Subwoofer specialist Rel Acoustics celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. Founded in 1990, the brand has established itself as an essential reference in the world of subwoofers, combining power, precision and refined design. To mark this event, REL is unveiling a special edition of its flagship model: the T/9x SE, available in exclusive, bold finishes.
Rel Acoustics: a quest for excellence
The Rel Acoustics story began with a clear vision: to enhance the listening experience by bringing greater depth and richness to audio systems. Based in Bridgend, Wales, the brand has, from the outset, focused exclusively on the design of subwoofers, of which it is now a key player, thanks in particular to its top-of-the-range audiophile models.
The success of Rel subwoofers is largely due to their high-level connection to the amplifier. By taking the signal directly from the amplifier’s output stage – the same one that powers the speakers – Rel ensures seamless sonic integration and total compatibility with all types of amplification.
Another key advantage is the use of high-current amplification. Unlike voltage-only designs, Rel favors a high-current power supply, essential for powering the large drivers in its subwoofers with dynamism and control. This technical requirement is reflected in the development of custom amplifier modules, operating mainly in class A/B, an approach recognized for its performance in terms of musicality and bass precision.
Beyond the electronics, Rel Acoustics pays meticulous attention to the design of its subwoofers. Their enclosures benefit from robust internal bracing, inspired by the architecture of musical instruments. This advanced engineering drastically reduces unwanted resonance, guaranteeing clean, deep and perfectly controlled bass. Finally, each sub boasts an exemplary finish, worthy of the finest acoustic instruments. Multi-coat lacquering gives Rel subwoofers a refined aesthetic, in perfect harmony with their acoustic performance.
Rel Acoustics T/9x SE: a special edition
To celebrate its 35th anniversary, the British manufacturer has launched the Rel Acoustics T/9x SE, a special edition of its flagship Rel Acoustics T/9x model(read the Rel Acoustics T/9x review). It stands out not only for its enhanced performance, but also for its luxurious aesthetics. It comes in a range of striking finishes, including Italian Racing Red, Mon Yellow and Tangerine Dream Orange, all inspired by the world of famous Italian sports cars. These new lacquered finishes add a touch of sophistication, and are complemented by beautiful chrome feet for even greater elegance.
The Rel Acoustics T/9x SE sub also features a new 9.8″ driver. The center of driver’s cone now made from carbon fiber. This design reduces weight while increasing rigidity, offering even more precise control, better transient performance and optimized efficiency. This driver is mounted in a sealed enclosure and coupled to a downward-firing passive radiator of the same diameter for even bass diffusion throughout the room.
As usual, the British manufacturer has integrated a custom amplifier for the Rel Acoustics T/9x SE. The 300W RMS module uses class AB biased MOSFET transistors to maximize the harmonic richness of the bass register. Thanks to a very high current capacity, it ensures a dynamic, energetic reproduction. Finally, the amplifier can be connected via RCA line level or LFE, and of course at high level via the professional-quality Speakon connector.
The new Rel Acoustics T/9x SE subwoofer celebrates the manufacturer’s 35th anniversary in style, testifying to the brand’s ongoing commitment to innovation and sound quality. Combining luxurious design and top-notch acoustic performance, this special model embodies the brand’s expertise and dedication to delivering ever more accurate bass reproduction.
