Audio Video News

Without bottom end impact, home theater sound can leave you feeling dissatisfied. A new subwoofer from Britain's B&W Loudspeakers is guaranteed to provide satisfaction in full.

The $1000-list price ASW 675 features a new driver, powerful amplifier and innovative enclosure design that make it faster, deeper, and more efficient than the ASW-2500, which it replaces. The active closed-box subwoofer measures only 13.4" H x 13.4" W x 16.2" deep (340mm x 340mm x 411mm) but has a –3dB point of 31Hz. Its new 10" driver, specially developed for the ASW 675, combines pulp composite, Kevlar, and aluminum for exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio.

The ASW 675 is rated to deliver 40Hz to 140Hz with a –6dB point at 17Hz. The variable cutoff frequency allows for matching the sub's output to your main speakers, and the line-level high-pass filter keeps the strain off your main amp by limiting the feed to 80Hz and above. The sub's 500watt amplifier is audiophile quality, with a 90dB signal : noise ratio. User-adjustable functions include a level set, low-pass filter frequency adjustment, low-pass filter bypass, bass roll-off alignment, phase 0/180 switch, and auto-sense power on.

Input is via line-level RCA connectors; line out is via high-passed RCA jacks. There is also a link output that enables connecting another device, such as a power amp, in parallel with the sub's input. The ASW-675 achieves great performance in a relatively small package, measuring only 13.4" H x 13.4"W x 16.2" deep. Weight is 56 lb., or 25.5kg. The cabinet is finished in a choice of black oak or "Sorrento," a type of light oak. The removable grille is a standard black fabric.