Hey guys, was really enthusiastic about this one because I love their mindset as a company and that REALLY translates to their products and how they have improved over the years. If The Video was helpful, please click that "like button" on the video, helps my channel out and doesn't cost you anything. READ MORE ⬇ REL T5X: rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofers/serie-tx/t-5x/ Amazon: amzn.to/38je4hA REL T7X: rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofers/serie-tx/t-7x/ Amazon: amzn.to/2Wu7uC9 REL T9X: rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofers/serie-tx/t-9x/ Amazon: amzn.to/2WvMsUj 0:00 Why REL Subwoofers? 7:11 REL T5X 10:34 REL T7X 11:54 REL T9X 13:30 Final Remarks 15:45 Bonus Questions Study Paper: www.pnas.org/doi/abs/10.1073/pnas.1402039111 REL's guide on how to connect High Level input: relsupport.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/categories/115000818247-How-To-Connect-My-REL relevant videos: Ultimate subwoofer shootout: th-cam.com/video/HiPwGE114H8/w-d-xo.html Detail into REL T7X: th-cam.com/video/jtXsmIGD6x4/w-d-xo.html *My Daily Components (All Tested And Proved To Work in Blind Tests)* Fancy speaker stands I use: shop-links.co/choe8oQHC9w Speaker stands I use (budget): amzn.to/3ssRhI3 Desktop Speaker Stands I Use: shop-links.co/chofc1R7mpT acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/ acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM my fav hifi tweaks: (Isoacoustics devices) amzn.to/3j5FGvM Speaker Isolation Feet I Use: shop-links.co/choffy3csSK Turntable Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofgeNORJP Component Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofhTC3wc7
You may be right on the timing at low frequency BUT the human ear is much less sensitive to distortion at low frequencies, some cannot even hear 10% distortion. Why did you purchase a new Rel? speaker tech hasnt really improved in the last few decades and you can get old Stadiums, Storms and Stratas at a fraction of the price, many of them in really nice woods. Just bought a Storm and it sounds fantastic for only £90.
I use a REL T 7i with magnepan 1.7i speakers. if you couldn't see it you wouldn't know it was there. it blends seamlessly and is fast enough to pair with the maggies. I have ARC with the Anthem STR preamp which lets you correct phase of the sub by 5 degree increments.
wow I literally almost the chain.. Just bought the Maggie 1.7i and Anthem STR integrated amp and currently setting up ARC. I'm considering buying a pair of used Rel T5X or T7x to pair with them. Do you enjoy ARC and does it do a good job of bass management in your room?
I have a Naim set-up with Dynaudio Confidence 20 speakers. I was thinking of changing them because I thought they were a bit light on bass. I bought 2 T/9x rosso (they are very beautiful!). They have saved me a great deal of money. I am now completely satisfied with my hifi. So, before shelling out, think about subs. I was always sceptical but am now a convert
Good summary. I agree completely. Many while listening to my system say they cannot hear my subs and ask why spend the money and not hear them. Then I turn them off and the sound stage just goes away. The depth and holographic image becomes very flat. There is a center channel but nothing like when the subs are on. I have the older S5 SHO models. It took me many months to get them where I am today. My main speakers are Sopra 3's and many would say there is no need for subs with these speakers. I say they are wrong. It is critical to stay under the main speakers though. The gain can be more aggressive but not the crossover. I have my crossover at about 40 Hz.
The perfect REL subwoofer for me turned out to be the T/Zero Mk III. I have a small room 2 channel system consisting of the Arcam SA20 integrated amp, B&W 606S2 speakers, a modded Rega Planar 2 turntable and Cambridge 640 Azur CD player. The B&W's have good bass, but I wanted to flesh it out a bit. The REL blends perfectly without calling attention to itself. I got it in white; it's so small, I call it my sugar cube.
With careful set up you could get any of them and will work I t5x and two s510 and set up in smaller rooms and medium and they sound wonderful they add even to string instruments like cello and violin it’s about crossover and volume depending on Room but they work and you won’t be able to live without them after you hear them
I'm excited to see more Tektons in your room. I have pair of Moabs on order :) Before deciding to go for better full range speakers, I auditioned a pair each of REL HT1205 and SVS SB3000. The RELs were more sensitive to placement. Far and away the best they sounded in my room, was stacked on top of the SVS.. The SVS were fine on the floor and better still on some concrete paver tiles. You should try the Tekton 2-10 and/or 4-10 subs. I bet they are really good for the money. After my experience, their verticality really appeals to me. Same reason I was so attracted to the Moabs before researching them; those high mounted 12" drivers!
Thank you for your videos. I seem to be missing something. I’m leaning towards the REL subs that will complement my existing system. I have a medium room equipped with Definitive Technology - BP-9060 High Performance Home Theater Tower Speaker with Integrated 10” Powered Subwoofer. TX5 x3 (2front & 1behind), TX7 x2, or just one HT/1510 Predator your thoughts?
If you were to put a sub with the KLH model 5s, which one would you suggest? I do not know anything about this subject, but I happily purchased the Model 5s.
Support is important today. I have a T3 that was plugged in, but lightly used. After 4 1/2 years, the speaker audio went dead. I contacted REL in California and the owner replied that most likely, the amp would most likely need new capacitors. I did not have a good desoldering gun, so I sent them the circuit board to them. For $100, they replaced the amp electrolytic caps and shipped the unit back included. Versus an English speaker company who could not supply output transistors nor rebuilt output boards for their powered computer speakers. They did offer a reduced price on a current model. But the change was to change aging transistors that had not failed, and it would cost a fortune to send the whole speakers to factory US service, especially considering they would not find any failure. But it shows that when made in China, they did not stock any parts for these perhaps 5 years old powered speakers. And this is a major hifi speaker company. So, consider the support from REL an important point in your selection of sub woofer brands.
Adding T7X to my Special 40's completely changed my understanding of high end audio. It's been a year but sometimes when listening to new music I get mind blown over and over by how musical and fast this subwoofer is. Don't listen to all the hate REL is getting these days, those subs are spectacular!
Yeah I don't get the hate I see in some forums either, like fanboy levels of hate, I personally don't like SVS in comparison but I never disregard it for recommendations depending on someone's needs, well that was until the big price hikes. I sold my 1000 SB Pro after trying out the HT 1205 because to me everything about it was so much better that it was just no contest for both music and movies. I also ended up getting an HT 1508 just this past May and wow...mind blown and world view changed. So if I love this huge 15" Rel sub that much for music even, I can only imagine how perfect a T5x or T7x would sound. The special 40's are also on my short list of future purchases, either those or the Evoke 20. I listened to the Emit 20 when buying some Rotel gear off someone and it really got my attention, already sold my Aria 906 in anticipation.
@@linn4538emit 20s here too (I’d like SP40s one day too), have a Paradigm sub that I’d like to upgrade to a REL. After listening to this I’d say a T5 would be suitable for my space. I was considering a 2nd hand REL R205
Completely agree. There are many people out there who disregard Rel based upon graphs without ever hearing one. Rels way with transients is quite addictive.
Would really love to see a rythmik or hsu subwoofer come through here. I understand their audience is more home theater, but I'd really like to understand how they compare, I imagine they may quite well.
The perception of speed and bass has so much to do with the decay time of the room. A smaller sub will be perceived as faster because it is not exciting room modes as much.
