About REL
From its inception over 10 years ago, REL has been committed to the pursuit of one thing, the reproduction of perfect deep bass. It is an obsession unique in the world of sound reproduction and it has brought awards and accolades from around the world.
Understanding REL’s success comes from a deeper understanding of how a subwoofer should perform. Restoring foundational sub-bass underneath an existing speaker is a difficult thing indeed. REL's approach, using their patented ABC crossovers, provides for perfect integration, allowing the audio professional to tune in tiny increments where the subwoofer mates to the main speakers. The result? Perfect integration with any speaker system.
Any system’s ‘voice’ -that is, the sonic summation of all the disparate components leading up to the final sound - is unique and reflects the signature of each preamp/processor, the interconnecting cables, and the power amplifier’s sound. Unique among subwoofer designers, Richard E. Lord (the R.E.L. of REL) understands this and his input circuitry requires the use of a unique high-level cable that allows for the full system’s voice to be built forward into the final sound, joining with a REL for perfect system integration.
Any design, no matter how brilliant, is only as good as the components used to realize it. Richard Lord's obsession extends to using components that go beyond industry standards and indeed finds its origins in his prior experience in the British Royal Navy. This ‘mil spec’ approach to subwoofer construction results in designs that are easily understood - just try picking one up! However, the REL approach employs far more than simply brute force. Each component is hand selected for maximum sound quality and durability. REL uses specially commissioned toroidal power transformers and over-specified resistors and capacitors. The power output devices are massively overrated units, each one capable of flowing 250 watts of power, most of it in the form of high current. The Strata III, rated at a mere 100 watts, uses two of these devices in parallel. REL uses only power MOSFETS because of their inherent ability to thermally stabilize (unlike a bipolar transistor that can thermally ‘run away’ with itself). The built-in power protection devices are designed to withstand up to 3000 volts of energy. In a word, RELs are overbuilt.Testing, as you may surmise from the above, is simply incredible. While each individual part is tested prior to construction, final testing represents some of the most brutal power ‘soak testing’ ever devised. Each unit is run at part throttle for hours in order to obtain test behavior relevant to the real world. Then it is subjected to a ‘crowbar’ test. Each unit has the incoming line voltage run up to the equivalent of 150 volts (110 volts is common). At this point, most amplifiers would simply self-destruct on the spot. However, Richard is not through yet! At that voltage, the units are brought up to maximum rated output, where they are then subjected to a direct short circuit. ThatŒs right, at 150 volts in and max power, the amplifiers must play into a dead short. Only after they pass this final test are they allowed to be inserted into a cabinet and obtain final certification.
The resulting products speak for themselves. Perhaps it is one reason RELs have always received rave reviews. It is certainly the reason that REL has come into such fast growing acceptance and success in the highly competitive U.S. market.
Serie TI
REL T-Zero
The REL T-ZERO occupies the point of entry into the REL range of Sub-Bass Systems and, for the first time, REL delivers true sub-bass performance to the cost conscious consumer. A 100 watt, Class D amplifier and down-firing 6.5” ULT™ (ultra long throw) drive unit is housed in a small, beautifully crafted enclosure. Just like larger REL models, the T-ZERO employs REL’s proprietary connectivity suite which features a variable crossover, Neutrik Speakon™ high-level input for direct connection to amplifiers, RCA low-level input and .1/LFE input each with separate volume controls, providing amazing setup and control flexibility when used in any two-channel or home theater system. The T-ZERO’S performance belies its small size. Measuring just 8.5 x 9.5 x 10.25 in. (WHD), this little jewel of a sub is perfect where full sized models would be ill suited. The T-ZERO is ideal for use in computer audio systems, small living spaces, bedroom theater systems, offices, libraries etc.
REL T/5I
The REL T5 delivers the exceptional low-bass performance, rugged build quality and unique design of larger REL models at a more affordable price. The form of the T5 is a simple minimalist cube elevated by four aluminum feet. It is deceptively small and compact blending in beautifully with its surroundings and is available in your choice of Gloss Black or White lacquer. Bass output is powerful and robust considering the T5’s compact dimensions and the T5 features a full REL connectivity suite. Just like its larger brothers, the T5 can be used to wonderful benefit to underpin both two-channel and multi-channel film sound systems. A trueClassABpower amplifier topology with 125 Watt output is capable of reproducing the dynamics and extension with conviction and authority.
