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 shakes the room violently when pushed
  • Nice hard-hitting bass makes it great for music
  • Six ports reduce chuffing
  • Sturdy, heavy materials are used
  • Bluetooth connectivity and a ToneWinner app are included for adjustments

Product Considerations

  • Only one finish is available: a black oak/ash vinyl wrap
  • The grill uses pegs and grommets instead of being magnetic
  • Not ideal for those seeking significant output in single-digit frequencies (below 15Hz)
  • Difficult to move due to its weight (187 pounds)

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • D8000 Pro has more output in higher bass frequencies, while D9000 has slightly more in lower frequencies

Takeaway: The SW-D8000PRO is a powerful subwoofer that can provide a very immersive and room-shaking bass experience for movies and music. Its app-controlled features make it easy to integrate into any home theater system.

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

SW-D8000PRO

reviews

[{"title":"Don't Buy This If You Like Your Neighbors! Tonewinner D8000 Pro Dual 15 Home Subwoofer Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9GYsBfwY9U","source":"YouTube","datePublished":"2025"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Model: SW-D8000PRO
  • Frequency range: 12-220Hz
  • Driver: 15"×2
  • Power supply: 110-115V~(60Hz)/220-230V~(50Hz)
  • Output power: 1500W (RMS, 3 ohms)
  • Peak power: 8000W (3 ohms)
  • SPL-max: 121dB(C), Peak, Music, 1m
  • Vd Air volume displacement: 2.41 L/dm3
  • Gross weight: 96kg/pcs
  • Net weight: 85kg/pcs
  • Package dimensions: 1085×800×730mm (W×D×H)
  • Subwoofer dimensions: 930×650×612mm (W×D×H)
SW-D8000PRO is a dual 15-inch DSP powered subwoofer, with 1500W RMS/3Ω and 8000W/3Ω peak power to fill a room with stunning bass. It adopts a Class D amplifier with built-in DSP. It has built-in Bluetooth and supports mobile phone App to adjust volume, ports tuning, polarity, 0° to 180° phase, HPF, LPF, slope, EQ, no signal standby, wake up level, input level match, and four listening modes. It has an XLR input, a RCA input and a subwoofer output. The solid MDF cabinet, LCD touch screen and wireless software upgrade lead you to a more immersive and pulse-racing bass experience.
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:

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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
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0
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Brand Popularity
281
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
58
Founding Year
1992

Our take on the brand

ToneWinner, a leading Chinese audio brand, is best known in the U.S. for its subwoofers and home theater receivers.

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?

As an audio designer, manufacturer, and exporter, Tonewinner has 30+ years of experience in the audio industry with an assortment of power amplifiers, processors, AV receivers, home theater systems, CD players, soundbars, speakers, etc. Tonewinner Audio cooperates with high-end audio component suppliers around the world. Every tiny part is selected and installed smartly for uncompromising quality.

What's your approach to customer support?

Follow the principle that whoever sells is responsible for after-sales. We develop and train professional distributors who can provide guidance and solve sale problems for consumers.

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

YouTube (social media platforms), well-known audio review bloggers, product comparison, and evaluation.

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

Used

ToneWinner

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What if you spend more?

Product image
REL
Classic 99
3699
3699
/
9
Reviews

Classic 99

Nothing Continues to Says Lifestyle like Mid-Century Modern RELs

Classic 99 extends our Classic Line to loftier heights. Richer, bolder, and more powerful? Certainly. Yet 99 is also capable of far greater nuance, air, and resolution than its lesser brethren. For those with more capable systems and larger rooms, Classic 99 delivers advances on every front, while still maintaining the same easy-going, room-filling nature all Classic offerings possess. The high-grade genuine dark walnut veneer complements a variety of decors. Classic 99 delivers this in the same simple, comforting form of Mid-Century Modern design. Perfect for those who welcomed the original, yet were waiting for the next chapter to be written, those who crave even higher performance and the ability to fill larger, grander spaces with a broad carpet of deep bass. You'll still want to put on a record, pour a favorite drink, sink into your favorite chair, and relax into the music or movie of your choice. Classic 99, for those who waited for more.

Designed to Be Superior

Classic 99 adopts the form language introduced in its model 98 stablemate. As comfortable as a pair of well-worn loafers, it features solid cabinet walls as thick as 32 mm, clad in rich, warm walnut veneer, hand fitted with care. The simplest of natural aluminum badges and softly radiused feet milled from solid billet, blacked out to allow it to seemingly float, ensure that nothing, not even a grille disturbs the vibe. Yet, as with all RELs, the styling conveys far more than simple comfort. The down-firing 12" driver, while unseen, will surely be felt. Continuing to the rear panel, one finds the period-correct detailing extends to the amplifier panel, where all controls are finished in lovely white gold. Everything that one encounters has the heft of quality switch gear, even the click made by the phase switch is near perfection. Quality abounds everywhere one looks or touches. Don't be surprised if your children fight over it later in life.