Hi Jay, Your absolutely right with sub sizes for type of speaker and room size. The T series is a absolutely bargain into a musical subwoofer. Have you auditioned the S series. This will be the next step up from the T series, and even Carbon series with a faster response. As with any speakers, subwoofers will need a good breaking in period to settle the suspension and soften the surrounds. Stereo subwoofer in a room providing the space and budget allows it is a must. Once your into the S series and above, stacked subwoofers is the ultimate setup. And before people start criticising that they just want to sell more products with no gains in performance. If your able to audition the stacked array, you might able to preach to your audience what you witnessed….. it’s rather a expensive hobby but to a few it’s their nirvana.
Thanks Jay. Have you compared the T7x or T9x to their HT line in terms of speed? People assume they need 20 hz for movies, but I find movies sound incredible when 30-50 hz hit crazy fast and extremely tight. Thanks for these reviews!
Great video…very informative! I have the KEF LSX with the REL T5X and was very pleased. I just received the new KEF LSX ll and WOW! I really didn’t think I’d hear that much of a difference…KEF did some amazing things with the DSP. The base response is so much better now and perfectly matched with my REL T5X. I love REL subs because of how well-built they are, their fast response, aesthetically pleasing, and seamless integration.
My amazing Velodyne HGS sub amp finally died, and I have ordered a REL T9X after much research. I'm still going to have the Velodyne amp plate repaired while I decide if the Rel is for me.
REL really needs a cell phone app like SVS for Parametric EQ. When you have 10-15 dB bass peaks like most of us do, knocking it down is a bigger improvement than almost anything.
Can’t agree more. Would love an app or remote but hopefully that doesn’t take away from their main goal of creating a full analog sub with little delay as possible
What you are asking for is the antithesis of REL. There are plenty of companies making DSP controlled subwoofers. Only a few companies make analog subwoofers. Asking them to add dsp is asking them to ruin what makes their subwoofer excellent. You can add a mini dsp or other dap with cell phone app for as little as $200 if you really want to. Personally I don’t want an A-D-A conversion for my subwoofer.
Do you know what is the best ? exactly an SBA or DBA on the Back / Front + DSP because youve an even consistent Room Response. One subwoofer is never an ideal option. You put a lot of energy as a point source in one corner / place and have an unbalanced room response. Its not hard to build an Subwoofer, its hard to get the Acoustics, Phase & Crossover correct and handle with the energy you put in the room... the video titles lately are way too annoying and just wrong
@@raymondtaveras9371 what is the difference between 1 and 2, in terms of spl / extension / loudness? (I know it's smooths out the response). I'm considering to buy my second as well.
@@orressel9871 I tried very briefly 1 vs 2 T/9x in my setup. I hate loud, so don’t know about that, but definitely a little more extension. What I noticed most was the increase in scale and sound stage size. More of those spatial cues everyone talks about :-) More feeling of the room getting pressurized too. But you should listen more to the guys with dual s510’s and more time spent using them!!
One thing to say about "fast" subwoofers is it is largely a function of inductance. The voice coil is just an inductor so it stores energy which makes it slower to start and stop. Smaller voice coils, shorting rings, and more exotic motor ie. xbl2 designs all help my guess with REL it's the first 2 especially looking at the power handling of the 8" I'm thinking it has a pretty small vc and at the price point it better have shorting rings. REL always has some good looking subwoofers though.
Good info. To reduce time differences, I try to put the subs (rel t5i) at the same distance to my ears as the standmount speaker drivers. I use a string clipped to my listening chair.
This is very interesting, conventional wisdom says that we take longer to determine the presence and pitch of lower frequencies, why when it comes to subwoofer placement in small rooms, the room dominates (when we perceive the low frequencies, they will have bounced around the room several times). For sure lower pitch is more dominant when it comes to how we perceive “time” in music, they are also closer in frequency to the heart beat. I will read that paper for sure! 👍
Excellent video with very sensible and logical advice. I'd be interested to know what you thought the REL Baseline Blue cable added to these subs. I am about to replace my very old REL Strata II sub with (probably) the T/7x in a medium size room with Spendor D9 speakers. I'm considering the rather expensive Baseline Blue cable too, but would have liked some reviews, opinion on what this brought to the REL table first. Any experience?
Why not buy sonus faber ( sumiko?) Subwoofer like gravis II sub ? Only rel rel but speakon and dual speaker ( actif, passif) is on gravis X ( I, II, III) sub . 8 inch for I, 10 inch for Ii and III. Only gravis V is 12 inch like REL S/812..
Hi, thank you for taking the time to explain this in detail, exactly what I was looking for. This video should be viewed by everyone looking for a subwoofer, REL especially.
I have one, I think it’s a REL328. I think it’s a 10 inch driver. The guy said this is better than the bigger one because the smaller driver performs better for music. I have it connected using that speaker cable to the music amp and the LFE from the AV amp. I like that both inputs have their own gain control. I found putting it near a corner it was too boomy but once I moved it to a more open position it performed great.
Using a pair of REL HT 1205 with the LS50 Metas. The bang for the buck quality is amazing. And I got the REL’s on sale. Ordered a pair of Pendragon’s, 7 tweeter arrangement with crossover and binding post upgrades to complete an all Pendragon HT. Keep the great Tekton videos coming Jay!!!!
Nice! I love the 1205, so much so that I couldn't part with it when I got the 1508. Might see if I can pair them together since I never actually tried even though the 1508 is already way MOAR than I need lol.
It would be interesting to have you review a Tekton Cinema (non-passive) for cinematic purposes, since the REL are listed under cinema. In comparison and after speaking with Eric Alexander about the cinema Sub and how responsive and fast delivering it was. I currently have a Def Tech Trinity and is a monster of a sub but it isn't quick or perhaps is missing s key ingredient in driving it though it has its on capable amp to drive it and connected to Denon AVR4300H, which Eric said was fine and the Cinema doesn't need an added amp... Keep up the good work Jay and love your descriptive input🙌🙏
I am thinking about REL T/5X or 7X for my living room which is carpeted. Does anyone have experience of using RELs on quite deep carpeting? Intuitively it feels like the downward firing 5x would not be very effective
I've used subs since college, hard to go without one once your used to having them. I see that 2ohm pendragon back there. I'm interested to hear what the minimum costing type of amp needed to drive them well, I always wondered since I saw Tekton put them out for sale.
If you can still get them the discontinued but sometimes still available Emotiva BasX 400Z. 2X250 @ 2 ohms. I have one running 2- 2 ohm JL subs. It's one ohm stable and can probably run almost anything on the planet.
I know this video is about REL subs, but I see the Pendragons behind you. After all the Tektons you have listened to and reviewed, are these the speakers that have remained in your system, even over the more “reference” Double Impacts? If so, can you say why? Thank you for your passion and all your insights.
I have Dali e-12f sub and it's great for movies and surround but when I use it for stereo music and I turn up the volume it goes out of control and vibrating. It's terrible. I tried different settings, placement, connections but it doesn't help. Is it a cd or vinyl recording issue? Please advise
I was using two Klipsch subs with my DIY open Baffles. I never liked the sound. It was loose and boomy. Last April they had a sale. I bought the Tx/7. I used the Speakon cable to connect to my Decware Zen Triode. I did have a hum at first. I emailed Steve Deckert. He said to connect a short jumper between the negative terminals to get a common ground. That eliminated the hum. I set the gain and low pass at 12 o’clock to start. As soon as I was 30 seconds into the first track, I was blown away by the improvement. All of the music just came to life like magic. I ended up dialing the low pass back to 40 HZ. and increasing the gain a few clicks. I’ve had a couple friends listen without the sub. I’ll then turn it on in the middle of a track and watch their expression. They have been amazed at the difference. I’m considering a second one, but I’m totally happy with the single unit. Also I have my Yamaha AV Receiver connected via the LFE using a sub cable. The sub has separate circuits, so you can use it either way.
