

Golden Ear ForceField 40 Subwoofer Review: Compact Powerhouse That Defies Physics
In this Golden Ear ForceField 40 Subwoofer review, we'll explore how this compact marvel manages to deliver earth-shaking bass from an impossibly small footprint. As an audiophile who's tested countless subwoofers, I can confidently say this latest offering from Golden Ear Technology represents a significant leap forward in small-form-factor subwoofer design.
Design and Build Quality
The ForceField 40's elegant satin-black finish and curved cabinet design aren't just for show. The increased wall thickness and GoldenEar BRX-inspired curves serve a crucial purpose: minimising cabinet resonances and preventing the smearing of bass transients.
At just 13.3" wide and 14.7" high, it's remarkably compact for a subwoofer that reaches down to 14Hz. The perforated metal grille not only looks sophisticated but enhances sonic transparency and airflow.
Performance
- 10" ultra-long-throw high-output bass driver
- 11" x 13" quadratic planar infrasonic radiator
- 1200-Watt ForceField digital amplifier
This combination, coupled with the Analog Devices DSP, delivers bass that's not just powerful but precisely controlled. The MOSFET output stage ensures efficient power delivery, while the downward-firing pressure-coupled loading extends performance into the infrasonic region.
Setup and Controls
Setting up the ForceField 40 is refreshingly straightforward. The variable low-pass filter (40Hz - 150Hz) and subwoofer level controls make integration with any system a breeze. For personalised setup advice, our team at The Audio Tailor is just a phone call away.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredibly compact design
- Exceptional bass extension (14Hz - 250Hz)
- Powerful 1200-Watt digital amplifier
- Sophisticated DSP implementation
- Superior build quality
- Versatile placement options
- Elegant aesthetic
- Advanced driver technology
Cons:
- Premium price point
- May be too powerful for very small rooms
- Could be overkill for casual listeners
Real-World Application
Whether you're diving into the depths of Hans Zimmer's film scores or feeling the punch of electronic dance music, the ForceField 40 delivers with authority. Its ability to maintain composure during complex passages while delivering seismic impact when required is remarkable.
Technical Excellence Meets Practical Design
The ForceField 40's specifications tell an impressive story:
- Frequency Response: 14Hz - 250Hz
- Weight: 40.5 lbs (18.4kg)
- Dimensions: 13.3" x 18.3" x 14.7" (W x D x H)
A New Standard in Compact Subwoofers
The Golden Ear ForceField 40 represents a watershed moment in subwoofer design. It proves that with clever engineering and premium components, size constraints need not limit performance. For personalised advice on integrating this remarkable subwoofer into your system, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at The Audio Tailor.
Note: Technical specifications and features are as provided by Golden Ear Technology.
