Klipsch Reference Theater Pack review: Teeny tiny speakers will blow your house down
Any number of
sound bar
systems can significantly improve your TV’s audio, but if you really want to take advantage of rear-channel surround sound effects, your best bet is still a separate AV receiver and 5.1 speaker system. Even though that means a room full of speakers, they don’t have to be huge to create impressive sound.
The $999 Klipsch Reference Theater Pack is a perfect example. Each of its four satellite speakers is tiny, yet together they can fill a small or medium-sized room with a surround sound field that no sound bar or stereo system can match. Especially since Klipsch includes a hefty wireless subwoofer.
At a grand, though, the Klipsch is a little expensive for what it does. It’s also sonically eclipsed by larger systems, so it’s really best for people who demand the smallest of satellites. If that’s you, the well-matched Klipsch is worth a listen.
The Klipsch Reference Theater Pack is available for $999, with Australian and UK pricing and availability to be confirmed. Expect somewhere in the realm of £999 and AU$2,200, though.
The Klipsch look
Sarah Tew/CNET
While competitors are falling over themselves to produce Atmos-compatible surround sets, Klipsch is keeping it simple with a 5.1-only setup. The Pack appears to be an update on the older HD 500 with some important tweaks.
The system consists of four identical satellites which feature those iconic, brassy IMG drivers in a 3.5-inch size combined with a 0.75-inch horn-loaded tweeter. The black, plastic cabinets are small, just 7.75 inches high, 4.5 inches wide and 5.5 inches deep. Like the more expensive Focal satellites we saw recently, the Klipsch features a set of spring clips, so don’t expect to use 12 gauge or thicker wire unless you install pin plugs on the ends.
The satellites are paired with a center channel which loads a second 3.5-inch driver into a larger cabinet. Lastly, the package includes an 8-inch wireless sub set in a box roughly a foot square. The kit comes with a wireless transceiver for the subwoofer which you connect to the power and the LFE channel on your
AV receiver
.
The wireless Klipsch subwoofer features an 8-inch driver.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Setup
The Klipsch Reference Theater Pack satellites are really tiny, so the speakers don’t make much bass — they’re 3 decibels down at 110 Hertz, if you’re keeping track. That means it’s crucial your AV receiver’s bass management/subwoofer adjustments are correctly set to at least 100 Hz for all the speakers. What’s more, the speakers’ sound is fairly directional, so we recommend aiming each of the five speakers toward the main listening position for best sound quality.
We used a Sony STR-DN1080 AV receiver and an Oppo UDP 205 Blu-ray player for all of our listening tests. Even with the sub just a few feet from our listening position we had no trouble achieving a smooth blend between the sub and the sats.
The Klipsch Reference Theater Pack includes grilles for a more discrete look.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Performance
We were pleased by the way the five satellites together created a coherent, room-filling sound.
Considering the sats’ ultra compact size, dynamic range was also impressive, even when we pushed the volume fairly loud with the battle scenes in “The Revenant.” Clarity was also solid, and dialogue intelligibility in the midst of combat never sagged.
When the frontiersmen made their way over a waterfall, the sub delivered the thunderous roar of the moving water without sounding like it was working very hard. The hushed quiet of the forest scenes, with buzzing insects and birds, had excellent resolution of fine detail. With the room lights turned down the Theater Pack sats disappeared as sound sources.
Then we brought out the $1,300 Focal Sib Evo system for a round of comparisons. The Sib sats may not be very big, but they are considerably larger than the wee Klipsch sats, and the difference was audible. The Sibs sound was fleshed out a little more, they sounded more “alive”, and when we returned to the Klipsch the sound flattened out. The Sib Evo’s sats sound is less directional, so as we moved around the room, the sound balance was more consistent with the Sib Evo system.
We preferred the Sib Evo sound, but buyers looking for the smallest possible, but high-quality satellite speakers, should consider the Performance Pack.
We next played Kraftwerk’s “3-D” Blu-ray, and the Klipsch delivered the band’s trademark synth-pop with surprising gusto. Basslines bounced, the synth textures and steep transients belied the sats size. We played the music loud and heard no strain or increasing distortion, this little system’s sound can loom large. This Blu-ray’s surround mix is one of the best we’ve heard from a music program in a long time, and the Klipsch Performance Pack only made us appreciate it more.
Should you buy it?
