Some speakers, soundbars, and subwoofers deserve to be heard — and seen. Clients come in all shapes and sizes, as do their speaker needs. Fortunately, there are many options available to them. For those who want to impress with a set of floorstanding models, we offer this collection of recently released beauties. We start with front/center/rear speakers, then move on to soundbars, and then subwoofers.
Speakers
B&W 705 and 702 Signature Speakers
B&W has introduced two new Signature versions of premium loudspeakers from the 700 Series range: the stand-mount 705 Signature and floor-standing 702 Signature. The new 705 Signature and 702 Signature models have upgraded crossover design and new cabinet finish. Launched in 2017, the Bowers & Wilkins 700 Series range of speakers features the Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top assembly, Continuum cone drivers, and Aerofoil profile bass drivers that are used in combination with the Carbon Dome tweeter and rigid cabinets. Both models now feature specially treated and upgraded bypass capacitors sourced from Mundorf, larger heatsinking, and, in the case of the 702, an upgraded LF capacitor on the bass section of the crossover.
The 705 and 702 Signature boast a new Datuk Gloss ebony-colored veneer with a distinctive grain. This custom-designed finish combines the beauty of exotic real-wood veneers with the environmental benefits of a sustainably-sourced supply, in this case from specialist Italian wood company Alpi. Each pair of speakers is unique, with no two models sharing the same grain pattern or figuring. To further accentuate and highlight the quality of finish on each model, both Signature speakers have bright metal trim rings around the mid/bass and midrange cones plus bright, silver- finished tweeter grilles.
The 702 Signature and 705 Signature are priced at $6499.99 a pair and $3999.99 a pair, respectively.
Monitor Audio 6th Generation Bronze Series
Monitor Audio’s Bronze range has now entered its 6th generation and has received a complete upgrade in both sound and build quality. With a choice of eight models, including Monitor Audio’s first Dolby Atmos-enabled module, the Bronze Series has been designed to please any music or movie lover.
The Bronze Series features a new Uniform Dispersion (UD) Waveguide that combines with Monitor Audio’s C-CAM Gold Dome Tweeter to give even sound dispersion, improved time alignment, and wider directivity for a more lifelike listening experience.
The new C-CAM Drivers have been specially engineered using conical diaphragm geometry for increased control and feature Damped Concentric Mode (DCM) technology that works in partnership with the UD Waveguide to lower the crossover frequency and produce a more accurate time response.
JBL HDI Series Loudspeakers
Harman is now shipping the new JBL HDI Series, which is led by the flagship triple 8-inch, 2.5-way HDI-3800 floorstanding loudspeaker. The range also includes the triple 6.5- inch, 2.5-way HDI-3600 floorstanding loudspeaker, the 6.5-inch, 2-way HDI-1600 bookshelf loudspeaker with HDI-FS floorstand accessory, the quad 5.25-inch, 2.5-way HDI-4500 center channel loudspeaker and the 12-inch, 1000 W RMS HDI-1200P powered subwoofer.
The four full-range models of the JBL HDI Series are based on JBL’s patented 2410H-2 compression driver and benefit from advanced research and applications from JBL Professional’s D2 transducers. Each HDI full-range model features woofers complete with cast aluminum frames, cutting-edge motor structures, and Advanced Aluminum Matrix cones. Taking advantage of core JBL engineering techniques, the HDI woofers ensure high output with low distortion. The HDI powered subwoofer model carries the same engineering prowess with a high-density Poly-Plas cone and a 3-inch voice coil.
The HDI Series is currently available for purchase with retail pricing of $5000/pair for the flagship HDI-3800 floorstanding loudspeaker, $3800/pair for the HDI-3600 floorstanding loudspeaker, $1800/pair for the HDI-1600 bookshelf loudspeaker, $1750/each for the HDI-4500 center channel loudspeaker, and $3000/each for the HDI-1200P powered subwoofer. Additionally, the HDI-FS floor stands are available at $400/pair.
Klipsch The Fives Powered Monitors
Klipsch has added The Fives powered monitors to its series of Heritage Wireless speakers. The Fives are the first powered monitors to feature HDMI-ARC to connect directly to a TV, producing high fidelity sound from dedicated right and left speakers. According to Klipsch, the result is a big, bold sound stage, and a better listening experience than the common soundbar.
