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

  • 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.

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

X15+

reviews

[{"title":"M&K Sound X15+ THX Dominus Certified Subwoofer Review","link":"https://www.soundandvision.com/content/mk-sound-x15-thx-dominus-certified-subwoofer-review","source":"Sound & Vision","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"M&K Sound X15+ Review","link":"https://www.hometheaterforum.com/mk-sound-x15-review","source":"Home Theater Forum","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"M&K Sound X15+ Subwoofer Review","link":"https://www.homecinemachoice.com/content/mk-sound-x15-subwoofer-review","source":"Home Cinema Choice","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Explosively Precise! M&K X15+ THX Subwoofer Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teWz8D3rqMA","source":"Shane Lee","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Best Dual 15 Subwoofer of 2023 - The M&K X15+ Home Theater Subwoofer Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGru2CdrG6E","source":"Jiles McCoy","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"THIS SUBWOOFER Blew ME Away! M&K X15+ Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nt0xPBJAoFg","source":"Hatoraid Cowboy Cinema","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"X15+ THX Dominus - Subwoofer Review by Jiles McCoy","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBbmxR8YYcY","source":"AV Atmos","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"MK sound X15+ vs SVS PB16 ultra!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvpPsbMqvlI","source":"Shane Lee","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Frequency Response: 16-200 Hz (Average Response in Room +/- 3 dB)
  • Frequency Roll Off – THX EQ: 16 Hz (-6 dB 20 Hz Nearfield)
  • Frequency Roll Off – Anechoic EQ: 16 Hz (-6 dB 20 Hz Nearfield)
  • Variable Low Pass Filter: 40-125 Hz
  • Phase Control: 0 – 180 deg Continuously Variable
  • Line level input/output: 2 x RCA phono Left/Right – input/output
  • Line level input/output: 2 x XLR Left/Right – Input/output
  • Amplifier type: Analog input/switch mode power output
  • Drive unit: 2 x 15" Extra Long Throw
  • System Principle: Push Pull Sealed enclosure
  • Amplifier Power output RMS: 700 watt
  • Amplifier Power output Peak: 1400 watt
  • Standby Power Consumption: 0.5 watt
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 32.8 x 20.3 x 18.1 in (83.3 x 51.5 x 46.0 cm)
  • Weight: 134.7 lbs (61.1 kg)
  • Colors/Finish: Satin Black
The most advanced subwoofers technologies for the future. 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.
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
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:

  • M&K Sound speakers are frequently used as reference monitors in music and film production facilities, indicating a professional-grade accuracy.
  • The brand's Phased-Focused crossover technology is designed to create a uniform timbre balance throughout the listening room, improving the three-dimensional response from almost any position.
  • M&K Sound's Tripole speaker design combines a direct radiator for precise directional sound with a dipole for diffused sound, delivering a more immersive 360-degree soundstage.
  • M&K designs subwoofers implementing a push-pull driver configuration to reduce distortion and increase bass output, enabling a smaller cabinet size while maintaining powerful bass.

MP150

  • Positioning: An entry-level on-wall speaker designed for compact spaces.
  • Description: Offers low-compression tweeters and studio-monitor derived components to deliver clear sound in environments with limited space. Compared to higher series like the 300, M, and 950, it sacrifices advanced features and power for simplicity and affordability.

S300

  • Positioning: A compact, full-range speaker aimed at delivering reference home cinema sound.
  • Description: Uses driver mounting with isolated tweeter and woofer brackets to reduce cabinet coloration and maintain clarity. When compared with the S300T, M70, and MP950, it presents a straightforward design focused on purity of sound rather than the enhanced surround or advanced performance found in the higher series.

S300T

  • Positioning: A specialized tripole speaker optimized for immersive and precisely positioned rear sound.
  • Description: Integrates isolated side chambers with additional drivers to boost surround imaging and deliver a more enveloping sound field than the standard S300. In comparison with the M70 and MP950, its focus remains on enhanced surround coverage rather than the overall higher power and advanced engineering of the premium lines.

