KEF Ci200QSb-THX and Ci200TRb In Wall Subwoofer Preview

The SVS 3000 In-Wall Subwoofer is SVS's initial foray into the architectural audio market, offering an in-wall subwoofer system at a price point of $1,999 for a single unit and amplifier or $2,999 for two subwoofers and an amplifier. This product is designed to fit within standard 2x4 stud walls, making it suitable for both new constructions and retrofits. The subwoofer features two custom-designed 9-inch high-excursion drivers housed in a sealed enclosure. The design prioritizes discretion, with a black metal box and grill, but maintains a robust build quality utilizing a combination of MDF and aluminum to maximize internal volume and driver size while keeping the profile thin. The SVS 3000 In-Wall Subwoofer system includes a proprietary Sledge STA-800D2C amplifier, which delivers 800 watts RMS and 2500 watts peak power through discrete MOSFET output devices. The amplifier is compatible with the SVS smart control app, providing users with convenient adjustments for various parameters, including three bands of parametric EQ, which are deemed sufficient for achieving excellent sound. The amplifier also supports the addition of a second subwoofer, offering an economical solution for dual subwoofer setups. From an installation perspective, the compact enclosure, measuring less than 27 inches tall, allows for easier retrofit installations compared to many in-wall subwoofers that require pre-drywall installation. However, this compact size results in a smaller box volume, which pushes the resonant frequency (Fs) higher into the mid-bass range and limits deep bass output. The subwoofer's performance is characterized by clean and tight bass within its operational limits, with measurable extension down to 20Hz, though it does not deliver the high output levels expected from larger box subwoofers or high-performance home theater systems. While the SVS 3000 In-Wall Subwoofer excels in mid-bass slam and articulate sound, it is not designed to achieve reference-level bass that a dedicated bass enthusiast might desire. Its protective limiters ensure the subwoofer operates without strain or artifacts, delivering its best performance within its capabilities. Objective measurements, including CEA-2010 burst tests, reveal that while the SVS 3000 In-Wall Subwoofer demonstrates good frequency response and extension down to the mid-20Hz range with room gain, its absolute output levels are significantly lower than comparable box subwoofers. For instance, it achieved 91.2dB at 31.5Hz, in contrast to the SVS SB-3000's 104.8dB at the same frequency. This difference is attributed to its small enclosure and reliance on Digital Signal Processing (DSP) for response shaping, which boosts frequencies below its natural resonant frequency of 77Hz. The DSP, while enabling impressive extension for its size, introduces higher group delay, particularly below 60Hz. Despite this, the trade-off is considered acceptable, as preventing distortion is prioritized over minimizing group delay, which is deemed less audibly significant by some. In conclusion, the SVS 3000 In-Wall Subwoofer is presented as a well-engineered retrofit in-wall subwoofer. It is not intended to replace high-output box subwoofers for reference-level home theater performance but serves as an excellent discrete solution for casual home theater and music setups, particularly when paired with smaller bookshelf or in-wall speakers. Its strength lies in its ability to extend in-wall or box speakers to the lower octaves with quality bass reproduction, making it a commendable option within its specific niche of retrofit in-wall subwoofers. #SVS #InWallSubwoofer #HomeAudio #AudioReview #HomeTheater #SoundSystem #SubwooferTechnology #RetrofitInstallation

The Q Acoustics Concept 20 bookshelf speakers offer remarkable audio reproduction at a competitive price point of $500 a pair. These two-way speakers feature a glossy lacquer finish, available in black or white, carbon-fiber woofers, and ferrofluid-cooled tweeters, giving them a premium aesthetic. A key innovation in their design is the unique cabinet-within-a-cabinet construction, which utilizes MDF (medium-density fiberboard) for both inner and outer walls. These walls are bonded by a layer of adhesive that remains partially unset, a technique Q Acoustics terms "Gelcore construction." This design aims to dissipate the kinetic energy generated by the drivers as heat, preventing it from coloring the audio output. The speakers are substantial, weighing 26.5 pounds each, and have a depth of 10.43 inches. Q Acoustics suggests positioning them at least 200mm (7.9 inches) away from a wall; however, foam bungs are included for the rear ports to