Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Punchy mid-bass
- Extension below 20Hz
- Heavy-duty build quality
- Sophisticated amp control
- Excellent time-domain performance
- Adjustments are made via a dial/button on the back panel, which might not be easily accessible
Product Considerations
- Smaller size means lowered deep bass headroom
- For music in its normal orientation, bass felt a little bit exaggerated at certain frequencies—certain parts of certain songs
- Styling is functional, rather than fashionable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Arendal has a little bit more dynamic attack, cleaner mid-bass, and a cleaner presentation overall, whereas the SVS SB-2000 Pro is very quick with its transients and has slightly harder start and stops
- Rhythmiq F12 shoots for the accurate and correct amount of dynamic attack, while Arendal gives a lot of it, forcefully
- 1961-1S is more dynamic, whereas REL HT-1205 plays tighter and a little bit cleaner
- Above 40 Hz, RSL Speedwoofer 12s will have the capability to get lower, but it's not going to achieve as high SPL levels
Takeaway: The '1961' recScSAiZanAxyRaT is a well-built option with a good feature set and punchy mid-bass. It could be worth considering for those needing serious bass in smaller spaces.
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
1723 S Series
- Positioning: Compact line designed for smaller spaces while maintaining high performance.
- Description: Offers a compact design with the same high-quality components as the larger 1723 Series, featuring a 6.5" driver instead of the 8" found in the full-size models. This makes it ideal for those with limited space who still want powerful sound, without compromising on the clarity and detail that the 1723 Series is known for. It provides a cost-effective solution for those who want to mix and match with the larger 1723 models, ensuring seamless integration and consistent sound quality.
1723 Series
- Positioning: High-performance line for serious hi-fi and home theater setups.
- Description: Built with custom components and high-density fiberboard cabinets, offering superior sound quality and durability. It features larger 8" drivers, providing a richer and more expansive soundstage compared to the 1723 S Series. This series includes THX certification ensuring top-notch audio fidelity.
1528 Series
- Positioning: Flagship line representing the pinnacle of Arendal Sound's engineering and design.
- Description: Crafted with advanced materials like a 28mm lithium-magnesium tweeter and a custom Carbon-Graphene midrange driver, delivering exceptional clarity and depth. It surpasses the 1723 Series in both build and sound quality, making it ideal for audiophiles who demand the best in both music and home cinema.
Read the reviews
1961 1S
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Manufacturer's notes
- Dimensions (H/W/D): 41.5 x 31.5 x 41.5 cm (16.3 x 12.4 x 16.3 in)
- Weight: 20 kg (43.9 lbs)
- Enclosure: Sealed
- Woofer: 12.2"
- Frequency response EQ1: 19Hz-200Hz (+/-3dB)
- Frequency response EQ2: 26Hz-200Hz (+/-3dB)
Our take on the brand
Used
Arendal Sound
What if you spend a bit more?
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good output, with the most potent output being above 40/50Hz
- Many DSP features to tailor the sound for the room without the absolute need for external DSP
Product Considerations
- Max output compresses below 50Hz, increasing in compression going lower in frequency
- If needing to cross this subwoofer up to 150Hz, note the mild resonance at this frequency
Takeaway: The Arendal 1961 1V has potent output and many DSP features that can tailor the sound. It could be worth buying for those who want to tailor the sound of their room without external DSP.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Serie T/9x: Bigger and Better
The T/x Serie Flagship
The job of any range topper for REL is to deliver more of everything, particularly output and dynamics. The 9x is no different in this regard, as it delivers the goods in both music and theatre applications. 9x, however, delivers a level of intimacy, clarity and speed that means there are no longer trade-offs between the sonic balance of smaller models weighed against the power and scale of a model 9.
The all new 9x has even greater output than before, but the headline news is the way it sacrifices nothing in clarity and transparency to achieve this. At this price it opens the pathway for owners of high-performance European floor and stand mounted monitors and smaller panel speakers to enjoy truly full range sound.