I have two s812's my question is how to you know what hz you have your sub set at i don't have any numbers on the dials. Im guessing on where its set at.
I have 2 SVS 1000 Pros. bolted to 2 solid 15 inch metal stands with 2 KEF LS 50 Metas sitting on top of the subs with a combination of rubber feet and metal cones. No vibration with a uniform response. Getting the subwoofer off the ground makes a huge improvement because a sub is an extension of your main speaker
Thanks for being a patreon. I assume you are doing more than JUST music on your desktop. And for movies and gaming, there are stuff going on below what REL provides here. yea I'd say try one T5x first BUT if you really really really want all of them low extension at the sacrifice of some musicality/texture and you never told me your budget so... my answer: KEF KC62.
MJ acoustics all the way. The former employees of Rel quit Rel and created the best (Made in England) subs. Not the biggest brand, but the best for me. My LS50 meta’s are so happy with this MJ Acoustics reference 100 mkII. The real joke is I paid 1050 euros for the Meta’s and the sub. Where do I find a better sounding speaker set for €1050?
Solid informative review. I have the Yamaha a-s1200 paired with l 82 classics in a smaller room. Sounds like the T5x is for me. Mostly listen to jazz. Thanks for the info.
Picked up 2 T9's today. My system was set up for home theater (Marantz 8802A, 7.2 speakers using Triad subs, Oppo 203, etc.). Rel suggested either 2 T9's or 2 S510s. Went with the T9's. Looking fwd to hearing how they perform.
1500 usd for a 10" sealed is too much, you need surface area to feel slam and impact. My expensive old 10" velodyne gets eaten alive by my 18" ultimax...
Excellent review as usual. You hit the nail on the head with your opening thoughts which is the Speakon connection. I've done tonnes of research as shopping for a subwoofer and they are all good but the Speakon connection sold me in the end for the ease of installation. Wonder why other companies don't do that but I am guessing there's patent involved.
Check out Mark Seaton subs. I would put them up against the B&W db1's at a much more reasonable price. They are balanced well enough to place a nickle standing up and play them at reference levels without the nickle rolling or falling over.
LOVED your video. Unless you've heard the Rel Experience to know what it can do, your video does a pretty good job of explaining it's mystique. I own SVS subs and have had them in my theater which is 50/50 music/movies. I liked them TIL I heard a Rel S 510 Six Pack and my local stereo store. That listening session helped me understand subwoofers better. The way they showed their musicality was amazing. I hope to replace the SVS with 2 510s for left and right and a T9x for center channel. I've already purchased a Rel HT 1205 for the rear surrounds in the theater. Definitely a game cchanger. I was torn between the T5x and T7x to go with bookshelves that I had at one time. I chose the T5x because of room size/space and the bookshelves. I have since gotten rid of the speakers and gone bigger (Dynaudio Emit 20 to Emit 30) and the T5x blends seamless with the Emit 30s. Excellent subs. You never know they're their til something dips below the lowness of the speakers. Love my Rels.
Nice video and I understand you're discussing 2 channel music listening,, real world people may use their systems for music/video , I own a T9I limited which is the predecessor to the x series ,as well as 2other subs for my room , I use the REL 95% or more of the time with my mains for music and would say get the bigger REL when possible always regardless if you are using book shelves or towers., as the bigger dimensions is minimal but performance will be worth it ,especially 2 if you can swing it .
Jay, in use with bookshelf/stand-mount speakers, would you say that the T5's speed outweighs the T7's relative directionality, since it has a front firing sub and is not just bottom firing like the t5?
If all a company makes are subs that alone tells me they must do something right. I bought the T5X last November. Love the tiny size and sealed design. Put the IsoAcoustic footers under it. Will buy a 2nd one in Nov. at the next annual promo event. After visiting many audiophile's homes I realized they all used bass arrays of one type or another. Loved your instrument chart. Kudos to you for being open to upping your game over your ego. You may want to add warranty info in your reviews if you believe warranties have value.
I run two of the CSS 12" subs in sealed 1 0 CU. FT. boxes powered by 1200W SVS amps. These are the most musical subs I've ever owned. One thing I've noticed about better subwoofers is their wider frequency response. I get nuances from the bass player that only came out as one note bumps before I added these. That and they never sound "boomy." My speakers are Kef R3's and the CSS' really complement them nicely. The combo creates a nice slam when I crank it up with more information and detail at normal listening levels. IMO MONEY WELL SPENT.
I wonder how much the speed/quality of the sub influences how you match it to room and speaker size? As you step up in Rel’s range, there are only larger options available (drivers and cabinets). I was considering adding a second T/7i, but had a chance to get two T/9x at a crazy good price (slight damage to finish). I called Rel support who recommended I step up to the T/9x’s, even though my room is only 3.5 x 5 x 2.4 meters (11 x 16 x 8 feet) and I use stand mount speakers (B&W 805n).
@@Jayiyagi Totally, John Hunter seems very adament on the correct speaker/sub match too. I assume the person I spoke to at Rel believed that the advantage of moving to a newer generation (from I -> X) would still make the larger newer sub a better match. Outside of briefly testing the new T9/x's they are still in boxes (pending moving house), so have yet to properly compare for myself :-) Would be very cool if you could review some higher end Rel subs, also to see how those (that go from big to bigger) work with smaller speakers/rooms. Cheers
Hi Jay, thank you for all of your work. I enjoy watching your thought provoking videos, the evolution of your journey, and the maturing of your approach. At 7:54 of this video you show a red/yellow/blue instrument voice/frequency matrix which I find interesting and believe could be of practical use with regard to evaluating systems. Would you please provide if you can a link to this matrix so that it would be available to us? Thank you, keep up your great work. Mark
I have a single rel S5Sho with a pair of Dynaudio Contour 60i’s. The Dynaudio speakers have great deep bass but that single rel blends seamlessly with the main speakers and adds that really deep bass. You absolutely cannot tell there’s a sub in the room.
Love the video. Jay what do you classify as a small, medium or large room? Would u recommend 2 subs to go with the CSS Audio 1TD-X. Can’t wait for the next video
Room size is subjective, but here are a few industry estimates. Spatial Audio Lab: Small room example 10x12ft, Medium room example 13x17ft, Large room 15x20 and larger. THX certified: Small up to 1,000 cu ft, Medium up to 2,000 cu ft, Large up to 3,000 cu ft, closest to public cinema up to 6,500 cu ft. Acoustic Fields (50% larger than THX): Small up to 1,500 cu ft, Medium up to 3,000 cu ft, Large up to 4,500 cu ft. Audioholics (close to Acoustic Fields): Small up to 1,500 cu ft, Medium up to 3,000 cu ft, Large up to 5,000 cu ft, Extreme over 5,000 cu ft. Starting to DJ (largest): Extra Small up to 1,200 cu ft, Small up to 2,000 cu ft, Medium up to 4,000 cu ft, Large up to 6,000 cu ft, Extra Large over 6,000 cu ft.
Hi Jay, great video. I have a garage room converted and sound insulated 17ft x 15ft (5m x 4.5m) . I am looking at getting the kef ls50 wireless 2 . Would you recommend the t5x or t7x ? I will be streaming or optical out to listen to music 70% and 30% to watch sports films ? Or would you recommend the Rel HT series combined with the tx ? Your thoughts would be much appreciated !
