After a hugely successful few years, the REL Serie S range has been completely redesigned and replaced with a brand-new lineup. Four new models have been introduced: the S/550, S/850, Carbon and 212 Black Label Editions.

The Serie S models sit firmly in REL’s mid-to-high-end range. While REL subwoofers are often associated with home cinema, the surprising truth is that the majority end up in two-channel hi-fi systems. That’s because engineering a subwoofer that integrates seamlessly with stereo playback is far from easy — our expectations of musical bass are far more critical than with film soundtracks.

Key Benefits

Extension and Depth
Deep bass enhances all types of music. With the ability to reach 20Hz (and in some cases lower), the Serie S allows you to hear fundamental notes that many speakers cannot reproduce, or struggle to deliver convincingly.

Speed, Transient Response, and Low Distortion
More important than outright depth is timing accuracy. A subwoofer that cannot time correctly will never integrate with your main speakers. REL designs are fast, clean, and articulate — qualities that only improve as you move up the range.

Musical Precision and Tonal Neutrality
Instead of adding artificial boom, REL subwoofers aim for an even tonal balance. Their sealed cabinets minimise resonance and colouration, and with no ports, there’s no unwanted port noise.

S850 back panel with Airship receiver attached

Seamless Integration
With flexible connectivity, plus control over gain, crossover, and phase, the Serie S can effectively disappear within your system. Bass feels like it comes from the same soundstage as your speakers, rather than the subwoofer itself. Set up properly, you don’t just hear deeper bass — you also get improved clarity, imaging, and vocals.

Build Quality and Flexibility
The cabinets are robust and extremely heavy, with finishes of the highest standard. The optional (or standard, depending on model) wooden grille adds a touch of elegance. The latest Airship wireless system also makes cable-free setup a flexible option.

Model Line-Up

All four Serie S models feature upgraded drivers (active and passive), more powerful amplifiers, and improved cabinet design over the outgoing generation. They are sonically superior in every respect.

S/550 – 10-inch drivers, 550 watts of power
S/850 – 12-inch drivers, 850 watts of power
Carbon Special Black Label Edition – 950 watts, advanced drivers, larger cabinet for greater speed and depth. REL deliberately reins in amplifier output so they operate effortlessly, even when pushed.
212 Black Label Edition – The flagship model. Incorporates all the improvements of the Carbon Special but with even greater amplifier power, additional drivers, and a configuration that delivers many of the benefits of a line array — without the need for multiple subwoofers.

Auditioning the S/850

Before the official launch, Rob Hunt from REL brought in an S/850 for us to audition. We set it up with a Rega Aethos amplifier, Arcam ST25 streamer, and Sonus Faber Lumina II Amator loudspeakers. One of the joys of our work is discovering new music, and on this occasion Rob introduced us to Francine Thirteen’s Queen Mary — incredible!

We spent a long time putting the S/850 through its paces across a wide range of music. While we didn’t have the outgoing model on hand to compare, I have no doubt that REL’s claims are accurate: this new generation is faster, tighter, and goes deeper than before.

Summary

I’ve owned REL subwoofers as part of my own hi-fi for many years, and I remain convinced of the benefits. Adding a suitable REL brings deeper, more natural bass to any system — regardless of how large the speakers are. Bass that enhances music, remains tight and controlled, minimises colouration, and integrates seamlessly.

Thanks for reading, and we look forward to welcoming you soon.

Jon and Andy - Audio T Swindon

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to contact us.

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