- A new design for better integration
- Rel Acoustics 212 Black Label: the pinnacle of performance
- Rel Acoustics Carbon Special Black Label: high-end bass in a compact package
- Rel Acoustics Serie S/850: the reference model in the series
- Rel Acoustics S/550 Series: compactness without compromise
- Rel Acoustics S Serie subwoofer comparison table
- Summary
The new Rel Acoustics S Series subwoofer range sets new standards in performance, design and sound integration. Completely redesigned, this iconic series adopts lower, wider silhouettes, redesigned drivers for a faster, deeper response, and amplifiers derived from the British brand’s Reference models. The result: a more nuanced, faster and better-integrated bass reproduction for both music and home theater.
A new design for better integration
The redesign of the S Series begins with a new aesthetic and functional approach. The cabinets are now wider and lower, an evolution that reinforces their visual presence while facilitating their placement in the listening space. This new geometry also improves vibration management and optimizes acoustic behavior.
The drivers have undergone a complete reengineering, aimed at improving response speed, control and low-frequency extension. Combined with amplifiers borrowed from the Reference range, these elements deliver deeper, more dynamic and perfectly controlled bass.
Rel Acoustics 212 Black Label: the pinnacle of performance
Designed to bring sound to the largest spaces, the Rel Acoustics 212 Black Label embodies uncompromising performance. It features two 30cm (12″) active CarbonAlloy drivers and two passive radiators of the same diameter, all powered by a 1,000-watt class D amplifier.
This model aims to offer both colossal power and fine craftsmanship. It is designed for high-end home theater installations and exceptional hi-fi systems. Its objective: to deliver massive but always nuanced bass, with speed and authority.
Rel Acoustics Carbon Special Black Label: high-end bass in a compact package
The Rel Acoustics Carbon Special Black Label represents another approach to performance, in a more restrained format. It features a 12″ carbon fiber driver inspired by the No.31 reference model, coupled to a 900 watt amplifier.
This subwoofer features hand-crafted, solid-wood grilles for a clean, aesthetic appearance, while guaranteeing a premium sound reproduction. It stands out in particular when used in a “Line Array” configuration, stacking several subwoofers in a column to harness its full potential in terms of sonic precision and scale.
Rel Acoustics Serie S/850: the reference model in the series
The Rel Acoustics Serie S/850 is the founding model of this new range. It features an 850-watt amplifier, combined with a 12″ active CarbonAlloy driver and a passive radiator facing the floor. This configuration delivers powerful, fast and refined bass.
According to the manufacturer, this model was used as the basis for defining the acoustic principles for the entire range. As such, it has become the in-house benchmark: “the standard by which all others are judged.”
Rel Acoustics S/550 Series: compactness without compromise
With a lower, wider design, the Rel Acoustics Serie S/550 is more elegant, yet still highly efficient. It combines a 550-watt Pure Class D amplifier with a 25cm (10″) CarbonAlloy active driver, backed up by a 30cm long-excursion passive radiator.
This configuration enables it to achieve higher performance than its size would suggest. It delivers fast, rich, deep bass with excellent dynamics. This model marks a real leap forward for subwoofers of this size.
Rel Acoustics S Serie subwoofer comparison table
| Key specifications | Rel Acoustics 212 Black Label | Rel Acoustics Carbon Special Black Label | Rel Acoustics Serie S/850 | Rel Acoustics Serie S/550 |
| Active drivers | 2 x 12″ (30cm) CarbonAlloy | 1 x 12″ (30cm) full carbon | 1 x 12″ (30cm) CarbonAlloy | 1 x 10″ (25cm) CarbonAlloy |
| Passive radiators | 2 x 12″ (30cm) | 1 x 12″ (30cm) | 1 x 12″ (30cm) down-firing | 1 x 12″ (30cm) Carbon/Carbon |
| Amplification | 1,000W class D | 900W class D | 850W class D | 550W Pure class D |
| Driver technology | CarbonAlloy | Carbon fiber (derivative No.31) | CarbonAlloy | CarbonAlloy + long-throw radiator |
| Format / Dimensions | Vertical | Medium format | Standard format | Compact format |
| Distinctive features | High efficiency, designed for large rooms | Optional solid wood grille, Line Array compatible | Reference model, tonal balance | New architecture, extended lows |
Summary
The new Rel Acoustics Serie S range has undergone a profound evolution while respecting its DNA. Each model, from the compact Rel Acoustics S/550 Serie to the powerful Rel Acoustics 212 Black Label, benefits from an accomplished acoustic concept, a rethought design, and oversized amplification for its category. This range is aimed at both hi-fi and home theater enthusiasts looking for powerful, precise and immersive bass. By focusing on nuance as much as on raw performance, Rel Acoustics reinforces its status as a benchmark in the world of high-end subwoofers with this new generation.
Source : https://rel.net/pages/new-serie-s