With custom-designed built-in amplifiers, Klipsch Heritage Wireless speakers The Fives deliver room-filling sound while eliminating the need for an audio/video receiver. They connect to virtually everything. In addition to HDMI-ARC, the Fives feature an integrated phono pre-amp, Bluetooth wireless technology, digital optical, and analog RCA and USB inputs. A subwoofer output is also included.
The Fives incorporate proprietary Klipsch Reference acoustic horn-loaded technology and tuning to deliver loud and precise audio with enhanced bass and low distortion. Bulit-in dynamic bass equalization matches the ear’s ability to hear lower frequencies. The Fives also feature 192 kHz/24-bit decoding for reproduction of high-resolution audio tracks.
They are available now through Audio Advice, Klipsch.com, and other authorized retailers for $799 per pair (US MSRP).
Theory Audio Design Now Shipping
Theory Audio Design is now shipping its first seven products worldwide. Loudspeaker models in the Theory lineup consist of three high output soundbars, the sb65, sb75, and sb85, designed to match with 65-inch, 75-inch, and 85-inch flat panel TVs, the sb25 high output multi-purpose loudspeaker, and the sub12 and sub15 passive subwoofer models with 12-inch and 15-inch drivers, respectively.
At the heart of the Theory line is the ALC-1809, 9-channel Amplified Loudspeaker Controller. With 1800 watts and 96 kHz/32-bit digital signal processing, the ALC-1809 is the AV version of an integrator’s swiss army knife, combining the functionality of five products in one: a multi-channel DSP processor, high-power multichannel home theater and distributed audio amplifier, multichannel mixing amplifier, multichannel bass manager, and high-resolution loudspeaker processor, all in a 1U package.
KEF Expands Reference Line
KEF has expanded the KEF Reference finish selection with a new Silver Satin Walnut finish, as well as new bespoke Kent Foundry Edition finishes (Blue Ice White and Copper Black) to the Reference 4c and 2c center speakers.
The new Silver Satin Walnut finish utilizes a Silver Satin, tone-on-tone design encompassing the drive units within a solid, brushed aluminum front baffle. Pair-matched Walnut, real wood veneered cabinets compliment the speakers’ overall design. The Foundry Edition finishes adorning the 2c and 4c center speakers pay homage to KEF’s Maidstone beginnings, Blue Ice White hints at the blue of the original KEF logo, while Copper Black combines the latest Reference technology with an aesthetic that evokes this rich pedigree. Together the finish selection consists of Piano Black, Silver Satin Walnut, Kent Edition Copper Black, and Kent Edition Blue Ice White as the 2020 finish selection for floor, bookshelf, and center channel models.
ELAC Carina Speakers
The ELAC Carina Series line of home speakers builds upon the success of ELAC’s 240 line with significant upgrades to both performance and aesthetics. Some of the notable new features of the Carina line-up include:
Newly Developed JET Tweeter — ELAC’s new JET tweeter is designed for fast response and wide dynamic range, offering minimal distortion, lots of headroom, and a wider frequency range.
Compound Curvature Aluminum Woofer — To match the capabilities of the JET tweeter and guarantee a seamless transition from the woofer to the JET tweeter, the compound curvature cone has been developed to control the cone breakup and move it beyond the operating range of the woofer. It also features a large diameter voice coil and oversized vented pole piece magnet.
Downward Firing Ports — These ports allow for more flexible speaker placement and minimizes ventilation noise. The bass reflex port on the Carina series is directed to the floor, exiting the bottom of the speaker cabinet in a down-firing configuration.
Definitive Technology Demand Series High-Performance Tower Speakers and Center Channel
The Definitive Technology Demand Series D15 and D17 tower speakers feature an annealed 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, which is laterally offset and coupled with a 20/20 Wave Alignment Lens. This allows for more precise imaging by eliminating undesirable symmetric diffraction from the corners of the front baffle, resulting in a refined and balanced listening experience, according to the company. Definitive Technology’s patented Balanced Double Surround System (BDSS) midrange/woofer promotes greater excursion and delivers superior mid-range detail and punchier bass. In addition, a linear response waveguide extends both on-and off-axis frequency response, while improving dispersion for more natural mid-range timbre and precise imaging.