Running a pair of t7x in stereo in a small room, 10x14ft and they barely have to do much to pressurize the whole program. They're not digging into the 20s though, but for music I'm good. And I am in a shared wall townhome and they play nicely with neighbors at all listening levels.
This is the 3nd piece of gear I bought from your suggestions - The T5X and prior to that the Pontus 2 and the Willsenton R800i. Absolutely happy with the results , you know what you’re talking abt. Keep up with the good work and wish you the best. And thanks for your valuable guidance. Zero regrets buying all those items.
Interested on a comparison on more budget friendly subs against these REL TX how two smaller subwoofers compete against one larger sub. Not interested in aesthetics just looking for the closest option for the best sound for both home theater & music balance dont need to know what KEF, RSL or SVS have to offer just the REL vs Rythmik lineup. REL HT1205 mk2 / ht1003 mkii or even the original HTs -versus- Rythmik fvx12, lv12m & f12se
Incorrect. Impulse, resonance and distortion amongst others can suggest a faster sub but easiest way is to play the same frequency on two different subs and you will understand that speed on a subwoofer is a real thing (mostly pertaining to 2channel. In home-theatres, it matters much less)
Hi Jay nice review. What is your opinion on REL Classic 98? I own vintage Cabasse Caravelle M2 speakers with Technics Amp&Pre-Amp SE-A900S SU-C800U. Greets
Please tell us… what is sml, med or large room… what dimension? Also I have low ceiling height 2.2meters so with this reduced volume, which do I choose? My room is 3.5 mtr x 5.5 mtr x 2.2 mtr
Thank you for the answer to my question in your video. I have a 19 X 19 ft room with a Rotel 1592 MKII connected to Polk R700s. I’ll be buying a REL T9X ,but do I need 1 or 2 ???
G Day mate, I am from the Land down under ! Just wondering Jay`s iyagi ! I have a Rotel 1592MK11 integrated Amp & I am running Wharfedale EVO 4.4 Tower speaker just pure Stereo ! Do I need a Subwoofer with this setup,- any help would be appreciated ! Cheers
r u kidding me. 50 milliseconds is heaps. 1/20th of a second (obvs). Mix engineers use short delays to thicken sounds. Try putting a 50 millisecond delay on a snare or something, you'll notice a HUGE difference.
Jay…. I have the Buchardt s400II speakers in 13x18 room. Multi use living/listening room. Would 2 T5x subs improve my sound or should I just live with what I have? The Buchardt go down pretty low already. Or what would you suggest? Thank you.
Hi Jay, I have the Totem Tribe Towers and am currently using a REL HT1003 but I`m thinking a t7i would be an improvement over the ht1003. Your thoughts please.
Anybody have a sub-woofer that produces a low frequency quiet hum?. It is not the sub-woofer itself (I don't think). I can leave it plugged in and powered on and there will be NO HUM if I disconnect the inter-connect cables that are plugged from my sub to my AMP. Can the AMP itself cause a ground loop? I heard a "Isolation Transformer/Ground Loop Hum Eliminator" might help? Any suggestions? I like to listen to Jazz a lot and that music can be dynamic. Even though the hum is not very loud - During quiet passages in Jazz the noise can be very noticeable. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
@Jays’s iyagi I have the Wharfdale 12.2’s and the 225’s bookshelf speakers. Which one would you recommend since the low end on the Wharfdale’s are on the slower side. I have a small to medium size room.
I building a new setup with Monior Audio CP-WT380IDC as LCR, using a AVR and a PRE/PowerAMP for the L/R. Will use it for both music and movies, so am thinking, 1 great sub like the T/7 or T/5, or do a combo of using a HT/1103 and a T/5. or maybe do 2 T/zeros since my room is not that big ? Is dual subs always better than a better 1 sub ?
Hi Jay i want to get the tx5 im in a medium t shape room but im in one end of the room the room is around 700 square feet and i have stand mount b&w 685, kef 104ab and i have b&w 684 and i have energy veritas 2.3 that are not stand mount that i switch around from time to time my question is would a t5x still had some bass to those bigger speakers they go down to around 35htz i would probably get two tx5
Hi Jay, I’m a longtime viewer and subscriber. I know REL has very nice subs and are well built. I recently opted for a Rythmik F12-G model. I only needed one (for now) for my smaller listening room with stand mounts. I’ve had several fairly high end 12 inch subs and I can honestly say that I’ve never experienced this type of bass detail and speed in a subwoofer. I hope that you can find some time to review one like mine. I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on it. I really think you would be very surprised in the performance it brings at just over 1k delivered. Just my two cents.
I will be purchasing a set of KLIPSCH Heresy IV speakers. Which REL subwoofer, T5X, T7X, or T9X would you recommend? My room is probably 25' x 25'. Thank you, Jay! Love your reviews!
Hey guys, was really enthusiastic about this one because I love their mindset as a company and that REALLY translates to their products and how they have improved over the years. If The Video was helpful, please click that "like button" on the video, helps my channel out and doesn't cost you anything. READ MORE ⬇
REL T5X: rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofers/serie-tx/t-5x/
Amazon: amzn.to/38je4hA
REL T7X: rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofers/serie-tx/t-7x/
Amazon: amzn.to/2Wu7uC9
REL T9X: rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofers/serie-tx/t-9x/
Amazon: amzn.to/2WvMsUj
0:00 Why REL Subwoofers?
7:11 REL T5X
10:34 REL T7X
11:54 REL T9X
13:30 Final Remarks
15:45 Bonus Questions
Study Paper: www.pnas.org/doi/abs/10.1073/pnas.1402039111
REL's guide on how to connect High Level input: relsupport.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/categories/115000818247-How-To-Connect-My-REL
relevant videos:
Ultimate subwoofer shootout: th-cam.com/video/HiPwGE114H8/w-d-xo.html
Detail into REL T7X: th-cam.com/video/jtXsmIGD6x4/w-d-xo.html
*My Daily Components (All Tested And Proved To Work in Blind Tests)*
Fancy speaker stands I use: shop-links.co/choe8oQHC9w
Speaker stands I use (budget): amzn.to/3ssRhI3
Desktop Speaker Stands I Use: shop-links.co/chofc1R7mpT
acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/
acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM
my fav hifi tweaks: (Isoacoustics devices) amzn.to/3j5FGvM
Speaker Isolation Feet I Use: shop-links.co/choffy3csSK
Turntable Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofgeNORJP
Component Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofhTC3wc7
You may be right on the timing at low frequency BUT the human ear is much less sensitive to distortion at low frequencies, some cannot even hear 10% distortion.
Why did you purchase a new Rel? speaker tech hasnt really improved in the last few decades and you can get old Stadiums, Storms and Stratas at a fraction of the price, many of them in really nice woods. Just bought a Storm and it sounds fantastic for only £90.
Bingo! When my existing subwoofer retires, T5x is on my list. Great info Jay! Thanks.
I use a REL T 7i with magnepan 1.7i speakers. if you couldn't see it you wouldn't know it was there. it blends seamlessly and is fast enough to pair with the maggies. I have ARC with the Anthem STR preamp which lets you correct phase of the sub by 5 degree increments.
wow I literally almost the chain.. Just bought the Maggie 1.7i and Anthem STR integrated amp and currently setting up ARC. I'm considering buying a pair of used Rel T5X or T7x to pair with them. Do you enjoy ARC and does it do a good job of bass management in your room?
