RIGHT, so subwoofers are now getting into the “special edition” groove! The REL Acoustics R-528SE sub-bass system is the bespoke (okay, we exaggerate) version of the current R-528, the flagship of the Serie R range.
The brief, says REL, was to provide reference-level sub-bass performance in a smaller enclosure and friendlier price tag. The R-528SE borrows ideas from the flagship Gibraltar series and is designed to suit the requirements of both AV and hi-fi enthusiasts working with limited floor space.
The 550-watt Class D amplifier onboard is an updated version of the older unit, while the cabinet bracing and driver design have been upgraded.
The R-528SE still features both an active front-firing and a passive down-firing passive radiator. The custom-designed 12-inch carbon fibre active driver is the same one employed on the Gibraltar G-1. The 12-inch ABR passive radiator is also made from carbon fibre.
REL says this configuration results in the equivalent of a 16-inch driver in a larger cabinet.
The R-528SE is available in gloss piano black lacquer – gloss white can be had on special order.
Setting the R-528SE apart from the standard version are some bling – the top and side name badges, and massive support feet coated in nickel-plated chrome.
Shipping begins in March, we’re told.