The D5C center channel perfectly complements the Demand Series tower and bookshelf speakers to create a truly immersive home cinema experience. The two-way center leverages dual 5.25-inch mid-range drivers and 1-inch annealed aluminum dome tweeter with the same Wave Alignment and Linear Response Waveguide.
Pricing for the Demand Series includes, D15: $1699/each, D17: $2299/each, and D5C $799/each.
Enclave Audio CineHome II and CIneHome PRO Wireless Audio Solutions
Enclave Audio has expanded the CineHome product portfolio with the introduction of two new WiSA Certified wireless multichannel surround speaker systems: the CineHome II and CineHome PRO and the new CineHub wireless audio transmitter.
Each CineHome speaker system consists of three wireless front speakers (left, right, and center), two wireless rear speakers (left and right), and a wireless subwoofer. Unencumbered by the constraints of speaker wire, both the CineHome II and CineHome PRO surround sound speaker solutions feature quick set up. The systems pair and sync automatically to deliver a high-definition audio experience across a 360-degree field of true wireless surround sound by leveraging WiSA technology.
With WiSA compatibility, the CineHome II and CineHome PRO speaker systems can be bundled with the Enclave CineHub or configured to work with any WiSA Certified transmitter or any WiSA Ready devices within the ecosystem, including the 2019 LG OLED and LG NanoCell TVs. Not dependent on any external Wi-Fi, the new WiSA Certified CineHome surround sound systems operate on a discrete wireless network exclusive to the audio system, which safeguards the speaker systems from latency, lag, or interference common with other wireless devices operating in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency bands while supporting uncompressed 24-bit, 96 kHz audio with extremely low latency and less than one microsecond of synchronization between speakers.
The CineHome II surround sound speaker set is available starting at $999.99 US MSRP. The CineHome PRO surround sound speaker set is available starting at $1499.99 US MSRP. The Enclave CineHub is available starting at $149.99 US MSRP but when bundled with a CineHome II or CineHome PRO speaker set, is available for $99.99.
Soundbars
Leon FrameBar
While consumers love how Samsung’s The Frame looks more like an art piece than a TV, integrators have often struggled with how to add high-end audio to the installation. Leon Speakers has announced the launch of FrameBar, a discreet, ultra-thin soundbar that was designed to match the width and finish of The Frame TV, providing enhanced audio and an unobtrusive aesthetic.
FrameBar is available in two models and is built-to-order to match the exact width of any model of The Frame TV 43 inches and above. A variation of Leon’s HzUT soundbar, it features 2.5-inch audiophile-grade woofers and 22mm cloth-dome tweeters in an ultra-thin cabinet only 2.375-inches deep that mounts flush to the wall. FrameBar comes in four finishes: White, Black, Brown, and Beige, to match The Frame finishes offered by Samsung, and it features flat moulding with an exposed cabinet edge on the front of the soundbar. While FrameBar ships standard with a black fabric grille cloth, there is the option to upgrade to a collection of designer grille fabrics to give the installation an even more customized look.
LG GX Soundbar
The LG GX soundbar boasts 3.1 channels with advanced features and aesthetics that are designed to complement the LG GX Gallery series OLED TVs. The LG GX soundbar is the perfect companion to LG’s Gallery OLED TVs. To offer maximum flexibility, the soundbar can be mounted either flush on the wall directly under the TV or supported using the included steel stand. Measuring about 6 inches high by 57 inches wide by 1-1/4 inches deep, the LG GX soundbar is identical in width and finish to the 65-inch LG GX Gallery series OLED TV. At the core of LG’s gallery design is the philosophy of a complete TV system that can fit harmoniously within a given space — a concept that LG’s designers refer to as “adding spatial value.”
LG GX soundbar delivers immersive theater sound thanks to Dolby Atmos and DTX:S for three-dimensional audio. The speaker supports Dolby Vision and 4K pass-through. The included subwoofer connects wirelessly to the soundbar to deliver low-frequency bass from anywhere in the room and adding LG’s wireless rear speaker kit (model SPK8, sold separately) delivers even more power and a greater sense of immersion. The LG GX soundbar has a suggested price of $1299.