I have a Naim set-up with Dynaudio Confidence 20 speakers. I was thinking of changing them because I thought they were a bit light on bass. I bought 2 T/9x rosso (they are very beautiful!). They have saved me a great deal of money. I am now completely satisfied with my hifi. So, before shelling out, think about subs. I was always sceptical but am now a convert
Good summary. I agree completely. Many while listening to my system say they cannot hear my subs and ask why spend the money and not hear them. Then I turn them off and the sound stage just goes away. The depth and holographic image becomes very flat. There is a center channel but nothing like when the subs are on. I have the older S5 SHO models. It took me many months to get them where I am today. My main speakers are Sopra 3's and many would say there is no need for subs with these speakers. I say they are wrong. It is critical to stay under the main speakers though. The gain can be more aggressive but not the crossover. I have my crossover at about 40 Hz.
The perfect REL subwoofer for me turned out to be the T/Zero Mk III. I have a small room 2 channel system consisting of the Arcam SA20 integrated amp, B&W 606S2 speakers, a modded Rega Planar 2 turntable and Cambridge 640 Azur CD player. The B&W's have good bass, but I wanted to flesh it out a bit. The REL blends perfectly without calling attention to itself. I got it in white; it's so small, I call it my sugar cube.
Still happy with the Zero? I also have the 606S2. REL's subwoofer finder is recommending the Zero, but I think I will step up to the T5x.
I have the 707 s2 with the powernode and was considering that sub. Are you still happy with it?
@@ld4974 I am with 606S2's and two REL HT1205 MarkI hooked to Marantz 1508
With careful set up you could get any of them and will work I t5x and two s510 and set up in smaller rooms and medium and they sound wonderful they add even to string instruments like cello and violin it’s about crossover and volume depending on Room but they work and you won’t be able to live without them after you hear them
What speakers ?
@@Jayiyagi Martin Logan Monolith 3 with Exos active crossover and ElectroMotion and Motion 35xti and Martin Logan reQuest
I'm excited to see more Tektons in your room. I have pair of Moabs on order :)
Before deciding to go for better full range speakers, I auditioned a pair each of REL HT1205 and SVS SB3000. The RELs were more sensitive to placement. Far and away the best they sounded in my room, was stacked on top of the SVS.. The SVS were fine on the floor and better still on some concrete paver tiles.
You should try the Tekton 2-10 and/or 4-10 subs. I bet they are really good for the money. After my experience, their verticality really appeals to me. Same reason I was so attracted to the Moabs before researching them; those high mounted 12" drivers!
Thank you for your videos.
I seem to be missing something. I’m leaning towards the REL subs that will complement my existing system. I have a medium room equipped with Definitive Technology - BP-9060 High Performance Home Theater Tower Speaker with Integrated 10” Powered Subwoofer. TX5 x3 (2front & 1behind), TX7 x2, or just one HT/1510 Predator your thoughts?
I have two s/812's but i cant tell what hz im settings them at because there is no numbers on the settings dial. Anybody know how to determine?
If you were to put a sub with the KLH model 5s, which one would you suggest? I do not know anything about this subject, but I happily purchased the Model 5s.
I have the model 5 as well. I would think the T7x or if a really big room t9x
No one ever reviews the S510 on TH-cam.
Support is important today. I have a T3 that was plugged in, but lightly used. After 4 1/2 years, the speaker audio went dead. I contacted REL in California and the owner replied that most likely, the amp would most likely need new capacitors. I did not have a good desoldering gun, so I sent them the circuit board to them. For $100, they replaced the amp electrolytic caps and shipped the unit back included. Versus an English speaker company who could not supply output transistors nor rebuilt output boards for their powered computer speakers. They did offer a reduced price on a current model. But the change was to change aging transistors that had not failed, and it would cost a fortune to send the whole speakers to factory US service, especially considering they would not find any failure. But it shows that when made in China, they did not stock any parts for these perhaps 5 years old powered speakers. And this is a major hifi speaker company. So, consider the support from REL an important point in your selection of sub woofer brands.
I agree with you, but Rel is neither Californian nor English. It’s Welsh.
Adding T7X to my Special 40's completely changed my understanding of high end audio. It's been a year but sometimes when listening to new music I get mind blown over and over by how musical and fast this subwoofer is. Don't listen to all the hate REL is getting these days, those subs are spectacular!
Yeah I don't get the hate I see in some forums either, like fanboy levels of hate, I personally don't like SVS in comparison but I never disregard it for recommendations depending on someone's needs, well that was until the big price hikes.
I sold my 1000 SB Pro after trying out the HT 1205 because to me everything about it was so much better that it was just no contest for both music and movies.
I also ended up getting an HT 1508 just this past May and wow...mind blown and world view changed.
So if I love this huge 15" Rel sub that much for music even, I can only imagine how perfect a T5x or T7x would sound.
The special 40's are also on my short list of future purchases, either those or the Evoke 20. I listened to the Emit 20 when buying some Rotel gear off someone and it really got my attention, already sold my Aria 906 in anticipation.
With regards to the Special 40, did you have a chance to try the T5X? I'm trying to decide between the two! Tks for answering.
@@linn4538emit 20s here too (I’d like SP40s one day too), have a Paradigm sub that I’d like to upgrade to a REL. After listening to this I’d say a T5 would be suitable for my space.
I was considering a 2nd hand REL R205
Completely agree. There are many people out there who disregard Rel based upon graphs without ever hearing one.
Rels way with transients is quite addictive.
Would really love to see a rythmik or hsu subwoofer come through here. I understand their audience is more home theater, but I'd really like to understand how they compare, I imagine they may quite well.
I love Rel. They do change the sound of a system to where one doesn’t want to live without them
The perception of speed and bass has so much to do with the decay time of the room. A smaller sub will be perceived as faster because it is not exciting room modes as much.
Hi Jay,
Your absolutely right with sub sizes for type of speaker and room size. The T series is a absolutely bargain into a musical subwoofer. Have you auditioned the S series. This will be the next step up from the T series, and even Carbon series with a faster response. As with any speakers, subwoofers will need a good breaking in period to settle the suspension and soften the surrounds. Stereo subwoofer in a room providing the space and budget allows it is a must. Once your into the S series and above, stacked subwoofers is the ultimate setup. And before people start criticising that they just want to sell more products with no gains in performance. If your able to audition the stacked array, you might able to preach to your audience what you witnessed….. it’s rather a expensive hobby but to a few it’s their nirvana.
Thanks Jay. Have you compared the T7x or T9x to their HT line in terms of speed? People assume they need 20 hz for movies, but I find movies sound incredible when 30-50 hz hit crazy fast and extremely tight. Thanks for these reviews!
I had Rel T5/x, the older version with Martin Logan EM ESL. I thought the sub was still too slow. I ended up without it.
Great video…very informative! I have the KEF LSX with the REL T5X and was very pleased. I just received the new KEF LSX ll and WOW! I really didn’t think I’d hear that much of a difference…KEF did some amazing things with the DSP. The base response is so much better now and perfectly matched with my REL T5X. I love REL subs because of how well-built they are, their fast response, aesthetically pleasing, and seamless integration.
My amazing Velodyne HGS sub amp finally died, and I have ordered a REL T9X after much research. I'm still going to have the Velodyne amp plate repaired while I decide if the Rel is for me.
The SVS 2000 SB Pro is still a great Subwoofer which can be run with my phone app. I'm sure REL are good but listen to music then listen to a Movie.
