REL Carbon Special Black Label Subwoofer

The new REL Carbon Special Black Label subwoofer has benefited from the research and outcomes derived from the REL Reference generation. It draws its technology from the REL No. 31. As a result, numerous improvements have been made to the speakers, amplifier, and filtering. The enclosure has been completely redesigned and optimized. The “Black Label” model represents the most refined subwoofer in the S series, made with stricter tolerances, high-end components, and a unique finish.

The Carbon Special Black Label elevates the mid chassis to its highest level. At the heart of this model is a 12-inch speaker fully constructed from carbon fiber, closely related to the design used in our reference model No. 31, powered by a 900 watts amplifier and housed in a larger enclosure that allows the carbon speaker to deliver increased depth and power. The result: bass that combines power, speed, and exceptional tonal nuances.

REL Carbon Special Black Label: Enclosure

The REL Carbon Special Black Label subwoofer presents itself in a relatively compact form for its range. However, it is also quite “massive” and rigid. Its design is inspired by the REL Reference series. It is essentially a cube measuring 50 cm on all sides, weighing nearly 45 kg! Its shape has been modified to give it a more attractive visual appeal. The finish features eight layers of piano black lacquer. The REL Carbon Special Black Label is supplied with a premium wooden grille that improves both aesthetics (subjectively, it must be admitted) and air circulation.

On the front, there is a 305 mm speaker with a “full” carbon cone and a die-cast alloy chassis. At the bottom of the enclosure, there is another 305 mm diameter speaker (passive radiator) with a flat carbon cone.

REL Carbon Special Black Label: Settings and Connections

At the back of the REL Carbon Special Black Label enclosure, there is a connection and control panel. It features a high-level input in Speakon format and an XLR LFE input. Additionally, there is a low-level stereo input in RCA. These inputs are paired with outputs to chain multiple subwoofers. The adjustments are standard for this type of product: Hi/Low level, LFE level, a filtering adjustment (20/120 Hz), and a phase adjustment (0/180°).

REL Carbon Special Black Label: Technology

This new version allows for an increase of over 12% in power (the previous version was 800 watts). The amplification chosen by REL is a Pure Class D Linear that surpasses its predecessor, delivering a continuous power of 900 watts effortlessly for extended periods. Its peak power is 50% higher than that of the previous model.

High-end polypropylene capacitors, similar to those used in reference models, have been integrated into the input filters. The REL Carbon Special Black Label is equipped with two PerfectFilter™ second-generation filters optimized for the speaker. All REL input filters are 100% analog, among the fastest ever offered in a subwoofer.

The new 305 mm high-amplitude speaker has been completely rethought, retaining only the cast chassis. The membrane and its cone made of carbon have been coated with pure carbon fiber. The redesigned suspension allows for greater excursion, managing the amplifier's power more easily.

It is not associated with a closed or bass-reflex load, as is often the case. The main speaker is supported by a passive radiator designed to handle the extreme excursions generated by the amplifier and the Carbon Special Black Label main speaker. Its flat surface, made of a primary piston, is an evolution of the carbon/fiberglass and foam construction. It is 40% stiffer yet significantly lighter than the previous model, allowing an incredible travel of over 70 mm in each direction. The power transformer of the new Carbon Special Black Label alone weighs 6.8 kg. With an increased heat dissipation surface, the Carbon Special Black Label can provide up to 1250 watts when necessary.

This technology also allows for deep, powerful bass in the extreme low range between 19 and 40 Hz. Finally, the Carbon Special Black Label subwoofer offers the possibility of being used in pairs or stacked in line arrays of four or six units to complement exceptional systems.

REL Carbon Special Black Label: Testing and Listening

The REL Carbon Special Black Label is reminiscent of its predecessor, but from the first measurements, it makes a distinctive and clear difference from the latter. Tracks and discs that we thought we knew by heart take on a whole new dimension. Some pieces can achieve previously unsuspected levels of extension in the bass frequencies.

We find a thunderous dynamic and extremely rapid transients. It quickly becomes completely unobtrusive in the room, showing no directivity or coloration. The depth and presence it brings to the bass and music is remarkable and unmatched compared to a passive system at the same price level. We are also surprised by the texture and harmonic richness it adds to the midrange. Vocals sound much more organic, and strings and winds are much more realistic and textured while showing less clarity, aggression, and acidity. The musical reproduction is linked to tonal balance, and in this context, this REL is a remarkable success!