Thanks Michael, really kind. That was so enjoyable making / creating. I made the REL sub in 3d in blender and had to animate the perspective of the cars as they move.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 also compliments on the music that you chose. Especially the closing credits. It really gave the whole thing a great vibe. I genuinely had a smile on my face.
@@mladenbasic1 Thanks very much. I thought that sounded like an odd movie ending that music. Bit of the usual Brendon Moeller electronic which I always use too.
Honestly, REL should place your review on their website. I’ve seen some really good overviews of REL subs but this is very informative with top quality production value. Good lord well done here 🙌🏻
Have used REL subs on my AV set up for over 30 years but never thought of using one on my 2 channel hifi. After a series of emails with Rob Hunt at REL i decided to go for a T5x and it was by far the best upgrade I've ever done. Not just deeper bass but a more solid central image and deeper sound stage. A doodle to set up and integrate into system as well . Brilliant.
Hey Terry, what speakers do you have and what made you consider the T5 over the 7? I’m asking since I have a pair of heresy IVs and a 12x15foot room, and I’m struggling to figure out which one?
@@FCF2012 Hi Jeremy. B and W 705 signitures in a 3 m x 5.5m room . Rob suggested Tx7 but smaller one blends perfectly in a small room . Maybe because of it's downward facing driver ?Recommend getting a sub of some sort . Hope this helps.
Thanks Jordan, unfortunately TH-cam is a numbers game. The more a TH-camr puts out the more popular often regardless of quality. I’m gonna try and put out more but not, for great products, at the sake of my video quality
I have a 40 year old REL Strata I which has 12" diaphragm. I listen to a lot of baroque music, early renaissance, choral and woodwind. The REL helps the large floorstanders soundstage. I notice the soprano solo in particular sounds more life-like with a touch of REL high level. In big orchestra piece, plenty of bass is a good thing, but even the solo voice can reach haunting depths with a good high level sub.
Nice review! I find by adding a sub gives you a bigger sense of scale, deepens soundstage, improves male vocals … perhaps it’s a mere perception but it still gives that impact. The kick drum on Hotel California from Hell Freezes Over has a totally different presentation with a sub that’s well integrated.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 … things are good here. Everything just opened up and life starting to return. You should try to get your hands on Arendal stuff. It’s pretty interesting. I’m putting on a hifi show in August. Wanna Zoom in for a talk session? 😉
I use a pair of these connected to my 2 channel intigrated amplifier- 👍🏼 I'd suggest to throw away the trash speakon cable in the box away and replace with a AudioQuest type 5 Rel speakon cable for high level input...If you have an AVR receiver Rel suggest both high level and LFE connections.
I have a Rel T9/X paired with my LS50W2 and have it high passed through the KEF APP at 120hz and low passed around 100hz. What this does is prevents the speaker from playing low bass and passes it all onto the sub. It sounds like a new speaker. I’m still adjusting crossover/gain weeks later.
Hi Simon, great review again, and also top notch animations👍 I have two Rels t9x in bigger room and Im very satisfied... it was a big upgrade even with my big floorstanders.. thanks for your work😀
I see this is a couple of years old, but I also have the KEF LS50 meta and I'm going to get this same subwoofer. so I'd be interested in the exact settings you arrived at, like how many clicks on the crossover and level dials.
I run a stereo pair of these beautifully made subs in my 2.2 setup. Run high level but now tap from the end of the speaker leads instead of from the back of the amp. Saw a recent video from rel that recommended this, as they put it, you're getting the signal that has traveled the length of the speaker cable. This has helped me out as I switch amps time to time and no longer need to screw in the bare wire to the REL as it's incorporated into the banana plug at the speaker end. I can't comment about perceived improvement, but I defer to the manufacturer as stating such potential improvements. Last thing. Purely subjective newb speak. It seems like the REL exposed my Cambridge cxa61 as not having the cleanest bass compared to my creek audio evolution amp. That fattened, full sound of the Cambridge I enjoyed without the subs seemed less clear and articulated when pushed through the REL. In comparison, my creek audio evolution 50a, which reviewers stated sounded light and weak in the low end, is actually my favorite matching with the rels. Without the subs, the creek does seem thinner and less impactful, but that all changes with the subs. What I'm hearing is that the creek hasn't fattened up the bass, and it's much clearer and articulated, texture and tone is all there and more noticeable. With the Cambridge, I get more weight, but I lose out on that note to note distinction. Once I heard it with the rels, I couldnt go back to any of my amps that are trading bass weight for bass clarity.
Same with the pair of these. Do you run them as stereo pair or summed mono to each? I've only run them stereo but will eventually try both configs when I get Dirac and a minidsp to try integrating them that way.
@@erics.4113 I am running mine stereo, high level off a Hegel H390. No Dirac option with the Hegel but I don’t really feel like I am missing much. Sound is fantastic. Only thing now I am curious what the “S” line in the REL lineup would improve upon over the T7Xs. I love the 7s but do kind of think I’d like a tad more punch than the 8inch driver with a 200w amp can provide
@@pmizz7959 agreed. They suit me perfectly though since I'm in a shared wall townhome and can't (yet) where I'm living go with a setup that kicks and slams like that. But some day. . I'd love to hear your Hegel one day too. It's a beautiful looking piece and within their lineup is probably the one i would choose, maybe only second to the H20 power and pre combo as I wouldn't be interested in the Hegel DAC features.
@@erics.4113 The 390 is definitely the sweet spot in their lineup. I originally bought the 190 and exchanged it after 2 weeks for the 390. The DAC is very noticeably better. Much more detailed, increases sound stage and improved attack. Highly recommend it
I had a magnepan 1.7i and thought I'd fill in the bottom end with a sub and got a rel t9i based on the website recommendation using their calculator. What i found was the t9i was way over powered in my room and was turned way down and didn't gel very well with the magnepan. Maybe a smaller one would have suited better.
