Does anyone need a subwoofer $4500 subwoofer? Bowers & Wilkins thinks so, and has just unveiled their most powerful and best sounding active subwoofer to date. The new flagship model is called the DB1D (12-inch), followed by the mid-sized DB2D (10-inch) and compact DB3D (8-inch), which each shave a grand off the price for each step down in size.
All three models have plenty of power, dual-opposed drive units and incredibly rigid cabinets for dramatically reduced distortion for deep, agile bass. Each model uses Aerofoil cones identical to those found in the B&W’s 800 Series Diamond loudspeakers. These light, ultra-stiff transducers resist bending and flexing far longer than conventional cones, delivering controlled bass with outstanding precision. The cone on the DB2D is the same as the 800 D3, while the DB1D features a massive 12-inch driver – the company’s largest Aerofoil cone to date.
The DB1D is also the most powerful active subwoofer Bowers & Wilkins has ever made; its 2,000 watt amplifier provides exceptional reserves of drive and authority. With their 1000 Watt amplifiers, the DB2D and DB3D mirror this capability in more compact forms.
All three DB Series subwoofers deploy two bass cones arranged in an opposed, balanced configuration. This technology was originally developed for the iconic PV1 subwoofer, and was also put to great use on the DB-1. Using this array greatly reduces cabinet vibration and ensures a cleaner, more precise sound. The company says the result is fantastic, coloration-free bass.
But all this power and precision is nothing without control, and thanks to an all-new digital pre-amplifier the DB Series subwoofers’ muscular sound is always delivered at optimum levels. Unique Bowers & Wilkins developed DSP such as Dynamic EQ and Room EQ ensure precision performance in every space.
The DB Series is incredibly simple to configure and use thanks to a dedicated mobile App. The App includes positioning guides, set-up and troubleshooting and can be used to provide control over both output and audio preset modes. The App is available for iOS and Android devices and no separate microphone kit required.
The new DB Series subwoofers are engineered to be flexible when it comes to connecting them to other equipment. They are obvious partners for the flagship 800 Series Diamond loudspeakers, but can easily be used with the CM Series or other loudspeakers. All three models will be available in a choice of three finishes: Gloss Black, Satin White and Rosenut.
Price & Availability
- DB1D will be available May 2017 priced $4,500
- DB2D will be available May 2017 priced $3,500
- DB3D will be available May 2017 priced $2,500
Comparison & Specifications
| DB1D | DB2D | DB3D | |
| MSRP | $4500 | $3500 | $2500 |
| Drive units | 2 x 300mm | 2 x 250mm | 2 x 200mm |
| (12in) | (10in) | (8in) | |
| Max power output | 2000W | 1000W | 1000W |
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Class D Hypex amplifier |
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| Rating power consumption | 360W | 195W | 195W |
| Signal to noise ratio | 92dB | 82db | 82db |
| Features |
Aerofoil-cone drive units in a balanced con guration Digital preampli er with Dynamic EQ, App-based set-up and BT-LE control |
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| Frequency range (-6dB) |
8.5Hz – 500Hz |
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| Frequency Response -3dB (centred on level at 100Hz) |
10Hz – 350Hz |
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| Standby power consumption |
<0.5W
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| Input impedance |
XLR 20kOhm |
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|
RCA 10kOhm |
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| Inputs |
2 x XLR 2 x RCA 2 x 3.5mm 12V trigger RS-232 — 9-pin D connector |
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| Dimensions | |||
| Height | 460mm (18.1in) | 430mm (16.9in) | 360mm (14.1in) |
| Width | 429mm (16.9in) | 377mm (14.8in) | 320mm (12.6in) |
| Depth | 410mm (16.1in) | 360mm (14.2in) | 300mm (11.8in) |
| Net weight | 43kg | 36kg | 25kg |
| Cabinet finish |
Gloss Black (with black grilles) Rosenut (with black grilles) Satin White (with grey grilles) |
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