M70

  • Positioning: A design-focused, ultra-slim on-wall speaker balancing aesthetics with modern performance.
  • Description: Features optimized crossover design and new components for easy, vibration-free installation paired with clear and dynamic sound reproduction. Relative to the entry-level MP150 and 300 series, it offers refined engineering and elegance, though it does not reach the high-powered, professional level found in the 950 series.

MP950

  • Positioning: A high-end on-wall speaker engineered for exceptional performance in demanding home cinema settings.
  • Description: Uses professional-grade drivers with a phase-focused crossover for high power handling, speed, and precise imaging that set it apart with superior sound dynamics. Compared to the MP150, S300 series, and M70, it delivers the most advanced technology.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
109
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
64
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
35
Founding Year
1974

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.

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?

What's your approach to customer support?

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

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Wilson Audio
LōKē
11000
11000
/
6
Reviews

At the heart of every Wilson Audio® product, you will find designs specifically created to elevate the audio playback experience in your home.This beautiful subwoofer is handcrafted by the same artisans and professionals who sculpt all Wilson Audio loudspeakers made in the United States of America.

Wilson Audio's Smallest Subwoofer

From the beginning, the Wilson Audio Special Application Engineering® team wanted to create a subwoofer system that follows the North Star development parameters set forth by David Wilson. We are excited to demonstrate how much of David's original intent is captured by Lōkē and invite you to visit your local authorized Wilson Audio Dealer for an unforgettable musical experience that will reshape your thinking around small footprint subwoofer systems.

Lōkē encompasses full compatibility across the myriad of TuneTot installations but also fundamentally expands the core capabilities of our other smaller floorstanding loudspeaker models: SabrinaX, Yvette, Sasha DAW, and their predecessors.

LōKē® is an all-in-one, simple to setup, and easy to manage subwoofer solution. Incorporated into LōKē's built-in amplifier (500 watts) are the most utilized functions from Wilson Audio's acclaimed ActivXO® Dual Subwoofer Crossover, including such key parameters as crossover frequency, crossover slope, phase, and level.

Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
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Our summary

Product Strengths

  • Enhances the venue in which a recording was made
  • Can smooth out the treble by providing a more solid musical foundation
  • Enhances subtle details in a recording
  • Provides tight and precise bass and the ability to reveal a wide gamut of textural colors
  • Integrates seamlessly into the system

Product Considerations

  • The single line LCD display and click/turn navigation rotary is a clunky, time-consuming method of accessing nested functions
  • The different parameters of the sub are on the back and controlled from the back, which means that users may have to keep pulling it in and out of position for each parameter change
  • Reviewer notes a sense of skepticism due to the amp being manufactured by Dayton Audio

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • LōKē is smaller than Wilson Audio's WATCH Dog
  • Compared to systems without a subwoofer, LōKē reproduces music otherwise unheard
  • LōKē, unlike the Wilson Audio WAMM Master Chronosonic subwoofer, has a built-in amplifier
  • Some reviewers feel that two JL Audio 12's provide a better value compared to LōKē

Takeaway: The LōKē is a well-built subwoofer that integrates nicely with Wilson Audio and other loudspeaker systems to provide a fast and coherent bass response. Adding the LōKē to an existing system enhances the musical experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Grimm Audio
SB1
12750
12750
/
3
Reviews

The SB1 stereo subwoofers have digital motional feedback for 30 dB less distortion.

Grimm Audio is a hifi brand that designs streaming DACs with their own custom-built digital-to-analog converter hardware, including a unique 1.5-bit architecture with an 11th-order noise shaper. Their flagship MU2 is a Roon-centric machine that serves as a complete audio system hub, featuring their own DMA controller for FPGA-to-CPU communication and proprietary Pure Nyquist filters for digital signal processing.
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Product Strengths

  • Digital Motional Feedback (DMF) minimizes distortion in the bass region by monitoring acceleration on the aluminum cone and feeding back information to the DSP
  • Response is flat down to 20Hz
  • Sound quality improves in areas that have nothing to do with bass, and everything brightens up
  • Immediately balanced and sophisticated sound

