What is the power rating of the AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer?

The subwoofer features a built-in Class D amplifier that provides 160W RMS of power. This allows for efficient performance and controlled low-end response in home environments.

Can the front grille be removed?

Yes, the subwoofer comes with a magnetic grille that can be easily removed. This allows users to choose between a minimalist look or showing the 8-inch driver.

What kind of finish does this subwoofer have?

The cabinet is finished in a walnut wood-effect wrap. This is intended to help the unit fit naturally into living rooms and home cinema settings.

Is this a passive or active subwoofer?

This is an active subwoofer, meaning it has its own built-in amplifier. It does not require an external power amp to drive the speaker.

What controls are available on the rear panel?

The rear panel includes adjustable controls for volume, crossover frequency, and phase. These settings allow the user to fine-tune how the subwoofer blends with their main speakers.

Is the enclosure ported or sealed?

The unit features a rear-ported design. This porting helps to enhance the efficiency and depth of the low-frequency output from the 8-inch driver.

Can I use this for a 2.1 music setup?

Yes, it is designed for both 2.1 stereo listening and full surround sound home cinema setups. It adds depth and weight to music by handling the lowest frequencies.

What is the primary driver size?

The subwoofer is equipped with a single 8-inch woofer. This size is chosen to balance a compact cabinet footprint with responsive low-frequency performance.

Is this suitable for large outdoor PA applications?

No, this is a domestic subwoofer designed for home audio. For professional PA needs, units like the QSC KLA181 or SubZero P15X are more appropriate.

How much does the AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer typically cost?

The typical price for this model is approximately £90.00. This makes it an affordable option for entry-level home audio enthusiasts.

Does it work with other AVCOM speaker systems?

Yes, it was specifically designed to integrate smoothly with AVCOM speaker systems. However, its adjustable controls make it compatible with most standard audio setups.

What type of amplifier technology is used?

It utilizes a Class D amplifier. This technology is known for being lightweight and highly efficient, providing high power output without excessive heat.

Gear article

AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer (Walnut)

The AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer is a compact low-frequency speaker designed for home cinema and stereo audio integration. Featuring a 160W RMS Class D amplifier and a walnut-effect finish, it is engineered to provide controlled bass reinforcement in 2.1 or multi-channel surround sound configurations.

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Background and Design

The AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer represents an entry-point solution for high-fidelity home audio and cinema systems. Unlike larger professional PA subwoofers such as the QSC KLA181, this unit is tailored specifically for domestic environments where space and aesthetics are primary considerations. The cabinet features a walnut finish designed to complement modern living room furniture, complemented by a removable magnetic grille that protects the driver while maintaining a clean appearance.

Technical Specifications

At the core of the unit is an 8-inch low-frequency driver powered by an internal 160W RMS Class D amplifier. Class D technology is utilised for its efficiency, generating significant output with minimal heat and energy waste. The enclosure is a rear-ported design, which helps to extend the low-end response of the 8-inch driver. The rear panel features essential controls for audio integration, including adjustable volume, a variable crossover frequency, and a phase switch to ensure time-alignment with the main satellite speakers.

Acoustic Performance

The subwoofer is voiced for a balanced and responsive performance rather than excessive boominess. It focuses on delivering detailed stereo playback and cinematic low-end effects that add weight to the listening experience. By offloading low frequencies from the main speakers, the system achieves a fuller sound stage. Users can fine-tune the output using the onboard controls to accommodate the specific acoustics of their room, preventing the 'muddy' sound often associated with poorly integrated bass units.

Target Audience and Applications

This unit is primarily suited for listeners building 2.1 music systems or full home cinema surround setups. Its compact footprint makes it an ideal choice for smaller to medium-sized rooms where a massive 15-inch or 18-inch PA sub would be impractical. While it sits within the AVCOM ecosystem, its standard adjustable controls allow it to be paired with various third-party active speakers or traditional AV receivers.

Comparison with Professional Alternatives

In contrast to professional-grade hardware like the Electro-Voice ZLX-8P G2 or the SubZero P15X, which are designed for high-SPL live sound reinforcement, the AVCOM 8" is a domestic-focused unit. While professional monitors like the RCF NX 915-SMA prioritise raw power and ruggedness for stage use, the AVCOM prioritises aesthetic integration and nuanced low-end support for media consumption.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the power rating of the AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer?: The subwoofer features a built-in Class D amplifier that provides 160W RMS of power. This allows for efficient performance and controlled low-end response in home environments.
Can the front grille be removed?: Yes, the subwoofer comes with a magnetic grille that can be easily removed. This allows users to choose between a minimalist look or showing the 8-inch driver.
What kind of finish does this subwoofer have?: The cabinet is finished in a walnut wood-effect wrap. This is intended to help the unit fit naturally into living rooms and home cinema settings.
Is this a passive or active subwoofer?: This is an active subwoofer, meaning it has its own built-in amplifier. It does not require an external power amp to drive the speaker.
What controls are available on the rear panel?: The rear panel includes adjustable controls for volume, crossover frequency, and phase. These settings allow the user to fine-tune how the subwoofer blends with their main speakers.
Is the enclosure ported or sealed?: The unit features a rear-ported design. This porting helps to enhance the efficiency and depth of the low-frequency output from the 8-inch driver.
Can I use this for a 2.1 music setup?: Yes, it is designed for both 2.1 stereo listening and full surround sound home cinema setups. It adds depth and weight to music by handling the lowest frequencies.
What is the primary driver size?: The subwoofer is equipped with a single 8-inch woofer. This size is chosen to balance a compact cabinet footprint with responsive low-frequency performance.
Is this suitable for large outdoor PA applications?: No, this is a domestic subwoofer designed for home audio. For professional PA needs, units like the QSC KLA181 or SubZero P15X are more appropriate.
How much does the AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer typically cost?: The typical price for this model is approximately £90.00. This makes it an affordable option for entry-level home audio enthusiasts.
Does it work with other AVCOM speaker systems?: Yes, it was specifically designed to integrate smoothly with AVCOM speaker systems. However, its adjustable controls make it compatible with most standard audio setups.
What type of amplifier technology is used?: It utilizes a Class D amplifier. This technology is known for being lightweight and highly efficient, providing high power output without excessive heat.