REL Acoustics has announced an update to its legendary S series . The new lineup includes four subwoofer models: the S/550, S/850, Carbon Special Black Label, and 212 Black Label , each a contemporary reimagining of the company’s signature concept of high-quality active subwoofers.
The new S-series models feature a refreshed design: the enclosures are wider and lower, while the internal volume of all models has increased. REL engineers completely redesigned the drivers, focusing on speed, control, and deep bass penetration. The new-generation amplifiers draw on the developments of the Reference series, delivering serious power with effortless ease.
The REL 212 Black Label is a unique design from REL. Two active 12-inch CarbonAlloy™ drivers are supported by two 12-inch passive radiators and driven by a 1,000-watt Class-D linear amplifier. This configuration delivers breathtaking dynamics, speed, and control, making the 212 Black Label the ideal solution for the largest home theaters or high-end stereo systems.
Compared to its predecessor, the 212/SX, the new model features improved suspension geometry, increased diffuser travel, and upgraded SuperProgressive passive radiators with 30% more linear travel. Available exclusively at select Black Label dealers, the model also features an optional wood grille.
The REL Carbon Special Black Label active subwoofer represents the pinnacle of REL’s mid-size subwoofer evolution. The driver, with a 12-inch, all-carbon fiber cone, borrows heavily from the design of the REL No. 31 reference model. A 900-watt amplifier is housed in a larger enclosure than its predecessor. The result is bass that combines thrilling power, speed, and tonal detail.
A specially designed filter delivers an airy, transparent soundstage in the upper frequencies, while maintaining natural and captivating ultra-low frequencies. The Carbon Special Black Label model comes standard with a high-quality wood grille. It accentuates the cabinet’s sophisticated design while improving airflow.
The REL S/850 model exemplifies the speed, bass depth, and precision that define the REL concept. The results are impressive: the S/850 offers lightning-fast transients, deep, articulate bass, and a tonal balance that breathes life into both music and movies. Its ability to combine authority with refinement makes it the ideal choice for those seeking truly high-quality sound.
Compared to the previous-generation S/812 model from the S series, the new S/850 features increased power to 850W, improved CarbonAlloy™ drivers, and a redesigned cabinet architecture. All REL input filters are 100% analog, making them among the fastest in subwoofers. The key to this success is the use of a high-level input that connects directly to the amplifier’s speaker terminals. This allows the subwoofer to seamlessly integrate with the main speakers.
The ability of the entry-level REL S/550 model in the S series to combine authority with sophistication makes it the ideal choice for those seeking truly high-quality sound in a mid-sized system, with performance that consistently exceeds expectations. The S/550’s new 10-inch long-throw driver has been completely redesigned, retaining only the die-cast enclosure.
The CarbonAlloy™ cone, covered in pure carbon fiber, sharpens the attack and smooths the decay. The improved surround design provides greater excursion, easily handling the amplifier’s increased power output to 550 watts.
Distinctive features of the updated REL S -series active subwoofers :
• CarbonAlloy™ speakers
All models in the new S-series feature advanced CarbonAlloy™ drivers, which combine aluminum cones with carbon fiber reinforcement on the rear. This solution increases diaphragm rigidity by 60% and delivers rapid response with stunning impact power.
• New generation amplifiers
Class B amplifiers provide huge power and current reserves with high efficiency.
• Improved passive radiators
The new carbon passive radiators feature special suspensions with increased linear excursion, allowing the subwoofers to produce a more atmospheric sound, adding lightness and naturalness to the reproduction.
