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Technical
The Serie S models use an unusual method of bass loading. They are designed to operate below
normal system resonance. This has been achieved without the normal form of bass boost or
electronic equalization. Instead of a constantly increasing bass equalization response, we simply
ensure there is sufficient amplifier gain to drive the speaker unit to its maximum excursion level
at whatever the designated lowest operating frequency is, and then cut the bass at a controlled rate
of 12dB per octave above this frequency. Although this may at first seem identical to boosting the
bass, it is actually quite different and ensures that the timing of transients is far improved
compared to the usual bass equalization used. Bass will sound cleaner and faster.
The amplifier is fully DC coupled to avoid phase shifts and compromises in its low end
performance. It is inherently stable and will retain its characteristics over very long periods of
time – important in a unit designed for an exceptionally long working life. These amplifiers are
designed to withstand reasonable abuse and overloads. If in doubt, please contact your dealer.
We believe that the importance of the electronics, cabinet and drivers being designed to work in
harmony is paramount. This approach allows the Serie S Sub-Bass Systems to achieve the highest
possible level of fidelity.
Overload Protection
All REL Sub-Bass Systems are designed as true sub bass speakers. They are designed to
reproduce those exceptionally deep notes that are felt as well as heard. This it will attempt to do
at whatever volume level you set. If set too high no damage should result because the built-in
electronics will limit the cone movement. This electronic control is called Set-Safe™. It
constantly and instantaneously monitors the output from the power amplifier and is totally
transparent in operation until required. This means it has absolutely no effect on the sound quality
of your REL until an overload is detected.
Ordinarily an overload would cause the power amplifier to go into clipping with resultant loss of
control over the drive unit. This can cause drive unit damage, and always sounds nasty. Set-
Safe™ detects the point of incipient clipping and gently soft-clips the waveform of the signal to
ensure actual clipping does not occur.
This is a necessarily simplified description of what actually happens, but in effect, Set-Safe™
controls the amplifier and ensures there is minimum risk of amplifier and driver damage caused
by over-driving.
A thermal overload device is fitted to all Serie S Sub-Bass Systems. If the unit is deliberately
overdriven this device will sense the temperature rise and cut the output; recovery time is
approximately five minutes. If this happens, it is a warning that the unit is being overdriven and
the volume level control should be reduced to a safe level.
Although everything possible has been done to minimize risk of thermal overload failure, there
can be no defense against those individuals who deliberately abuse the device. Such damage is
NOT covered by warranty. Please remember your REL is there to supplement your main system,
not overwhelm it!
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