Don’t for a second underestimate the pint-size Klipsch Reference Theater Pack’s capabilities; this system can deliver a heavy punch in a small room. Still, if you have a large room or crave chest thumping bass, you need to step up to a larger system. For less money, a combination of the ELAC Debut B5 ($230/pair), Debut C5 ($180), Debut B4 ($130/pair) speakers, and a Hsu Research VTF-1 Mk3 subwoofer ($399), and that system would soundly trounce the Klipsch Reference Theater Pack.
Of course, the big difference is that the Klipsch speakers virtually disappear into a room when you put those grilles on, and the bigger Elacs don’t. If you’re looking for a full surround system that’s even more compact than the Evo, the Klipsch is definitely worth a listen.
Polk Audio React Home Theater System with React Sound Bar, Wireless Subwoofer, and Wireless Surround Speakers
This Package Includes
- React Home Theater Sound Bar with Alexa Built-In
- React Wireless Subwoofer for React Series Sound Bar
- SR2 Wireless Surround Speakers for React Series Sound Bar – Pair
React Home Theater Sound Bar with Alexa Built-In
The Ultimate Alexa Built-in Sound Bar
Big, detailed, virtual surround sound with Alexa built-in. Control the volume, set levels, and adjust sound modes with your voice while the soundbar makes sure your TV always sounds incredible. Developed by Polk’s legendary speaker designers to work with virtually any television and remote control.
Features:
- Alexa Built-in for volume control and more
- Works with virtually any TV and remote
- Big virtual 3D surround sound
- Hear every word with Polk Voice Adjust technology
- Night, movie, and music mode pre-sets
- Optional wireless surround speakers and subwoofer
- Low-profile, wall-mountable design
- Required cables included
Great Sound for Virtually Any TV
Big, detailed home theater audio and virtual surround sound developed by Polk’s legendary speaker designers.
Alexa Built-in
Built-in Alexa acts at your command. Control the volume, set levels, and adjust sound modes with your voice.
Hear Every Word
Adjust the vocal levels from the soundbar with Polk Voice Adjust technology for clear, easy-to-understand dialogue.
Simple Setup
Simple setup through the Alexa app makes it easy to get great quality sound in minutes.
HDMI cable included.
Optional Rear Surrounds & Subwoofer
Unleash true surround sound by adding Polk SR2 wireless rear speakers (sold separately). Push your bass over the top by attaching the wireless Polk React Sub (sold separately).
Amazon Multiroom Music
Group multiple Alexa devices together for a whole home music experience. Play the same music on all devices or play different songs on each device. Control it all with your voice.
React Wireless Subwoofer for React Series Sound Bar
More Bass For React Sound Bars
Your Polk React soundbar makes your TV sound fantastic. Add a React Sub for even deeper, more impactful bass.
This seven-inch, long-throw, wireless subwoofer disappears in your room. Perfectly tuned to extend the bass of your React Sound Bar for virtually any movie, TV show, or song.
Features:
- Flared Port Tube: Low-turbulence performance for precise bass impact
- Long-throw Woofer: Moves more air than a traditional sub for extended reach
- Polk Bass Adjust™: Automatically balances your bar’s bass EQ when a React Sub is added
- Seven-inch Driver: Powerful enough to drive performance but compact enough for any room
- Wireless Setup: Two-button setup process has you ready to go in seconds
- Voice Control: Adjust bass levels with Amazon Alexa
More Bass for Your React Sound Bar
Your Polk React Sound Bar makes your TV sound fantastic.
Add a React Sub for even deeper, more impactful bass.
Engineered for Long Bass Reach
The React Sub’s long-throw, high-excursion woofer moves more air than a traditional sub for a farther reach and deeper bass.
Constructed for Tight Bass Impact
The React Sub’s unique low-turbulence flared port tube keeps bass performance tight for piece impact.
Self-regulated Bass EQ
Polk Bass Adjust™ EQ automatically adjusts a React series sound bar’s settings to accommodate the React Sub’s additional bass.
Fits Just About Anywhere
With an unassuming design and wireless connectivity, the React Sub easily hides in your room without losing a watt of performance.
Control with Your Voice
React series soundbars are controllable by Amazon Alexa. Turn up or down the React Sub’s bass with your voice.
Simple Wireless Setup
Plug it into a power outlet. Push two buttons. Done.
SR2 Wireless Surround Speakers for React Series Sound Bar – Pair
Add true wireless surround sound to select Polk soundbars with a super-simple setup.
Wall mountable or simply place them on a shelf.