REL really needs a cell phone app like SVS for Parametric EQ. When you have 10-15 dB bass peaks like most of us do, knocking it down is a bigger improvement than almost anything.
It’s weird. My older Rels have remote controls! So why the newer types don’t it’s beyond me..
Can’t agree more. Would love an app or remote but hopefully that doesn’t take away from their main goal of creating a full analog sub with little delay as possible
I thought they didn’t want to do DSP. Analog signal all the way without any delays and interference. Wouldn’t a digital app introduce DSP?
@@peerguy DSP would only be for the subwoofer…which is a purist approach compared to letting the room modes run wild.
What you are asking for is the antithesis of REL. There are plenty of companies making DSP controlled subwoofers. Only a few companies make analog subwoofers. Asking them to add dsp is asking them to ruin what makes their subwoofer excellent. You can add a mini dsp or other dap with cell phone app for as little as $200 if you really want to. Personally I don’t want an A-D-A conversion for my subwoofer.
Do you know what is the best ? exactly an SBA or DBA on the Back / Front + DSP because youve an even consistent Room Response. One subwoofer is never an ideal option. You put a lot of energy as a point source in one corner / place and have an unbalanced room response. Its not hard to build an Subwoofer, its hard to get the Acoustics, Phase & Crossover correct and handle with the energy you put in the room... the video titles lately are way too annoying and just wrong
Interesting that these subwoofers barely make it to 30Hz. I would have thought lower. -6dB is 1/4 the loudness compared to the baseline.
this is where you are misunderstood... for music you dont need to go lower... priority is accuracy
They sound much lower than that
I like my s510 but no remote sucks, especially at my age.
I have two s510
@@raymondtaveras9371 what is the difference between 1 and 2, in terms of spl / extension / loudness? (I know it's smooths out the response). I'm considering to buy my second as well.
@@orressel9871 I tried very briefly 1 vs 2 T/9x in my setup. I hate loud, so don’t know about that, but definitely a little more extension. What I noticed most was the increase in scale and sound stage size. More of those spatial cues everyone talks about :-) More feeling of the room getting pressurized too. But you should listen more to the guys with dual s510’s and more time spent using them!!
One thing to say about "fast" subwoofers is it is largely a function of inductance. The voice coil is just an inductor so it stores energy which makes it slower to start and stop. Smaller voice coils, shorting rings, and more exotic motor ie. xbl2 designs all help my guess with REL it's the first 2 especially looking at the power handling of the 8" I'm thinking it has a pretty small vc and at the price point it better have shorting rings. REL always has some good looking subwoofers though.
Non of it made sense to 99% public
Good info. To reduce time differences, I try to put the subs (rel t5i) at the same distance to my ears as the standmount speaker drivers. I use a string clipped to my listening chair.
This is very interesting, conventional wisdom says that we take longer to determine the presence and pitch of lower frequencies, why when it comes to subwoofer placement in small rooms, the room dominates (when we perceive the low frequencies, they will have bounced around the room several times). For sure lower pitch is more dominant when it comes to how we perceive “time” in music, they are also closer in frequency to the heart beat. I will read that paper for sure! 👍
A sub cannot sound good regardless of the positioning. There are laws of physics that I am not ready to ditch.
EXPLAIN YOURSELF!!! Seriously though, would like to hear your reasoning (and if based on actusl experience which)?
Excellent video with very sensible and logical advice. I'd be interested to know what you thought the REL Baseline Blue cable added to these subs. I am about to replace my very old REL Strata II sub with (probably) the T/7x in a medium size room with Spendor D9 speakers. I'm considering the rather expensive Baseline Blue cable too, but would have liked some reviews, opinion on what this brought to the REL table first. Any experience?
Why not buy sonus faber ( sumiko?) Subwoofer like gravis II sub ? Only rel rel but speakon and dual speaker ( actif, passif) is on gravis X ( I, II, III) sub . 8 inch for I, 10 inch for Ii and III. Only gravis V is 12 inch like REL S/812..
Hi, thank you for taking the time to explain this in detail, exactly what I was looking for. This video should be viewed by everyone looking for a subwoofer, REL especially.
What would you match with the Buchardt s400 MKii in a medium size room, single and double sub options?
Double T7X
I have one, I think it’s a REL328. I think it’s a 10 inch driver. The guy said this is better than the bigger one because the smaller driver performs better for music. I have it connected using that speaker cable to the music amp and the LFE from the AV amp. I like that both inputs have their own gain control.
I found putting it near a corner it was too boomy but once I moved it to a more open position it performed great.
Using a pair of REL HT 1205 with the LS50 Metas. The bang for the buck quality is amazing. And I got the REL’s on sale. Ordered a pair of Pendragon’s, 7 tweeter arrangement with crossover and binding post upgrades to complete an all Pendragon HT. Keep the great Tekton videos coming Jay!!!!
Nice! I love the 1205, so much so that I couldn't part with it when I got the 1508.
Might see if I can pair them together since I never actually tried even though the 1508 is already way MOAR than I need lol.
It would be interesting to have you review a Tekton Cinema (non-passive) for cinematic purposes, since the REL are listed under cinema.
In comparison and after speaking with Eric Alexander about the cinema Sub and how responsive and fast delivering it was.
I currently have a Def Tech Trinity and is a monster of a sub but it isn't quick or perhaps is missing s key ingredient in driving it though it has its on capable amp to drive it and connected to Denon AVR4300H, which Eric said was fine and the Cinema doesn't need an added amp...
Keep up the good work Jay and love your descriptive input🙌🙏
I am thinking about REL T/5X or 7X for my living room which is carpeted. Does anyone have experience of using RELs on quite deep carpeting? Intuitively it feels like the downward firing 5x would not be very effective
I've used subs since college, hard to go without one once your used to having them. I see that 2ohm pendragon back there. I'm interested to hear what the minimum costing type of amp needed to drive them well, I always wondered since I saw Tekton put them out for sale.
If you can still get them the discontinued but sometimes still available Emotiva BasX 400Z. 2X250 @ 2 ohms. I have one running 2- 2 ohm JL subs. It's one ohm stable and can probably run almost anything on the planet.
I know this video is about REL subs, but I see the Pendragons behind you. After all the Tektons you have listened to and reviewed, are these the speakers that have remained in your system, even over the more “reference” Double Impacts? If so, can you say why? Thank you for your passion and all your insights.
Quick question - If you had KEF LS50s in a nearfield (desktop) situation in a small room, would you pair them with REL t5x or KEF KC62?
None of them.....KEF KF92 or JL Audio E110 after trying all of the RELs
I have Dali e-12f sub and it's great for movies and surround but when I use it for stereo music and I turn up the volume it goes out of control and vibrating. It's terrible. I tried different settings, placement, connections but it doesn't help. Is it a cd or vinyl recording issue? Please advise
the 60 day home trial is only for the US. I believe you are in Toronto. How did you get the 60 day trial? Is there a way to get it in Canada? Thanks
I was using two Klipsch subs with my DIY open Baffles. I never liked the sound. It was loose and boomy. Last April they had a sale. I bought the Tx/7. I used the Speakon cable to connect to my Decware Zen Triode. I did have a hum at first. I emailed Steve Deckert. He said to connect a short jumper between the negative terminals to get a common ground. That eliminated the hum. I set the gain and low pass at 12 o’clock to start. As soon as I was 30 seconds into the first track, I was blown away by the improvement. All of the music just came to life like magic. I ended up dialing the low pass back to 40 HZ. and increasing the gain a few clicks. I’ve had a couple friends listen without the sub. I’ll then turn it on in the middle of a track and watch their expression. They have been amazed at the difference. I’m considering a second one, but I’m totally happy with the single unit. Also I have my Yamaha AV Receiver connected via the LFE using a sub cable. The sub has separate circuits, so you can use it either way.
