Monitor Audio BRW10 Subwoofer
At first glance, the compact BRW-10 subwoofer, being included into Bronze Reference series, gives the impression of a modest by its capabilities bass machine. However, in technical terms, it is in no way inferior to competitors. The model is equipped with a 10-inch driver with a diffuser from the patented MMP (Metal Matrix Polymer) composite and a built-in D-class amplifier with a rated power of 150 watts.
Looking at the back panel of the sub, you immediately realize that it was designed primarily for a home theater. First of all, this is noticeable by the absence of high-level inputs; a signal can be set only to linear ones. The adjustable filter operates in the band of 40 - 120 Hz and has a roll-off slope of 24 dB/octave. It is also possible to automatically turn on/off when the input signal appears or is absent. A fixed phase switch with the positions of 0 and 180 degrees is present too with.
The sub's body has high rigidity and is glued with high-quality vinyl film. Three finishes are available (black oak, cherry, walnut). Even after a thorough inspection, I did not have the slightest complaint about the build and finish quality: the subwoofer is made with very high quality and leaves a feeling of reliability.
I started appraising the musical abilities of BRW-10 by listening to CDs, and the first was "Hope" by famous jazz musician Hugh Masekela. The recording was made with a huge dynamic range, making it easy to identify the slightest signs of compression at low frequencies. I must say that for a subwoofer of this size this is a rather severe test, but this model passed it with honor, demonstrating a quite tangible and assembled bass, which, however, lacked a little depth. In the course of further testing, it turned out that BRW-10 tends to slightly soften the attack of percussion instruments and does not like phonograms with an overly powerful low-frequency spectrum. In this case, audible distortion may occur due to overload.
The sub copes with the theater effects much better, and this is not surprising, given its positioning by the manufacturer. The bass is enriched with shades, its structure becomes more distinguishable. The lack of depth is compensated by good dynamics in the working range. However, with powerful low-frequency effects (as in the case of music phonograms) and at an increased volume, overload signs appear again. They are especially noticeable when working in a wide signal band.
It can be expected that ideal partners for Monitor Audio BRW-10 will be not too bass floor speakers or a set of shelf satellites with a lower playback limit of 50 - 60 Hz.