Great video style! Regarding that subs thing: I got myself a T7/x from my local dealer to try it out at home. The effect was great, of course - so I bought one, but opted to keep the try out for a day longer. Needless to say - I ended up buying two of these suckers. It is NOT about bass ooomph (which of course these deliver anyway), but because of effortlessness, better room bass control, and the usual sub review platitudes you mentioned in your review. :-)
What speakers did you pair each with? RELs subwoofer recommendations puzzle me - as they pretty much never suggest predator ht1510 even in largest room setting. Same with ls50s no matter what room size they suggest t7x whether it’s music or for cinema only.
Thanks very much Richard. I really enjoy making these , a huge part of the enjoyment of this for me. I’m looking at my new AMD pc spec at the moment, which I’m about to order so it can only get better.
fantastic review.. I've only come across your channel recently. I heard you were changing it a bit in the comments but didn't see a video where you announce what direction the channel would be going into 2023.
Ok Simon, you did it again! Video effects is on a new height! So much love and style, is like watching vintage spy movie! Thank you! Great review. Now it will be best to compare it to KEF KC62 subwoofer.
Good Sir, you do such a great job with the intros/outros, in a really artistic manner, a movie like sensation. Also, great reviews! Always a pleasure watching your content. 👌
A really good discussion and review of the RDL. I have one arriving tomorrow. Out of interest, I have the KEFs too and after a number of REW sweeps I found that my best crossover was at 48 Hz with my previous sub.. Great minds think alike. Keep up the good work.
Great review i stumbled onto . I have two REL99 Classics ,& two T9x"s . Love them . The 99s r paired with 2 Polk R700s powered by a Michi and Eversolo Dmpa8 that is just for music . Th T9xs do double duty music & home theatre . T9x's r paired with Focal Chora surround system powerd by a Onkyo RZ70 streaming movies to a 85 " sony and streaming music with the new WiiM Ultra . I put this system together in a year luckily finding reviewers that could describe what I would b buying and getting as I am extremely isolated from the convenience of shopping. I purchased most of this at the same time and had to have it delivered frieght . The Ultra came by mail to my post office box 120 mi away. I live in Alaska
Another nice one Simon.You mentioned the checking of phase which a lot reviewers leave out and is critical.I was surprised that you liked the high level inputs which a number of reviewers did not end up using if they had pre-out option (my EAR EL34 does not).The other thing is I think yo were right that the Dirac had your the time would be worth it.Given the in room nulls with any sub (or even bass drivers is a non sub system) a DSP correction can really pay off.I have heard a number of audiophiles who say that even wit the best DSP like Dirac it does more harm than good above say 150 Hrz but i the base region smoothing out the response and adjusting time domain it's needed not matter what REL might say or others say about room treatments though this can certainly go a long way. Fortunately one can get that in boxes that are less than $500.Next given your room I would try the Kef KC62 to pair with the Meta's.Cheers!
I enjoyed your review Simon! After all suggestions - and despite my mixed experience with a sub over 15 years ago - I succumbed and added a REL S2 to my setup with ATC 50s active. There is no way back!
Hi Wouter, I am an active ATC user tempted to add a REL to my setup and am wondering if you could comment on how easy you found it to integrate your sub with your main speakers using the low level input? Any pointers gratefully accepted! Regards, Alban
@@albanharvey3354 hi Alban, for integration: you have to think about placement first - thoughts here: REL suggest to start in a corner and turn in - this gives the least risk of standing waves and benefits of corner amplification. I don’t have enough space behind the speakers and I use bass traps. 2nd option: place the sub in your listening position, play music with lots of bass and listen where you would like to place the speaker. Option 3: place the sub ‘near field: - close to your listening position, so no room nodes. My options are limited as we talk about the living room. I placed the speaker around 1/3 along the long side of the living room, with a turn in towards the far corner to minimise exciting room nodes. This worked for me. With my speakers I chose a crossover on the REL of around 40 Hz, and volume level so you can’t really ‘hear’ the sub. When playing some organ music you can really see the sub doing a great job! Really worthwhile!
Great review. Would you recommend the BlueSound Sub out to REL Low Level , and use the Bluesound crossover? Or Turn OFF the Bluesound crossover and use the REL controls. Thanks
Thanks very much. Use the REL controls and high level connections if possible. Id only use the node with actives and a sub because the high level wouldn’t be possible in that scenario.😀
Nice review 👍 I also tried the high level vs low level vs low level with crossover on the M3 (yes the old A/B amp) and found the high level much preferable. I loved the addition of a Rel T/7i so much that I now own 2 x T/7i and 2 x T/9x that I’m waiting to hook up once my new man cave is ready 😃
In most cases, a system without a subwoofer is simply not experiencing the full range of the music. It really is an awakening when a high quality subwoofer is added to a system...even for the 2 channel "purists" among us. I had a pair of REL T7i subs in my system. They are very nice. However, when I replaced them with an Arendal 1723 2S, I was awakened much further. Frankly, the single Arendal wiped the floor with the pair of REL subs.
Great job explaining how to set it up. I have Ist generation Canton Vento 7 floorstanders on the long wall of a 17•14•8 room that while well balanced could use help below about 50hz I think, especially with as you mention Doors music which I’m way into lately. (I just saw Robby Kreiger live recently). Awesome show. I’d like one tx9. You mention starting it at a 30hz crossover and it goes up about 2.5 Hz per click, that sounds good to me how to begin the setup procedure. Very useful advice, thank you!
Wow I’d like to see him live. Only 2 left now with Densmore. I think one of Jim Morrisons concerts would have been mind blowing to go too if I could go back in time as I was born after he died.
