Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • High output across the entire bass range, including real infrasonic output
  • Extremely low distortion, producing clean bass even at deep frequencies
  • Tremendous performance for its enclosure size—considered relatively small for the power it delivers
  • Great time-domain behavior, producing sound when asked with no delay
  • Very accurate frequency response

Product Considerations

  • Rudimentary aesthetics, prioritizing function over form
  • Requires a significant amount of electrical headroom to maximize performance
  • Some reviewers felt that a more decorative look would be appropriate for its performance level, though this would likely increase the price

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The RS1 runs very close to the Paradigm Signature Sub 2's performance below 20 Hz and tops it from 20 Hz to 40 Hz, despite the Sub 2 costing four times as much, having nearly twice the amplifier power, and nearly twice the cone surface area

Takeaway: The Captivator RS1 is a high-performing subwoofer that delivers a powerful and accurate sound experience. It is a great option for those who want maximum performance without taking up too much space.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Captivator RS1

reviews

[{"title":"JTR Captivator RS1 18 Sealed Subwoofer Review","link":"https://www.audioholics.com/subwoofer-reviews/jtr-captivator-rs1","source":"Audioholics","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"JTR Captivator RS1 Sealed Subwoofer Review","link":"https://perfectacoustic.co.uk/jtr-captivator-rs1","source":"Perfect Acoustic","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Status: Please contact us for the most up to date lead time
  • Frequency (+/- 3db): 16-157hz
  • Amplifier: 2400 watts RMS, class D, DSP optimized
  • Dimensions (HxWxD): 21" x 21" x 18"
  • Weight: 117 lbs
  • Construction: 18mm, 13ply, void free, Baltic Birch
  • Exterior Finish: Matte Black Paint
  • Connectors: RCA and XLR
  • Warranty: 5 year Manufacturer defect (amplifier 3 year)
  • Driver Xmax: 36mm
The Captivator RS1 is a sealed subwoofer with an 18″ driver and 2400-watt amplifier that has been digitally optimized to the smoothest frequency response and highest possible output with minimal distortions.
The Captivator RS1 is a sealed subwoofer with a 18″ driver and 2400 watt amplifier that has been digitally optimized to the smoothest frequency response and highest possible output with minimal distortions.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

JTR Captivator RS1

  • Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for compactness and affordability.
  • Description: Offers a powerful 2400-watt amplifier and an 18" driver, making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms. Its sealed design provides precise bass, but it may lack the extended low-end output of the RS2, which features dual drivers for larger spaces.

JTR Captivator 2400

  • Positioning: Mid-range option, balancing performance and cost.
  • Description: Features a bass reflex design with an 18" driver and a 2400-watt amplifier, delivering deeper bass than the RS1. It provides enhanced low-frequency performance in medium to large rooms.

JTR Captivator RS2

  • Positioning: High-performance model, designed for larger spaces.
  • Description: With dual 18" drivers and a 4000-watt amplifier, provides significant output and low-frequency extension, surpassing the RS1 in power and depth. It offers more robust performance than the single-driver 2400.

JTR Captivator 4000ULF

  • Positioning: Premium model, focused on maximum output and depth.
  • Description: Uses dual 18" drivers and a 4000-watt amplifier, offering exceptional low-frequency extension and output. It provides more depth and power than the RS2.

JTR Captivator 4000ULF-ST

  • Positioning: Flagship model, designed for ultimate performance.
  • Description: Features the same dual 18" drivers and 4000-watt amplifier as the 4000ULF but with a unique cabinet design for even greater output and efficiency. It offers superior output compared to all other models in the lineup.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
4
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
300
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
23
Founding Year
2006

Our take on the brand

JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

There isn't really anything on the market like ours. We're combining end high, audiophile speaker technology with concert speaker technology to give people the best of both worlds. There are some companies selling pro audio type speakers for home theater but they not incorporating ultra-high-end components like we are. The company KEF makes some really nice point source speakers which are acoustically similar having a concentric mid and high frequency devices. The JTR's will provide all the detail but then also much more dynamic capability. Our speakers are voiced natural and neutral so they aren't recessed but also not forward sounding.