Sony Electronics HT-G700 Soundbar
Sony Electronics Inc. has announced the new HT-G700 soundbar, offering immersive cinematic sound and clear dialog. This Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar features Vertical Surround Engine technology and a center speaker for a premium audio experience. With Immersive Audio Enhancement, users can upscale even regular stereo audio to a 7.1.2 sound experience. The HT-G700 3.1 channel system includes a dedicated center speaker, which ensures vocal clarity, whether it’s quick-fire TV dialog or whispered movie lines. This feature also enhances music to offer a detailed and intimate listening experience.
Signal processing in the HT-G700 has been improved to deliver surround sound to a wider home theater area. Additionally, finely tuned S-Force PRO technology uplifts sound to fit larger TV screen heights (over 55 inches), so viewers can enjoy a more immersive experience. The 400-watt soundbar also features a wireless subwoofer, which enhances the experience by delivering a deep, rich bass sound.
The HT-G700 has a suggested retail price of $599.99.
Sonos Arc Smart Soundbar
Sonos has introduced Sonos Arc, a smart soundbar that brings immersive, cinema-quality sound to homes around the world. Powered by Sonos’ new sound experience platform, Arc makes powerful home theater easy with unrivaled choice in what to listen to and how to control it, with the option to expand the system. Arc is available for $799.
Sonos Arc delivers an ultra-wide soundstage and significant bass. Eleven high-performance drivers, including two that are upward firing for 3D audio, produce clarity, detail, and depth. Tuned in partnership with Oscar-winning mixing engineers, Arc adjusts its sound profile through software, based on the home theater setup and what’s playing, whether stereo, Dolby Digital 5.1, or Dolby Atmos.
Totem Solution Bar Family Soundbars
Part of Totem’s Tribe series, the Solution Bars family soundbars are passive designs, which means off-board amplification can be used to get better sonic results. The Solution Bars family are designed for large-screen TVs, however their music-only performance is notable, delivering a large soundstage and accurate phase coherency. The range offers two models: the Tribe Duo Solution Bar is a 2-channel design in a sealed cabinet, while the Tribe Trio Solution Bar is a 3-channel LCR in a ported enclosure.
Featuring long-throw 4-inch woofers, both models have been created to work with screens 65 inches and larger. Their low-profile design and included flush-mount non-resonant wall bracket make them ideal for on-wall installations. Should it be desirable to place either product on furniture or a mantle, adhesive backed sound isolation feet are provided to create a solid base from which the product can perform.
Klipsch Bar Soundbar Lineup
The Klipsch Bar 54, Bar 48, and Bar 44 soundbars are crafted from wood and utilize horn-loaded technology to look and sound like the brand’s acclaimed Reference speakers.
The Klipsch Bar 54 with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X technology is a 54-inch soundbar system with a 12-inch wireless subwoofer and Surround 3 with Dolby Atmos speakers. The system delivers a full 5.1.4 cinematic experience by bringing sound to life from all directions, including overhead. An included HDMI-eARC technology connection as part of HDMI 2.1 allows for compatible TVs to transmit Dolby Atmos from built-in apps. Built-in universal Wi-Fi works with Google Assistant virtual personal assistant, Apple AirPlay 2, and Amazon Alexa for control through any streaming partner. Add Klipsch Surround 3 with Dolby Atmos speakers (sold separately) for dedicated discrete 7.1.4 surround sound. Available Fall 2020 at a U.S. MSRP of $1499.
A more compact Klipsch Bar 48 with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X technology measures 48 inches and comes with a 10-inch wireless subwoofer for 3.1 immersive sound. An included HDMI-eARC connection as part of HDMI 2.1 allows for compatible TVs to transmit Dolby Atmos from built-in apps. It may be paired with Klipsch Surround 3 speakers (sold separately) for 5.1 surround sound. Available Fall 2020 at a U.S. MSRP of $699.
