Tower Speaker Reviews

Features
Bass management modes: Back-panel crossover (100, 80, 60 Hz)
Front-panel boost (80, 65, 55 Hz)
Processing Modes: Bass, treble, no surround
THX Certification: No
Audio D/A Converter: None
Number of Amp Channels: 2
Power Rating (watts per channel): 100, into 8 ohms; 160, into 4 ohms
Frequency Response: +0/–0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 5.75 x 17.1 x 15
Weight (pounds): 27
Price: $599

Connections
Inputs and Outputs:
Stereo Analog
Audio: Main in, pre out, external processor in/out, tape in/out, line in (2), phono in (MM/MC), sub out
Digital Audio: None
Video: None
Additional: USB (1), 12-volt trigger (1), IR jack (2)

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Ratings: Outlaw Audio RR2150 Stereo Receiver

Build Quality: 90
• Weighs more than many seven-channel models selling for $1k+
• Metal faceplate is handsome and distinctive

Value: 99
• With sterling performance, features, and looks, it's worth far more than the price
• Historically, Outlaw excels in this category

Features: 94
• Stereo receiver with sub output
• Bass management
• USB and minijack for MP3

Performance: 97
• Offers the greatest gift any amplifier can give: neutrality
• Enough power to drive the Totems full-range

Ergonomics: 90
• Design of faceplate is a minor masterpiece
• Onscreen display a minor omission

Overall Rating: 95
The Outlaw RR2150 makes the case for 2.1 home theater by providing a subwoofer output and sophisticated bass management features in a modestly priced but high-performing stereo receiver.

General Information
RR2150 Stereo Receiver, $599

Ratings: Outlaw Audio LFM-2 Subwoofer

Build Quality: 90
• Thick metal screw-in spikes anchor enclosure
• Cabinet seems relatively solid and inert
• Glass top

Value: 98
• This is just ridiculous. How can a budget sub sound this good?
• Overturns all assumptions about what a budget subwoofer can achieve

Features: 88
• It's good to have crossover bypass—this is a feature too many subs omit
• BASH amp is efficient and is more peak-power capable than the RMS spec suggests

Performance: 95
• Commendably little droning or overhang
• Deep pitches
• Solid thunks

Ergonomics: 89
• Modest width relative to height and depth make bulk less intrusive
• Glass top provides a touch of glass—uh, class

Overall Rating: 93
Budget subwoofers are typically bleating one-note boxes and are often more intrusive than helpful. But this one sings low and naturally, seamlessly crosses over to high-quality speakers, and fills out the bottom octave with authority. The LFM-2 may be the only $299 subwoofer worthy of discriminating ears.

General Information
LFM-2 Subwoofer, $299
Outlaw Audio
(866) OUTLAWS
www.outlawaudio.com
Dealer Locator Code OUT