REL S/850 – Reference Active Subwoofer for Hi-Fi & Home Cinema

Reference-level bass performance for serious music and cinema systems. The REL S/850 is the flagship model of REL’s latest Serie S range, designed for listeners who want powerful, precise and naturally integrated low-frequency performance. Combining an 850W Linear Class D amplifier, a 12-inch CarbonAlloy™ active driver and a matching 12-inch passive radiator, it delivers exceptional control, depth and scale for high-end stereo and home cinema systems.

• Flagship REL Serie S active subwoofer
• 850W RMS Linear Class D amplifier
• 12" CarbonAlloy™ long-throw active driver
• 12" Carbon/Carbon passive radiator
• High-Level Speakon, RCA and XLR LFE inputs
• AirShip Direct™ wireless ready
• Designed for stereo pairs and REL Line Array systems

Overview

The REL S/850 is engineered for premium systems where bass must add scale, realism and emotional weight without compromising timing or tonal balance. It is equally suited to high-end two-channel listening and ambitious home cinema installations, offering the speed and integration required for music together with the authority needed for modern film soundtracks.

Key Benefits

• Effortless low-frequency extension: reaches down to 19 Hz (-6 dB) for deep, controlled bass.
• Musical integration: REL’s High-Level connection allows the subwoofer to follow the character and timing of the main amplifier.
• Premium cinema compatibility: RCA and XLR LFE inputs support integration with high-performance AV processors and receivers.
• Flexible system growth: designed for single-subwoofer use, stereo pairs or REL Line Array configurations.
• Clean installation: compatible with optional AirShip Direct™ wireless transmission.

Key Features

• 850W RMS Linear Class D amplifier
• 12" CarbonAlloy™ active driver with die-cast alloy chassis
• 12" Carbon/Carbon flat-cone passive radiator
• High-Level Neutrik Speakon input
• Stereo RCA low-level inputs
• RCA and XLR LFE inputs
• High-Level, RCA and LFE outputs
• Fully analogue input filtering
• REL SET-SAFE electronic protection
• Piano Black or Gloss White lacquer finish

Ideal For

The REL S/850 is ideal for medium to large listening rooms, premium stereo systems and high-performance home cinema installations. It is particularly relevant for customers using large floorstanding speakers, high-quality integrated amplifiers, dedicated pre/power systems or advanced AV processors.

It is also a strong choice for systems that may evolve over time, as the S/850 supports stereo pairing and REL Line Array configurations for even greater scale and room coverage.

Specifications

Why We Selected This Product

At ExclusivIT, we select subwoofers that enhance a system rather than dominate it. The REL S/850 stands out because it combines substantial low-frequency authority with the integration quality required by serious hi-fi systems. Its High-Level connection, refined driver architecture and powerful amplifier make it a compelling solution for customers who want bass that is deep, fast and coherent.

For premium stereo systems and ambitious home cinema rooms, the S/850 offers a rare balance of control, scale and long-term system flexibility.