

REL Carbon Special Subwoofer Review: A New Benchmark in Bass Performance
After spending considerable time with the REL Carbon Special Subwoofer, I can confidently say this limited availability masterpiece represents a quantum leap in subwoofer technology. This REL Carbon Special Subwoofer review explores how this remarkable piece of engineering pushes the boundaries of what's possible in bass reproduction.
Design and Build Quality
The Carbon Special's aesthetics are nothing short of breathtaking. The piano black lacquer finish, achieved through eight meticulous coats, is complemented by polished metal and carbon fibre accents. At 38.7kg, this isn't a lightweight contender - it's a serious piece of audio equipment that exudes quality from every angle.
Technical Excellence
The heart of the Carbon Special is its third-generation 12-inch carbon fibre driver, paired with a custom CSP passive radiator. This combination delivers a remarkable 4-inch fore-and-aft stroke - 50% longer than conventional designs. The NextGen5 Class D amplifier pushes out a muscular 1,000 watts RMS, providing headroom in spades.
Performance
What truly sets the Carbon Special apart is its CS PerfectFilter™ technology. This proprietary system ensures incredibly accurate bass response down to a room-shaking 19Hz (-6dB). The front-firing active driver and down-firing passive radiator configuration creates a three-dimensional soundstage that must be heard to be believed.
Connectivity and Setup
The connectivity options are comprehensive:
- High-level Neutrik Speakon
- Low-level stereo RCA
- LFE RCA and XLR inputs/outputs
- AirShip™ wireless capability (adapter sold separately)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality with premium finishes
- Revolutionary carbon fibre driver technology
- Powerful 1,000-watt NextGen5 amplifier
- Impressive 19Hz low-frequency extension
- Comprehensive protection systems
- Versatile connectivity options
- Limited availability exclusive model
- Sophisticated CS PerfectFilter™ technology
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Substantial weight may require careful placement
- Wireless adapter sold separately
- Size might be challenging in smaller rooms
For Whom Is This Subwoofer Perfect?
The Carbon Special is ideal for discerning audiophiles and home theatre enthusiasts who demand the absolute pinnacle of bass performance. If you're looking to create a reference-level system that excels with both music and movies, this subwoofer deserves serious consideration.
The Final Note: A New Reference Standard
The REL Carbon Special represents a remarkable achievement in subwoofer design. It's more than just another high-end subwoofer - it's a statement piece that pushes the boundaries of what's possible in bass reproduction.
For personalised advice on how the Carbon Special could integrate into your system, our team at The Audio Tailor is always happy to help. Give us a call on 1300 308 711 - we're passionate about helping you achieve your perfect sound.
