About the Serie R Sub-Bass Systems
Many or most loudspeakers emphasize the mid-bass. This is the range from 50 – 90Hz. We at REL believe this is
an incomplete approach and that loudspeakers need to be supplemented in the lower frequencies for true full range
reproduction. All of our designs are true Sub-Bass Systems, meaning they are designed to reproduce very low
f
requencies (below 30 Hz) that are felt rather than heard. This is because we believe that music is full-range, as are
sound effects on movies, and we intend for our products to reproduce all of these sounds, not just a narrow band.
The Serie R is equipped to allow you to take full advantage of AC3, Dolby Digital, DTS, MPEG 2 and any other digital
sound format that includes a dedicated Low Frequency Effects (LFE) channel. The dedicated LFE input meets the tough
specification laid down for digital 3/2.1 channels, usually known as 5.1. The output is nominally flat from 35 – 90Hz. It
has a dedicated input level control, which enables users to set the LFE level independently of the processor. This
is important because not all processors offer control over this significant parameter. The LFE channel is frequently
outputting at 10 dB higher levels than the other channels. The Serie R also has high-level speaker level inputs with
their own input level control. Uniquely, both the speaker level and the LFE input can be used simultaneously. This
means you may set it up for an audiophile sound with your CD’s or other stereo signals and instantly revert to using
the Sub-Bass System as the dedicated LFE component when watching movies. This is a feature of real benefit if you
wish to play music in stereo mode in the purist audiophile way and in full 5.1 digital mode. True flexibility!
Introduction to the Design of the REL Serie R Sub-Bass Systems
Serie R is conceived as the ultimate value proposition in the REL line; possessing many of the performance attributes
of our legendary Reference products, yet remaining much more compact and affordable.
Compared with the original R-Series that debuted in 2006, this fresh approach offers superior performance in all
regards through improved amplification, vastly superior filter networks and upgraded cabinet and driver designs.
Additionally, the Model’s R-528 and R-328 feature a down-firing carbon fibre ABR passive radiator that vastly
increases the driven surface area, while adding very little additional mass. The performance leap is substantial, not
just in sheer output where they excel, but also in drive, ease and musicality. The additional speed mixes with the
greater body and heft to produce an altogether more impressive musical event.
Note: Serie R model designations are arrived at in the following manner. The first digit (2, 3 or 5) signifies model
with performance increasing numerically. The second digit signifies total driver count (active and ABR). The final
and third digit is year design commenced, 2008.
R-218 features a single down-firing 10” driver in a beautiful, high- gloss lacquered cabinet, driven by a brand new
state-of-the-art digital amplifier. In addition to producing remarkably fast, rhythmic bass, this amplifier is extremely
energy efficient—an aspect of REL designs that has always been a strength. We chose a down-firing orientation for
two reasons; firstly, it allows for beautiful, simple and harmonious styling. As much as, or more so, than any other
product category, sub-bass systems come under scrutiny for their size and styling. REL’s designers have striven
to achieve a very “quiet” visual design that is understated and elegant making it, in effect, an exceedingly polite
houseguest. Secondly, the down-firing design is a classic favorite; what it lacks sonically in projection of bass into
the listening area and leading edge attack, it gives back in rich, warm room-filling bass.
R-328 represents a serious step-up in performance as it upgrades the active main drive unit to a more potent
Heavy 10™ – a driver capable of handling sixty percent greater power and offering superior dynamics and speed.
Added to this is a new lightweight, stiff carbon fibre 12” ABR passive radiator that is pitched quite low and thereby
avoids the normal slow, plumy quality of typical ABR design. The additional driven surface area that predominantly
comes into play at very low frequencies and high amplitudes has the effect of creating a variable cone surface
capable of acting like a fast 10” driver for smaller more delicate material, then transforming into the equivalent of
a 15” driver when demand calls for it. Internally, REL refers to this progressive driver size as VariCone™. Finally, due
to the improved driver, amplifier power is upgraded to 350 watts.
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