Dan Rothschild, their producer’s son shared lead vocals with Krieger’s son. Really great sounding concert at the Canyon Club in Santa Clarita. One guy recorded it all from in front and put it on you tube(I’m sure the band had him do it).
Dan Rothschild, their producer’s son shared lead vocals with Krieger’s son. Really great sounding concert at the Canyon Club in Santa Clarita. One guy recorded it all from in front and put it on you tube(I’m sure the band had him do it).
Thank you very much. The video was fun to make especially intro. Do make your mind up on trying too if you haven’t. Reviews are to affirm or reject reviewers take
(Wow that's the Catch Me If You Can intro!) REL subs are the business - put it in the corner and forget about it. Sounds and feels like the bass is coming from all the other speakers in the room.
Can't wait for your next up coming Buchardt I150 👍 I wonder when the S400 MK2 match with their own I150, is it still ok to add a REL subwoofer... Very curious what is the end result when really added in 🤔
Your animations are tops mate! How many hours do you put into these? I'm sure most of these manufacturers could benefit from your professional services of video production and content creation.
Thank you, lots of time goes in but hugely enjoyable, hopefully it’s advertisement for brands too for video services as I think hifi marketing needs more creativity. 😀🔊🎵
@@13thnotehifireviews7 hifi marketing and creativity does seem rather non-existent. If I was a manufacturer I would absolutely hire you for consultant work. These direct to consumer brands must do a fair share of business through TH-cam reviews, but most of the content is very poorly produced.
@@Patricia-kk8tr I agree and I think that’s exactly what they say they should do and exactly what they do do. ‘boy racer car bass boxing it’ is not the idea with a subwoofer for 2ch audio. Movies with LFE effects maybe but not hifi.
I listen to audio for music and tv doesn’t really matter imo tbh. Like what I said in my most recent video on the ifi - all about use cases we want, and I don’t want or need best possible sound from a tv for films. That said it does have good speakers inbuilt, quasi Dolby Arnos.
Fantastic video Simon, it's always exciting to see a new video from you to pop up :) I have a question I own Cambridge Audio CXA81 amplifier connected to REL T/Zero MkIII using subwoofer cable as advised by Richer Sounds staff. I'm intrigued to connect my subwoofer straight to back of my speaker (Monitor Audio Silver 100 G7). Would you advise to connect the subwoofer to back of the amplifier or rather to the back of the speaker using High lever connection cable? Many thanks
Thanks very much Hugo. Back of the amp using high level absolutely. They may have advised that for simplicity or due to control of settings on the rca connection but the high level connections are the way to go on rel subs. Your amp is class ab like my Hegel so you can follow the same way of connecting with your Cambridge screw terminals as I showed in the video of the back of my Hegel amp. Then use speaker cable banana plugs into the speaker terminals. Hope that helps. 😀🎼🔉
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thank you Simon for your reply. I can't believe how much of a huge improvement it has made! Also, my crossover setting was way too low before. Soundstage and richness of sound has improved a lot. I wish I had it done sooner. I had great listening session yesterday enjoying that improvement 👌 Thanks again Simon and good luck with your channel 🙂
As Bridgend is my birthplace I'm proud to say that it is famous for great rugby legends like JPR Williams and REL Acoustics 😁 REL is my go to sub when I eventually buy one and the either a pair of T 7X or T 5X will be my choice to hook up to a pair of decent stand mount speakers. I feel this will be the perfect match as long as I can get the crossover correct. excellent review and I like the way you explained how to connect the sub to your speakers with the high level connection.
Thanks Steve. Interesting. My home town is Colchester in Essex, and Paxmans was a firm there making big Diesel engines for trains etc, but I think it got taken over and has shut. Though It’s great that we have such a good base of hifi firms in the UK that are continuing and striving. I’d like to make another video of RELs factory.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 that's cool, as Paxmans was famous for their product and I believe they were coach builders originally. Your video's have got better and better over time Simon and they are very enjoyable and professional. Would it be possible to review some DIY speakers such as the Falcon IMF 100's and CSS Criton 1 tdx? Reason being is I trust your thoughts and I'm thinking of either of them to match up with twin REL's, as I believe they will provide a nice balanced sound of excellent realistic mids with deep, fast punchy bass. It would be an interesting review 🤔
Thanks very much Steve, thing is it’s difficult to get gear and I have a list of people to approach first too. I’m gonna do a diy review on a Roon server I think.
I loved the intro! Very Hitchcockian. You have loads of talent! I also have a room without treatment and no sub. I’m in my late 60s and I’ve never considered a sub for two channel. I had one briefly for my very short home theater phase. The setup seems a bit complicated. My electronics are vintage McIntosh. I’ve got a Node 2I and it’s optically connected to my Ares II. Would I still sub out from the Node? Wouldn’t that throw off the timing?
Thanks Steve very much. REL always say connect the high level first which really meshes with the system. If it’s certain amps you have to connect to ground and not use the negative speaker terminal for ground like with my Hegel in the video (yellow wire). Although REL told me you can use a spare rca terminal as it says in the manual.
Nice review, I should say thank you but Im not sure because you are to blame of my expenses (not only you).....But I havent regret it I have the H390 along with LS50 and Im 99% sure to get the T/7x.....Another expense as I have an old sub from 90s old surround system. So....after all, thank you very much
Thanks it’s a nice expense then. lol. 😀🔉👍But I would say don’t stretch yourself too much if the expense is possibly a burden, as hifi is about enjoyment first.
Nice review Simon. The question do you need a subwoofer can perhaps be better answered if rephrased to, after hearing everything it can do to improve your musical enjoyment, will you mind parting with it? Btw, the James Bond franchise should seriously consider your video graphics talents for their next flick! Cheers!