REL T/7I
The T-7 was developed and designed to bring true REL sub-bass performance to audiophiles on a budget without sacrificing any of the traditional REL Sub-Bass System strengths. You'll find the same cabinetry design and build techniques, quality of parts, unique connectivity and the stunning slam and depth found on even the most costly REL models.
The REL T-7 sits in the middle of the Serie T range in both price and performance point. Bettering the T-5 by virtue of the addition of a 10" passive radiator and a more powerful 200 - watt power amplifier, it is more a appropriate choice for larger rooms and best mated with larger speakers.
The T-7 is capable of exceptional speed, warmth and slam due to the exceptional strength and bracing incorporated in the enclosure. For example, the bracing is wedged into channels on both the side and top walls enhancing the "energy control" abilities of the cabinet resulting in clearer and deeper bass. Much like the principals that determine the sound of an acoustic musical instrument, the control of resonance and vibration results in a high degree of musical clarity. Even the aluminum feet, due to their high mass and strength, contribute to the enclosure's overall inertness.
REL T/9I
The T-9 was developed and designed to bring true REL sub-bass performance to audiophiles on a budget without sacrificing any of the traditional REL Sub-Bass System strengths. You'll find the same cabinetry design and build techniques, quality of parts, unique connectivity and the stunning slam and depth found on even the most costly REL models.
The REL T-9 sits at the top of the Serie T range in both price and performance point. Bettering the T-7 by virtue of the use of a 10" active drive unit and a more powerful 300 - watt power amplifier, it is more a appropriate choice for the largest of rooms, home cinema systems and best mated with larger speakers.
The T-9 is capable of slam and depth due to the exceptional strength and bracing incorporated in the enclosure. For example, the bracing is wedged into channels on both the side and top walls enhancing the "energy control" abilities of the cabinet resulting in clearer and deeper bass. Much like the principals that determine the sound of an acoustic musical instrument, the control of resonance and vibration results in a high degree of musical clarity. Even the aluminum feet, due to their high mass and strength, contribute to the enclosure's overall inertness.
Habitat1
Habitat1
Habitat1 is a brilliant new concept that takes sub bass to new levels by incorporating the room, your Habitat, into our design. It is common in design circles to speak of taking the room into account, but never has the complete system approach employed by REL been utilized so utterly to one singular purpose. Perfect, deep bass that emanates almost invisibly from somewhere hidden within the room.Starting with a clean sheet of paper, we designed custom bass mini-engines to produce truly awe inspiring bass in an ultra-thin envelope.We spent months engineering the mounting hardware to permit easy and accurate mounting of Habitat1 onto a variety of wall structures including masonry or brick walls, modern sheet rock and stud construction.Although Habitat1 is intended to be used wirelessly with the REL LongbowTM Wireless Transmitter, the rear panel includes all of the standard connectivity so that users have the option of using Habitat1 wired if desired.Key to the design goals of the project is the complete absence of wires needed to move the signal flawlessly from player to Habitat1. REL’s LongbowTM employs a new state of the art chip that, unlike virtually every other design, has ZERO compression. Hence the fidelity to the original event is retained perfectly and delay is minimized. Result? Crisp, clear bass in perfect time with the music or film.Automatic detection and pairing is an important component to the REL approach. Simply plug both Habitat1 and Longbow Wireless Transmitter in within 30 seconds of each other and they will seek each other out and auto pair. Forgot to do so in time? No issue, simply flick the pairing toggle on each unit and pairing will occur within seconds.LongbowTM Wireless Transmitter permits use of the full complement of REL connectivity, including wireless transmission of BOTH High Level and .1/LFE concurrently, thereby producing the rich full bass weight missing from conventional subwoofers.For home theater use the High Level and .1/LFE can be run at the same time as each other to permit REL Reference Theater operation that re-establishes consistent, full range bass in addition to special effects bass. With REL there is no need to turn the sub bass system up for theater then turn it down for music.