Product Considerations

  • Some tweaking with regards to the positioning of the speakers is needed to get the best from the soundstaging
  • The full manuals are online or to print off, which some may find a pain
  • Packaging is massive

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Dynaudio 18S: The Grimm subs overshadowed and outshone the Dynaudio
  • Vs Audiovector R6: The soundstage thrown by these speakers is not as expansive as the Audiovector R6 speakers

Takeaway: The SB1 is designed to deliver a proper representation of music without sonic fireworks, it just works. It offers a turnkey solution for music lovers that want superlative sonics in a package that will fit with any home.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Grimm Audio is a hifi brand that designs streaming DACs with their own custom-built digital-to-analog converter hardware, including a unique 1.5-bit architecture with an 11th-order noise shaper. Their flagship MU2 is a Roon-centric machine that serves as a complete audio system hub, featuring their own DMA controller for FPGA-to-CPU communication and proprietary Pure Nyquist filters for digital signal processing.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
REL
No.32
12592
12592
/
1
Reviews

When Nothing but the Finest Will Do

Edge Of The Art Design

No.32 represents the sum of our efforts, research, and knowledge gained over the past three decades as a leader in audio and subwoofers. Nothing we have built competes with the speed, agility, absence of texture, and vivid dynamic contrasts delivered by No.32. It represents the pinnacle of REL's considerable experience and is our standard for future innovation. A remarkable sonic achievement, it transcends its illustrious forebear, which was named Product of the Decade just a few years ago. It is 1,000 watts, has a 15"(380 mm) pure carbon fibre driver, and has exquisite cabinetry requiring three weeks of labour to complete. However, each of these features only hints at what it takes to reside at the top of REL's offerings, and No.32 is poised to be a design for the ages.

Beautiful Form Follows Functional Perfection

It is often said that form follows function. If that is true, what a lovely function we are following. The cabinet traces a curvilinear path established over a decade ago on the original Gibraltar. Here, the top surface tumbles down at the rear corners – a difficult treatment to execute, but one that produces a uniquely beautiful effect.

Triple-plated steel handles are inset into ellipses that allow for a secure grip, which is necessary when lifting an object over 200 pounds. Inside, the rear backing plate is well over half an inch thick and contoured to follow the inner surface, yielding a massively strong structure.

No.32's new badge treatment combines the materials that appear most frequently within its design; the carbon fibre used throughout the driver is inset within a polished, cast alloy basket that is finished in 3 layers of plating to achieve a jewel-like sparkle. The overall design speaks to the remarkable efforts that went into ensuring No.32 is as striking visually as it is technically.

Arrayed For Battle

No.32 permits the same vertically stacked line array as the ultimate No.31. 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.

The Utterly Reliable Beast

No.32's NextGen 7 Class D 1,000 watt amplifier was also used in its predecessor for over seven years. Thousands of these amplifiers are in use all over the world; they are a paragon of reliability. Its implementation in No.32 combines a new limiter with a much wider envelope to permit the widest dynamic swings possible. Also, No.32's dual parametric EQs allow for robust and flat response in the lowest ranges, extending below 20 Hz. When its second EQ is set to frequencies above the crossover point, No.32 meshes perfectly with the main speakers while simultaneously reducing room-based resonances.

Drive On

As with all RELs, No. 32's heart and soul is its 15" (380mm) driver. The driver's cone is constructed entirely of carbon fibre. Additionally, a carbon fibre centre cap is overlaid on the primary cone surface. This cone design results in a far stiffer driver that possesses superior self-damping qualities, removing even minor resonances that can obscure detail retrieval whilst keeping moving mass to an absolute minimum. No.32's driver suspension permits a full 4" (100mm) of travel fore and aft, an enormous amount of travel for such a large driver. These are some of the secrets to its performance. Transparency, allied to tremendous dynamics, is the result.