What's your approach to customer support?

Email support direct via JTR Speakers or call/email support via dealer networks.

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

Jeff likes Hotel California, but we usually demo with home theater content to show the dynamics of our speakers.

What other products pair best with yours?

JBL Synthesis is likely the closest match tonality.

From our interview with
Tony
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
M&K Sound
X15+
6999
6999
/
8
Reviews

New Carbon Fibre Woofer Cones have been developed for all models with ultra-high strength and rigidity to accommodate the added power and excursion of the new X+ Series. M&K Sound's proprietary CNC-machined, extruded aluminium Distortion Killer Shorting Rings also guarantee absolute control and distortion-free, exemplary performance in all settings. 

M&K Sound's iconic Push-Pull subwoofer architecture and "reversed double driver" non-isobaric configuration mean that both drivers in the cabinet are 'exposed' to room air. Consequently, and like the X-Series before, the X+ Series models are effectively two subwoofers in one cabinet enabling a further associated reduction in distortion. This is made possible by having one inverted driver in relation to the other cancelling non-linearities to produce totally symmetric waveforms. 

The X15+, X12+ and X10+ all feature full 25mm MDF construction and bracing for negligible panel vibrations or cabinet resonances, and increased venting at the base of the woofers mitigates distortion due to air turbulence. These milled cavities also act as convenient carrying handles for installation efficiency

M&K Sound invented the world's first subwoofer in 1973 and is widely used in Hollywood studios for mixing and mastering film soundtracks. Their push-pull subwoofer design cancels out harmonic distortion, and their speakers deliver professional studio monitor neutrality, making them a top choice for high-end audio production.
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Product Strengths

  • Deep bass response with extremely high output
  • Impeccable build quality
  • THX Dominus Certified
  • Built like a tank with exceptional fit and finish

Product Considerations

  • No included room correction or tuning app
  • Large and heavy, difficult to position
  • Prone to auto standby during light content
  • Omits onboard room correction

Takeaway: The X15+ is a commanding presence that can achieve reference level output in a large room and smoothly engages protection mechanisms, preventing itself from coming undone. If one has big demands, the M&K Sound X15+ is certainly able to fulfill them.

Video review

Our take on the brand

M&K Sound invented the world's first subwoofer in 1973 and is widely used in Hollywood studios for mixing and mastering film soundtracks. Their push-pull subwoofer design cancels out harmonic distortion, and their speakers deliver professional studio monitor neutrality, making them a top choice for high-end audio production.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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REL
No.31
8814
8814
/
7
Reviews

When Only the Best Will Do(But You've Run Out of Room)

No.31 exists to satisfy the needs of those who crave the finest yet have space limitations. Whilst some can afford our flagship No.32 model, it is larger and deeper than some rooms can accommodate. How can you best deliver No.32's sound quality, build quality, and thoughtful features with a more compact footprint? Enter No.31.

Perfection Repeated

No.31 matches No.32's design stroke for stroke, yet somehow it manages to look more svelte, crouching closer to the floor—almost feline in its grace. The elegant plated handles inset into an ellipse is retained, as is the string grille that permits vast amounts of air to explode into your room without creating noise like cloth grilles can. No.31 features the curvilinear radius to the sidewalls that define both its performance and its character. But the reduction in visual and actual three-dimensional physical mass is remarkable. No.31: when the best must be delivered in a smaller space.

Arrayed for Battle

No.31 permits the same vertically stacked line array as the ultimate No.32. It delivers transformative performance that no competitor has been able to. For those who have been seeking the ultimate musical and theatre experience, Line Arrays unlock the final dimension of system reproduction. Audiophiles have chased three-dimensional sound for years, yet they have missed the simple fact that the height—not the depth—of image is the missing link. By creating products that are designed to be stacked 3 (or in exceptionally tall rooms, 5) units high while retaining individual crossover and gain control of each subwoofer in the array, REL has created a masterpiece that finally delivers what the most experienced audiophiles have been chasing for the past 40 years.