Thanks very much Bobby, I think the question is better phrased - will YOU mind parting with it. That said I’ll admit I can do without it personally, now. Mainly for reasons of simplicity in my set up and space
I find the question of do you need a subwoofer and excuse me for saying this nonsensical. It is on the same level as asking do you need a tweeter or do you need a midrange. If my life and pleasure is listening to music I want to hear the full range and acoustical spectrum of sound. So of course I want to hear the highest highs and the lowest lows of the music. You simply can not do that without a tweeter or a subwoofer. If you don't have a subwoofer then you have been missing not only part of the musical spectrum but the feel of that part of the music that resonates all those instruments like the base or the drum. Why would anyone not want to hear all of the music?
@@13thnotehifireviews7 OK. If they don't want to hear the full spectrum of the music so be it. I cannot identify with an audiophile who spends thousands of dollars on the best system they can put together for their listening pleasure and who is not interested in hearing all of the music. It bewilders me. And I am not talking about the gross thumping sound levels of uncontrolled bass. I don't want that just as I don't want an uncontrolled tweeter. Everything must be in balance.
The argument can be framed a different way. Lots of audiophiles trade speed and transient attack for richness and a thicker tonal balance in their hifi with or without a sub. One could say that misses the high frequencies needed for conveying detail. So sound is subjective and so is whether a sub, or any other quality in music, is needed or not.
@@justasimplefox more the practicalities of space for me. I would if I did have some space and well integrated subs are very good as I alluded too in the video.
You‘ve got a carpet, so maybe you don‘t know the issue with the REL TX Series and that‘s why you didn‘t mention it but the TX Series likes to move around your room, if you hear music at loud levels. If you‘ve got a hard floor, don‘t buy this Sub. The TX series is just too light. Even REL knows this problem and released a clip on youtube. They tell you to glue it to the floor. That‘s just stupid. They made a mistake and now they tell you to buy this expensive sub and glue it to your floor.
A sub adds weight and depth to the sound stage intially, however overtime you will find that it also takes away from the beauty of the speaker design. You will spend hours thinking about intergration that will never be perfect. Its like adding creamer to your favorite brew...For me its a NO.....
Maaan do you have talent! The animation sequence was fantastic.
Thanks Michael, really kind. That was so enjoyable making / creating. I made the REL sub in 3d in blender and had to animate the perspective of the cars as they move.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 also compliments on the music that you chose. Especially the closing credits. It really gave the whole thing a great vibe. I genuinely had a smile on my face.
@@mladenbasic1 Thanks very much. I thought that sounded like an odd movie ending that music. Bit of the usual Brendon Moeller electronic which I always use too.
Honestly, REL should place your review on their website.
I’ve seen some really good overviews of REL subs but this is very informative with top quality production value.
Good lord well done here 🙌🏻
Thank you very much.
Have used REL subs on my AV set up for over 30 years but never thought of using one on my 2 channel hifi. After a series of emails with Rob Hunt at REL i decided to go for a T5x and it was by far the best upgrade I've ever done. Not just deeper bass but a more solid central image and deeper sound stage. A doodle to set up and integrate into system as well . Brilliant.
Rob is really nice to deal with as well. Very friendly.
@@13thnotehifireviews7.Yes, and REL have great customer service .
Hey Terry, what speakers do you have and what made you consider the T5 over the 7? I’m asking since I have a pair of heresy IVs and a 12x15foot room, and I’m struggling to figure out which one?
@@FCF2012 Hi Jeremy. B and W 705 signitures in a 3 m x 5.5m room . Rob suggested Tx7 but smaller one blends perfectly in a small room . Maybe because of it's downward facing driver ?Recommend getting a sub of some sort . Hope this helps.
This is the most underrated hifi channel on TH-cam. Simon, you are talented in many ways. Thank you for the videos!
Thanks Jordan, unfortunately TH-cam is a numbers game. The more a TH-camr puts out the more popular often regardless of quality. I’m gonna try and put out more but not, for great products, at the sake of my video quality
I completely agree with you! I enjoy Simon's reviews. 🇺🇦🇺🇸🤜
I have a 40 year old REL Strata I which has 12" diaphragm. I listen to a lot of baroque music, early renaissance, choral and woodwind. The REL helps the large floorstanders soundstage. I notice the soprano solo in particular sounds more life-like with a touch of REL high level.
In big orchestra piece, plenty of bass is a good thing, but even the solo voice can reach haunting depths with a good high level sub.
I am using a Rel T7x with Dynaudio Heritage Special speakers. It definitely makes an improvement creating a fuller sound that reaches deeper.
I have two running as stereo pare they definitely added depth and warmth to the music. Love them!
Just a quick comment here before I watch the rest of the review, LOVED that intro! Great work Simon, keep it up! /Filip from Sweden
Thanks Filip, the other sequences were quite enjoyable making and animated the REL in 3d for the specs and intro section. :)
I also really liked the intro. It is well done.
Fantastically clear explanation of the best way to connect and integrate a sub. Thank you.
Thank you too
Nice review!
I find by adding a sub gives you a bigger sense of scale, deepens soundstage, improves male vocals … perhaps it’s a mere perception but it still gives that impact.
The kick drum on Hotel California from Hell Freezes Over has a totally different presentation with a sub that’s well integrated.
Thank you hush puppy , hope you are enjoying things in KL.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 … things are good here. Everything just opened up and life starting to return.
You should try to get your hands on Arendal stuff. It’s pretty interesting.
I’m putting on a hifi show in August. Wanna Zoom in for a talk session? 😉
That sounds interesting, maybe best if we chat on email first . Don’t want to put it on here as I’ll get loads of spam, but on my website. 😀
@@13thnotehifireviews7 … I see you on FB, will PM you there!
