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.
All
VI-Q 12
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Driver: 12" front firing driver
- Amplifier: Class D 900 watt dynamic 500-watt RMS
- Overall Frequency Response (± 3 dB): 25Hz – 180 Hz
- Overall Frequency Response (± 10 dB): 22Hz – 250 Hz
- Low Pass Crossover: 50 Hz to 180 Hz (12 dB/Octave)
- Phase: 0 / 180 degrees
- Cabinet Design: 22mm HDF 50mm front
- Magnet Structure: Dual ferrite magnet motor
- Woofer: 12" high excursion triple vented basket driver with carbon fiber Membrane and convex cone
- Voice Coil: Four Layer 3" / 76mm voice coil
- Input: Gold plated Stereo/LFE RCA, Nickel plated XLR and High level in
- Output: Gold plated Stereo/LFE RCA, Nickel plated XLR
- Power Selector: Off / Auto / On
- Finishes: Flat mat black paint
- Dimensions (W/H/D): 41cm x 48cm x 41 cm
- Weight: 25 kg (approx)
- Shipping Weight: 28 kg (approx)
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:
- Velodyne subwoofers are engineered with a focus on both music and home theater, striving to provide a balanced experience suitable for diverse audio content.
- The DB series emphasizes sealed enclosure designs, prioritizing superior tonal quality, tighter, more articulate bass, and reduced overhang for musical instruments.
- They are committed to creating smaller subwoofer designs that do not sacrifice large driver or high excursion performance, enabling the products to fit well into various environments and applications.
Select products
MicroVee X:
- Positioning: Compact subwoofer designed for small spaces.
- Description: Offers impressive bass performance in a compact size, making it ideal for small rooms or setups where space is limited. Features a 6.5-inch active driver with two passive radiators, providing powerful bass that rivals larger models like the Deep Blue series. Its Digital Drive Control System ensures precise bass reproduction.
Impact X:
- Positioning: Mid-range subwoofer series for versatile use.
- Description: Delivers powerful low-frequency sound with efficient front-firing drivers, suitable for both music and home theater applications. Features a Class D amplifier and anti-clipping circuitry, offering a balance between performance and affordability. Compared to the Deep Waves series, it provides more power and flexibility with its DSP presets.
Deep Waves:
- Positioning: Affordable subwoofer series with app control.
- Description: Combines high precision and performance with extensive customization options. Features a front-firing active driver with side-firing passive radiators, offering a presence in home theaters that rivals the more expensive VI-Q series. Its iWoofer app allows for easy adjustments.
Deep Blue:
- Positioning: Versatile subwoofer series for various setups.
- Description: Offers a wide range of sizes, from 8 to 15 inches, providing options for different room sizes and audio needs. Features a quad voice coil and solid MDF cabinet, ensuring high efficiency and minimal distortion. Compared to the Impact X series, it offers more flexibility in setup and connectivity.
VI-Q:
- Positioning: High-performance subwoofer series with advanced features.
- Description: Combines high-quality driver configurations with modern technology, such as the iWoofer app for room adjustment and a 25-band parametric equalizer. Offers more power and precision than the Deep Waves series. Its sealed cabinet design and professional connectivity options make it suitable for high-end home theater systems.
Digital Drive Plus:
- Positioning: Flagship subwoofer series with cutting-edge technology.
- Description: Redefines subwoofer performance with digitally controlled drivers and advanced calibration algorithms. Offers the highest precision and power in the lineup, with 1,250 watts RMS and 3,000 watts impulse power, surpassing the capabilities of the VI-Q series.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Digital High-Gain Servo Control
Velodyne was a pioneer in integrating real-time servo-feedback control in subwoofers. This patented technology uses an accelerometer to monitor and correct the diaphragm's movement with extreme precision, reducing distortion to less than 0.5%. This level of accuracy results in exceptionally clean, accurate bass even at high output levels, something most competitors can’t achieve.
Auto-EQ Plus Room Calibration
We also stand out with our Auto-EQ Plus system, which adapts the subwoofer’s output to the acoustics of any given room. Using a microphone for measurement, the system automatically adjusts the bass response for optimal performance, eliminating the need for complex manual adjustments.
What's your approach to customer support?
Customer support is extremely important to us. In most cases, customers should reach out to their local dealer or distributor first; they are trained to assist and provide fast, local solutions. However, our service team in Germany is always available for direct assistance when needed. We offer in-house repairs, spare parts (even for many legacy models), and we try to go above and beyond with trade-in options and consultation to keep Velodyne Acoustics products performing for decades.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
"Royals" by Lorde (for tight, controlled bass dynamics)
"Why So Serious?" by Hans Zimmer (The Dark Knight OST) (for deep extension and subsonic detail)
"No Sanctuary Here" by Chris Jones (for weight and rhythm in lower registers)
What other products pair best with yours?
We often see fantastic synergy with Wilson Audio speakers. Their clarity and dynamic range complement our fast, articulate subwoofers beautifully. For two-channel and home cinema alike, it’s a powerful match.
Used
Velodyne
What if you spend more?
