Q Acoustics has introduced its new trio of high-performance active subwoofers, the Q SUB series. Whether as part of a Q Acoustics home cinema set-up, adding bass extension to an existing 7.2, 5.1 or 2.1 system or intensifying the low end on powered/active speakers, Q Acoustics has the right-sized model to fill a space with controlled bass.
The new subwoofer family consists of the 8-inch Q SUB80, the 10-inch Q SUB100 and a 12-inch model, Q SUB120. On board Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology ensures easy but comprehensive system and room integration and setting optimisation for a reportedly distortion-free performance.
They are designed to blend discreetly into the room or displayed to fit seamlessly into any interior space. The Q SUB series arrives in two modern but classic finishes: Satin Black with a black grille, or Satin White with a grey grille. The new models join the slimline 3060S to complete Q Acoustics’ subwoofer family.
Key features
All Q SUB series models have “exceptional bass power to cabinet size ratio”, says the manufacturer; Digital Signal Processing (DSP) allows easy system and room integration with optimised settings; dual phase and delay controls allow the fine-tuning of the signal alignments for flexible room placement; DSP identifies the input signal and automatically adjusts system gain – enhancing performance regardless of the connected source; a low pass filter with frequency adjustment ensures seamless integration with any partnering speaker system; a custom-designed amplifier module features four digital power amplifier stages that improves efficiency by dissipating less heat, enhances speaker control and reduces output impedance; and an infinite baffle box design presents a tighter and more focussed bass response, combining with DSP for precise tuning.
Meanwhile, internal Dart-bracing improves mechanical stability, reduces cabinet ballooning and ensures optimal performance under high internal pressure and a 12V trigger input allows automatic power-up when a trigger signal is present.
The deep bass from a subwoofer is often considered omni-directional, allowing flexibility in placement. While true in isolation, real audio systems require careful integration of the subwoofer with other speakers to ensure accuracy of alignment, especially at the crossover point.
Placement impacts sound arrival timing and phase alignment issues can arise even with adjacent placement, affecting system frequency response. The Q SUB range uses Digital Signal Processing (DSP), alongside fine delay adjustments and phase inversion switch, to address these integration challenges. This technology enables users to optimise settings, ensuring seamless integration without needing professional installation.
Subwoofers need an adjustable low pass filter to match their upper frequency response with the diminishing bass of other speakers. The Q SUB range features a low pass filter with frequency adjustment from 40 Hz to 250 Hz, setting the -6 dB point. This wide range ensures the Q SUB models can seamlessly integrate with and complement the low-frequency response of any partnering speaker system.
Subwoofers must accommodate a wide variety of sound input sources, including stereo preamp outputs or mono feeds from active speakers or home cinema systems. The Q SUB range uses a complex algorithm inside the DSP to identify the input signal type – stereo or mono and the level – and automatically adjusts system gain. This ensures optimal signal to noise levels and dynamic range, enhancing performance regardless of the connected source.
The Q SUB amplifier offers multiple standby modes to suit various system needs. Auto detection powers the subwoofer when a signal is detected, reverting to standby after 20 minutes of inactivity, while a low-consumption power supply keeps power consumption during standby mode to an absolute minimum.
A 12V trigger input allows automatic power-up when a trigger signal is present. Alternatively, the subwoofer can be set to remain permanently powered.
The Q SUB amplifier module, custom-designed by Q Acoustics, includes a DSP, power amplifier and power supply. It features four digital power amplifier stages in a parallel bridge-tied load (PBTL) configuration, enhancing efficiency and speaker control by reducing output impedance and heat dissipation.
This design can deliver up to 300W continuous and 600W peak power, with THD performance of less than 0.1% up to 300W, while an intelligent protection system constantly monitors the electronics to ensure that the amplifier and power supply are fully protected in the unlikely event of excesses of temperature.
The drive units feature a heavy-duty steel chassis, paper cone and rubber surround. Bass unit diameters are 203mm (Q SUB80), 254mm (Q SUB100) and 305mm (Q SUB120). Voice coils are 38mm for Q SUB80/100 and 50mm for Q SUB120, with an aluminium demodulation ring for reduced inductance-induced modulation distortion.
An infinite baffle (sealed box) design is ideal for a subwoofer. Acoustically, this will present a tighter and more focussed bass response and, coupled with the DSP, is said to allow for very precise tuning to achieve the best acoustic response possible. With no port to accommodate, the subwoofer is also easier to place in proximity to walls, corners and furniture than a ported design.
The Q SUB cabinets are made from 18mm high-density MDF with a 36mm double-thickness baffle for rigidity. Internal dart bracing provides mechanical grounding for the drive unit, as well as mechanical stability, reduced cabinet ballooning and ensures optimal performance under high internal pressure.
A sealed enclosure also prevents air leaks through the amplifier mountings, while the 15mm MDF grilles are securely fixed to prevent rattling. Adjustable, locking spikes and spike cups are included for floor-levelling and protection.
Availability and pricing:
- Q Acoustics SUB80 (8-inch) is available now, priced £599 / €749 / $899.
- Q Acoustics SUB100 (10-inch) is available now, priced £699 / €875 / $1,049.
- Q Acoustics SUB120 (12-inch) is available now, priced £799 / €999 / $1,199.