Emotiva BasX S8, S10, and S12 Subwoofer Preview

Emotiva really came out with all cylinders firing this year at the 2017 CES in Las Vegas, Nevada.  The company that’s known for its high quality amplifiers at affordable prices released over two dozen new products debuting specifically for this year’s CES show. Among the new power amplifiers, processors, and speakers were also a trio of newly enhanced budget oriented BasX subwoofers. 

The BasX line was introduced only a year ago with the goal of integrating affordable high-quality audio with ease of use. Every Emotiva BasX component was designed from the ground up to be part of an excellent home audio system. This year the line is further enhanced to give audiophiles even more bang for their buck. You may not get all the bells and whistles that you would with other subwoofer companies at higher price points, but Emotiva’s idea is that with these smartly designed subs you really don’t need them anyway.

BasX Amplifier (left pic) ; Backpanel view (right pic)

The goal of the BasX Subwoofer line is to deliver low frequencies in the audio spectrum accurately with low distortion. From what Emotiva says, the three newest models should be able to deliver the dynamics and power you need to make a modern movie soundtrack sound great, but still offer the precision you’ll need to get the most from well recorded music. 

Emotiva BasX S12 Subwoofer

The new BasX Subwoofer line comes in three models: The S8, the S10, and the S12. Each model includes a heavy duty high excursion bass driver, powered by a high-efficiency Class D amplifier, and offer controls that allow you to configure it to work in conjunction with your main speakers. All feature long-throw woofers with a mineral-filled polypropylene cone mounted in a carefully tuned rear ported enclosure. The various models offer identical controls and similar features; The main difference is that the larger models can produce higher output levels and their frequency response extends to even deeper ranges not only thanks to the larger driver and enclosure, but more available power from the amplifier.

The cabinets are quite compact and are built of heavy acoustically inert HDF.  Each sub is covered in an attractive yet durable textured vinyl. Sculpted removable grill cloths match the outline of the cabinets, and heavy duty integral feet provide support to minimize vibrations. All controls and connections are conveniently located on the rear panel, which also provides cooling for the internal amplifiers.

BasX S12

The BasX S12 subwoofer is the largest and most powerful BasX subwoofer. It uses a heavy-duty long-throw 12” driver and a 300 watt Class D amplifier to deliver deep bass designed to extend down to 25 Hz.

BasX S10

The BasX S10 subwoofer uses a heavy-duty long-throw 10” driver and a 200 watt Class D amplifier designed to deliver bass response down to 27 Hz.

BasX S8

The BasX S8 subwoofer is the smallest BasX subwoofer for rooms where space is at a premium. The BasX uses a heavy-duty long-throw 8” driver and a 150 watt Class D amplifier to deliver bass response down to 28 Hz.

Conclusion

Emotiva is really flexing its muscles in the audio industry with all their new releases at CES this year.  The three new BasX Subs alone have really drawn a lot of attention to the company and with special  pricing of $199 - $399 (including FREE shippping)  for these subs it's not hard to see why. The specs look good, and with a name like Emotiva you're sure to be happy with your purchase.  It will be interesting to put these models to the test and see if they become the best bang for the buck in affordable subwoofers for 2017.  For anyone looking to get into multi-sub for better bass integration in your room, Emotiva makes this proposition quiet easy given the modest pricing and footprint of these subwoofers.  There has never been a better time.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.