coaxial cables, the +10dB is added automatically. When the connection is through analog cables, we may have to add this +10dB boost manually.
The LFE channel is an independent channel and has no effect on the other speakers. The information that is in the LFE channel extends up to 120Hz regardless of whether you have bookshelf speakers or full-range super tower speakers. It is important to distinguish between the LFE channel and what goes to a subwoofer. The LFE is a production channel, whereas the subwoofer is a playback channel. The sound engineers determine what goes to the LFE channel, and the users of the home-theater systems determine what ends up coming out of the subwoofer.
It is generally accepted among professional poker players that you do not play and bet with the cards that you have, but rather you play and bet against the other players. As far as bass management and setting the crossovers are concerned, it is pretty much the same. The room perhaps plays a bigger role than your speakers in determining how the bass should be played in your room.