Features:
- Wireless Performance: Turn your soundbar into a surround sound system
- Customer-tuned Drivers: Powered by individual amps for impactful power
- Simple Setup: Wireless connectivity sets up in minutes
- Left & Right Labeled: Prominently labeled so you place them properly the first time
Full Surround, No Receiver Required
You don’t need an audio-video receiver to get full home theater surround sound with Polk.
Wireless Connectivity
These speakers connect wirelessly to your soundbar. No need to run speaker wires across your room.
Surprising Power
Each speaker’s amplifier powers a custom-tuned driver to deliver big surround sound for the movie moments you love.
Simple Install and Setup
Mount them on the wall or put them on a shelf. Either way, you’ll be ready in minutes.
For Select Poilk React and Magnifi Sound Bars
Compatible with Polk React, Magnifi 2, and future Magnifi and React Series soundbars.
Built-in Amplifiers
More than enough power for you to notice a huge difference in your room.
Dedicated L and R Speakers
Each speaker is clearly labeled as left or right, ensuring your surround sound sounds right the first time.
Best Home Theater Equipment 2021-2022 – Reviews and Articles
New Year holidays are, first of all, a pleasant pastime with family and friends, which, by the way, will help brighten up modern home theater technology. Especially for those who want to equip their multimedia system at the highest level – our selection of the best AV equipment 2021-2022.
Klipsch THX Series
Klipsch started its journey to success at 1946, from a small workshop in Arkansas, where she produced high-end horn speakers, and in the early 80s she entered the professional solutions market, presenting her own vision of what the ideal concert and cinema loudspeakers should be.
In the current catalog of the brand, the Klipsch THX series stands apart, which includes all the speaker systems necessary for building a home theater and a private cinema: THX-8000-L and THX-8000-S, THX-5002-L and THX built into walls and ceiling -5002-S, THX-504-L and THX-502-L, and wall-mounted THX-6000-LCR and THX-5000-SUR.
Naturally, the series includes the THX-1200-SW subwoofer and the powerful KA-1000-THX subwoofer amplifier.
In the good old tradition, Klipsch uses well-proven proprietary technologies: aluminum woofers, titanium dome compression drivers and branded horns with precisely calculated geometry. All of these are essential ingredients for an unforgettable movie-watching experience with powerful soundtracks and state-of-the-art special effects.
Heco Victa Prime 602 Set 5.1
The famous German manufacturer of Hi-Fi acoustics never ceases to amaze audiophiles with attractive prices for high-end products, and it is worth noting the Prime 602 Set 5.1 home theater set, which is perfectly balanced in terms of price-quality ratio.
In addition to floorstanding speakers with two woofers, a pair of balanced midrange drivers, and a lightweight silk dome tweeter cooled with ferrofluid, the set includes Prime 202 two-way bookshelf speakers, Prime 102 center channel speakers and a powerful Prime Sub 252 subwoofer.
Bass and midrange emitters are made of a well-proven material – long-staple kraft paper. Attracting attention at first sight, the wide metal flange, which also acts as a waveguide, optimizes the directivity of the tweeter and improves its matching with the midrange register – for an even more seamless and realistic sound.
Separately, it is worth noting the fact that solid wooden speaker cabinets are reinforced with internal elements that increase rigidity and strength. The curved, tapering sides emphasize the design’s originality and help to avoid standing waves inside the cabinet, which is very advantageous in terms of intelligibility and sound articulation in the bass range.
Polk Audio MagniFi 2
Few audio manufacturers can match Polk Audio in creating great sounding yet affordable loudspeakers. In addition to high-end Hi-Fi solutions, the brand offers several models of soundbars, thanks to which it will not be difficult to install a home theater in your own living room.
A typical example is an all-in-one system called MagniFi 2. But what exactly is this model so interesting for?
First of all, we note a set of six high-end speakers, optimally placed in a compact soundbar cabinet, as well as a wireless subwoofer that guarantees outstanding bass talents for the system – thanks in large part to the large 8″ woofer driver. Separately, it is worth noting the fact that there are three HDMI ports for connecting all the necessary signal sources and native support for Google Chromecast, with access to millions of tracks from popular streaming services.
In addition to the ability to work with 4K content and decode Dolby Digital and DTS, the audio system boasts Polk 3D mode, with the ability to generate virtual height channels. In addition, the soundbar is equipped with the patented Polk Stereo Dimensional Array surround sound system, which allows you to create a surround sound stage in a compact soundbar form factor.