I use a pair of these connected to my 2 channel intigrated amplifier- 👍🏼
I'd suggest to throw away the trash speakon cable in the box away and replace with a AudioQuest type 5 Rel speakon cable for high level input...If you have an AVR receiver Rel suggest both high level and LFE connections.
I have a Rel T9/X paired with my LS50W2 and have it high passed through the KEF APP at 120hz and low passed around 100hz. What this does is prevents the speaker from playing low bass and passes it all onto the sub. It sounds like a new speaker. I’m still adjusting crossover/gain weeks later.
Adjusting for weeks. Sounds fun
I love my T7/x. It’s a perfect mate for my Maggie .7s.
Subs make the music better, one of the best upgrades I made to my system.
Hi Simon, great review again, and also top notch animations👍 I have two Rels t9x in bigger room and Im very satisfied... it was a big upgrade even with my big floorstanders.. thanks for your work😀
Thanks Petr, they are definitely worth it.
I see this is a couple of years old, but I also have the KEF LS50 meta and I'm going to get this same subwoofer. so I'd be interested in the exact settings you arrived at, like how many clicks on the crossover and level dials.
I run a stereo pair of these beautifully made subs in my 2.2 setup. Run high level but now tap from the end of the speaker leads instead of from the back of the amp. Saw a recent video from rel that recommended this, as they put it, you're getting the signal that has traveled the length of the speaker cable. This has helped me out as I switch amps time to time and no longer need to screw in the bare wire to the REL as it's incorporated into the banana plug at the speaker end. I can't comment about perceived improvement, but I defer to the manufacturer as stating such potential improvements.
Last thing. Purely subjective newb speak. It seems like the REL exposed my Cambridge cxa61 as not having the cleanest bass compared to my creek audio evolution amp. That fattened, full sound of the Cambridge I enjoyed without the subs seemed less clear and articulated when pushed through the REL. In comparison, my creek audio evolution 50a, which reviewers stated sounded light and weak in the low end, is actually my favorite matching with the rels. Without the subs, the creek does seem thinner and less impactful, but that all changes with the subs. What I'm hearing is that the creek hasn't fattened up the bass, and it's much clearer and articulated, texture and tone is all there and more noticeable. With the Cambridge, I get more weight, but I lose out on that note to note distinction. Once I heard it with the rels, I couldnt go back to any of my amps that are trading bass weight for bass clarity.
Wonderful humor, wonderful music, wonderful clips, wonderful editing, wonderful content.
Like you very much. Greetings from the Netherlands.
The problem with TH-cam - easy come easy go. Lol.
Great video! Well done. I have 2 of these running as a pair and the even nature of the bass response from 2 is next level.
Thank you 🙏 enjoy 😀
Same with the pair of these. Do you run them as stereo pair or summed mono to each? I've only run them stereo but will eventually try both configs when I get Dirac and a minidsp to try integrating them that way.
@@erics.4113 I am running mine stereo, high level off a Hegel H390. No Dirac option with the Hegel but I don’t really feel like I am missing much. Sound is fantastic. Only thing now I am curious what the “S” line in the REL lineup would improve upon over the T7Xs. I love the 7s but do kind of think I’d like a tad more punch than the 8inch driver with a 200w amp can provide
@@pmizz7959 agreed. They suit me perfectly though since I'm in a shared wall townhome and can't (yet) where I'm living go with a setup that kicks and slams like that. But some day. .
I'd love to hear your Hegel one day too. It's a beautiful looking piece and within their lineup is probably the one i would choose, maybe only second to the H20 power and pre combo as I wouldn't be interested in the Hegel DAC features.
@@erics.4113 The 390 is definitely the sweet spot in their lineup. I originally bought the 190 and exchanged it after 2 weeks for the 390. The DAC is very noticeably better. Much more detailed, increases sound stage and improved attack. Highly recommend it
I had a magnepan 1.7i and thought I'd fill in the bottom end with a sub and got a rel t9i based on the website recommendation using their calculator. What i found was the t9i was way over powered in my room and was turned way down and didn't gel very well with the magnepan. Maybe a smaller one would have suited better.
for a smaller room a pair of t5x might be a very good match with those magnepans
Great video style!
Regarding that subs thing: I got myself a T7/x from my local dealer to try it out at home. The effect was great, of course - so I bought one, but opted to keep the try out for a day longer. Needless to say - I ended up buying two of these suckers.
It is NOT about bass ooomph (which of course these deliver anyway), but because of effortlessness, better room bass control, and the usual sub review platitudes you mentioned in your review. :-)
Thanks for your feedback and nice comments. I agree - a great addition to a hifi 🔊
Why do they only make white and black?
Superb video Simon. I just loved the animation effects. Content was excellent in addition and has given me food for thought.
Thanks very much Mike 😀
RELs are superlative. I started with the T-Zero mk3 and slowly progressed to the T7X, T9X and now a S/510, each one took my rig to the next level.
What speakers did you pair each with? RELs subwoofer recommendations puzzle me - as they pretty much never suggest predator ht1510 even in largest room setting. Same with ls50s no matter what room size they suggest t7x whether it’s music or for cinema only.
Thank you for that!! I'm between zero, t5x and t7x !! T7x it will be👍
Excellent intro. Great video Simon. I really enjoy your creative flourishes.
Thanks very much Richard. I really enjoy making these , a huge part of the enjoyment of this for me. I’m looking at my new AMD pc spec at the moment, which I’m about to order so it can only get better.
Love the James Bond intro!
Thank you. Kind of Saul Bass style - a 50s videographer who did title sequences.
fantastic review.. I've only come across your channel recently. I heard you were changing it a bit in the comments but didn't see a video where you announce what direction the channel would be going into 2023.
Ok Simon, you did it again! Video effects is on a new height! So much love and style, is like watching vintage spy movie! Thank you! Great review. Now it will be best to compare it to KEF KC62 subwoofer.
