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Quick Takes -
Technics SBAS-500 Powered Subwoofer - July, 2000
Jared Baldwin
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Technics
SBAS-500
Powered Subwoofer
Drivers: two
5 1/2" cone woofers
MFR: lowest
frequency at 37 Hz
Impedance: 8
Ohm
Amplifier: 100
watts rms
Finish: black
Video shielding: no
Connector type:
push/spring
Enclosure
type: ported
MSRP: $199.99
What they say:
The SBAS500 looks like an identical twin to its SBW500
counterpart, both utilizing dual 5 1/2" inch drivers and using a similar
style box. However, major
differences include a built-in 100-watt amplifier, a low frequency cutoff
switch set at either 50 Hz or 200 Hz, and a phase switch that helps match the
speaker to the acoustics of any room. What
this means for your power amplifier is more power to drive the other speakers, and
what this means for you is deeper, more satisfying bass.
The downward firing speakers produce room-filling bass for an added
richness that compliments sound without artificial "coloration" that
alters source material.
What we found:
You're not exactly going to shake loose any rafters or knock pictures off the wall with this sub, but it will be an improvement to the overall sound quality of most shelf-systems. The 200 Hz low frequency crossover option is somewhat high for a subwoofer speaker and may start to draw too much attention to itself due to the directional character of bass at those higher frequencies. However, this will most likely be of little concern for those who are just trying to add a little kick to their systems at a modest price. The SBAS500 does color the sound with a "boomy" bass at moderate to high volumes, although not so much as to take away from the overall sound quality, especially at lower volumes. This type of "boomy" bass is a favorite for some rap and hip-hop music listeners, so many will actually like it. The somewhat high price tag hurts the overall dollar/value rating substantially. Remember, this subwoofer requires its own wall plug, unlike its passive (you supply the power amplifier) counterpart the Technics SBW 500.
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- Jared Baldwin
© Copyright 2000 Secrets of Home
Theater & High Fidelity
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