What is the primary purpose of the KRK S10.4?

The KRK S10.4 is designed to supplement studio monitors by providing accurate low-frequency monitoring. It allows engineers to hear and mix frequencies as low as 27Hz, which are often missed by standard monitors.

What type of amplifier does the S10.4 use?

It features a highly efficient Class-D power amplifier. This design choice improves transient response and provides better control over the woofer for a punchier sound.

What is the frequency response of this subwoofer?

The KRK S10.4 has a frequency response range from 27Hz to 156Hz. This extension is specifically tuned to provide a clear picture of the sub-bass octaves.

What is the maximum SPL rating for the S10.4?

The unit is capable of reaching a maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 117.2 dB. This ensures sufficient headroom for loud monitoring environments without distortion.

What size is the woofer in the S10.4?

It uses a 10-inch glass-aramid composite woofer. This material is chosen for its stiffness and light weight, which aids in accurate sound reproduction.

How does the S10.4 improve upon previous KRK subwoofer models?

The S10.4 focuses on improved low-frequency extension and enhanced transient control. It builds on the legacy of previous models with refined cabinetry and updated Class-D amplification.

Can I use the S10.4 for live PA applications?

While it is a powerful subwoofer, it is primarily designed as a studio monitor. For live PA needs, larger units like the QSC KLA181 are generally more appropriate for filling large rooms.

Is the crossover frequency adjustable?

Yes, the S10.4 typically includes a selectable crossover control. This allows the user to tailor the hand-off between the subwoofer and their specific studio monitors.

What is the voice coil size in this unit?

The S10.4 is equipped with a 2-inch voice coil. The voice coil works in unison with the 10-inch woofer to handle the power delivered by the Class-D amp.

Is the KRK S10.4 a passive or active subwoofer?

It is an active subwoofer, meaning it has a built-in power amplifier. You do not need an external amp to power the speaker; it simply requires a line-level signal.

What genres of music is this subwoofer best suited for?

It is ideal for any genre where low-end precision is critical, such as EDM, Hip-Hop, and film composition. However, it is useful for any engineer looking to ensure their mix is balanced across the full spectrum.

How much does the KRK S10.4 typically cost?

The typical price for the KRK S10.4 is approximately £367. This positions it as a professional-grade tool accessible to home and project studio owners.

Gear article

KRK S10.4 Active Subwoofer

The KRK S10.4 is a high-performance active studio subwoofer designed to extend the low-frequency response of monitoring systems. Featuring a 10-inch glass-aramid composite woofer and a highly efficient Class-D amplifier, it delivers a frequency range of 27Hz to 156Hz with a maximum SPL of 117.2 dB.

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Background and Design

The KRK S10.4 represents a significant evolution in KRK's line of dedicated studio subwoofers. Building on the brand's legacy for sonic performance, this model was engineered to provide a tight and accurate bass extension for engineers and producers who require precise monitoring of the lowest octaves.

The unit utilizes a 10-inch glass-aramid composite woofer paired with a 2-inch voice coil. The enclosure design focuses on a front-firing port to reduce boundary coupling and allow for flexible placement within a studio environment. The aesthetic remains consistent with the iconic KRK design language, featuring the distinctive yellow woofer cone.

Technical Specifications

At the heart of the S10.4 is a highly efficient Class-D power amplifier. This modern amplification choice is designed to increase transient response, control, and punch compared to traditional Class-A/B designs.

Key performance metrics include: * Frequency Range: 27Hz to 156Hz. * Sound Pressure Level: A maximum SPL rating of 117.2 dB. * Connectivity: The rear panel typically includes comprehensive I/O options to integrate with various studio monitors. * Crossover Control: Four-position crossover frequency selection to match the subwoofer with different sizes of nearfield monitors.

Sound Character

The sonic signature of the S10.4 is defined by its accuracy and low-end extension. Unlike consumer subwoofers that may emphasize boominess, the S10.4 is tuned for a flat and honest reproduction of the low-frequency spectrum. The use of a Class-D amplifier ensures that low-end transients—such as kick drum attacks and synth bass stabs—remain sharp and defined rather than blurred.

Target Audience

The KRK S10.4 is intended for audio professionals, including mix engineers, mastering engineers, and music producers. It is particularly suited for those working in genres heavily reliant on low-frequency information, such as EDM, Hip-Hop, and Cinematic scoring. Because it bridges the gap between small nearfield monitors and full-range systems, it is an essential tool for ensuring that mixes translate well to larger club systems or home cinemas.

Market Comparison

Within the professional audio market, the KRK S10.4 competes with several other active solutions. While products like the QSC KLA181 or dB Technologies B-Hype 15 are oriented toward live PA applications, the S10.4 is specifically voiced for the precision of studio work.

Compared to smaller alternatives like the AVCOM 8" Active Subwoofer, the S10.4 provides significantly deeper extension (down to 27Hz) and higher SPL headroom. It offers a mid-tier price point, sitting between entry-level multimedia subs and high-end mastering grade subwoofers, making it a common choice for home and project studios.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the KRK S10.4?: The KRK S10.4 is designed to supplement studio monitors by providing accurate low-frequency monitoring. It allows engineers to hear and mix frequencies as low as 27Hz, which are often missed by standard monitors.
What type of amplifier does the S10.4 use?: It features a highly efficient Class-D power amplifier. This design choice improves transient response and provides better control over the woofer for a punchier sound.
What is the frequency response of this subwoofer?: The KRK S10.4 has a frequency response range from 27Hz to 156Hz. This extension is specifically tuned to provide a clear picture of the sub-bass octaves.
What is the maximum SPL rating for the S10.4?: The unit is capable of reaching a maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 117.2 dB. This ensures sufficient headroom for loud monitoring environments without distortion.
What size is the woofer in the S10.4?: It uses a 10-inch glass-aramid composite woofer. This material is chosen for its stiffness and light weight, which aids in accurate sound reproduction.
How does the S10.4 improve upon previous KRK subwoofer models?: The S10.4 focuses on improved low-frequency extension and enhanced transient control. It builds on the legacy of previous models with refined cabinetry and updated Class-D amplification.
Can I use the S10.4 for live PA applications?: While it is a powerful subwoofer, it is primarily designed as a studio monitor. For live PA needs, larger units like the QSC KLA181 are generally more appropriate for filling large rooms.
Is the crossover frequency adjustable?: Yes, the S10.4 typically includes a selectable crossover control. This allows the user to tailor the hand-off between the subwoofer and their specific studio monitors.
What is the voice coil size in this unit?: The S10.4 is equipped with a 2-inch voice coil. The voice coil works in unison with the 10-inch woofer to handle the power delivered by the Class-D amp.
Is the KRK S10.4 a passive or active subwoofer?: It is an active subwoofer, meaning it has a built-in power amplifier. You do not need an external amp to power the speaker; it simply requires a line-level signal.
What genres of music is this subwoofer best suited for?: It is ideal for any genre where low-end precision is critical, such as EDM, Hip-Hop, and film composition. However, it is useful for any engineer looking to ensure their mix is balanced across the full spectrum.
How much does the KRK S10.4 typically cost?: The typical price for the KRK S10.4 is approximately £367. This positions it as a professional-grade tool accessible to home and project studio owners.