Audio Video News

MartinLogan has expanded its Dynamo Series of subwoofers with five models ranging in price from $400 to $1,700.

Four of the five new models feature app-based control via Bluetooth as well as wireless room correction and signal connectivity. The X designates the wireless capabilities.

The line starts with the entry-level, 75-watt Dynamo 400, featuring an 8-inch driver ($400) and moves up to the 27-Hz-rated 120-watt/10-inch 600X ($600), 300-watt/10-inch 800X ($800), 650-watt/12-inch 1100X ($1,100), and 20-Hz-rated 1600X, featuring a 15-inch driver and 900-watt amplifier. The two entry models are vented designs featuring low-turbulence ports, while the three upper models are sealed.

The core of each subwoofer a “low-noise, ultra efficient” Class D amplifier and a high-excursion driver featuring a rigid, lightweight polypropylene diaphragm, powerful magnet structure, and an inverted surround, which is said to maximize excursion clearance and reduce airflow-related turbulence for more articulate bass. The cabinets are made of “the finest composite material” and feature interior cross-bracing to provide a stable foundation.

Anthem Room Correction (ARC), a proven PC-based system borrowed from sister brand Anthem, is offered for all but the entry-level Dynamo 400. ARC measures low-frequency output in the room, compares it with optimal response curves, and uses advanced algorithms to remove anomalies and create “realistically blended, natural-sounding bass.” The software can be controlled via the free ARC Mobile app or a USB connection to the PC running the software. The app is available for iOS and Android devices.

MartinLogan offers second Subwoofer Control app, which greatly simplifies setup and configuration for the X models, allowing listeners to adjust key subwoofer settings from anywhere in the room. App-based controls include volume, low-pass filter (frequency and order), phase, 20-30Hz level, three preset listening modes, and ARC control. The app also provides a 20-120Hz “tone sweep” feature to help listeners pinpoint areas in the room where troublesome rattles or resonances may occur.

RCA/line- and speaker-level inputs are standard across the board and a wireless option is available for the X models via the $200 SWT-X wireless kit, which transmits signals up to 50 feet away over the 2.4 GHZ band and employs dynamic frequency selection and forward error correction to ensure robust wireless performance. The two top subwoofers step up connectivity options with an XLR connection.

To help bring home theater soundtracks to life, the Dynamo 400 and 600X’s right input doubles as a Low-Frequency Effects (LFE) input, while the 800X ups the ante with the addition of a discrete RCA/line-level input for LFE signals. The Dynamo 1100X and 1600X go one step further offering both XLR and RCA inputs for LFE connection. The 800X, 1100X, and 1600X are also set up for simultaneous connection of two-channel and multichannel sound with individual crossover and level settings for each source.

The 800X, 1100X, and 1600X models include a 12-volt trigger, allowing external devices to turn the sub on and off, and can be reconfigured to fire forward for applications that call for the subwoofer to be placed in a cabinet or other discreet location. The three top models also come with ETC (energy transfer coupler) spikes that can be used to enhance stability on thick carpets, or create tighter coupling between the subwoofer and floor.

For more information, visit martinlogan.com.