Reimagined, Then Reengineered
A completely redesigned flagship
Many don't realize the intense linkage between performance and design here at REL. Performance is everything to us and so it drives physical design revisions. Our engineers, recognizing the need for greater acoustic volume to achieve the goals of greater fluidity and power, turn to the designer who works dimensions to fool the eye into seeing a smaller, more compact footprint even though cabinet volume increases. Using gently rounded corner radii that allows the eye to flow over and see less visual mass. The result is both modern and familiar with no unnecessary adornment.
Outsized Performance
Innovative Alloy/Fibre Bass Engines
To achieve higher output with better control requires a complete overhaul of the suspension components. Much like the suspension on a sports car, these items are responsible for the tuning and feel of our designs. By increasing the cabinet volume, efficiency is improved yielding higher output for no more amplifier power. Less back pressure inside the cabinet means we can tune for a stiffer, better controlled driver suspension. We retained the best aspects of our previous design, such as the aluminum center cap responsible for stiffening the lightweight 10" (250mm) cone while adding almost no mass. The updated combination produces considerably better attack and dynamics with greater transparency.
Tried and True Amplifiers
The Brains Behind the Brawn
We have retained our signature Class A/B amplifiers used in every generation of Serie T since 2006. Reliability is the key to happy ownership and with some 200,000 and counting of this range leading long happy lives, Serie T/x owners can feel certain of REL's standard setting reliability. The powerful 300 watt mosfet amplifier used in the T/9x remains an icon with huge reserves of current, massive power supplies but small upgrades are found everywhere. New driver mosfets that open up performance and transparency and new methods for securing the toroidal transformers mean better performance and superior strength.
REL's legendary High Level Input connection and fast filters are a significant part of the REL story. Connecting via the speaker outputs of your amplifier without drawing any power from it may seem like magic, but the real magic lies in the way the sound takes on a natural character. Unique tuning and special limiters mean the T/x range sounds fresher, faster and more dynamic than before.
Standby Mode switch is only included on 220V units.
Wireless that Doesn't Compress the Sound
Unlimited Possibilities
At REL, we've developed a sterling reputation for building the finest sounding, fastest wireless systems available in the industry. We never rely upon digital compression as it results in dull, lifeless sound. Instead, we have perfected an (optional) Arrow™ wireless system so fast and dynamic we're comfortable encouraging the use of wireless on one channel of a pair of RELs while the other channel may be connected conventionally with cable.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality, suitable for music listening with great articulation and detail
- Easier integration into a room visually, due to its compact/medium size
- Attention to detail in the design, including the fit and finish, and quality components
- Speed and transient response are praised, allowing it to start and stop quickly
- Multiple connection options, including high-level, low-level, and LFE inputs, increasing its versatility
Product Considerations
- May not provide the same level of 'body rock' and tactile feel as larger subwoofers
- May not be ideal for very large rooms where more output is needed
- The finish, while high quality, is only available in a limited number of colors
- The TX range is not designed to be stacked, limiting options for increasing bass output
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The T/9x has slightly better fidelity, while the SVS Micro 3000 has more SPL and extension
- The T/9x provides a more consistent experience overall, while the KEF KC62 is more versatile
- Performance rivals REL S3.