optimize bass response if this clearance isn't feasible. The tweeters in the Concept 20 are decoupled from their enclosures, a design choice intended to further isolate and prevent cabinet interference with the sound. Each speaker is equipped with a 125mm woofer/mid-range crafted from carbon fiber and ceramic-coated paper, alongside a 25mm treated-fabric soft-dome tweeter, concealed behind a removable cloth grill. For wiring flexibility, each speaker provides two pairs of binding posts, allowing for bi-wiring, where separate speaker cables connect the high and low-frequency drivers to the amplifier. For those preferring conventional wiring, jumper posts are pre-installed. While primarily reviewed as a stereo pair, Q Acoustics also offers the tonally matched Concept Center for home-theater setups, priced at $310, allowing users to integrate their preferred subwoofer. Optional bespoke floor stands are available from Q Acoustics for $280 a pair, designed to perfectly complement the Concept 20. The speakers come with gel feet to enhance isolation from surfaces. Notably, there are no threaded mounts for wall hanging, which might restrict placement options for some users. The review setup involved placing the speakers in an entertainment center, with foam bungs inserted due to limited wall clearance. Initial listening tests utilized a Meridian Audio Explorer2 USB DAC connected to an HP Envy x360 laptop, and an AudioEngine N66 Class AB amplifier. The N66, with its 22-watt output, was found to be slightly underpowered for the recommended 25- to 75-watt range for the Concept 20s, requiring maximum volume to adequately fill a 247-square-foot home theater. Subsequently, a Naim Audio Uniti Atom, a high-end network music player with a 40-watt-per-channel stereo amplifier, was used, which significantly enhanced the speakers' performance and formed the basis for most of the review. The Concept 20 speakers demonstrated impressive bass response for their size, providing a solid foundation comparable to larger audio systems. They also exhibited excellent balance across the frequency spectrum, as evidenced by listening to tracks like Morcheeba's "Let it Go," where each instrument, from synths and acoustic guitar to bass and horns, was distinctly and harmoniously reproduced. The speakers also proved adept at handling acoustic music, with "Pueblo Nuevo" by Buena Vista Social Club sounding lifelike, allowing for clear distinction of piano, percussion, and trumpet timbre. The Q Acoustics Concept 20 speakers are lauded for their high-fidelity sound, aesthetic appeal, and exceptional value, making them suitable for most rooms when paired with an appropriate amplifier. The main considerations for potential buyers are the cabinet depth and the lack of wall-mounting threads, which may necessitate investing in the optional floor stands. #QAAcoustics #Concept20 #BookshelfSpeakers #LoudspeakerReview #AudioEquipment #HomeTheater #HiFiAudio #SpeakerDesign #GelcoreConstruction

This comprehensive guide helps consumers select the ideal subwoofer for their home audio system, emphasizing that a good subwoofer is crucial for a complete and immersive sound experience, akin to a rock band needing a bass player. The article outlines detailed criteria for selection, including price range (under $900), woofer size (primarily 10- or 12-inch), input types (speaker- and line-level connections), woofer loading (sealed, ported, or passive radiator), equalization and tuning features, and aesthetics. The testing methodology is rigorous, involving both subjective listening panel evaluations to eliminate bias and objective CTA-2010 output measurements to provide a scientific comparison of capabilities. The top recommendation is the Rogersound Labs Speedwoofer 10S MKII, praised for its balance of power and finesse in a compact 10-inch form factor. It offers impressive deep-bass output and a melodic sound, with distinct modes for music and movies, and flexible connectivity options including line-level and speaker-level inputs, plus an integrated wireless receiver. Despite its competitive performance and features, it lacks a smartphone app for control and is exclusively sold through the manufacturer, which can lead to stock issues. For budget-conscious buyers, the Dayton Audio SUB-1200 is presented as a strong alternative. While it doesn't match the deep-bass output of the top pick, it delivers solid performance for its price, with a clean and natural sound suitable for music and movies. Its design is considered visually appealing for a budget model, but its thin vinyl covering and less refined bass definition are noted drawbacks. The Hsu Research VTF-2 MK5 is highlighted as an upgrade pick for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts seeking maximum power and tuning flexibility. This 12-inch subwoofer is significantly larger and has a utilitarian design, but it offers substantially louder and deeper bass output, with multiple tuning modes to customize the sound profile. However, its size and basic aesthetic might not appeal to all, and its adjustments are manual and time-consuming. For those with limited space, the SVS SB-1000 Pro is recommended. This compact 10-inch sealed subwoofer delivers strong performance for its size and features a convenient smartphone app for precise adjustments, including a parametric equalizer to optimize sound based on room acoustics. While it excels in portability and refined control, its deep-bass output is less than that of larger, more powerful models. The article also touches on several other subwoofers worth considering, offering options with enhanced low-end prowess, room equalization, or slim designs, catering to a variety of user needs and preferences. #SubwooferReview #HomeAudio #AudioEquipment #HomeTheater #BassPerformance #ProductRecommendation #SpeakerTechnology #SoundQuality #ElectronicsGuide

Triad Speakers has introduced the InWall Bronze/4 SlimSub, an in-wall subwoofer designed to offer powerful bass performance while maintaining a discreet aesthetic. This new model features a long-throw 10-inch aluminum driver housed within a narrow enclosure, complemented by a flat grill that can be flush-mounted into a wall. The design significantly improves upon its predecessor, the InWall Bronze/4 Sub, by eliminating the several inches of protrusion that characterized the older model, thereby offering a more integrated look within any interior space. The SlimSub's physical dimensions are specifically engineered to fit standard construction. It measures 3-15/16 inches deep, allowing it to be installed into a typical 4-inch deep wall cutout. This makes it an ideal solution for homeowners and installers seeking to integrate high-quality audio without compromising room aesthetics or requiring extensive structural modifications. The flush-mount capability ensures that the subwoofer blends seamlessly with the surrounding wall, making it virtually unnoticeable once installed and painted to match the decor. Despite its slim profile, the InWall Bronze/4 SlimSub is engineered for robust audio performance. Triad Speakers claims the unit can achieve a maximum output of 109 dB within the 40-80 Hz frequency range, with a bass extension down to -6dB at 25 Hz. This level of performance is notable, as it not only surpasses that of its predecessor but also rivals the output capabilities of the company’s larger InWall Bronze/6 model, which has a 6-inch depth. This advancement highlights Triad's ability to maximize sound output within a more compact form factor. The enhanced performance is attributed to specific engineering decisions. According to Larry Pexton, President of Triad Speakers, the sealed enclosure was meticulously tuned to optimize the excursion of the proprietary 10-inch aluminum driver. Furthermore, Triad engineers incorporated a round steel back-plate, a design choice that replaces traditional thick MDF behind the driver. This innovative approach allows for a greater air volume within the enclosure, which is crucial for accommodating the driver’s lengthy throw and contributing to the deep, impactful bass response. Installation flexibility is another key feature of the SlimSub. It is designed to fit into the same size “V” cut-out as Triad’s other in-wall subwoofers, simplifying retrofit opportunities where existing Triad in-wall units might be present. Customization options further enhance its integration into diverse home environments. The SlimSub supports all three types of Triad’s Acoustimesh grill—wide, narrow, and frameless—and the company offers custom paint-matching services at the factory, ensuring the grill can perfectly blend with any wall color or finish. The InWall Bronze/4 SlimSub is currently available for purchase. It is bundled with Triad’s 350-watt rack amplifier, the RackAmp 350 DSP, with the combined package priced at $1,400. For more expansive setups, the RackAmp 600 DSP is also available for configurations involving dual subwoofers. Key specifications include a driver impedance of 4 ohms (or 8 ohms for dual sub configurations), a highly compact, fully braced, and sealed cabinet, and versatility in mounting within stud walls, false walls, or custom cabinets, with or without the Acoustimesh metal grill. The availability of various paint and custom matched finishes for the grill and frame ensures aesthetic adaptability. #InWallSubwoofer #HomeAudio #TriadSpeakers #AudioEquipment #HomeTheater #NewProduct #SoundSystem #CustomInstallation