B&W ASW608

Founded in the 60s of the 20th century, the British company Bowers & Wilkins focuses on the production of high-quality acoustic systems based on speakers of its own design. The high quality of the products is evidenced by the fact that many well-known companies prefer to equip their equipment with B&W speakers: for example, Apple.

Ultra-compact power

Although the ASW608 subwoofer is made in China, its development took place at the headquarters in the UK. The result was a body of ultra-compact dimensions 26x26x33 cm weighing a little less than 9 kg, made according to the "closed box" principle, containing a colossal 200 W power compared to other models of this class. In fairness, it should be said that the subwoofer does not cope well with a high volume level, distorting the sound.

Audio and Control Capabilities

The model provides wide application in various speakers — from 2.1 to 7.1 by connecting through linear and high-level inputs. The standard set of crossover frequency, phase and level controls are complemented by a 2-position EQ correction and a Bass Extension bass boost circuit with reference levels of 23, 28 and 36 Hz with a total low frequency range of 23 – 140 Hz. Such functionality would not interfere with control using the remote control, but, unfortunately, it is not provided.

The compact subwoofer ASW608 is perfect for fans of listening to music of various styles. Although it will lose dynamics and show a little compression on especially energetic works, this shortcoming can be easily compensated for by choosing good satellites with a clearly defined “midbass”.

Although the Danish manufacturer of high-end equipment, Dali, focuses mainly on the Scandinavian market, its products can be found in other parts of the globe. The company barely celebrated its 30th anniversary, but such a young age did not become an obstacle to numerous prizes received at international exhibitions of musical equipment.

Golden mean

The E-12 F subwoofer has found its golden mean in many ways: it is in the middle price range, has an optimal size ratio of 37x34x38 cm and a weight of 14.7 kg, and a sound balanced for a wide perception — the bass in the overall mix sounds soft and deep, while unobtrusive , but legibly, clearly complementing the sound picture.

Design

The almost square subwoofer cabinet is made of MDF wood-laminated and placed on a thin aluminium stand. Available in three colours: light walnut, black (available) and white. Inside is a 12-inch long-throw woofer that reproduces sound in the range of 28 – 190 Hz and a class D amplifier with a nominal (RMS) power of 170 watts. Class D amplifiers are more economical, heat up less and allow you to fit high-performance devices into a small case, which this model confirms.

The case is made using Bass Reflex technology with a phase inverter hole directed to the floor, and does not resonate even at the maximum volume level. But the built-in overload protection helps against sound distortion in the speaker.

Extensive Connectivity

The model allows various switching options: through linear, stereo and mono (LFE) inputs. In addition to the standard phase settings, crossover frequency between 40 – 140 Hz and output power level, the subwoofer has the ability to operate in AUTO STANDBY mode, consuming only 0.4 watts per hour at rest, and turn on at the slightest detection of an incoming signal.

The Sub E-12 F is a real find for any audiophile who appreciates deep feedback and high sound detail. Perfectly will be suitable, both for dubbing of cinema, and playback of music of different styles.