Takeaway: The REL T/9x is a well-designed subwoofer that can enhance the sound quality of a music system, especially in small to medium-sized rooms. It brings detail, clarity, and extension to the bass, making it a worthwhile addition for those who appreciate high-fidelity audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KC62 is an incredibly compact subwoofer that delivers the might and magic of deep, accurate bass for a thrillingly immersive music, movie and gaming experience. Created using innovative KEF engineering including the ground-breaking Uni-Core® technology, the football-sized KC62 features two 6.5inch force cancelling drive units powered by 1,000W RMS of specially designed Class D amplification.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The KC62 is a compact subwoofer, described as tiny and about the size of a soccer ball or basketball, making it easy to accommodate in various rooms and spaces
- Delivers incredible bass for the money and size
- The KC62 provides powerful, deep, and accurate bass reproduction, especially in the lower frequencies
- Features unique Uni-Core technology to fit two woofers into a small cabinet, reducing unwanted resonances
Product Considerations
- The KC62's standby mode may not always engage, requiring manual volume adjustment to wake it
- Small subwoofers can't do what bigger subwoofers can do, although capable
- App control does not provide direct access to remotely control the sub's own manual settings, therefore, some adjustments still need to be made on the back
- In a big room, it'll definitely lose some steam
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The KC62 extends quite a bit lower than the SVS Micro 3000 and is going to have really good extension, especially at lower volumes
- The KF92 has a max SPL that's double the one offered by the KC62, making it a great option for larger listening rooms or home theaters
- The KC62 has a faster response than the REL T/9x, which enhances the vibrancy of percussions in music or exciting moments in movies
Takeaway: The KC62 is a small but mighty subwoofer that delivers impressive bass for its size, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space who still want a great listening experience. Its stylish design and innovative technology make it a standout product that can enhance both music and movie enjoyment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rethink What's Possible
Performance Home Theater
Serie HT is designed specifically to answer the challenge of creating affordably priced, exceptionally dynamic, pure home theater powered subwoofers. The HT/1205 MKII is the ideal combination of a lightweight, modern 12" CarbonGlas™ (300mm) driver coupled to a powerful 500W Class D amplifier that runs cool, producing extraordinary dynamics. Internally, we developed specially adapted home theater input filters that produce extremely flat bass down in the 20's.
We set out to build the loudest, relatively compact 12" unit available for pure home theater use, and at truly attractive pricing. You'll be the judge of how well we accomplished that goal, but critics are already lining up for reviews. We believe the HT/1205 MKII is destined to become a modern classic with svelte cabinet dimensions finished in an attractive, yet purposeful line grained black aluminum-look and topped by a 12mm thick beautifully polished top that serves to damp vibrations on the critical top surface of the cabinet.
For REL owners already enjoying our Reference, Serie S and T/i subwoofers designed for both 2-channel and theater use, the HT/1205 MKII is designed to supplement their system's .1/LFE output to produce extremely high output for chest rumbling home theater special effects.
Designer Exterior
The beautiful new cabinetry is bespoke; it has new textures, proportions, and finishing touches previously unseen in the category. Lower, sleeker cabinetry borrows proportions drawn from our new Reference models. Over the years, our experiments have established that this results in a faster, deeper presentation of bass—all while looking smashing. Your eye is immediately drawn to the top panel, whose entire surface finished in 5 coats of hand-polished piano black lacquer. A discreet REL logo floats within the top layer of lacquer whilst the body of the cabinet is clad in horizontally streaked, line-grained composite. The entire affair looks expensive, bespoke, and tastefully restrained. Additionally, you can stylishly combine it with either Serie T/x or Serie S in large, fully-immersive REL HT/3D™ setups.*
Drive Like You Mean It
The HT/1205 MK II's driver is a 12" (300mm) CarbonGlas™ construct as it has always been, but all its components were beefed up. It is improved in both large and small ways, enabling it to deliver the greatest performance possible. Lightweight, stiff, and quiet, the combination of glass fibre primary cones with true carbon fibre centre caps results in a cost-effective yet pistonic cone. Larger, more powerful magnets produce more energy. Upgraded suspension designs control the HT/1205 MKII's output all the way out to the limits of both the amplifier and the driver. The result is crazy output, while the HT/1205 MKII remains fast and liquid.
Now Hear This!
Amplifiers do the heavy lifting in a theatre subwoofer. We turned to a true tier one amp supplier to build our latest design for us—they did not disappoint. They included thicker boards, upgraded the power supplies, and did all the stuff that results in a brutally powerful amp with remarkable longevity. Additionally, the MOSFET power modules rated at 800 watts mean this amp is just cruising at its 500-watt rating. It produces truly awe-inspiring sound. While the theatre gets all the headlines, the HT/1205 MKII's big secret is that it sounds sublime in musical applications. Big and robust-sounding, it is sure to become an instant classic.