I have two s812's my question is how to you know what hz you have your sub set at i don't have any numbers on the dials. Im guessing on where its set at.
I have 2 SVS 1000 Pros. bolted to 2 solid 15 inch metal stands with 2 KEF LS 50 Metas sitting on top of the subs with a combination of rubber feet and metal cones. No vibration with a uniform response. Getting the subwoofer off the ground makes a huge improvement because a sub is an extension of your main speaker
I wanna see this, u should upload video
I have Rel HT/1004 and I love it for Stereo setup too
yea, their HT line is great as well. Really great for home theatre AND stereo. Although I still prefer TX series for music
Hi Jay, big fan!! I currently run stereo pair REL tZeros for my desktop setup. I crave lower extension, would dual T5x be overkill?
Thanks for being a patreon. I assume you are doing more than JUST music on your desktop. And for movies and gaming, there are stuff going on below what REL provides here. yea I'd say try one T5x first BUT if you really really really want all of them low extension at the sacrifice of some musicality/texture and you never told me your budget so... my answer: KEF KC62.
MJ acoustics all the way. The former employees of Rel quit Rel and created the best (Made in England) subs. Not the biggest brand, but the best for me. My LS50 meta’s are so happy with this MJ Acoustics reference 100 mkII. The real joke is I paid 1050 euros for the Meta’s and the sub. Where do I find a better sounding speaker set for €1050?
I have a MJ Acoustics Ref 100 Sub which is designed by ex REL guys apparently. Im very happy!
Small, medium and large room - this is the ZERO information. Can you give some numbers?
Where is the love for Rel Tzero? Haha or what do you think of it?
T7x is clearer than T5x hence preferred in small medium rooms for both cinema and music
Solid informative review. I have the Yamaha a-s1200 paired with l 82 classics in a smaller room. Sounds like the T5x is for me. Mostly listen to jazz.
Thanks for the info.
Send all those subs to me and I’ll let you know which one I like ;)
Picked up 2 T9's today. My system was set up for home theater (Marantz 8802A, 7.2 speakers using Triad subs, Oppo 203, etc.). Rel suggested either 2 T9's or 2 S510s. Went with the T9's. Looking fwd to hearing how they perform.
1500 usd for a 10" sealed is too much, you need surface area to feel slam and impact. My expensive old 10" velodyne gets eaten alive by my 18" ultimax...
Excellent review as usual. You hit the nail on the head with your opening thoughts which is the Speakon connection. I've done tonnes of research as shopping for a subwoofer and they are all good but the Speakon connection sold me in the end for the ease of installation. Wonder why other companies don't do that but I am guessing there's patent involved.
Check out Mark Seaton subs. I would put them up against the B&W db1's at a much more reasonable price. They are balanced well enough to place a nickle standing up and play them at reference levels without the nickle rolling or falling over.
What about matching the F.R. Of your speakers to the REL sub?
Shouldn’t this be a consideration?
LOVED your video. Unless you've heard the Rel Experience to know what it can do, your video does a pretty good job of explaining it's mystique. I own SVS subs and have had them in my theater which is 50/50 music/movies. I liked them TIL I heard a Rel S 510 Six Pack and my local stereo store. That listening session helped me understand subwoofers better. The way they showed their musicality was amazing. I hope to replace the SVS with 2 510s for left and right and a T9x for center channel. I've already purchased a Rel HT 1205 for the rear surrounds in the theater. Definitely a game cchanger.
I was torn between the T5x and T7x to go with bookshelves that I had at one time. I chose the T5x because of room size/space and the bookshelves. I have since gotten rid of the speakers and gone bigger (Dynaudio Emit 20 to Emit 30) and the T5x blends seamless with the Emit 30s. Excellent subs. You never know they're their til something dips below the lowness of the speakers. Love my Rels.
that 2ohm pendragon 🤤
Nice video and I understand you're discussing 2 channel music listening,, real world people may use their systems for music/video , I own a T9I limited which is the predecessor to the x series ,as well as 2other subs for my room , I use the REL 95% or more of the time with my mains for music and would say get the bigger REL when possible always regardless if you are using book shelves or towers., as the bigger dimensions is minimal but performance will be worth it ,especially 2 if you can swing it .
Excellent Exactly what I’ve been looking for. Gonna order my t9x tomorrow!
Jay, in use with bookshelf/stand-mount speakers, would you say that the T5's speed outweighs the T7's relative directionality, since it has a front firing sub and is not just bottom firing like the t5?
If all a company makes are subs that alone tells me they must do something right. I bought the T5X last November. Love the tiny size
and sealed design. Put the IsoAcoustic footers under it. Will buy a 2nd one in Nov. at the next annual promo event. After visiting many audiophile's homes I realized they all used bass arrays of one type or another. Loved your instrument chart.
Kudos to you for being open to upping your game over your ego. You may want to add warranty info in your reviews if you believe warranties have value.
Cause smaller lower otput rel subs dont overpower your room.
All that magic.
They can overpower your room. If you are on full dial on any sub; you are doing it wrong.
Also REL subs are not that small…
No magic here.
I run two of the CSS 12" subs in sealed 1 0 CU. FT. boxes powered by 1200W SVS amps. These are the most musical subs I've ever owned.
One thing I've noticed about better subwoofers is their wider frequency response. I get nuances from the bass player that only came out as one note bumps before I added these. That and they never sound "boomy." My speakers are Kef R3's and the CSS' really complement them nicely. The combo creates a nice slam when I crank it up with more information and detail at normal listening levels.
IMO MONEY WELL SPENT.
10ft each?
T9/x owner here. Love it!
I wonder how much the speed/quality of the sub influences how you match it to room and speaker size? As you step up in Rel’s range, there are only larger options available (drivers and cabinets). I was considering adding a second T/7i, but had a chance to get two T/9x at a crazy good price (slight damage to finish). I called Rel support who recommended I step up to the T/9x’s, even though my room is only 3.5 x 5 x 2.4 meters (11 x 16 x 8 feet) and I use stand mount speakers (B&W 805n).
Just because I love their design doesn’t mean I will always agree with them. This video reports my findings. :)
Great subs regardless
@@Jayiyagi Totally, John Hunter seems very adament on the correct speaker/sub match too. I assume the person I spoke to at Rel believed that the advantage of moving to a newer generation (from I -> X) would still make the larger newer sub a better match. Outside of briefly testing the new T9/x's they are still in boxes (pending moving house), so have yet to properly compare for myself :-)
Would be very cool if you could review some higher end Rel subs, also to see how those (that go from big to bigger) work with smaller speakers/rooms. Cheers
Hi Jay, thank you for all of your work. I enjoy watching your thought provoking videos, the evolution of your journey, and the maturing of your approach. At 7:54 of this video you show a red/yellow/blue instrument voice/frequency matrix which I find interesting and believe could be of practical use with regard to evaluating systems. Would you please provide if you can a link to this matrix so that it would be available to us? Thank you, keep up your great work. Mark
I have a single rel S5Sho with a pair of Dynaudio Contour 60i’s. The Dynaudio speakers have great deep bass but that single rel blends seamlessly with the main speakers and adds that really deep bass. You absolutely cannot tell there’s a sub in the room.