How to Build Up to a Line Array. How to Setup and Dial in a Line Array.

Amplified Perfection

No.32's NextGen 7 Class D 1,000 watt amplifier also lives inside No.31, only limited to 900 watts to ensure the perfect complement to the 12" bass engine within No.31. This allows the maximum dynamics to be delivered while ensuring a long, cheerful life for both components. Here too, the LimitLess Limiter,™ which permits the amplifier to tiptoe right up to its limit without audible compression is part of the magic, conveys a rhythmically effortless quality. Also, its dual parametric filters allow precise micro-tuning; the deepest bass is slightly reinforced, while the upper ranges of bass can be gently trimmed to ensure a brilliantly rendered transition from bass to the main speaker. The electronic design of the reference range is itself artistry.

Drive This

The incredible excursion of the 12" pure carbon fibre driver allows it to play as loud as its larger stablemate. Yet, the No.31 possesses the tactility, nimbleness, and attack that only the greatest subwoofers have ever been able to deliver. Also, its sonic signature works in modestly-scaled rooms and with a vast range of fine speakers. The driver is accelerated by a specially wound 3" voice coil driven by a 13-pound magnetic structure; even near its limits, the voice coil remains solidly inside the gap. It is this visceral power, coupled with great delicacy and nuance, that is No.31's signature.

Total Control

Take control of your No.31 by grasping the REL Reference Remote Control. Immediately, you will be struck by the perfect fit in your palm, the result of careful thought and numerous generations of trial-and-error fittings during prototype development. The second reaction to it is the awareness of its mass, which conveys its quality, permanence, and immutability. It tells you, "I am a thing of substance, of quality. Pay attention, what you do next matters." If you have owned a REL in the past (and fully 90% of Rel Reference owners are), all the familiar controls are right at hand, exactly where you'd want them. High (or low if using active speakers) level gain sits comfortably to the right side, the crossover rests in the middle, and .1/LFE gain is off to the left.

Below are three lovely metal toggle switches handle the critical setup functions. The remote's on/off switch is at the bottom. It is both as out of the way as possible and remains on once turned on and in use during setup without being accidentally turned off. In the middle sits the phase control. This is used only initially to determine the correct 0 or 180 degrees of phase. Additionally, the top access to the Dual Parametric EQ-marked with A and B—permits the flattest, deepest bass and, at the other end of the bass frequencies, the fine-tuning of crossover behavior. This gives you the perfect blending of subwoofer to main speakers and any vestiges of room-generated boom and resonance can be gently trimmed away.

REL's Reference Remote reminds you of the perfect butler—always immaculate, indispensable when called upon, then quietly set aside until a future time when perhaps additions or further improvements to one's system further require its services.

REL is widely recognized as the premier audiophile-grade subwoofer manufacturer, focusing exclusively on designing subwoofers that match the speed and clarity of high-end loudspeakers. Their higher-end models are specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with audiophile speakers, enhancing the soundstage and instrument separation rather than simply adding bass impact.
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Product Strengths

  • Delivers the best musical bass and seamless integration with speakers
  • Improves the overall scale, solidity, and immersion of the sound
  • Exceptional build quality with thoughtful design touches that contribute to pride of ownership
  • Offers convenient and precise adjustments via a heavy-duty carbon remote control
  • Creates a solid bass foundation that makes music seem more realistic and visceral

Product Considerations

  • Subwoofers are quite large
  • The remote control can be a pain to operate
  • More bass pressure bleeds into other rooms

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • No.31 delivers even better results than REL No.25 for less money
  • No.31 takes advances in driver, cabinet, and crossover to another level than Carbon Special—Carbon Special gets about 80% of the way there
  • Comparing the S/510 to the Carbon Special or the No.31 is another step down in resolution
  • Compared to REL's T-Range, S-Range and Carbon Special, No.31 is better
  • The No.31 is a more exquisite sonic refinement and class than REL HT/1205s

Takeaway: The No.31 is a musical subwoofer for high-end hifi systems, with sonic quality and detail that enhances the entire soundfield. It offers big, full, rich, and impactful bass that integrates seamlessly and provides a wonderful listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