Thanks very much Marcus. Yes the music was a bit like a 60s spy film. Got that on TH-cam music. 🎼🔉🎧😀
Good Sir, you do such a great job with the intros/outros, in a really artistic manner, a movie like sensation. Also, great reviews! Always a pleasure watching your content. 👌
Thanks very much it’s definitely a creative pursuit 😀
Nice one Simon, I don't think they make these in Wales anymore if not mistaken!
Thanks very much Ven. I did think they were made there I should say. My mistake 😀
A really good discussion and review of the RDL. I have one arriving tomorrow. Out of interest, I have the KEFs too and after a number of REW sweeps I found that my best crossover was at 48 Hz with my previous sub.. Great minds think alike. Keep up the good work.
My brother has the t7x but I wanted something more for movies so went for the ht1205
Great review i stumbled onto . I have two REL99 Classics ,& two T9x"s . Love them . The 99s r paired with 2 Polk R700s powered by a Michi and Eversolo Dmpa8 that is just for music . Th T9xs do double duty music & home theatre . T9x's r paired with Focal Chora surround system powerd by a Onkyo RZ70 streaming movies to a 85 " sony and streaming music with the new WiiM Ultra . I put this system together in a year luckily finding reviewers that could describe what I would b buying and getting as I am extremely isolated from the convenience of shopping. I purchased most of this at the same time and had to have it delivered frieght . The Ultra came by mail to my post office box 120 mi away. I live in Alaska
Another nice one Simon.You mentioned the checking of phase which a lot reviewers leave out and is critical.I was surprised that you liked the high level inputs which a number of reviewers did not end up using if they had pre-out option (my EAR EL34 does not).The other thing is I think yo were right that the Dirac had your the time would be worth it.Given the in room nulls with any sub (or even bass drivers is a non sub system) a DSP correction can really pay off.I have heard a number of audiophiles who say that even wit the best DSP like Dirac it does more harm than good above say 150 Hrz but i the base region smoothing out the response and adjusting time domain it's needed not matter what REL might say or others say about room treatments though this can certainly go a long way. Fortunately one can get that in boxes that are less than $500.Next given your room I would try the Kef KC62 to pair with the Meta's.Cheers!
I enjoyed your review Simon! After all suggestions - and despite my mixed experience with a sub over 15 years ago - I succumbed and added a REL S2 to my setup with ATC 50s active. There is no way back!
Hi Wouter, I am an active ATC user tempted to add a REL to my setup and am wondering if you could comment on how easy you found it to integrate your sub with your main speakers using the low level input? Any pointers gratefully accepted! Regards, Alban
@@albanharvey3354 hi Alban, for integration: you have to think about placement first - thoughts here: REL suggest to start in a corner and turn in - this gives the least risk of standing waves and benefits of corner amplification. I don’t have enough space behind the speakers and I use bass traps. 2nd option: place the sub in your listening position, play music with lots of bass and listen where you would like to place the speaker. Option 3: place the sub ‘near field: - close to your listening position, so no room nodes. My options are limited as we talk about the living room. I placed the speaker around 1/3 along the long side of the living room, with a turn in towards the far corner to minimise exciting room nodes. This worked for me.
With my speakers I chose a crossover on the REL of around 40 Hz, and volume level so you can’t really ‘hear’ the sub. When playing some organ music you can really see the sub doing a great job!
Really worthwhile!
@@wouterkolkman Many thanks for your very helpful comments.
Great review. Would you recommend the BlueSound Sub out to REL Low Level , and use the Bluesound crossover? Or Turn OFF the Bluesound crossover and use the REL controls. Thanks
Thanks very much. Use the REL controls and high level connections if possible. Id only use the node with actives and a sub because the high level wouldn’t be possible in that scenario.😀
Nice review 👍 I also tried the high level vs low level vs low level with crossover on the M3 (yes the old A/B amp) and found the high level much preferable. I loved the addition of a Rel T/7i so much that I now own 2 x T/7i and 2 x T/9x that I’m waiting to hook up once my new man cave is ready 😃
Nice review! Do you know what was your crossover setting with the Buchardts MkII ?
Thanks very much 🙏I don’t remember tbh , I was tweaking it between so many pairs of speakers. Suffice to say it worked well as I said in my vid.
In most cases, a system without a subwoofer is simply not experiencing the full range of the music. It really is an awakening when a high quality subwoofer is added to a system...even for the 2 channel "purists" among us.
I had a pair of REL T7i subs in my system. They are very nice. However, when I replaced them with an Arendal 1723 2S, I was awakened much further. Frankly, the single Arendal wiped the floor with the pair of REL subs.
Great job explaining how to set it up. I have Ist generation Canton Vento 7 floorstanders on the long wall of a 17•14•8 room that while well balanced could use help below about 50hz I think, especially with as you mention Doors music which I’m way into lately. (I just saw Robby Kreiger live recently). Awesome show. I’d like one tx9. You mention starting it at a 30hz crossover and it goes up about 2.5 Hz per click, that sounds good to me how to begin the setup procedure. Very useful advice, thank you!
Wow I’d like to see him live. Only 2 left now with Densmore. I think one of Jim Morrisons concerts would have been mind blowing to go too if I could go back in time as I was born after he died.
Dan Rothschild, their producer’s son shared lead vocals with Krieger’s son. Really great sounding concert at the Canyon Club in Santa Clarita. One guy recorded it all from in front and put it on you tube(I’m sure the band had him do it).
Dan Rothschild, their producer’s son shared lead vocals with Krieger’s son. Really great sounding concert at the Canyon Club in Santa Clarita. One guy recorded it all from in front and put it on you tube(I’m sure the band had him do it).