Love the video. Jay what do you classify as a small, medium or large room? Would u recommend 2 subs to go with the CSS Audio 1TD-X. Can’t wait for the next video
Room size is subjective, but here are a few industry estimates.
Spatial Audio Lab: Small room example 10x12ft, Medium room example 13x17ft, Large room 15x20 and larger.
THX certified: Small up to 1,000 cu ft, Medium up to 2,000 cu ft, Large up to 3,000 cu ft, closest to public cinema up to 6,500 cu ft.
Acoustic Fields (50% larger than THX): Small up to 1,500 cu ft, Medium up to 3,000 cu ft, Large up to 4,500 cu ft.
Audioholics (close to Acoustic Fields): Small up to 1,500 cu ft, Medium up to 3,000 cu ft, Large up to 5,000 cu ft, Extreme over 5,000 cu ft.
Starting to DJ (largest): Extra Small up to 1,200 cu ft, Small up to 2,000 cu ft, Medium up to 4,000 cu ft, Large up to 6,000 cu ft, Extra Large over 6,000 cu ft.
Thanx for that. Just seems one persons medium could be large for someone else. Thanx for those figures
You can also email REL and they will give you their recommendation.
Anyone know the dimensions of rooms that are considered small medium & large ?
Hi Jay, great video. I have a garage room converted and sound insulated 17ft x 15ft (5m x 4.5m) . I am looking at getting the kef ls50 wireless 2 . Would you recommend the t5x or t7x ? I will be streaming or optical out to listen to music 70% and 30% to watch sports films ? Or would you recommend the Rel HT series combined with the tx ? Your thoughts would be much appreciated !
What you ended up getting? I have same set up so curious to have your feedback
Thinking two 5 x with one t9x crossed over below 50 hz , what do you think Jay?
Did you ever configure it that way? Thought about doing it myself…but can’t wrap my head around how to wire it. Any thoughts?
Thanks for this. I was looking at getting the t9 but after this it would seem that 2 t7's would serve my needs better.
Running a pair of t7x in stereo in a small room, 10x14ft and they barely have to do much to pressurize the whole program. They're not digging into the 20s though, but for music I'm good. And I am in a shared wall townhome and they play nicely with neighbors at all listening levels.
@@erics.4113 Thanks , this is good feedback for me. My room is just about 11' x 15' so this is perfect.
I hope you do something like this for the JL audio subs 😅
Is there a way to get this trial in Canada?
Kali WS-6.2. Enough said.
This is the 3nd piece of gear I bought from your suggestions - The T5X and prior to that the Pontus 2 and the Willsenton R800i. Absolutely happy with the results , you know what you’re talking abt. Keep up with the good work and wish you the best. And thanks for your valuable guidance. Zero regrets buying all those items.
can you listen to the willsenton r800i for long periods of time? does it overheat?
What speakers you run? Sounds like great gear
Interested on a comparison on more budget friendly subs against these REL TX how two smaller subwoofers compete against one larger sub. Not interested in aesthetics just looking for the closest option for the best sound for both home theater & music balance dont need to know what KEF, RSL or SVS have to offer just the REL vs Rythmik lineup.
REL HT1205 mk2 / ht1003 mkii or even the original HTs -versus- Rythmik fvx12, lv12m & f12se
Wtf is subwoofer speed? Sub either plays a frequency or not
Incorrect. Impulse, resonance and distortion amongst others can suggest a faster sub but easiest way is to play the same frequency on two different subs and you will understand that speed on a subwoofer is a real thing (mostly pertaining to 2channel. In home-theatres, it matters much less)
Hi Jay nice review. What is your opinion on REL Classic 98? I own vintage Cabasse Caravelle M2 speakers with Technics Amp&Pre-Amp SE-A900S SU-C800U. Greets
I have at home a 8 a 10 and a 12 inch sunfire subwoofers and i think they give me a good spectrum of bass what do you think ?
All in the same system?
Yes all in the same system
Please tell us… what is sml, med or large room… what dimension? Also I have low ceiling height 2.2meters so with this reduced volume, which do I choose? My room is 3.5 mtr x 5.5 mtr x 2.2 mtr
Thank you for the answer to my question in your video. I have a 19 X 19 ft room with a Rotel 1592 MKII connected to Polk R700s. I’ll be buying a REL T9X ,but do I need 1 or 2 ???
G Day mate, I am from the Land down under ! Just wondering Jay`s iyagi ! I have a Rotel 1592MK11 integrated Amp & I am running Wharfedale EVO 4.4 Tower speaker just pure Stereo ! Do I need a Subwoofer with this setup,- any help would be appreciated ! Cheers
r u kidding me. 50 milliseconds is heaps. 1/20th of a second (obvs). Mix engineers use short delays to thicken sounds. Try putting a 50 millisecond delay on a snare or something, you'll notice a HUGE difference.
Jay…. I have the Buchardt s400II speakers in 13x18 room. Multi use living/listening room. Would 2 T5x subs improve my sound or should I just live with what I have? The Buchardt go down pretty low already. Or what would you suggest? Thank you.
Hi Jay, I have the Totem Tribe Towers and am currently using a REL HT1003 but I`m thinking a t7i would be an improvement over the ht1003. Your thoughts please.
Anybody have a sub-woofer that produces a low frequency quiet hum?. It is not the sub-woofer itself (I don't think). I can leave it plugged in and powered on and there will be NO HUM if I disconnect the inter-connect cables that are plugged from my sub to my AMP. Can the AMP itself cause a ground loop? I heard a "Isolation Transformer/Ground Loop Hum Eliminator" might help? Any suggestions? I like to listen to Jazz a lot and that music can be dynamic. Even though the hum is not very loud - During quiet passages in Jazz the noise can be very noticeable. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
@Jays’s iyagi I have the Wharfdale 12.2’s and the 225’s bookshelf speakers. Which one would you recommend since the low end on the Wharfdale’s are on the slower side. I have a small to medium size room.
I building a new setup with Monior Audio CP-WT380IDC as LCR, using a AVR and a PRE/PowerAMP for the L/R. Will use it for both music and movies, so am thinking, 1 great sub like the T/7 or T/5, or do a combo of using a HT/1103 and a T/5. or maybe do 2 T/zeros since my room is not that big ? Is dual subs always better than a better 1 sub ?
Hi Jay i want to get the tx5 im in a medium t shape room but im in one end of the room the room is around 700 square feet and i have stand mount b&w 685, kef 104ab and i have b&w 684 and i have energy veritas 2.3 that are not stand mount that i switch around from time to time my question is would a t5x still had some bass to those bigger speakers they go down to around 35htz i would probably get two tx5
love the start good job!
Hi Jay, I’m a longtime viewer and subscriber. I know REL has very nice subs and are well built. I recently opted for a Rythmik F12-G model. I only needed one (for now) for my smaller listening room with stand mounts. I’ve had several fairly high end 12 inch subs and I can honestly say that I’ve never experienced this type of bass detail and speed in a subwoofer. I hope that you can find some time to review one like mine. I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on it. I really think you would be very surprised in the performance it brings at just over 1k delivered. Just my two cents.
I will be purchasing a set of KLIPSCH Heresy IV speakers. Which REL subwoofer, T5X, T7X, or T9X would you recommend? My room is probably 25' x 25'. Thank you, Jay! Love your reviews!
would it best fit for home karaoke system with Yamaha DXR12 1100w peak power speakers? Thanks