Serie S
S/5
S/5 exceeds the mandate for mid-level models and crosses this model into true reference quality. S/5 produces exceptionally low bass with tremendous impact and speed. Even difficult-to-render instruments such as pipe organs are dealt with effortlessly.Large scale, high end 2-channel systems make a perfect pairing for S/5 and grand theaters are ideal. Medium to grand rooms are appropriate. Scale is Very Large, Speed is Exceptional, Attack and Slam is Visceral.S/5’s driver features an all-new alloy cone structure that takes our mid-level product to a performance that exceeds our reference products of only a few years ago. By reducing moving mass, with a balanced approach to design, our engineering team was able to produce far more speed than prior designs. By carefully adjusting key parameters, we were able to increase the self-quieting key to a high end component’s ability to resolve space and inner detail. Improvements in our designs translate into enhancement in your entire system.S/5 uses a special carbon/carbon passive that is stiff, lightweight and incredibly well-behaved. Our approach to passive design results in performance more akin to a variable ratio driver size. On an S/5, think of it as a sliding ratio design wherein the S/5 begins as an ultra-fast 12” sealed box design and, as more power and deeper bass is demanded, the S/5 gradually morphs into the power and output of a 15” design.Beyond our proprietary drivers, the performance of a REL is determined by our unique input filters and amplifiers. REL S/5 uses a simple filter-type that is very fast—about 8 milliseconds in group delay– to cross out unwanted higher frequencies to our driver. This speed and our carefully sorted filters allow for seamless blending of RELs with the main speakers. REL do not include a high pass filter to cross out bass from the main speaker because to do so would generally produce more unwanted effects than the minor benefits such a design confers.S/5’s power amplifier is a powerful NextGen2 550W digital amplifier. This design has powered thousands of RELs and has proven exceptionally reliable and very fast with deep, extended lows—it provides a perfect mate to our new driver.
S/3
S/3 derives from the flagship S/5 and offers a more compact footprint and much of S/5 performance for use with either slightly more modest systems or rooms that cannot handle the power and output of S/5. Qualitatively, it is the equal of S/5, sansthe grand scale, power and majesty of its larger sibling.Beautifully balanced, S/3 offers powerful, incisive and beautifully balanced performance. S/3’s driver features an all-new alloy cone structure that takes our mid-level product to a performance that exceeds our reference products of only a few years ago. By reducing moving mass, with a balanced approach to design, our engineering team was able to produce far more speed than prior designs. By carefully adjusting key parameters, we were able to increase the self-quieting key to a high-end component’s ability to resolve space and inner detail. Improvements in our designs translate into enhancement in your entire system. S/3 uses a special carbon/carbon passive that is stiff, lightweight and incredibly well-behaved. Our approach to passive design results in performance more akin to a variable ratio driver size. On an S/3, think of it as a sliding ratio design wherein the S/3 begins as an ultra-fast 10” sealed box design and, as more power and deeper bass is demanded S/3 gradually morphs into the power and output of a 15” design. Beyond our proprietary drivers, the performance of a REL is determined by our unique input filters and amplifiers. REL S/3 uses a simple filter-type that is very fast—about 8 milliseconds in group delay– to cross out unwanted higher frequencies to our driver. This speed and our carefully sorted filters allow for seamless blending of RELs with the main speakers. REL does not include a high pass filter to cross out bass from the main speaker because to do so would generally produce more unwanted effects than the minor benefits such a design confers. S/3’s power amplifier is a powerful NextGen2 400W digital amplifier. This design has powered thousands of RELs and has proven exceptionally reliable and very fast with deep, extended lows—it provides a perfect mate to our new driver.
S/2
Whilst S/2 may be the least expensive, most compact chassis in the S range, it would be a mistake to think of it as anything but a true thoroughbred. Fast, tuneful, fun and exceptionally dynamic, S/2 permits those with limited space or compact speakers to enjoy the benefits of Serie S performance. S/2 offers a powerful 250W NextGen Class D amplifier with a fast, lightweight driver and matching passive in a carefully damped cabinet to produce bass that is quite extraordinary for such a modestly-sized enclosure. S/2’s driver receives a new purpose-designed anodized aluminium dustcap. This both stiffens the cone structure, resulting in improved transient response (snap and attack) while lowering the moving mass some 15%. Careful tuning of this unit to cabinet volume and the new matching downfiring passive driver results in outstanding performance for a model of this size and price. Powerful, fast and tuneful is the S/2.REL’s passive drivers are carefully matched to the active. In the case of S/2, we literally use the same driver as S/2 for a precise match, then tune the resonant frequency a little lower to extend the bass performance downward for a cleaner overall effect.Beyond the drivers, the performance of a REL is determined by the input filters and amplifiers. REL S/2 uses a simple filter-type that is very fast—about 8 milliseconds in group delay to get through to our driver. This speed and carefully sorted filters allows for seamless blending of RELs with the main speakers. S/2’s power amplifier is a powerful NextGen2 250W digital amplifier. This design has proven exceptionally reliable and very fast with deep, extended lows—it provides a perfect mate to its driver.
