Velodyne VI-Q: powerful bass for hi-fi and home theater

Subwoofer specialist Velodyne recently presented its new VI-Q subwoofer series. Replacing the Velodyne WiQ range, this new line innovates with the Velodyne VI-Q10, Velodyne VI-Q12 and Velodyne VI-Q15 subwoofers, whose driver, which measure up to 15″ in diameter, are made entirely of carbon. Enough to ensure unprecedented hi-fi and home theater bass?

Velodyne VI-Q: carbon driver

With the Velodyne VI-Q range, the American manufacturer introduces a new carbon-fiber driver. This high-end material, long neglected by the brand, offers unique properties, ideally combining lightness and rigidity. These features are essential for a good driver, maximizing power handling while keeping the cone easy to move. This capability is due to the use of a double ferrite magnet coupled with a 3″ voice coil for high efficiency, fast rise times and very high impulse response. Finally, the diameter of this driver varies from 10″ for the Velodyne VI-Q10 to 12″ for the Velodyne VI-Q12 and 15″ for the Velodyne VI-Q15.

Velodyne VI-Q: high power

Each Velodyne VI-Q subwoofer incorporates Class D amplification ranging from 450W RMS to over 650W RMS, depending on the model chosen. The module used is selected by Velodyne for its very high dynamic range and its ability to respond effectively to the slightest demands of the soundtrack. To achieve this, the manufacturer uses a very high-power decoupled power supply (2 x 25 A MOSFET transistors at 650 V on the Velodyne VI-Q15) to maximize current capacity.

Velodyne VI-Q: sealed cabinet

Velodyne VI-Q subwoofers all have a sealed MDF chassis. The extra-thick front panel is made of 21-ply plywood with a total thickness of 50mm. This structure, coupled with numerous internal reinforcements, ensures optimum rigidity to absorb all the mechanical force transmitted by the driver. Finally, each Velodyne VI-Q subwoofer benefits from a stereo RCA input (switchable to line input), an XLR input and a high-level input for easy pairing with any hi-fi amp or AV receiver.

Velodyne VI-Q: price & availability

The Velodyne VI-Q range of subwoofers is now available for pre-order from €1,790. The first units are expected to arrive in the next few days. Here is a table illustrating the specific features of each model in the range: