One reason a sub can sound "too powerful" is that its in-room response has one or two large peaks, which stand out. But if you turn the sub down enough that the peaks aren't a problem, the rest of the bass is too soft. The solution is either equalization (probably best for a single listening position) and/or using multiple subs spread around the room (which averages out to smoother bass over a wider listening area).
Another problem can arise when room gain elevates the very bottom end of the spectrum relative to the rest of the bass. Typical room gain is 3 dB per octave below 100 Hz, so if your sub is "flat" to 25 Hz the response will actually be +6 dB at that frequency, resulting in an overly heavy or thick sound. The solution is equalization, or a sub whose response inherently falls off by about 3 dB per octave below 100 Hz.
Duke
dealer/manufacturer
Another problem can arise when room gain elevates the very bottom end of the spectrum relative to the rest of the bass. Typical room gain is 3 dB per octave below 100 Hz, so if your sub is "flat" to 25 Hz the response will actually be +6 dB at that frequency, resulting in an overly heavy or thick sound. The solution is equalization, or a sub whose response inherently falls off by about 3 dB per octave below 100 Hz.
Duke
dealer/manufacturer