LongBow Transmitter
ntroducing REL’s LongBow™, the easy-to-use, ultra high quality wireless system thatfrees your system from placement limitations imposed by conventional cables.LongBow permits very fast, uncompressed bass to be sent wirelessly within the same room approximately 45 feet (somewhat dependent upon room clutter). Conventional wireless systems operate by hugely compressing the sound, shipping the compressed digital bitstream through the air and then expanding it back to its “original” form. The results are a noticeable lag in speed (engineers refer to this delay as latency) and an un-involving quality which often suffers from thinness. LongBow upgrades the digital pipeline from 16 bit to 24 bit, then ships over un-compressed 48kHz signals. Eliminating the compression/expansion chokepoint and using audiophile grade A/D encoders results in fast (typically about 80 percent faster than traditional Bluetooth or Wi-Fi systems) rich, natural bass.Our engineers didn’t stop at creating the industry’s best-sounding wireless delivery system. Because it is a genuine REL ground-up design, our engineering team developed LongBow with both high level AND .1 channel simultaneous delivery so that REL Theatre Reference performance can be maintained even when using our wireless delivery system. This approach produces the rich, natural, warm bass REL theater systems are known for, along with the devastating punch of great .1 dynamics. Wirelessly. Shifting back and forth between music and film sound requires NO switching of inputs, altering subwoofer settings or the like.
212/SE
212/SE
We believe in quality first, not simply power and boom. We believe that 1,000 watts is only desirable if it’s conveyed with speed and control. Which is why the 212/SE was engineered to not only make your heart pound and walls shake, but restore midrange warmth and harmonic structure, while providing a powerful, rich low-end. This combination of speed, power and grace driving multiple room modes (forward, down and rear) makes it ideally suited for high end 2-channel, grand rooms and dedicated theaters, allowing larger state of the art speakers to spring to full voice.To produce our highest output single-box solution, we doubled up on the Continuous CastTM Alloy Bass Engines that bring critical acclaim to Serie S, altering them slightly for this twin front-firing configuration. These twin actives are responsible for 212/SE’s incredible speed and tactility.Our Continuous CastTM Alloy Cones reduce moving mass while maintaining rigidity, producing far more speed and precision than prior designs. These twin long-stroke 12″ bass engines, partnered with (2) matching 12″ passives provide the speed quality of a REL with a power never felt before. This combination offers the driven surface area of twin 17” drivers in a cabinet just 16” wide.The 212/SE uses two matching Continuous Cast Alloy passives that are stiff, lightweight and incredibly well behaved. Our approach to passive design results in performance more akin to a variable ratio driver size – as more power and deeper bass is demanded, the passive comes to life, gradually expanding the capabilities of the active engines.The down firing passive produces deep, floor-crawling bass that makes a room shudder.Mounted above the amplifier panel on the rear is the second passive. This unit produces wrap around “atmospheric” bass that adds air and shimmer to the sound. Coupling with either the rear wall or the rear corner of a room allows for bass to develop exceedingly long wavefronts and adds an ease and effortless quality unique to single-box designs.Beyond our proprietary drivers, the performance of a REL is determined by our unique input filters and amplifiers. 212/SE uses a simple filter-type that is very fast—about 8 milliseconds in group delay– to cross out unwanted higher frequencies to our driver. This speed and gentle crossover slopes allow for seamless blending of RELs with the main speakers. RELs do not include a high pass filter to cross out bass from the main speaker because to do so would generally produce more unwanted effects than the minor benefits such a design confers.212/SE’s power amplifier is a powerful NextGen3 1,000W (1,700 peak) digital amplifier. This Herculean design allows each driver to output over 110 dB with ease–power enough to drive very large rooms to very high outputs.