Driven to be Louder. And Quieter.

As anyone familiar with REL will tell you, we always begin with the driver. In this case, a bespoke 12" long stroke driver that uses lightweight, stiff, hot-pressed paper to form the main body of the cone. Laid atop that is a stiff center cap made of hand-thrown paper; to randomize the fibres, ensuring that the driver has excellent self-damping. This is one of REL's secrets. Understanding that it is the quietness, that attention to bring the driver to complete silence, that produces the most startling dynamics. Whilst Classic 99 will play shatteringly loud, it's from the very black background that the loudest dynamics emerge to produce the sense of shock sought by great composers and directors.

More than Ample Amplification

Classic 99 is big, bold, and full of character, similar to the Stentor II of our youth, but at one-third the price. Of course, the 99 has a great amp. In order to generate deeper bass and significantly higher output, we turned to a tried-and-true Class D amplifier that we've already used in thousands of previous units. This 450 watt amplifier is fed by an all analogue PerfectFilter™ front end that extends useful output well into the low 20 Hz range – superb for a design of this size and price. It produces a sound that's both rich and richly detailed at the same time. Classic 99 borrows the best from current technology to deliver a sound slightly warmer and more like what we all imagine vintage sound to be, with superior reliability and performance than was ever available back in the day.

Classic RELs: What's The Difference

How does the Classic 99 stack up against the hot little Classic 98?

While they look similar, the newer Classic 99 is some 50 percent larger (by volume) delivering 450 watts of power (300w for CL98) into a 12″ driver (10″ for CL98). Those are significant upgrades in the basic spec of the Classic 99. Yes, the Classic 99 is more powerful, plays louder and goes deeper. It should. We walk you through the untold, less obvious story that makes the Classic 99 truly special even while appreciating the magic that is the original Classic 98.

Less Wiring?

How About Wireless Technology Only REL Offers

The future meets the past gloriously in REL's wireless offerings. For the ultimate, select our Airship II which encourages the use of REL's High-Level Connection PLUS .1/LFE should your listening tastes run toward movies. And these days who doesn't stream quality video content? This is our ultimate wireless design at 5.8 GHz and uses discrete components in the front end to transform your system's sound flawlessly into totally uncompressed wireless capable of eliminating the sprawl of cables across one's living space. On a tighter budget? We slip the exact same 5.8 gig master chip into an affordable system that allows for Low Level or .1/LFE to deliver across the same 35' with the same bulletproof signal delivery that we've become famous for over the past 15 years. HT-Air MKII Wireless is one of life's great bargains.

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

  • 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
Product Page
Product Page
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Monitor
Anthra W12
3000
3000
/
8
Reviews
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.
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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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Velodyne
Digital Drive 18 Plus
4773
4773
/
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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Perlisten
D12s
4995
4995
/
5
Reviews

Massive bass, minute distortion levels, just as we intended. Grills are optional.

MODEL D12s Subwoofer: Small footprint, big sound. Benefiting from many of the technologies of our flagship subs, these sealed subs generate amazing performance in the smallest footprint. Low Q, shallow rolloff response geared for sound quality and smoothly integrating into the listening room. Also, a great choice for using multiple subs to optimize in room response and smooth out seat-to-seat variation.

The smallest subwoofer in the series, yet packs enough punch to be certified THX Dominus using a pair of D12s subs. Powered by our 1.5kW 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.

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.

All D-Series subs share our 2.4" LCD touchscreen display and ability to control advance settings using our App.

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

  • The D12s is Perlisten's smallest subwoofer, but still delivers impressive performance, especially considering its sealed design
  • Features a powerful 1.5kW amplifier, a 32-bit processor, and a TI DSP
  • Has an intuitive mobile app for controlling settings like gain, EQ, and parametric EQ
  • The D12s produces clear, fast, and tight bass, making it very musical and integrating well with various systems
  • Offers parametric equalizations, with each one giving you 10 parametric equalization bands
  • Requires a spare preamplifier output since it only has XLR and RCA inputs, unlike some active subs that use high-level outputs

Product Considerations

  • The D12s is quite heavy, weighing around 90 pounds
  • One reviewer noted a spike around 60Hz in their room
  • Might not be ideal for very large rooms or those who prefer very bass-heavy music like dub—unless paired with larger units

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs SVS-2000 Pro, the D12s has significantly lower THD at 20Hz, even at higher SPLs
  • Vs Arendal 1723-1V, the D12s sounds clearer, faster, and tighter
  • Vs Velodyne DD12+, the D12s is comparable in dynamic bass performance, but has more modern technology
  • Vs REL offerings, the D12s performs similarly in terms of speed and clarity but has more power

Takeaway: The Perlisten D12s is a high-quality subwoofer that offers a combination of power, precision, and advanced features, resulting in a detailed and immersive listening experience for both music and movies. Its versatile design and user-friendly controls make it a great addition to any high-end audio system.

