Polk Audio DSW PRO 600 Subwoofer

Among the nearly two dozen different models of active subwoofers manufactured by Polk Audio, the described DSW PRO 600 is characterized by the use of a number of non-standard and useful technical solutions. First of all, it's worth to mention the proprietary system of active correction - Polk Room Optimizer - with four preset modes (Corner, Short wall, Long wall and Mid-room). They optimize the frequency response of the subwoofer, depending on its location in the room. In addition, this model has a 12-inch driver of its own design, in which the diffuser is modeled on a computer and has an almost linear frequency response. It has an optimized magnetic system and a voice coil of increased diameter. The driver itself is located on the lower plane of the case and is loaded on a slot-type bass reflex.

Polk Audio DSW PRO 600 has a built-in digital amplifier with a power of 500 watts in peak. The circuit is fed with Feed Forward Distortion Suppression servo loop, which ensures the exact match of the membrane's movements to the input signal. Switching here is the richest - both linear, and high-level inputs/outputs, and even a separate LFE socket. On the rear panel there are only the crossover adjustment knob and the buttons of the digital level control.

Thanks to remote control I managed, without getting up from the chair, to build a subwoofer into our test system literally in a matter of minutes. The result of tuning surpassed everything, even the most optimistic expectations. The bass in the performance of DSW PRO 600 was distinguished by a very high timbral resolution and a rare informativeness. Intelligibility was not deteriorated with loudness increase, even at levels close to critical, the sound stayed clear, without any audible side sounds. The strengths of the subwoofer are undoubtedly the killer dynamics and the clear reproduction of the attack in any musical material. A little confuse is caused by only a small blur of the lowest bass, which manifests itself in the phonograms rich with infra-low. Although, I would not refer this feature to significant shortcomings.

In the home theater all mentioned claims have completely dissipated. Creating a reliable sound foundation, the subwoofer does not sacrifice sound nuances to unrestrained aggression. Its interpretation of sound effects is very original and at the same time incredibly close to the truth. So, you just need to rebuild the system in an optimal way - fortunately, this is quite easy.