Are REL the most Musical Subs?

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

Top contributor

Jonathan Gourd

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

                                                                                                                             Jack Dale

Author

Top contributor

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

Top contributor

Jack Dale same driver as al130   David Moran
Top contributor

​​​​​​​

Jack Dale

I’ll find the brochure

Another +1 for Rhythmik (I have a pair of F12G's -- with the GR drivers). I use an external crossover to avoid overlap between mains and subs. 

In general, I look at subs addressing two issues: First, and for some the only issue, they get the low end that your speakers are missing. Having an external crossover is a must.

The second issue is addressing room modes in a way that preserves your system's imaging. This can be complex to calculate, but there are techniques (look up the "subwoofer crawl" for example) to experimentally determine placement. And DSP systems may be able to help, although DSP is not some magic bullet that can make up for poor sub placement.

The beauty of using two or more subs is that they can cancel out areas of high bass amplitude and/or fill in areas of low bass amplitude. The sub placements that minimize room modes are highly unlikely to be the optimal placement for your mains. This is fine; as long as the crossover is less than about 100 Hz, most people's ears won't be able to localize the source of low frequency sound. 

So with multiple subs, you can place the subs for best room mode mitigation, while leaving your speakers in the locations that provide the best imaging / soundstage. Even if you had magic 20-20kHz speakers, the locations of the speakers for imaging vs. the location for best bass won't be the same. You are better off decoupling that location by using subs and an active crossover.

Placed properly, two or more subs will make that soundstage seem much bigger; everything disappears and you're right there with the music. What has worked for me is two Rhythmik subs crossing over at 70 Hz to my Epicon 6's. Yes, the Epicons can play lower, but the room response means letting the Rhythmiks take the bottom end is the right thing.

I wish I could build a proper listening room, but that's not in the cards for me. Proper placement of multiple subs is a reasonable alternative to a dedicated room...