The Klipsch Bar 44 is the smallest in the series at 44 inches in length packaged with an 8-inch subwoofer for an easy-to-use 3.1 sound experience. The bar features Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus enhanced audio decoding, Bluetooth wireless technology connectivity, as well as HMDI-ARC to connect to a TV using a single HDMI cable. It may be paired with Klipsch Surround 3 speakers for 5.1 surround sound. Available Summer 2020 at a U.S. MSRP of $499.
Denon DHT-S216 Soundbar
Denon has announced its first full-range soundbar with DTS Virtual:X, the DHT-S216 ($249). The soundbar leverages psychoacoustic algorithms developed by DTS to realistically simulate a multi-channel soundtrack played on a home theater surround sound system. The DHT-S216 is easily connected to any TV and media player via 4K UHD HDMI with Audio Return Channel or Optical/Auxiliary inputs.
At only 2.35-inches tall, the Denon DHT-S216 has been tuned by Denon sound masters to deliver high playback quality using two 3-inch down-firing subwoofers, two 1 3/4 x 3 1/2-inch dual mid-range drivers, and two 1-inch tweeters. New to the Denon soundbar lineup, the DHT-S216 features Pure Mode, which eliminates surround processing and removes any adjusted characteristics associated with Movie, Music, or Night mode for a more precise and open sound. Listeners can also pair their smartphone or tablet with the soundbar via Bluetooth to stream their favorite music with ease. The DHT-S216 ($249) is currently available via authorized Denon retailers.
Next Level Fusion Frame Soundbar Line
Next Level Acoustics is now shipping its new Fusion Frame soundbar line. Fusion Frame features a design that, with its picture-frame bezel, 1.75-inch depth, and no-gap mounting, matches Samsung’s Frame TV. When Frame TV is off and displaying art, owners can sync their favorite music to the Fusion Frame soundbar so the art is accompanied by music for a true lifestyle enhancement to any room.
To create Fusion Frames’ shallow depth, Next Level Acoustics engineered a proprietary enclosure with an internal air-load management system and a proprietary woofer capable of deep natural bass from a shallow cabinet. Fusion Frame’s high-frequencies are handled by a 1-inch soft dome tweeter from audiophile Danish driver manufacturer Vifa along with a proprietary crossover that uses high-grade precision components. A custom ultra-rigid high-density sealed enclosure comprised of CNC-machined MDF and lined with an anti-resonant coating makes a vibration-free cabinet.
Fusion Frame soundbars can be driven by amplifiers from 30 watts or up to 150 watts. To match the four sizes of Samsung Frame TVs, there are six Fusion Frame models available. Four are stereo soundbars and two LCR models are available for the larger 55- and 65-inch sizes. All use the same drivers regardless of size.
Episode Expandable Soundbar
SnapAV and Episode have announced the release of its new Expandable Soundbar, allowing dealers to match premium audio with TV width for a custom solution. Now dealers can streamline their process by using a single product for various installs versus keeping multiple inexact fixed-length soundbars on hand.
The Episode Expandable Soundbar features a three-piece adjustable design to match televisions 50–70 inches in size. The outside channels expand to match TV length and extend the soundstage to the edge of the TV for room-filling sound. It also features a three-piece metal grille and low-profile aluminum cabinet for a smooth install.
According to the company, Episode has perfected the science of sound through low distortion, wide dispersion, and flat-frequency response to deliver a fully-immersive experience with amazing sound at low and high volumes. And with premium components, the Expandable Soundbar provides a theater-like experience on any install.
Subwoofers
Vanco’s Beale Street Audio BPS-65 and BPS-80 Subwoofers
Vanco International LLC, is now shipping the in-room powered subwoofers from its Beale Street Audio brand. The BPS-65 and BPS-80 deliver deep, articulate bass to constricted spaces as a result of Beale Street Audio’s patented Sonic Vortex technology. Engineered with solid wood cabinets wrapped in a black matte finish, the Beale Street Audio in-room subwoofers are compact but mighty. Under the hood, a black cloth magnetic grille conceals the rigid Kevlar woofer (6.5-inch for the BPS-65 and 8-inch for the BPS-80), plus butyl rubber surround.
