Wharfedale Goes Deep: New Nova Subwoofers Scale from 8 to 15 Inches

Wharfedale has introduced the Nova series, a four-model family of active subwoofers designed for both two-channel music systems and multichannel home cinema installations. The lineup comprises the Nova 8, Nova 10, Nova 12 and Nova 15, with each model name corresponding to its driver diameter in inches.

Four models for different system requirements

The Nova range begins with the compact Nova 8 and progresses through 10-inch and 12-inch versions to the flagship 15-inch Nova 15. Although the models differ in cabinet size, amplification and low-frequency reach, they share the same core driver, radiator and DSP concepts.

The Nova 8 uses an 8-inch driver and has a specified low-frequency extension of 33 Hz at -6 dB. Its Class D amplifier delivers 200 watts nominally and 500 watts at peak. The enclosure measures 348 x 320 x 361 mm and weighs 16.3 kg.

Moving up the range, the Nova 10 employs a 10-inch driver and reaches 29 Hz. Nominal output is rated at 230 watts, with 500 watts peak. It measures 391 x 363 x 408 mm and weighs 22.2 kg.

The Nova 12 combines a 12-inch driver with low-frequency extension to 28 Hz. Amplifier power is specified at 280 watts nominal and 770 watts peak. The cabinet measures 443 x 435 x 487 mm, while total weight is 29.3 kg.

At the top of the lineup, the Nova 15 features a 15-inch driver and also extends to 28 Hz. Its amplifier is rated at 360 watts nominal and 770 watts peak. Dimensions are 549 x 540 x 607 mm, and the subwoofer weighs 47.8 kg.

Long-throw drivers and passive bass radiators

Every Nova model is built around a newly developed long-throw driver with a coated paper cone. Wharfedale has paired the cone with a cast chassis, high-roll surround and a motor system designed for substantial excursion.

A large-diameter voice coil is used to support thermal efficiency and power handling. An aluminum shorting ring is also incorporated into the motor structure.

Rather than using a conventional bass-reflex port, each enclosure includes a downward-facing Auxiliary Bass Radiator. This mass-loaded passive radiator is intended to reinforce low-frequency output while avoiding the use of a traditional vented alignment.

Class D amplification and DSP control

Wharfedale says the amplifier, driver, enclosure and digital signal processing were developed as an integrated system. Class D amplification is used throughout the range, with nominal power increasing from 200 watts in the Nova 8 to 360 watts in the Nova 15.

Dynamic equalization adjusts the subwoofer’s frequency response according to playback level. The DSP also manages driver excursion as output rises, helping coordinate the behavior of the amplifier and long-throw driver.

System setup controls include adjustable crossover frequency, phase alignment and level calibration. The crossover can be set from 40 Hz to 160 Hz across all four models, allowing the Nova subwoofers to be matched with a range of main speakers and room configurations.

Connections for stereo and home cinema systems

The connection panel supports both line-level and speaker-level integration. A stereo RCA line input is provided, with the right channel also supporting an LFE signal for connection to compatible home cinema electronics. Stereo RCA line outputs are included as well.

For amplifiers without a dedicated subwoofer output, the Nova models offer a high-level input through four binding posts. A 12V trigger allows coordinated power control within an integrated system, while a USB port is reserved for firmware updates.

This combination of LFE, stereo line-level and speaker-level connectivity reflects the range’s intended use across dedicated music systems and multichannel installations.

Finish and availability

All four Wharfedale Nova subwoofers will be offered exclusively in a matte black finish. Deliveries are expected to begin toward the end of September. Regional pricing has not been announced.

With four cabinet and driver sizes, shared DSP features and several connection options, the Nova series gives Wharfedale a single active-subwoofer platform covering compact stereo setups through larger multichannel systems.