PerfectFilters™: Where it All Starts – Amplifier
REL input filters are renowned throughout the audio world. They bring together ultra-fast crossovers, elevation filters that extend the flatness of deep bass, and explosive-sounding integrated limiters. This compact series of analogue circuits is REL's secret recipe in both music and film sound. Refined in this second generation, the secondary filters are much higher in frequency; they make the rarefaction of air in the sound of an explosion to feel that much more realistic. Also, our latest circuit includes an all-analogue subsonic filter that begins as low as 8 Hz to minimize the effects of infra-noise from soundtracks that extends well below the resonance point of the driver. The result is incredible delivered power with the ability to play all the way to the driver's limit without distortion.
Wired For Sound: HT-Air
Wired for sound used to entail long runs of cable strewn across the floor. With our optional HT-Air™, great sound has become "un-wired." Wire has been replaced by a tiny transmitter and matching receiver that sends an incredibly fast 5.8Ghz wireless signal up to 60 feet with no digital compression. This affordable circuit includes the same LSIC chip that powers our state-of-the-art AirShip II, minus the expensive analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue (DAC) convertors. The HT-Air is perfect for the .1/LFE signals using RCA connectors that are HT/1205 MKII's primary mission.
At 6 dB louder than any previous REL within 50% of its price, the original HT/1205 was a remarkable value.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved bass extension, control, and authority compared to the original HT/1205
- Enhanced aesthetics with upgraded vinyl, gloss black top plate, and smaller logos
- Defined clicks/adjustments on frequency and gain controls, improving setup precision
- Clean bass output with good note distinction, start/stop behavior, transient response, tone, and texture
- Capable of playing louder with a larger sense of scale than the original HT/1205
Product Considerations
- Lacks high-level input
- Some reviewers found the bass extension did not go as low as the Mark I version in certain infrasonic tests
- The glossy top plate may be prone to fingerprints and micro-scratches
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Mark II plays louder, extends lower, has more authority and a larger sense of scale overall—with a slightly heavier tone—compared to the original HT/1205
- Compared to the Arendal 1961 1S and SVS SB-2000 Pro, the HT/1205 is more articulate, clean, and clear with better note-to-note distinction and transient response
- The HT/1205 is a more affordable alternative to the KEF KC62
Takeaway: The HT/1205 is a powerful and articulate subwoofer that offers great value for both music and home theater. Its improved design and performance make it a worthy upgrade and a solid choice for those seeking a compact yet capable bass solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What else competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size makes it easy to integrate into various rooms and setups
- Delivers deep and clear bass
- Powerful amplifier for its size
- The SVS app allows for easy and precise tuning of the subwoofer
- Dual opposing drivers cancel out mechanical energy, minimizing cabinet vibration
- No speaker-level connections, limiting setup options for some stereo systems
Product Considerations
- Can be expensive compared to other subwoofers with similar output, especially if size is not a primary concern
- Limited output compared to larger subwoofers, potentially not ideal for large rooms or bass enthusiasts
- Power cord length can be restrictive when finding optimal placement
- Woofer placement can be tricky, because the opposing drivers might be too close to side walls depending on placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- SVS 3000 Micro has better adjustability than Sunfire
Takeaway: The SVS 3000 Micro is a small but capable subwoofer that delivers impressive bass performance for its size, enhanced by a user-friendly app for fine-tuning, and is a great option for those needing a compact solution without sacrificing sound quality. It is small and easy to integrate into a listening room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Tight, responsive, and controlled bass performance across the frequency range
- Compact size, which is helpful for those with size constraints
- Superb adjustability and control using the SVS app
- Powerful 325W RMS amplifier
- The included app offers fine-tuning options, including equalization for room correction
Product Considerations
- At the highest drive level, it can incur a fair amount of distortion
- The PB-1000 Pro had more headroom at higher frequencies than the SB-1000 Pro, which may have been deliberately reduced to provide a cleaner sound for music
- The feet for the subwoofer are short and may not be ideal for thick carpets