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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
The lightweight carbon fiber cone, in conjunction with the 3-inch voice coil, ensures optimum partial vibration behavior with low distortion values High power with up to 650 W RMS Class-D amplification with 1200 W maximum power; highly efficient switching power supply with 2 x 25 A / 650 V MOSFET transistors Solid front made of a 21-layer plywood board with a material thickness of a full 50 millimeters With its professional XLR connectors, RCA jacks for left and right channel and high-level connectors, the best connectivity is guaranteed
Product Strengths
- Diverse connection and control options plus plenty of displacement encourage experimentation
- Transient response and control were clearly among the design goals
- The use of carbon fiber composite as the cone material is known for its rigidity and extremely low weight
- Class D power amplifier with 650 watts of continuous and 1200 watts of impulse power acting on a motor system with two generously dimensioned ferrite magnets provides plenty of driving force
- Solid, well-braced cabinet is a must
Product Considerations
- Setting options are limited to the crossover frequency and volume level, the phase can only be inverted via toggle switch
- A large part of the functionality has simply been moved to an app, thanks to DSP and wireless connectivity
- SHS should only be used in "emergencies", but in these cases it's good to be able to experience the performance with a bass foundation
Takeaway: The Velodyne VI-Q 15 is a subwoofer that wants to make itself heard, with a good soundstage. The VI-Q 15 masters the role of the unnoticed bass butler.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Video review
Our take on the brand
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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.
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
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Deep and clean bass from a very compact cabinet, making it space-saving
- Integrated room calibration with included microphone and stand, which effectively compensates for room modes
- App with EQ and convenient control
- Design incorporates a force-cancelling design with an active and passive driver to reduce cabinet movement and improve bass precision
- Variety of connectivity options, including XLR, RCA, and high-level inputs
Product Considerations
- Comes without any grills, which may be a consideration if there are babies or animals
- Instructions manual might be outdated
- App's EQ adjustments are somewhat cumbersome, as the changes cannot be heard live during setting
- More precise phase adjustment in the app would be useful
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to SVS 3000 Micro, the MiniVee X is much cleaner at 80dB, exhibiting lower second harmonic distortions between 30 and 40 Hz
Takeaway: The MiniVee X is a compact subwoofer with great features for fine-tuning sound to the listening space. It delivers clean and precise bass, making music and movies sound great.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers deep bass and tactile response, especially welcome when movie-watching
- Large driver provides a seat-of-the-pants feel, making it the center of the action
- Nimble and accurate despite the amount of driver being moved, partly due to its sealed design
- Integrates seamlessly with main channels, giving the impression of an almost limitless full-range speaker, rather than a separated subwoofer and main
Product Considerations
- Lacks advanced features like app control, EQ, digital filtering, remote, preset modes, wireless connection, or 12V trigger
- Exposed wood where the driver opening was machined through the baffle is a basic black pigment which stands against the otherwise smooth woodgrain veneer finish of the rest of the sub
- At very high volumes, the amplifier may struggle with very heavy and long synthetic bass, particularly when combined with a strong bass drum
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS SB16-Ultra: The DB-15 is lighter, suggesting it's built to a different price point
Takeaway: The Deep Blue 15 delivers deep and impactful bass, suitable for both music and movies, in a relatively compact sealed cabinet. It is an attractive option for those seeking a large-driver subwoofer without wanting to color the source with a boom-box.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Superb detail and punch for both movies and music
- Impressively deep bass levels without sounding bloated, retaining good articulation and detail
- Taught and punchy bass that remains controlled even during intense action sequences
- A front-mounted LED display and remote control for volume, phase, and crossover frequency
- Sound modes or EQ presets
Product Considerations
- Packaging could be improved to provide better protection during shipping
- Spring clip connectors are disliked on the back of the subwoofer
- Frequency adjustment via remote was found to be somewhat vague
- The feet are non-adjustable and may cause stability issues on uneven hard floors
- The remote doesn't clearly show when phase is switching
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Newer Impact models are considered phenomenal, while older ones were just okay
- Two Impact X's can be purchased for the price of one DB, making it potentially a better value
- While the Impact X 12 does not dip as low as the 15 inch or the SVS PB, it offers plenty of heart-pounding bass for the average listener
- The Velodyne Impact-12 sound is reminiscent of one of its forebears, the CHT-12R
Takeaway: The Impact X subwoofer offers a lot of value with its impressive bass performance and features like a remote and LED display. It's a great option for those seeking a powerful and affordable subwoofer for both movies and music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good authority in its sound
- Bass extended fairly low—lower than its spec sheet would suggest
- At lower volumes, the bass was pretty good
- Class AB design aims to provide higher fidelity
- Featured chassis mounted RCA's
Product Considerations
- At louder volumes, the subwoofer started to draw attention to itself
- Speed really started to fall by the wayside at louder volumes
- The cabinet is simply not up to snuff
- Cabinet is not braced at all, and it's fairly thin
- The pull tab on the grill looks a little bit cheap
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Rhythmic L12 extends lower, can play louder, is more articulate with its bass, its speed and transients are better, the bass is deeper, and the bass note distinction is better; the Rhythmic L12 at $589 is superior
Takeaway: The Deep's bass is fairly deep, speedy, and articulate at low volumes. The class AB amplifier is intended to give the user that desired quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size makes it suitable for small spaces and easy to integrate into various environments
- High-quality construction with materials like an aluminum cabinet and carbon fiber drivers
- Precise and nuanced sound reproduction
- Versatile connectivity options, including LFE, RCA, and speaker-level inputs
- Includes a remote control for convenient adjustments
Product Considerations
- The speaker terminals only accept bare stranded wire
- While it adds bass, it doesn't have the explosive power and dynamics for intense cinema experiences
- Previous models had more power, but the new model is reportedly louder across the frequency range
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the SVS Micro 3000, MicroVee X is smaller
- Compared to the KEF C62, MicroVee X has a lower price point
- Compared to the Velodyne Deep Blue, MicroVee X is smaller and less powerful, but more suited to music
Takeaway: The MicroVee X is a compact and stylish subwoofer that delivers precise and nuanced bass, making it a great addition to smaller spaces where sound quality is prioritized. Its versatile connectivity and convenient remote control make it a practical choice for both home cinema and stereo setups
Video review
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