Subwoofer Reviews

Subwoofer: Thiel SmartSub SS1
Connections: Line-level inputs and outputs and XLR outputs
Enclosure Type: Sealed
Woofer (size in inches, type): 10, aluminum cone
Power Rating (watts): 500 RMS
Crossover Bypass: Yes (no internal crossover)
Available Finishes: Amberwood, Cherry, Maple, Oak, Walnut
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches):20 x 11 x 17
Weight (pounds): 55
Price: $3,000 amberwood,
$2,900 other finishes

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Ratings: Thiel SmartSub SS1 Subwoofer

Build Quality: 98
• My, what a big magnet you have
• Short voice coil, long gap prevents distortion
• Disciplined aluminum woofer

Value: 89
• Clearly not positioned outside the high-end market
• Proprietary technology worth the price

Features: 95
• Boundary compensation circuits for rear and side walls
• Logarithmically accurate volume control

Performance: 96
• This sub can carry a tune
• Movie sound effects are less oppressive and more fun
• Once you've heard an honest, deep pitch, it's hard to go back

Ergonomics: 94
• Beautiful Amberwood finish among cosmetic options
• Driver and LED lurk behind translucent grille

Overall Rating: 94
Deep subwoofer-borne bass is one of home theater's major advantages over two-channel audio, but it's a promise rarely fulfilled. Thiel's SmartSub SS1, though expensive and slightly small, delivers on that promise with impressive low-frequency performance. Not everyone can afford it, but everyone should hear it.

General Information
SmartSub SS1 Subwoofer, $2,900
Thiel Audio
(859) 254-9427
www.thielaudio.com
Dealer Locator Code THI