REL Classic 98
Amplified REL subwoofer with vintage design, 25 cm paper cone driver and 300 W RMS class D amplification, to complete a stereo system with retro character.
Description
The Classic 98 is an amplified subwoofer from REL, designed to complete an existing stereo or hi-fi system by adding the bass extension that main speakers lack. Its aesthetic follows the codes of historic REL subwoofers, while incorporating modern amplification and electronics.
The 25 cm driver is down-firing and features a cellulose pulp cone paired with an inverted dust cap, a construction close to traditional paper cones intended to recreate a sound signature close to original REL models. The long-throw butyl surround allows for significant cone excursion, useful for reproducing the lowest frequencies. The class D amplification delivers 300 watts RMS and extends down to 27 Hz (-6 dB), with an 80 dB gain control range and input filtering with a stated response time of 8 ms. The high crossover frequency is adjustable from 30 to 120 Hz, and a 0-180° phase switch allows adjustment to ensure coherence with the main speakers.
The REL high-level connector, in addition to the low-level RCA and LFE inputs, allows direct connection to the amplifier output of a stereo system, with gain adjustable independently on the high-level, low-level and LFE inputs. A dedicated input for the REL AirShip II wireless transmission unit is also provided.
This subwoofer is aimed at enthusiasts of vintage or retro audio equipment wishing to reinforce the bass of a stereo system without altering its aesthetic, with a bass rendering described as softer and warmer than other models from the brand.
Technical specifications
| Power | 300 watts RMS |
| Low frequency | 27 Hz (-6 dB) |
| Gain control range | 80 dB |
| High crossover frequency | 30 - 120 Hz |
| Phase | 0 - 180° switch |
| Gain | 80 dB, independent on high/low level and LFE inputs |
| Master power switch | On / Off |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 470 x 350 x 298.5 mm |
| Weight | 18.1 kg |
| Driver | 254 mm, down-firing |
| Surround | long-throw butyl |
| Cone | cellulose pulp, inverted dust cap |
| Amplifier module | class D |
| Connections | 1x low-level input (mono, RCA), 1x high-level input (stereo, Neutrik Speakon), 1x LFE .1 input (RCA), 1x input for REL AirShip II wireless transmission unit |
What to check before buying used
On an amplified subwoofer of this type, attention should first focus on the class D amplifier module and the Speakon high-level connector: check that no crackling or cutting out occurs when powering on. The cellulose pulp cone and butyl surround of the 25 cm driver deserve a visual check for cracks or sagging, signs of wear or unsuitable storage. The gain, phase and crossover frequency controls should also be tested across their full range to ensure the potentiometers show no intermittent contact.
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