Both models feature a 220-watt built-in amplifier compatible with 110/220 volts, 4-ohm impedance, and a sensitivity of 90 dB. On-board inputs and controls include Stereo and Mono Audio Line Level (RCA), Stereo Speaker Level and Passthrough, Audio Sensing, LFE, and adjustable Phase Settings and Subwoofer Crossover Frequency. The BPS-65 has a frequency response of 38 Hz–300 Hz, and the larger BPS-80 takes performance up a notch with a frequency response of 28 Hz–300 Hz.
Velodyne MicroVee MKII Subwoofer
Velodyne Acoustics, which has new owners in German high-quality music reproduction specialist, Audio Reference, has announced an updated version of the MicroVee MKII. First introduced into the market back in 2006, MicroVee was one of the brand’s most successful products on record. Improvements include significantly increased amp power along with a revised DSP profile. Overall, listeners will notice a much tighter and cleaner bass delivery, but with lots of with control and speed.
MicroVee MKII, like the earlier versions, is not meant to shake the earth, but is a compact unit designed for MDUs and smaller residences where huge amounts of bass extension are not needed and where loud noise can also cause problems with neighbors. The Velodyne MicroVee MKII retains its compact form factor so it is still the company’s smallest self-powered sub. From a 22.9 x 22.9 x 24.4 cm cabinet, the unit creates more than enough output for most applications, while being easy to place in any room. Input wise, there are LFE, speaker level, or mini-jack capabilities.
The really big changes to this new version come in the amplification arrangements. MicroVee MKII enjoys a significant upgrade, increasing its power to 1200 watts RMS (2000 watts Peak) with new and precise DSP profiling. MicroVee MKII offers more control and less distortion than the MK I. Other features of note are the single active 6.5-inch driver (5-inch piston diameter) and two 6.5-inchin passive radiators (5-inch piston diameter). The machine also gets all the benefits of Velodyne’s Patented Energy Recovery System amplifier (2000 watts Dynamic Power) as well as solid heat dissipation and structural rigidity due to the ribbed extruded aluminium cabinet. There is also speaker level pass through with 120 Hz crossover.
Atlantic Technology FS Series Wireless Powered Subwoofers
Atlantic Technology is now shipping the FS Series wireless powered subwoofers. By using low-latency SKAA wireless audio technology these subs work with Atlantic Technology’s growing line of wireless multi-room SKAA speakers, soundbars, and amps as well any other brand of soundbar, TV, AV receiver, or other audio source on the market. Both models are affordably priced with a $399 MSRP for the 6.5-inch woofer 100-watt amplified FS-S65 and $549 MSRP for the 8-inch 150-watt FS-S8.
The FS Series of subwoofers receive low-latency long-range SKAA wireless audio signals from a growing line of Atlantic Technology SKAA wireless multi-room products. The FS Series’ long-throw bass driver uses a vented magnetic motor structure and a high-temperature, four-layer aluminum voice coil. This driver design has a very stiff composite cone that acts like a piston through its operating range.
The proprietary high-efficiency 100- and 150 watt amplifiers are capable of very high current delivery. Each amplifier is precision matched and equalized to its specific driver.
PSB Alpha Subwoofers
PSB Speakers has two new additions to the latest generation of Alpha Series. The Alpha S10 ($549 U.S. MSRP) and the Alpha S8 ($449 U.S.) powered subwoofers round out the current Alpha lineup launched in early 2019. The S8 and S10 pay attention to the design of the crossover filters and to deliver and “imperceptive transition between subwoofer and speaker,” according to the company. The S8 and S10 also incorporate a rear slot port design specifically created to eliminate any audible port noise or chuffing.
The Alpha S10 and Alpha S8 are equipped with a new 150-watt RMS amplifier, which is able to deliver 210 watts of dynamic power, as well as long-throw drivers and bass reflex enclosures designed. The woofers feature polypropylene cones and rubber surrounds.
Carl Tatz Design PhantomFocus PFM ICE Cube-12 Subwoofer
Carl Tatz Design has announced a new high-performance professional reference studio subwoofer as part of its line of PhantomFocus Precision Monitoring Instruments. The PFM ICE Cube-12 Subwoofer anchors the foundational sonic footprint of the PhantomFocus System but can be used in any application where the audio professional demands the highest low-frequency performance with full 20 Hz frequency response and extremely tight and powerful dynamic pitch articulation. Two years in development, it is the first subwoofer to display the PFM moniker.
