REL Storm 5 Subwoofer

REL Storm 5 is very well equipped for its price. It has a remote control. All sound processing is performed by a processor with a convenient control system and display. A high-level input is provided at the Speakon connector (cable included). 200-watt MOSFET amplifier goes in the audio path after the processor. The signal is output to a 25-cm long-stroke woofer. The design is a closed box. Six types of finishes are available.

REL Storm 5 - an unusual subwoofer. Its dynamic qualities are limited for a little (and it seems that deliberately), but in the field of low bass it is able to give a solid head start to more expensive and powerful subwoofers. Matching with loudspeakers equipped with a bass-reflex port could be better if the developers provided for a smooth phase adjustment. Difficulties arise when docking with compact satellites, which, as a rule, need bass support at frequencies above 120-150 Hz - the working range of Storm 5 ends at 99 Hz.

The sub showed itself confidently even with the LFE connection. I didn't need to select the delay time for the low-frequency channel by the receiver's processor - the optimal value was the same value as for the front loudspeakers. By limiting the sub to 70 Hz and the main channels to 60 Hz, I achieved a radical improvement in the sound stage. Bass instruments took shape in space, obtained not only "meat", but also "skeleton" and "skin". Drums of any range - even if it is a Japanese three-meter drum - were reproduced with amazing realism. The sub, at the same time, did not give out any side tones. The level of vibration transmitted to the entire listening room seemed to be a bit too high. However, many will even like such a light massage.