REL is widely recognized as the premier audiophile-grade subwoofer manufacturer, focusing exclusively on designing subwoofers that match the speed and clarity of high-end loudspeakers. Their higher-end models are specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with audiophile speakers, enhancing the soundstage and instrument separation rather than simply adding bass impact.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Velodyne
Digital Drive 10 Plus
5598
5598
/
6
Reviews
Velodyne Acoustics pioneered the High-Gain Servo system that reduced bass distortion to less than 1% at 105 dB SPL, and holds more patents in subwoofer technology than any other manufacturer. The company introduced the world's first digital subwoofer with DSP technology in 2003, and their Digital Drive Room Bass Equalization System corrects room acoustics for optimal bass performance.
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Product Strengths

  • Very low distortion figures
  • Versatile, elegant and modern design
  • Insane speed and accuracy
  • Auto equalization is featured
  • Multiple setup options make it user and room-friendly

Product Considerations

  • The unit itself is visually present in the room
  • Optimal performance requires setup by a knowledgeable installer via computer
  • This level of performance is not needed in a small room or with small speakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Digital Drive Plus competes with the JL Audio's Fathom subwoofer line for price and performance
  • The Digital Drive Plus is very realistic and powerful, even doing better than the reviewer's two 12-inch drivers, while the Velodyne Deep Blue is very nice
  • The Digital Drive Plus is doing better than the SVS-2000 Pro
  • The DD10+ is very close to the DD15+ in performance 90% of the time

Takeaway: This Digital Drive Plus is a subwoofer that adds realism and gives music an ease of presentation. The Digital Drive Plus will give the listener what they need if they want one subwoofer to do the work of two.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Velodyne Acoustics pioneered the High-Gain Servo system that reduced bass distortion to less than 1% at 105 dB SPL, and holds more patents in subwoofer technology than any other manufacturer. The company introduced the world's first digital subwoofer with DSP technology in 2003, and their Digital Drive Room Bass Equalization System corrects room acoustics for optimal bass performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Perlisten
D215s
9995
9995
/
5
Reviews

The Subwoofer that will surprise you with its accuracy. Grills are optional. MODEL D215s Subwoofer: Dynamic, Accurate, Solid. The audiophile's choice. Where sound quality and Transients free of overhang are paramount.

Simply no better expression of bass performance than our push-pull subs. Ground up drivers developed by our team of engineers. Carbon fiber composite diaphragms, multiple aluminum shorting rings, massive magnets, multi-layer Nomex spiders and lightweight aluminum voice coil wire are the key ingredients – Proprietary nonlinear modeling techniques allow us to simulate all these components and then optimize for real world driver performance – free air and in box. Further refinement is done with the aid of Klippel laser measurements to dial things in.

To take performance to another level, the push-pull drivers reduce even order harmonics distortion by an additional 10-12dB. Powered by our 3.0kW amplifier, all functions and safeties are controlled by a 48-bit data bath DSP and 32-bit ARM M4 Cortex processor, able to react in microseconds, powerful enough to slam.

All D-Series subs share our 2.4" LCD touchscreen display and ability to control advance settings using our App. Certified by THX Dominus, The D-Series subs are the world's first. A testament to the level of design and performance achieved.

Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
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Product Strengths

  • Powerful amplifier (3000W) and ample infrasonic response without bottoming out
  • Clean output and agility suitable for both home theater and high-end music systems
  • Sophisticated monitoring system, ensuring sound quality regardless of AC line conditions, and preventing thermal shutdown
  • Extreme tweakability and control with app (iOS and Android) and has a 10-band parametric equalizer
  • Top-shelf build quality with heavy-duty HDF and extensive internal bracing to minimize vibration

Product Considerations

  • The D215s is big and heavy (over 200lbs), making positioning a chore
  • It only comes in a black finish, which might not suit all decors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The D215s offers some of the best performance seen in a sealed sub above 20Hz
  • The only sealed sub that can challenge its distortion levels below 20Hz that Audioholics has dealt with is the JTR Captivator RS1—and even then only in long-term output

Takeaway: The D215s subwoofer delivers powerful and accurate bass, making it a great addition to any high-end audio setup. With its advanced technology and customizable settings, it can enhance the listening experience for both movies and music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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What competes at this price?