Designed with the ICE Power amplifier technology developed by Bang & Olufsen (B&O) of Denmark, the PFM ICE Cube-12Subwoofer renders both power on demand and virtually no wasted energy, all while running cool. The 12-inch long-throw, audiophile grade paper-coned driver offers sonic authority and features a magnet motor structure and cast aluminum frame. Additionally, the simple design of the ICE Cube-12 subwoofer employs a DSP solution for crossover and driver control as well as maintaining a low distortion output by preventing signal overload.
Sonus faber Gravis III Subwoofer
The Sonus faber Gravis III subwoofer is the intermediate model in the Gravis collection, completing the Olympica Nova line introduced in September of 2019. Aesthetically, Gravis III follows the style of the previous products, with a black leather covering and discreet Piano black wooden finish. However, the subwoofer’s top finishes of Wengè and Walnut matte create the connection to the newer Olympica Nova collection.
The removable fabric grille with metal pins covers a 10-inch (250mm) ultra-long throw driver that includes a Trilaminated sandwich cone diaphragm with a layer of honeycomb in between, managing the driver’s excursion and resistance flexing. According to Sonus faber, the stiffness of the cone merged with its extreme lightness allows the subwoofer to produce the tightest and most accurate bass reproduction possible. The Class AB amplifier can produce 600 watts into an 8-ohm load. A wide frequency range is provided through the included digital signal processor, implemented in the input preamp stage, that allows adjustments in order to optimize dynamic impact and sonic reproduction depth.
Both high and low-level input signals are accepted — the first by means of a Speakon 4-pin connector, managing the two L and R channels. One or two line level signals can be carried by means of balanced or unbalanced cables, respectively, through two 3-pin XLR and RCA plugs. The LFE signal can be fed to the subwoofer through the shared XLR or RCA. If avoiding cables back to the receiver/preamp/processor, Gravis III integrates a wireless receiver to pair with the optional transmitter, allowing complete connectivity without long wiring runs. Retail price is $2750.
Origin Acoustics Performance Subwoofers
Origin Acoustics’ Performance Subwoofers feature coated paper woofers, high-powered digital amplifiers, and a lightly textured and brushed finish. According to Origin, these new subwoofers deliver more volume, lower frequencies, an attractive aesthetic, and it all sits in a smaller cabinet. This collection benefits from an additional down-firing passive radiator, which provides extended bass frequencies and volume with no extra power consumption.
All Performance Subwoofer models feature a premium line grain finish, which is a hybrid wrap with a tactile finish and subtle richness that is suitable for display. Available in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch configurations, these models are rated for 180, 200, and 300 watts RMS, respectively. The new models are named the SUBV8P, SUBV10P, and SUBV12P. These subwoofers are available now to any approved Origin Acoustics integration firm at U.S. MSRPs of $500, $700, and $900.
SVS 2000 Pro Series Subwoofers
SVS has announced the new 2000 Pro Series subwoofers. Each of the three models boasts an all-new 12-inch high-excursion SVS driver and a 550 watts RMS, 1500+ watts peak power Sledge STA-550D amplifier with discrete MOSFET output. Comprised of the SB-2000 Pro sealed cabinet, PB-2000 Pro ported cabinet, and PC-2000 Pro ported cylinder cabinet models, each new SVS subwoofer features advancements to the driver, amplifier, cabinet and overall user experience.
Powering the 2000 Pro Series is a Sledge STA-550D amplifier that combines the high current output of discrete MOSFETs with Class D efficiency that boasts 550 watts RMS and 1500+ watts peak power and low distortion. Harnessing the power of the Sledge amplifier is a 50 MHz Analog Devices Audio DSP with 56-bit filtering.
Drivers in the SVS 2000 Pro subwoofers feature a dual ferrite magnet motor assembly with long-throw parabolic surround for extreme excursion with room-pressurizing SPLs. A lightweight and rigid aluminum vented cone with composite fiber dustcap moves large amounts of air to create tactile sonic energy without losing control.