A Remote Like No Other

Take control of your No.32 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

  • Described as a 'real beauty', it is the new reference top-of-the-range flagship subwoofer from REL
  • Deep bass output and really good bass extension, with REL claiming -6dB at 15Hz
  • Exquisite paint finish with 12 coats of final lacquer applied, with each subwoofer taking 5 weeks in total to build
  • The remote control and digital display make it a very nice way of setting things up, and then after dialing in, the remote is probably not needed again

Product Considerations

  • It is a huge and very heavy subwoofer, weighing 85 kilograms
  • The handles on the side are useful for lifting such a heavy unit, but they are not very nice to look at

Takeaway: The No.32 is a top-of-the-line subwoofer that offers exceptional bass performance and exquisite build quality. It's perfect for audiophiles who want the very best and have the space to accommodate it.

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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What competes at this price?

REL
No.31
8814
/
Released
2022
No.31 is nothing less than a pure reference model, sculpted from the flanks of the remarkable No.32, but using a newly developed 12″ (350mm) all carbon fiber driver. Every facet of No.31 has been comprehensively upgraded and refined from its predecessor. No.31 delivers the classic Reference filter used in No.32, the same dual parametric filters, a driver that handles three times the power to deliver a truly thrilling experience.
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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

  • 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
/
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

  • 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
/
Released
2021
The D215s subwoofer is 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.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

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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Perlisten
D212s
7995
/
Released
2021
Dynamic, Accurate, Solid. The audiophile's choice. Where sound quality and Transients free of overhang are paramount. Simply no better expression of bass performance then our push-pull subs.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Push-pull configuration with two 12-inch drivers, one on the front and one on the bottom
  • Powered by a 3,000-watt amplifier
  • Features an iOS and Android app to control EQ mode, volume level, crossovers, a 10-band PEQ, and other settings
  • The cabinet's push-pull configuration helps to cancel second order distortion by an additional 10-12dB
  • Produces hard-hitting, super-fast, and high sound pressure LFE (low-frequency effects), even in large rooms

Product Considerations

  • Does not come with grills, which could be an issue for those with pets or kids
  • The manual PEQ system might be inelegant for a sub at its price point
  • Lacks high-level inputs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Legacy XTREME XD subs, the D212s is massively more powerful, forceful and clean, with zero perceived overhang

Takeaway: The D212S is a subwoofer with a small screen for simple controls and a mobile app for detailed sound adjustments. The D212S is a good choice for anyone looking for a powerful and clear bass experience for music or movies.

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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JL Audio
Fathom F212v2
10000
/
Released
The f212v2 is the ultimate expression of the Fathom formula. It is ideal for larger spaces thanks to its higher efficiency and higher power output. The combination of dual ultra-long throw W7 12-inch drivers and a very powerful switching amplifier give it jaw-dropping performance capabilities at any listening level.
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JL Audio is a hifi brand known for its subwoofer technologies, including the Automatic Room Optimization system that minimizes room-induced bass peaks and the W-Cone unit-body cone-assembly for superior bass performance. The company manufactures many of its premium loudspeakers in the U.S. and includes advanced features like the CR-1 crossover for seamless integration between subwoofers and main speakers, while their VXi amplifiers use internal DSP for extensive sound customization.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Authoritative and visceral bass enhances the home theater experience
  • Taut, agile bass provides good grip
  • A comprehensive range of controls allows for optimization
  • Faultless build quality includes a high gloss finish
  • Useful accessories, like white gloves and furniture sliders, are included

Product Considerations

  • Large and heavy at 102 kg, making it difficult to move and requiring assistance for unpacking
  • High gloss finish may not be ideal for home theaters due to reflections
  • Designed for larger spaces

Takeaway: The Fathom provides powerful and controlled bass, enhancing both movie and music experiences. It is a well-built and feature-rich subwoofer that integrates effectively into a high-end audio system.

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Our take on the brand

JL Audio is a hifi brand known for its subwoofer technologies, including the Automatic Room Optimization system that minimizes room-induced bass peaks and the W-Cone unit-body cone-assembly for superior bass performance. The company manufactures many of its premium loudspeakers in the U.S. and includes advanced features like the CR-1 crossover for seamless integration between subwoofers and main speakers, while their VXi amplifiers use internal DSP for extensive sound customization.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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