You are good at this. Very, very good. Thank you. I’m about to be £1,000 poorer.
Thank you very much. The video was fun to make especially intro. Do make your mind up on trying too if you haven’t. Reviews are to affirm or reject reviewers take
(Wow that's the Catch Me If You Can intro!)
REL subs are the business - put it in the corner and forget about it. Sounds and feels like the bass is coming from all the other speakers in the room.
Can't wait for your next up coming Buchardt I150 👍
I wonder when the S400 MK2 match with their own I150, is it still ok to add a REL subwoofer... Very curious what is the end result when really added in 🤔
Someone's been watching Saul Bass. Great intro.
Your animations are tops mate! How many hours do you put into these? I'm sure most of these manufacturers could benefit from your professional services of video production and content creation.
Thank you, lots of time goes in but hugely enjoyable, hopefully it’s advertisement for brands too for video services as I think hifi marketing needs more creativity. 😀🔊🎵
@@13thnotehifireviews7 hifi marketing and creativity does seem rather non-existent. If I was a manufacturer I would absolutely hire you for consultant work. These direct to consumer brands must do a fair share of business through TH-cam reviews, but most of the content is very poorly produced.
Absolutely beautiful production mate 👏
Very helpful video - thanks. And absolutely gorgeous graphics too.
.
Thankyou ❤️👌😀🔉🎼
Nice review.
I think used old subwoofer will be just fine,and there are plenty of those on second hand market,and you can save a lot of money.
Thanks, good call I’d say. Anything that fits your budget
But stay with REL for the high level stereo effect; my REL is 40 years old and disappears from the room when the gain is set properly.
@@Patricia-kk8tr I agree and I think that’s exactly what they say they should do and exactly what they do do. ‘boy racer car bass boxing it’ is not the idea with a subwoofer for 2ch audio. Movies with LFE effects maybe but not hifi.
Great Review. Would you prefer using the BlueSounds Sub out and software crossover over the REL crossover ? thx
Thanks, commented on that in the video already. Bw Simon
Impressive film making skills Simon. If you are going to do another sub review, please do the ATC C1 MK2.
Thank you. I’m doing a Genelec sub review after my Buchardt i150 video I’m presenting to camera atm. 😀👍🎼
In fact ? - does the scene move forward? ...is this good or bad? - I would like it more if the scene became deeper (and therefore further)
Thank you for your assessment
Once you find a good subwoofer you dont want to love without it not even music thats how i feel about arendal 1723 1s
Thanks for sharing your experiences Andreas.
How was it with your Twenty Five 23’s ? I was thinking of buying the T9x.
Pretty good combo with the pmc’s as I think I explained 😀👍🔉🎼
Hello, way you not put the TV in the middle of your speakers?
I listen to audio for music and tv doesn’t really matter imo tbh. Like what I said in my most recent video on the ifi - all about use cases we want, and I don’t want or need best possible sound from a tv for films. That said it does have good speakers inbuilt, quasi Dolby Arnos.
Love your production. Cheers from Sweden
Thank you
And even better: Buy two Rel subwoofers. Much better to get it to sound good. And you can place them more in line with the main speakers in that case.
Possibly, a good call. I’m trying the Kinki Studio EX-M1+ against Hegel H390 atm Oystein.
Fantastic video Simon, it's always exciting to see a new video from you to pop up :) I have a question I own Cambridge Audio CXA81 amplifier connected to REL T/Zero MkIII using subwoofer cable as advised by Richer Sounds staff. I'm intrigued to connect my subwoofer straight to back of my speaker (Monitor Audio Silver 100 G7). Would you advise to connect the subwoofer to back of the amplifier or rather to the back of the speaker using High lever connection cable? Many thanks
Thanks very much Hugo. Back of the amp using high level absolutely. They may have advised that for simplicity or due to control of settings on the rca connection but the high level connections are the way to go on rel subs. Your amp is class ab like my Hegel so you can follow the same way of connecting with your Cambridge screw terminals as I showed in the video of the back of my Hegel amp. Then use speaker cable banana plugs into the speaker terminals. Hope that helps. 😀🎼🔉
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thank you Simon for your reply. I can't believe how much of a huge improvement it has made! Also, my crossover setting was way too low before. Soundstage and richness of sound has improved a lot. I wish I had it done sooner. I had great listening session yesterday enjoying that improvement 👌 Thanks again Simon and good luck with your channel 🙂
Haven't even watched the video yet but damn! That intro!
Thanks Anton, is cool isn’t it . I surprised myself with that one. My new pc will make it even better
Noticed you have quite a few CDs, do you still play them?
Hi Rich. Yes, I mainly stream though as they are all ripped to my innuos. But when I’ve had a really good CD player they all come out again. 😀🎼🔉
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Do you prefer the SQ ofthe original or ripped CD ?
Tom Locke it’s about the implementation Dac etc so nobody can answer that. That Hegel Mohican CD player I did was awesome. I didn’t stream then !
As Bridgend is my birthplace I'm proud to say that it is famous for great rugby legends like JPR Williams and REL Acoustics 😁 REL is my go to sub when I eventually buy one and the either a pair of T 7X or T 5X will be my choice to hook up to a pair of decent stand mount speakers. I feel this will be the perfect match as long as I can get the crossover correct. excellent review and I like the way you explained how to connect the sub to your speakers with the high level connection.