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SB-1000Pro is a whole package upgrade compared to the Velodyne DLS-4000, with more bass down low and more impactful sound
- The PB-1000 Pro goes deeper in frequency response and is much bigger
- The SB-1000Pro provided more solid and richer sound with more robust bass compared to the Paradigm Premier 700F floorstanding speakers
- SB-1000 Pro has richness and punch that the Sonos Sub cannot match
- The SB-1000 Pro has such good control and has no weakness at reasonable listening levels compared to the Boston Acoustics VR500
Takeaway: The SVS SB-1000 Pro is a compact subwoofer that offers impressive bass performance and extensive control options. With its user-friendly app and powerful amplifier, it is an excellent choice for enhancing both music and home theater experiences.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The PB-1000 Pro can push low frequencies to reference levels without distortion
- The PB-1000 Pro has an updated control panel and app that allows the user to adjust many parameters to get their preferred sound
- The ported design allows for a much thicker and fuller bottom end
- The PB-1000 Pro is able to deliver chest-rumbling subsonic frequencies
Product Considerations
- The PB-1000 Pro may lack the punch of smaller subwoofers due to the larger driver requiring more power to move at the same speed
- The size of the PB-1000 Pro may be an issue for some
- The vinyl finish may not be appealing to everyone
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Klipsch 8-inch Subwoofer: The PB-1000 Pro's bass has more body and is more rounded and refined, while the Klipsch has more punch and speed
Takeaway: The PB-1000 Pro is a subwoofer that offers great value and is designed to provide deep and clean bass. It has the ability to recreate powerful effects in action movies and blends well into many systems.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good, clean bass sound
- Nice aesthetic design and materials
- Vast improvement over previous Klipsch subwoofers
- Digs deep, reaching down to 16.5 hertz
- Rounded corners help maintain rigidity
Product Considerations
- Port chuffing can be noticeable at high volumes around 20 hertz
- May lack power for some users, and some felt it could benefit from more RMS power
- The power indicator is on the front, which some may not prefer
- Deep, which can create placement issues
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS PB-1000 Pro: The RP-1200SW provides a larger cabinet, a bit more power, and fuller sound in the lower frequencies
- Vs RSL 12s: The RSL 12s has an even larger sense of scale, but the RP-1200SW offers a more classical vented design with more rumble
- Vs SVS PB 2000 Pro: The SVS PB 2000 Pro has more output
- Vs SPL-120: The RP-1200SW has much less port chuffing
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-1200SW is a good sounding subwoofer that is a big step up from older Klipsch subs. It is a worthwhile consideration if one is already in the Klipsch ecosystem or is looking for a solid home theater subwoofer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Killer sound quality
- Killer extension, delivering thickness, fullness, and extension in the bottom end, similar to a larger 12-inch subwoofer in some rooms
- Pairs well with speakers of any brand
- Super easy to set up
Product Considerations
- Different finish options would be ideal
- Too many REL logos and signs are present on the subwoofer
- The wireless adapter is sold separately
Takeaway: The REL HT/1003 MKII is a compact, easy-to-set-up subwoofer that offers a winning combination of sound quality and extension, making it a great addition to any system. It is a fantastic option for those seeking excellent bass performance in smaller to medium-sized rooms.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Punchy mid-bass
- Extension below 20Hz
- Heavy-duty build quality
- Sophisticated amp control
- Excellent time-domain performance
- Adjustments are made via a dial/button on the back panel, which might not be easily accessible
Product Considerations
- Smaller size means lowered deep bass headroom
- For music in its normal orientation, bass felt a little bit exaggerated at certain frequencies—certain parts of certain songs
- Styling is functional, rather than fashionable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Arendal has a little bit more dynamic attack, cleaner mid-bass, and a cleaner presentation overall, whereas the SVS SB-2000 Pro is very quick with its transients and has slightly harder start and stops
- Rhythmiq F12 shoots for the accurate and correct amount of dynamic attack, while Arendal gives a lot of it, forcefully
- 1961-1S is more dynamic, whereas REL HT-1205 plays tighter and a little bit cleaner
- Above 40 Hz, RSL Speedwoofer 12s will have the capability to get lower, but it's not going to achieve as high SPL levels
Takeaway: The '1961' recScSAiZanAxyRaT is a well-built option with a good feature set and punchy mid-bass. It could be worth considering for those needing serious bass in smaller spaces.
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