Epson EH-TW750
It’s no secret that Epson is one of the most famous manufacturers of projection equipment for a variety of tasks.
However, avid moviegoers probably have a question: what if the primary goal is uncompromising image quality when watching movies at home? Of course, in the model range of the Japanese brand there are solutions tailored specifically for this scenario, and as an example, the popular Epson EH-TW750 Full HD projector with 3LCD technology and advanced functionality for watching movies, TV shows and other entertainment content, a luminous flux of 3400 Lm and comfortable for watching movies with a resolution of 1920×1080 dots.
It should be noted that this is a good choice for both the living room and the dining room: the device copes with image output even in a dark room, and a contrast ratio of 16000:1 will be enough for most use cases. Along with two HDMI connectors, standard VGA and composite connectors, we have a USB port and the ability to view images from external drives. In addition, there is an option for wireless signal transmission via Wi-Fi Miracast and a practical Split Screen option that allows you to display images from two sources simultaneously.
Well, the built-in speaker will come to the rescue in the absence of a separate sound reproducing device.
Reavon X100
As you know, the rapid development of streaming services dictates new rules of the game in the home cinema segment, but Blu-Ray players are still quite a popular solution. Especially for owners of a large collection of discs and anyone who plans to purchase films on physical media, the Reavon brand has introduced a new product – an UHD BD player under the X100 index. The device immediately attracts with its external conciseness and the classic design of the front panel, where everything you need is in its place.
As for the technical details, the MediaTek MT8551 chipset, with a quad-core Cortex-A53 processor and a Mali-T860 MP2 graphics accelerator, is in the role of a computing center. In addition to UHD Blu-ray, the list of supported formats includes 3D Blu-Ray, DVD-Audio, SACD, MKV and M2TS. On the back of the case, you can find two HDMI outputs for separate audio and video output, and among the useful bonuses is support for network playback using the SMB protocol.
Optoma UHD42
Projection technology is becoming more advanced and at the same time more affordable, and this trend is gaining momentum largely thanks to the work of Optoma. We drew attention to the modern 4K cinema projector UHD42, which deserves attention for several reasons.
For cinephiles and video game enthusiasts, a detailed, bright and rich picture, a 240 Hz refresh rate, and 3400 lm of light output, which will be enough even in diffused daylight. Enhances the experience with HDR and HLG compatibility, as well as full 3D support and a dedicated game mode, with optimized response time and high brightness/contrast images. In addition, as useful bonuses, there is a built-in speaker and a backlit remote control.
Benq TH685i
If you’re looking to create a real cinema experience in your home, you probably need a modern projector. And in the event that the price-quality ratio is a priority, and in addition to watching new movies, you are not averse to spending time playing video games, the Benq TH685i is just the right solution with the most necessary functionality.
This Full HD projector features a high contrast ratio of 10,000:1 and a minimum image latency of only 8.3ms. Thus, even the most dynamic video games that require lightning-fast reactions will give a lot of impressions on the big screen. Complementing the already positive picture is HDR support, as well as a smart game mode that enhances image detail in dark scenes.
It should also be noted that the projector runs on Android and provides access to popular streaming platforms, as well as thousands of useful applications. In addition, there is a built-in speaker and automatic vertical keystone correction.
Dune HD Max Vision 4K
The famous manufacturer of media players and set-top boxes Dune HD has been creating trends and setting standards in the field of audio-video content playback for more than 15 years, and among the current models in the manufacturer’s proprietary line, the Max Vision 4K media player should be especially noted.
The device is made in a concise case with effective silent cooling and is equipped with a powerful 6-core media processor Realtek RTD1619. Of course, 3D, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision are supported, as well as Hi-Res audio and the latest multi-channel audio formats. In terms of interfaces and connectivity, there’s dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, 1Gbit Ethernet, HDMI and optical S/PDIF audio output, as well as balanced XLR and TRS audio outputs.
In addition, there are two SATA hard drive bays, and a hybrid operating system based on Dune HD (Linux) and Android gives you the widest viewing experience. The proprietary Dune HD mobile application completely replaces the conventional remote control and guarantees convenient access to all the necessary settings and parameters.
Zappiti One 4K HDR
The French company Zappiti began its activity as a software developer and supplied software, including for popular Dune HD media players. However, in 2015, the company decided to take an ambitious step and launched its own production of media players – probably following the standards of the well-known “apple” company, which prefers to independently develop both software and hardware.