Thanks Steve. Interesting. My home town is Colchester in Essex, and Paxmans was a firm there making big Diesel engines for trains etc, but I think it got taken over and has shut. Though It’s great that we have such a good base of hifi firms in the UK that are continuing and striving. I’d like to make another video of RELs factory.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 that's cool, as Paxmans was famous for their product and I believe they were coach builders originally. Your video's have got better and better over time Simon and they are very enjoyable and professional. Would it be possible to review some DIY speakers such as the Falcon IMF 100's and CSS Criton 1 tdx? Reason being is I trust your thoughts and I'm thinking of either of them to match up with twin REL's, as I believe they will provide a nice balanced sound of excellent realistic mids with deep, fast punchy bass. It would be an interesting review 🤔
Thanks very much Steve, thing is it’s difficult to get gear and I have a list of people to approach first too. I’m gonna do a diy review on a Roon server I think.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 oh ok, I understand. Keep up the excellent work whatever you review 🙂
@@steverees1936 thanks Steve, doing the Buchardt I150 room correcting amp at the moment.
Another great review Simon! 👍 Would you say the T7 turns the Metas into a different animal?
Thanks so much. I would say it does, genuinely 🔊🎶🎵
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Cheers Simon 🍻 Last question :) Metas with the T7 or the Buchardt S400 MK2 on their own? You've heard both these setups.
@@rbo79 please see description of video. Thanks
I loved the intro! Very Hitchcockian. You have loads of talent! I also have a room without treatment and no sub. I’m in my late 60s and I’ve never considered a sub for two channel. I had one briefly for my very short home theater phase. The setup seems a bit complicated. My electronics are vintage McIntosh. I’ve got a Node 2I and it’s optically connected to my Ares II. Would I still sub out from the Node? Wouldn’t that throw off the timing?
Thanks Steve very much. REL always say connect the high level first which really meshes with the system. If it’s certain amps you have to connect to ground and not use the negative speaker terminal for ground like with my Hegel in the video (yellow wire). Although REL told me you can use a spare rca terminal as it says in the manual.
Nice review, I should say thank you but Im not sure because you are to blame of my expenses (not only you).....But I havent regret it
I have the H390 along with LS50 and Im 99% sure to get the T/7x.....Another expense as I have an old sub from 90s old surround system. So....after all, thank you very much
Thanks it’s a nice expense then. lol. 😀🔉👍But I would say don’t stretch yourself too much if the expense is possibly a burden, as hifi is about enjoyment first.
Impressive, nice work!. Thank you.
Thank you. Very helpful.
Thanks too
Nice review Simon. The question do you need a subwoofer can perhaps be better answered if rephrased to, after hearing everything it can do to improve your musical enjoyment, will you mind parting with it?
Btw, the James Bond franchise should seriously consider your video graphics talents for their next flick! Cheers!
Thanks very much Bobby, I think the question is better phrased - will YOU mind parting with it. That said I’ll admit I can do without it personally, now. Mainly for reasons of simplicity in my set up and space
You get a like for production value alone! And yes, I couldn't do without my subs.
Thanks. Production ‘value’ IS the main reason I do this now for self enjoyment, not the hifi unto itself as videos go. Thanks
I find the question of do you need a subwoofer and excuse me for saying this nonsensical. It is on the same level as asking do you need a tweeter or do you need a midrange. If my life and pleasure is listening to music I want to hear the full range and acoustical spectrum of sound. So of course I want to hear the highest highs and the lowest lows of the music. You simply can not do that without a tweeter or a subwoofer. If you don't have a subwoofer then you have been missing not only part of the musical spectrum but the feel of that part of the music that resonates all those instruments like the base or the drum. Why would anyone not want to hear all of the music?
Ok but not everyone wants one , bass is often not the he all and end all and there are so many things that make great sound
@@13thnotehifireviews7 OK. If they don't want to hear the full spectrum of the music so be it. I cannot identify with an audiophile who spends thousands of dollars on the best system they can put together for their listening pleasure and who is not interested in hearing all of the music. It bewilders me. And I am not talking about the gross thumping sound levels of uncontrolled bass. I don't want that just as I don't want an uncontrolled tweeter. Everything must be in balance.
The argument can be framed a different way. Lots of audiophiles trade speed and transient attack for richness and a thicker tonal balance in their hifi with or without a sub. One could say that misses the high frequencies needed for conveying detail. So sound is subjective and so is whether a sub, or any other quality in music, is needed or not.
30 m2
I usually use my T/7x at night with low volume music so that I can enjoy my hifi without disturbing my family.
How big is your space where the sub is? Tnx
Do you still use a subwoofer today? 😊
This sub went back as a loaner
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Do you consider implementing one in your system? Pros vs cons? Thanks
@@justasimplefox more the practicalities of space for me. I would if I did have some space and well integrated subs are very good as I alluded too in the video.
Cheers Simon,, 🍻🤩👍👍
You‘ve got a carpet, so maybe you don‘t know the issue with the REL TX Series and that‘s why you didn‘t mention it but the TX Series likes to move around your room, if you hear music at loud levels. If you‘ve got a hard floor, don‘t buy this Sub. The TX series is just too light. Even REL knows this problem and released a clip on youtube. They tell you to glue it to the floor. That‘s just stupid. They made a mistake and now they tell you to buy this expensive sub and glue it to your floor.
A possible fix for this is the SVS Soundpath replacement footers. They worked very well with my REL 1003’s
A sub adds weight and depth to the sound stage intially, however overtime you will find that it also takes away from the beauty of the speaker design. You will spend hours thinking about intergration that will never be perfect. Its like adding creamer to your favorite brew...For me its a NO.....
I think it’s really a case of what you are used to. And familiarity is a thing in hifi. But tbh certain speakers just need one.
Thanks Simon. I just added a pair of Rel Tx9 to my PMC’s as well and am happy. Link: th-cam.com/video/FQQFfEKubg0/w-d-xo.html
They look great. Nice wide layout. Are those 24 or 23 PMC speakers ?
@@13thnotehifireviews7 Thanks Simon. 23
Merci !
Thank you very much for your small donation.
Once you get at least one decent sub and learn how to integrate it properly you will never go back.
No you need a pair, next question.