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
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

ToneWinner
SW-D6000
1399
/
Released
2023
SW-D6000 is a 15 inch DSP powered subwoofer, with 800 watts RMS and over 3500 watts peak power to fill a room with strong and deep bass. It has built-in Bluetooth connectivity and supports Tonewinner subwoofer App to adjust the parameters including the gain, phase and listening mode. It has an XLR input, a RCA input and a subwoofer output. The solid MDF cabinet, LCD touch screen and wireless software upgrade lead you to a more convenient and pulse-racing bass experience.
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ToneWinner, a leading Chinese audio brand, is best known in the U.S. for its subwoofers and home theater receivers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a lot of value and performance for its price point, competing with more expensive brands
  • Has usable output down to about 13 hertz, making it suitable for movie watching and feeling low bass scenes
  • Includes a built-in DSP with an LCD display for making changes
  • Can be used in sealed mode by plugging the ports with foam and setting the DSP to sealed mode
  • Features Bluetooth connectivity and a free app for adjusting settings like phase, gain, and EQ on the fly

Product Considerations

  • Only available in black ash finish
  • May exhibit some port noise and mechanical noise when pushed to its limits—especially in the low end
  • The LCD display is upside down for those who don't place the subwoofer with its back against the wall

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The D6000 performs as well as or better than the SVS PB3000 for music, and offers a similar output with significant savings
  • The D6000 has similar output to the SVS PB-16 Ultra at a lower price point, even outperforming it in some frequency ranges
  • The D6000 offers better performance for a lower price compared to the Paradigm X15
  • The D6000 is more powerful with a bigger driver and amp than the Tone Winner D4000

Takeaway: The Tone Winner D6000 is a great subwoofer that gives you a lot for your money, with features like app control and different sound modes, and it shakes the room when you want it to. It's a solid choice for home theater and music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ToneWinner, a leading Chinese audio brand, is best known in the U.S. for its subwoofers and home theater receivers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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ToneWinner
SW-D9000
2399
/
Released
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ToneWinner, a leading Chinese audio brand, is best known in the U.S. for its subwoofers and home theater receivers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Well-built subwoofer with a robust 18-inch driver and amplifier
  • Has a lot of output, delivering violent, room-shaking bass and tactile response
  • App connectivity allows for convenient control of settings, especially when the subwoofer is against the wall
  • Good value for the price, offering high performance compared to competitors
  • Slightly more output in the low end

Product Considerations

  • Only available in a black ash vinyl wrap, which might not appeal to everyone seeking premium aesthetics
  • Has a peg-and-grommet-style grill instead of a magnetic grill
  • The six ports on the front may not be aesthetically pleasing to all users
  • In deep mode, some of the higher frequencies are sacrificed versus normal mode and strong mode

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs JTR Captivator 2400 & Arendal 17232V, it keeps up surprisingly well with these subwoofers, considering the price difference
  • Vs ToneWinner D8000 Pro, it has slightly more output in the low end

Takeaway: The SW-D9000 is a powerful subwoofer that provides extreme bass performance for a relatively good price, especially compared to other high-output subwoofers. With its app connectivity and violent bass, it's an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive home theater experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ToneWinner, a leading Chinese audio brand, is best known in the U.S. for its subwoofers and home theater receivers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
REL
T/9x
1762
/
Released
2021
The T/9x is the flagship of the T/x Serie. The job of any range topper for REL is to deliver more of everything, particularly output and dynamics. The 9x 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.
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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

  • 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

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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KEF
KC62
1949
/
Released
2021
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.
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KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

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

KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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REL
HT/1205 MKII
1132
/
Released
2022
HT/1205 MKII establishes a new performance standard for affordable home theatre subwoofers. Avoiding electronic gimmickry in favor of properly balanced priorities; cabinets that are right-sized, solidly braced and beautifully finished. A sparkling new amp design that effortlessly delivers 500W into an all-new CarbonGlas™ 12" (300mm) driver. The sexy new black lacquer top plate has a subtle REL logo floating on top, while the expensively wrought black line-grained composite for the cabinet looks the business. HT/1205 MKII plays 50% louder than its predecessor, while also delivering more precision and subtlety. It is capable of output levels more commonly found in models well over $1,000/£1,000.
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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

  • 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

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
Product Page
Product Page

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