Thus, the manufacturer has relied on the presence in the major league of electronics for home theater.
We also note the premium media player Zappiti One 4K HDR, with support for ultra-high definition video. This device seamlessly understands the innovative HEVC format and 10-bit color coding (one billion colors), all major 3D video standards, as well as modern Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-oriented audio formats, offering an impressive experience of total immersion in while watching movies and other content.
The appearance of the device deserves special mention: massive body parts, precise and neat design touches – all this looks harmonious and thoughtful. Behind the folding side panel is a slot for a hard drive, and on the back side there are all the necessary interfaces, including HDMI, optical and coaxial connectors, and USB.
Marantz SR7015
The Japanese company Marantz definitely has something to praise: founded in 1952, it soon became one of the leaders in the audio market.
The brand’s products are distinguished by recognizable classic design and smart technical solutions, and years of cooperation with the legendary developer Ken Ishiwata have made a significant contribution to the brand’s perception. Since the dawn of its existence, the manufacturer has focused on the creation of sound amplification equipment, and this invaluable experience definitely came in handy when developing the high-end cinema receiver SR7015.
We are greeted by the traditional Marantz appearance, tangibly gravitating towards symmetry. Precision-made handles and keys, nice indication of operating modes – all this is definitely pleasing to the eye. In terms of options and capabilities, we offer support for 8K video, HDR10, HDR10 +, Dolby Vision, Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) and Dynamic HDR, as well as 9.2-channel audio configuration and decoding, including formats such as Auro -3D and IMAX Enhanced. Plus, immersive gaming experience with 4K/120Hz support, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Low Latency Mode (ALLM).
To connect all modern sources, TVs and projectors, the Marantz SR7015 offers 8 HDMI inputs and 3 HDMI outputs.
The amplifier module is made on discrete elements and develops 180 watts of output power per channel, and an 11.2-channel preamp output allows you to expand the capabilities of your AV system. Audiophiles will be intrigued to experience the full benefits of Hi-Res recordings in FLAC, ALAC, WAV, DSD formats, and Audyssey MultEQ offers automatic audio calibration. For vinyl lovers, an MM phono stage input is provided, and the “icing on the cake” is the HEOS integrated multi-room system, with a convenient home audio control interface.
Denon AVC-X4700H
Especially for those who do not want to put up with compromises, Denon offers a premium receiver that incorporates a whole bunch of modern technologies: AVC-X4700H supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based formats, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual :X, the latest 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz standards, as well as HDR10, Dynamic HDR, Dolby Vision and HLG technologies.
Useful functionality also includes the HEOS system: listening to music from Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Amazon Music HD, TuneIn internet radio becomes as easy as two or two. In addition, it is worth noting the possibility of voice control using Siri, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Moreover, supporters of the highest sound quality will certainly be interested in the possibility of listening to FLAC, ALAC, WAV and DSD, and Audyssey sound calibration technology will contribute to accurate sound reproduction, taking into account the acoustics of the room.
The new audio processor is capable of handling up to 11.2-channel configurations, with IMAX Enhanced support for those who dream of uncompromising cinematic sound, and dual subwoofer outputs to fill the room with tactile, informative bass.
Avid vinyl-lovers, as well as everyone who is just planning to buy a turntable, will appreciate the built-in phono stage, but for supporters of personal audio, it is possible to connect wireless headphones to the receiver.
By the way, about the interfaces: there are 7 inputs and 3 HDMI outputs with HDCP 2.3 and eARC support.
Arcam AVR10
Founded in 1976 by Cambridge University alumni, Arcam became a respected audiophile brand and its products soon became synonymous with quality British sound. As for the AVR10 AV receiver presented in the current line of the manufacturer, it demonstrates not only the most modern functionality, but also the skills of a very musical audio performer.
An important hallmark of the AVR10 is its careful attention to the traditions of the Arcam brand, combined with the latest audio and video playback technologies. Thus, we have a premium 12-channel solution, with support for 4K UHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D and IMAX Enhanced surround sound formats.
The DAC is a first-class ESS 9026PRO chip, and the amplifying part works in the AB class, which is a priority for many audiophiles. Dirac’s automatic calibration system optimizes the sound for room acoustics, while the optional Dirac Live Bass Control system further takes into account low-frequency signal propagation and performs effective equalization.
As for wired and wireless interfaces, we have 7 inputs and 2 outputs HDMI, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth. In addition, there are advanced streaming capabilities, support for Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast.