JTR Speakers
Captivator RS2
4799
/
Released
The Captivator RS2 is a sealed subwoofer with two 18″ drivers that is equipped with a 4000-watt amplifier has been digitally optimized for the smoothest frequency response and highest possible output with minimal distortions.
Check Amazon
JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Ridiculous output pressurizes the room, even a decent-sized one, impressively
  • Massive excursion is delivered due to the dual 18-inch drivers, providing substantial surface area for pressurizing the room
  • With 4,000 watts of amplification, it starts and stops on a dime, handling huge dynamics phenomenally
  • Ridiculous headroom provides power and authority when needed, without always having to be cranked up
  • Extreme levels of bass match subwoofers costing twice as much

Product Considerations

  • Size is a factor; these are absolute monsters that will make a presence in any room
  • The cost is considerable, retailing for $3,500 each, and may not fit everyone's budget

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Harbottle Audio subwoofers, JTR RS2s offer the same top-tier world class bass but at a much lower price point
  • Compared to SVS PB16s, JTR RS2s deliver more intense bass, and the reviewer is replacing his SVS PB16s with them
  • Compared to Funk Audio 24E, the Funk Audio 24E may have a nicer finish, but it really can't compete with the output of the RS2, even though the RS2 is less expensive than the 24E

Takeaway: The JTR Captivator RS2 is a powerful subwoofer that delivers extreme bass and effectively pressurizes the room. It is a great value for the performance it offers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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JTR Speakers
Captivator 2400
3499
/
Released
The Captivator 2400 is a bass reflex subwoofer with an 18″ driver and a 2400-watt amplifier that is equipped with a full digital sound processor that has been optimized to the smoothest frequency response and highest possible output with minimal distortions.
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JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Solid build quality due to void-free Baltic birch
  • Robust 18-inch driver with crazy excursion
  • Phenomenal performance for its price tag
  • Sharper, harder punch
  • Weighty bass, shaking the room violently

Product Considerations

  • Utilitarian aesthetics with a Duratec-style textured black paint may not suit all decors
  • Amplifier at the top of the back of the subwoofer in a horizontal orientation may not be preferred
  • Fair size subwoofer may be a concern for some living room settings
  • Anthem room correction may cause some funny behavior below 15 Hz, requiring manual adjustment

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • CAP 2400 has a slightly sharper punch, but the JTR RS2 has a little more weight and meatiness
  • Captivator 4000 has more output, but the Captivator 2400's size is more manageable
  • JTR provides more heft and tactile response, while Rhythmic is more articulate and accurate

Takeaway: The JTR Captivator 2400 is a powerful subwoofer with high output and solid build quality, making it a great choice for home theaters. It delivers a weighty, authoritative bass that shakes the room and enhances the movie-watching experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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REL
Classic 99
3699
/
Released
2024
A potent symphony of design, power, and grace. Building on the foundation laid by Classic 98, this model amplifies every attribute: more power, deeper bass, and a design that captures both the eye and the ear. With 450 watts driving a robust 12" paper-on-paper driver, Classic 99 not only plays louder and reaches deeper, but also adds layers of subtle textural enhancements that continuously impress.
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REL is widely recognized as the premier audiophile-grade subwoofer manufacturer, focusing exclusively on designing subwoofers that match the speed and clarity of high-end loudspeakers. Their higher-end models are specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with audiophile speakers, enhancing the soundstage and instrument separation rather than simply adding bass impact.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Beautiful aesthetic with walnut veneer, fitting well with mid-century modern or classic speaker setups
  • Provides a warmer, richer, more textured, and room-filling bass, enhancing the musicality of the system
  • Capable of delivering more bass output at deeper frequencies compared to the Classic 98, beneficial for music and movies
  • Seamlessly integrates with speakers, creating a cohesive sound field, and improving vocals and soundstage

