Home theater and stereo systems can often benefit substantially from the addition of a quality subwoofer and there are hundreds of models to select from in 2023. Monitor Audio is one of the largest loudspeaker manufacturers in the UK and their track record of success speaks for itself. Their new Anthra Series has been announced and all 3 models command some serious prices.
There are three models/sizes to choose from: The W10 (10 inches), W12 (12 inches), and W15 (15 inches). Each is designed to complement both music and movie listening with solid, clear, deep bass response while being easy to set up and use.
Key Features
All three subwoofers incorporate the following core technologies and features.
Cabinet Construction: Each of the subwoofers is encased in a sealed MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) cabinet.
Speaker Construction: Rigid Surface Technology II (RST II) and ceramic-coated aluminum magnesium (C-CAM) high-excursion driver.
Motor Massive motor assembly with long dual-layered, copper-coated aluminum wire (CCAW), round-wound voice coils. This supports more precise control at extremely low frequencies.
Class-D Amplification: This provides efficiency for optimum performance, even at high volume levels.
LCD Display and Onboard Controls: A 2-inch full-color LCD display and rotary dial control for menu selection and basic setup are provided.
MaestroUnite App (Android/iOS): This provides easy setup and control via a compatible mobile device.
Custom EQ: There are 3 pre-defined EQ curves, plus 3 custom EQ curves each with 8 band custom EQ supporting (Peaking, High Shelf, Low Shelf, High Pass) that can be configured through the MaestroUnite App
Volume Level: Wide adjustable input gain allows maximum output from a wide range of input signals.
Inputs: RCA (l/r – left Input is LFE) and XLR connection options.
Outputs: Both RCA and XLR outputs are included. This allows users to connect up to 4 Anthra subwoofers in daisy-chain fashion (you can never have enough bass – especially in a large room).
Finishes: Available finishes include Gloss Black and Satin White with cloth-covered magnetically attached Grilles
Comparison
| W10 | W12 | W15 | |
| MSRP | $2,350 | $2,700 | $3,500 |
| Subwoofer Type | Active – Sealed Cabinet | Active – Sealed Cabinet | Active – Sealed Cabinet |
| Speaker Driver Size | 10-inches | 12-inches | 15-inches |
| Speaker Driver Type | High Linear-Excursion Triple Suspension | High Linear-Excursion Triple Suspension | High Linear-Excursion Triple Suspension |
| Speaker Driver Excursion | 50mm | 50mm | 50mm |
| Amp Output Power at 240VAC | 425 Watts Continous, 500 Watts Peak | 900 Watts Continuous, 1700 Watts Peak | 1400 Watts Continuous, 2500 Watts Peak |
| Amp Output Power at 120VAC | 390 Watts Continuous, 450 Watts Peak | 700 Watts Continuous, 1325 Watts Peak | 1400 Watts Continuous, 2500 Watts Peak |
| Low-Frequency Limit (-6dB) | 17Hz | 16Hz | 16Hz |
| High-Frequency Limit (-6dB) | 400Hz | 400Hz | 400Hz |
| Low Pass Filter (Crossover) 20-200Hz (Adjustable Roll-off) | -3 to -48dB per Octave in 3dB per Octave steps | -3 to -48dB per Octave in 3dB per Octave steps | -3 to -48dB per Octave in 3dB per Octave steps |
| Phase Control | 0-360 Degrees measured at LPF (Low Pass Filter) Crossover | 0-360 Degrees measured at LPF (Low Pass Filter) Crossover | 0-360 Degrees measured at LPF (Low Pass Filter) Crossover |
| Power Consumption | 120 Watts | 200 Watts | 550 Watts |
| External Dimensions (HWD – without feet) | 321 x 321 x 321 mm (12.64 x 12.64 x 12.64 inches) | 374 x 374 x 374 mm (14.72 x 14.72 x 14.72 inches) | 439 x 439 x 439 mm (17.28 x 17.28 x17.28 inches) |
| Weight | 22.2 kg (49 lbs) | 32.4 kg (71.5 lbs) | 40.3 kg (89 lbs) |
Availability and Price
The Monitor Anthra Series subwoofers are expected to be available beginning in August 2023 through Authorized Dealers and Installers at the following prices (each):
- Anthra W10: £1,650 / €2,150 / $2,350 (USD)
- Anthra W12: £1,900 / €2,450 / $2,700 (USD)
- Anthra W15: £2,500 / €3,200 / $3,500 (USD)
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