NAD T778
The history of NAD began in 1972 in the UK, and in the 90s the company changed owners and became Canadian, but continued to follow the intended course and to this day offers high-end audio equipment with an enviable combination of price and quality. A good example is the T778 premium AV receiver, which is definitely worthy of becoming the heart of a modern cinema system.
The design is extremely concise and no frills, and on the front panel there is only the most necessary things: a large display, several connectors, a power button and a volume control knob. However, this first impression can be misleading, because the technical stuffing of the device promises the most modern features: support for 4K Ultra HD, 7. 1.4 Dolby Atmos, DTS Master Audio, 9gain channels and sound correction technology based on Dirac Live room acoustics. Plus Apple AirPlay 2, ROON, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect and everything you need to play audio at the highest possible sound quality.
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Home theater subwoofer
Low sound frequencies are difficult for human hearing. The peculiarity of the perception of such frequencies is that they can be felt not only with the ears. This is approximately from 20 to 160 Hz, sound below 20 Hz is perceived by a person only in the form of vibration or pressure. In this case, we hear the sound “with the whole body.”
What is a subwoofer
Subwoofer is an element of the audio system that is responsible for the propagation of low sound waves. High-quality bass creates the illusion of direct presence, leaving a unique viewing experience. Therefore, a subwoofer is necessary for a home theater that has floor-standing or built-in speakers.
The subwoofer makes the sound clear and high quality, especially when watching movies rich in special effects. Without it, you will not be able to fully hear and feel:
- The roar of wild animals or the purr of a cat;
- Sound of drums, firing, explosion of projectiles;
- Thunder and falling stones;
- Concerts of favorite bands, bass guitar playing.
Good sound appeals to any user, no matter how familiar with sound effects.
How it works
Basically, a subwoofer is a subwoofer. An audio system of any size is not able to reproduce different frequencies without damaging each other. Low frequency waves are powerful and require more power and speaker size. The places in the room that are optimally suited for their sound also differ. Understanding this led to the emergence of a separate device that generates bass delivery.
The subwoofer is responsible for two basic principles of a good audio system:
- Reproduces low frequencies at the lower end of the sound range, giving the impression that the bass is not heard by the ear, but is felt by the body.
- Keeps the rest of the frequencies clear in a separate box without distorting the signal due to vibration created by built-in home theater speakers and the whole system.
For ideal sound, the subwoofer is usually installed separately, even if ceiling speakers or built-in speakers are installed for home theater. The installation takes place by ear. Ideal sound effects can be achieved by installing two subwoofers in a room.
Key features
Size
A good subwoofer has a lot of power. Size also matters: the larger and deeper the speaker, the more powerful the built-in amplifier. According to the simple laws of physics, a small speaker cannot be good. Reduced in relation to the dynamic head of direct radiation, the proportions of the body cause an increase in the distortion of acoustic waves.
Power
Optimum power of the subwoofer amplifier is determined based on the total power of the loudspeaker. Experts recommend parameters at which the power of the subwoofer amplifier is 1.
5 times higher than the power of the front speakers. This ratio allows you to achieve the best sound quality.
Root mean square
Rated power (RMS) is the electrical current at which the device will operate without being damaged. It is measured in watts and is indicated on the outer casing of the speakers.
For example: a power rating of 1 W means that an amplifier with an output power of 0.5 – 1 W can be connected to the speaker.
Otherwise, the speaker will begin to wheeze and may fail completely.
Frequency range
When choosing a subwoofer, pay attention to its frequency range. Main operating ranges:
- Low – 20 to 40 Hz;
- medium – 40 to 80 Hz;
- high – 80 to 160 Hz.
The most powerful models for the big stage reproduce frequencies from 15 Hz. For home theater, the lower indicator from 30-35 Hz is quite suitable.
Sensitivity
Optimum sensitivity is within 90 decibels. A stronger sound puts a load on the amplifier, and it becomes harder for the subwoofer to handle the load.
The higher the maximum sound pressure rating, the better the speaker performs.
Frequency response (AFC)
Types of subwoofers
There are active and passive subwoofers. The difference between them is that the amplifier is present only in the active speaker.
The passive subwoofer connects to an external amplifier so it works when connected to an external speaker system. Although this puts additional stress on the amplifier, the sound quality is improved, deeper bass can be achieved and the range of sound effects can be expanded. Unlike an active subwoofer, a passive subwoofer is more difficult to set up, but the sound quality is worth it.