Product Considerations

  • The setup process can be tedious, as adjustments need to be made manually without an app
  • Limited phase adjustment options (0 and 180 degrees) may restrict integration flexibility in some rooms
  • May not be the best choice for systems that already sound warm or for those prioritizing punchy—fast bass
  • Substantial size may require careful placement in smaller rooms

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Classic 98, the 99 has more bass output at deeper frequencies, and is faster and more nimble

Takeaway: The Classic 99 is a beautiful and musical subwoofer that enhances the overall warmth and richness of a sound system, making it more inviting and enjoyable, especially for those with smaller speakers or systems that could benefit from additional low-end texture. It delivers a smooth, tactile, and spacious bass experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

REL is widely recognized as the premier audiophile-grade subwoofer manufacturer, focusing exclusively on designing subwoofers that match the speed and clarity of high-end loudspeakers. Their higher-end models are specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with audiophile speakers, enhancing the soundstage and instrument separation rather than simply adding bass impact.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Monitor
Anthra W12
3000
/
Released
2023
The W12 is the mid-sized model within the Anthra subwoofer series. It features a 12" (30 cm) Rigid Surface Technology II (RST II) C-CAM high-excursion driver powered by a Class-D 1,000 Watt amplifier, housed within a comprehensively internally braced, sealed-box cabinet.
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Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Deep, rich, punchy, and precise bass enhances the overall sound experience
  • Exceptional control and accuracy with articulate and precise bass notes avoids muddiness
  • A muscular amplifier pressurizes the room well, making movies sound huge
  • A user-friendly experience is offered via the MaestroUnite app for advanced configuration
  • Elegant design with a premium finish is available in Gloss Black or Satin White

Product Considerations

  • Substantial weight at 32.4kg
  • May be overkill for smaller rooms
  • Lacks auto EQ for self-calibration
  • Some people may miss high-level inputs

Takeaway: The Anthra W12 is a powerful subwoofer that brings depth and detail to both music and movies. With its precise bass and user-friendly features, it's a great addition to any serious hifi setup and will make any media experience more enjoyable.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Velodyne
Digital Drive 18 Plus
4773
/
Released
The Digital Drive Plus series redefines the term subwoofer. Digitally controlled drivers with impressive performance, almost endless power and the latest calibration algorithms with extensive adjustment options make these subwoofers precision tools of a special class.
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Velodyne Acoustics pioneered the High-Gain Servo system that reduced bass distortion to less than 1% at 105 dB SPL, and holds more patents in subwoofer technology than any other manufacturer. The company introduced the world's first digital subwoofer with DSP technology in 2003, and their Digital Drive Room Bass Equalization System corrects room acoustics for optimal bass performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Powerful, with great potential for room lock and shaking the listening room
  • Tuneful, clean, clear, and accurate bass
  • Deep bass extension
  • High build quality, with fine cabinetry
  • The on-board DSP with software offers flexibility with settings

Product Considerations

  • Expensive
  • Setup options can be overwhelming
  • Heavy, making it difficult to move around
  • The software may be complex to use
  • Built-in EQ may not be effective

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Velodyne DD-18, the Digital Drive Plus 18 (DD-18+) bettered it in raw power, transient articulation, pitch definition, and deep-bass extension
  • Compared to the JL Audio Fathom f113, the DD-18+ created room lock that a single Fathom f113 couldn't
  • Compared to the Bowers & Wilkins DB1, the sound was closest to DD-18+, but the blend with Quad ESL-989s wasn't as seamless

Takeaway: The Velodyne DD18+ delivers top-notch sound, deep bass, and plenty of power for an amazing listening experience, and it gets the job done in both home theaters and two-channel systems. Its flexible features and robust construction make it a great option for anyone looking for a serious subwoofer.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Velodyne Acoustics pioneered the High-Gain Servo system that reduced bass distortion to less than 1% at 105 dB SPL, and holds more patents in subwoofer technology than any other manufacturer. The company introduced the world's first digital subwoofer with DSP technology in 2003, and their Digital Drive Room Bass Equalization System corrects room acoustics for optimal bass performance.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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