Are REL the most Musical Subs?

I have owned or listened carefully to subs from SVS, Polk, Klipsch, REL.  I currently have subs from B&W and Monitor Audio.  For two channel listening I prefer high level input over line level, so take that for what it’s worth.

I prefer the sound of the REL subs I’ve listened to (S/812 and T/5x) which I would characterize as being “musical” with “organic” but “fast” sounding bass over the SVS (SB-1000 and SB-4000) which sounded “clean” and slightly “sterile” to me.

I looked carefully at Rythmik subs when I was shopping, and nearly bought one because I like sealed cabinets, need high level and line level inputs, and they have a solid reputation, but I ended up going in a different direction for aesthetic reasons.  I am sure that would be a solid choice.

No matter what direction you go, good bass is expensive, and I have no problem spending as much or more on the subwoofer as on a pair of speakers.  If you elect to buy two subwoofers as many have suggested here, that won’t be hard.

Had three different REL models over the past two decades for my two channel system. Single sub set up only. Definitely a fan. Surprising no one has mentioned the substantial increase in tonal density, imaging and dimensionality with a properly integrated sub creating a far more engaging lisening experience.

For me, that was the "magic" as opposed to additional "punch" and "rattling" low frequency output. Perhaps that explains why REL is considered "musical" and often preferred by those folks who are serious two channel hobbyists.

substantial increase in tonal density, imaging and dimensionality with a properly integrated sub creating a far more engaging lisening experience.

For me, that was the "magic" as opposed to additional "punch" and "rattling" low frequency output. Perhaps that explains why REL is considered "musical" and often preferred by those folks who are serious two channel hobbyists.
 

Recently purchased a REL Classic 98, which sounds more similar to my previous Rythmik F12G. Both added the tonal density and dimensionality that you mention, but somewhat lack that additional “punch” that perhaps SVS and similar subs offer. In light of this, I’ve found that you can have the most impressive sub on the market, but if it doesn’t integrate well into you 2-channel system, it becomes too noticeable over time. I think it also depends on how much that mid bass is desired. Cohesiveness through integration, as well as the convenience of REL’s SpeakOn connector helped with my preference of REL over previous subs. Perception is that the REL is more of an extension of my main speakers than a separate speaker.

I found that the impact of a well integrated REL added density and body to the entire frequency spectrum. Assume / speculate that's hopefully the case with other competent subs 

hi does anyone know about this Allison push/ pull sub they are talking  about ? maybe have photos ? i cannot find any information about it 
Thx ! 
there is a LOT of experience here . respect 
David Moran

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Jonathan Gourd

There was also a really terrific double push-pull passive sealed sub

                                                                                                                             Jack Dale

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David Moran can find no record of that sir!

Only this 10-in and there was an 8 in as well.

I had thought about remaking one of my al-130s that's been bastardized with a different mid-range to a push-pull sub center channel

How low do the Allison 8 inch woofers go to?

With that electronic subwoofer you can push him down a bit right?

Well if you can find the specs dimensions for that dual push pull sub I can use a pair of Alison woofers did they use different woofers for a sub then?

David Moran

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Jack Dale same driver as al130   David Moran
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Jack Dale

I’ll find the brochure