The Velodyne MicroVee X is now shipping from Redline, this new evolution in compact bass delivery builds on the success of the MicroVee story by adding performance improvements across the board.
First introduced into the UK by Redline in 2006, the MicroVee proposition had been advanced with the MKII, delivering strong bass performance from a 22.9 x 22.9 x 24.4cm sized cabinet proving to be a big hit and building on the solid foundations laid by the 2006 original MicroVee MKI. Now, a new offering from the same family is available as the MicroVee X keeps many of the features from its stable mate including the strong aesthetics, but gains additions such as Carbon Kevlar drive units and its own dedicated remote-control functionality providing direct access to volume, phase and crossover adjustments.
An obvious and key feature of the original MicroVee was the cabinet size and this version keeps very similar dimensions (W/H/D 23cm x 23cm x 25cm) delivering the same space saving and placement flexibility as before. As apartment living and smaller living spaces in general become a phenomenon, especially in more urban areas, the opportunities presented by this product become obvious. Redline argues it is also great for spaces such as smaller living rooms, studies or bedrooms where extra bass is needed, but space is at a premium.
However, this more powerful version is also at home partnering larger systems in bigger spaces. The extrusion tool has also been renewed and has the effect of giving the fluted aluminium casing nicely radiused edges adding further to the attractive appearance. All this means that if the customer is an AV ‘fan’, then it can be on show, but if low aesthetic impact is key, its size means it can do that too. The product comes in white and black satin finishes. Many audio experts and respected reviewers have already been impressed. Tom Frantzen writing in respected German audio title Stereo, said, “The MicroVee X is incredibly compact for a subwoofer, it’s not even as big as an LP on all sides – and yet it contains essential technologies that turn it into a true Velodyne bass virtuoso.”
MicroVee X technology detail
Exclusive Velodyne technologies include the Digital Drive Control System (DDCS) partnered with a powerful, high current, Class AB amplifier to ensure precise and low-distortion bass reproduction. Bass extension has improved over the previous model quite considerably and the amplifier is furnished with an expertly controlled 800W of power giving the unit the precision it needs to deliver the performance Velodyne is known for.
The DDCS, an active signal-based approach that delivers linear cone movement controlling the unit’s frequency and distortion characteristics, means the MicroVee X manages to reduce distortion to only around 1/6th of the values of comparable and competing subwoofers, says the distributor. Although the output on paper is lower in watts per channel when compared to its predecessor (both peak and RMS), the current capability of the new amp design is substantially higher than the MK11 delivering a considerable up-tick in performance for the MicroVee X.
As a result of these improvements, the MicroVee X can also play about 15% louder right across the frequency range when compared to previous models in the range. The 6.5in active driver is combined with two side-mounted passive radiators of the same size, producing robust, musical bass. The unit also takes gaming and home cinema performance in its stride making it a genuine multi-application sub. Velodyne Acoustics’ Subwoofer Direct feature is also included and this gives the option to bypasses the internal crossover, for improved performance.
The audio experts at Velodyne have also included the patented Energy Recovery System increasing the efficiency of the unit. This is one of the key features which allows the product to deliver such strong performance from a small form factor.
Martin Morecroft, MD of Redline says, “Velodyne has done it again with another great addition to the MicroVee family. This new version further improves the concept delivering a step-up product for the range. There is nothing small about MicroVee X’s abilities and its obvious placement advantages and attractive aesthetics add another dimension to its appeal. We have had the product on demo in our showroom for a while now and have been very impressed, we think you will be too. Get in touch for more details.”