Gibraltar Series
REL G1
The G1 features REL’s most recent exposition on amplifier topology, driver technology and operational interface. Housed within a sumptuous furniture-grade enclosure finished in gloss piano black lacquer resides a massive 12” long-throw carbon fibre driver, 600 watt Class A/B power amplifier and the award-winning REL connectivity suite providing the most flexible and sonically transparent integration, weight and low-frequency authority to the main loudspeaker system. Employing an extensively braced enclosure sculpted in a truly sensuous shape, the G1 is massive, yet elegant. While it is physically commanding, its finely tuned shape finished in furniture-grade hand-rubbed high-gloss piano black lacquer will blend seamlessly into any interior environment. REL’s vast engineering experience is evident in the G1’s power amplifier. Featuring a linear Class A/B topology employing no less than six MOS-FET devices, massive power supplies and transformer there is no mistaking the G1 with a common subwoofer. Execution of build and component part choice is first-class resulting in extensive ruggedness and reliability. Mated to this massive power plant is a tight-wind carbon fibre 12” drive unit capable of an exceptional pistonic stroke of 1-3/4 inches! This costly drive unit was necessary in order to generate the ultimate in loudness required to underpin today’s great high-performance main loudspeakers.
The REL connectivity suite allows for using both high and low level input options. Exclusive to REL is the ability to blend and individually control both signals that, for example is useful in a home cinema system where the sub-bass system must reproduce both main speaker and .1/LFE low frequency content. Additionally, Class-D main power amplifiers cause no problem to the G1 thanks to REL-D™, a proprietary circuit that creates the proper grounding environment for most Class-D amplifiers.
Adding to the overall user experience is the G1’s IR remote control. The unique round disc-shaped remote features three rotary encoder dials that control all adjustments for HI/LO Level, Crossover Frequency and .1/LFE Level. Phase, and Settings Lock are controlled via toggle switches. Located on the bottom front of the G1’s enclosure is a large, bright LED readout providing a visual indication of all the G1’s current settings. Now, for the first time, setup and adjustment can be done from the comfort of you listening position.
When too much is not enough, the REL G1 has included connectivity to allow multiple units to be used in conjunction with one another either in stereo pairs or vertically stacked towers. Doing so results in huge wave fronts of air, conveying the true power and majesty of a musical or film sound event effortlessly.
The REL G1 embodies all the traditional REL virtues of performance, design and reliability.
REL G2
The G-2 features REL's most recent exposition on amplifier topology, driver technology and operational interface. Housed within a sumptuous furniture-grade enclosure finished in gloss piano black lacquer resides a long throw 10” long-throw carbon fiber driver powered by 450 watts of Class A/B amplifier power. The G-2 features the award-winning REL connectivity suite providing the most flexible and sonically transparent integration, weight and low-frequency authority to the main loudspeaker system. Employing an extensively braced enclosure sculpted in a truly sensuous shape, the G-2 is relativity compact and elegant with its finely tuned shape. Finished in furniture-grade hand-rubbed high-gloss piano black lacquer the G-2 will blend into virtually any interior environment. REL's vast engineering experience is evident in the G-2's power amplifier. Featuring a linear Class A/B topology employing MOS-FET devices, massive power supplies and transformers. Execution of build and component part choice is first-class resulting in extensive ruggedness and reliability. Mated to this bass engine is a tight-wind carbon fiber 10” drive unit capable of an exceptional pistonic stroke of 1-1/2 inches! This drive unit was necessary in order to generate the ultimate in loudness required to underpin today's high-performance main loudspeakers.
The REL connectivity suite allows for using both high and low level input options. Exclusive to REL is the ability to blend and individually control both signals that, for example is useful in a home cinema system where the sub-bass system must reproduce both main speaker and .1/LFE low frequency content. Additionally, Class-D main power amplifiers cause no problem to the G-2 thanks to REL-D™, a proprietary circuit that creates the proper grounding environment for most Class-D amplifiers.
Adding to the overall user experience is the G-2's IR remote control. The unique round disc-shaped remote features three rotary encoder dials that control all adjustments for HI/LO Level, Crossover Frequency and .1/LFE Level. Phase, and Settings Lock are controlled via toggle switches. Located on the bottom front of the G-2's enclosure is a large, bright LED readout providing a visual indication of all the G-2's current settings. Now, for the first time, setup and adjustment can be done from the comfort of you listening position.
When too much is not enough, the REL G-2 has included connectivity to allow multiple units to be used in conjunction with one another either in stereo pairs or vertically stacked towers. Doing so results in huge wave fronts of air, conveying the true power and majesty of a musical or film sound event effortlessly. The REL G-2 embodies all the traditional REL virtues of performance, design and reliability.
