REL Classic 98 Subwoofer

While not a part of any regular line of REL products, instead, the REL Classic 98 subwoofer its a modern solution for anyone who owns and loves vintage audio products. The Classic 98 offers a slightly softer touch whilst delivering room-filling bass. While it might trade off a touch of the speed, clarity, and deepest bass that our standard models, like the T/9x, are known for, it compensates with its inviting warmth.

The REL Classic 98 encourages you to put on a vinyl record, pour yourself a drink, recline that comfortable chair, and relax with the music. Its classic natural walnut veneer and mid-century modern styling complements a wide range of decors. It’s also easy to place and use. One reviewer aptly dubbed it as “the audiophile‘s ultimate guilty pleasure.”

The Classic 98 channels the essence of REL Acoustics’ renowned 10” down-firing designs from the 1990’s, using REL’s traditional paper cone technique, reviving the vintage REL sound. The rich, natural walnut veneer exudes warmth and authenticity, reminiscent of the mid-century stereo gear. The radiused curve, accentuated by a subtle reveal line, showcases modern craftsmanship while honouring past design. The rear amplifier panel, with its white gold silk screening and contrasting knobs, evokes memories of the era, while the glossy black logo set against a matte background adds a contemporary touch. It plays louder and deeper, offering an audio experience that marries the reliability and technology of modern RELs with a retro look and sound.

Back in the 90s, offering a 300W amplifier at an affordable price was a significant challenge. Today, REL have harnessed one of their latest amplifier designs – a high-current, lightning-fast Class D amp. This modern amplifier design is dynamic and stands as a testament to REL’s commitment to delivering top performance, without compromising on affordability.

The Class D amplifier design pairs nicely with the High-Level connectivity, enabling ease of connection to a multitude of integrated amplifiers and power amplifiers. The onboard filters feature a swift 8ms response, which are both intuitive and efficient. Those of you with long enough memories may recall the old and somewhat confusing ABC filtering system used on REL subs from the 1990’s. Well, some things are best left in the past! To further enhance the experience, the REL design team have incorporated unique versions of the LimitLess™ Limiters and Perfect Filters™, ensuring that the REL Classic 98’s amplifier is a harmonious blend of the modern and the vintage.

Within the REL product line, the Classic 98 carves out its unique niche, priced just beneath the T9/x. While both models stand as paragons of top-tier performance, they cater to distinct experiences. The Classic 98 is designed for aficionados who yearn for the vintage REL sound and styling, offering a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of stereo, yet infused with the advancements and reliability of modern technology. The T9/x, on the other hand, is the embodiment of power and depth, wrapped in a sleek, modern design. Tailored for those seeking cutting-edge performance, it’s a versatile powerhouse adept at delivering both in music and home theatre settings, ensuring a comprehensive sonic experience.

The Classic 98 continues its modern twist, with two cutting-edge wireless options tailored to diverse needs:

AirShip II—Crafted for our Reference models, AirShip II is a beacon of advanced wireless technology. Operating at 5.8 GHz, it supports both High-Level Connection and .1/LFE, even simultaneously. This ensures peak theatre performance, making it the choice for those who demand the very best.

HT-Air MKII Wireless—A nod to REL’s HT models, the HT-Air MKII offers an elegant and cost-effective wireless solution. Transmitting at 5.8 GHz, it flawlessly conveys either stereo low-level or .1/LFE signals without compression. However, it’s worth noting that High-Level Connectivity isn’t supported with the HT-Air MKII.

Technical Specifications

Type – Down-firing active driver
Active Driver Size & Material – 10 in. (250mm) Amended Pulp-on-Paper, down firing Inverted Cone, Steel Chassis
Low Frequency Extension – 27Hz at -6 dB
Input Connectors – Hi Level Neutrik Speakon, Low Level RCA, LFE RCA
Output Connectors – N/A
Power Output – 300 watts (RMS)
Amplifier Type – Class D
Wireless Capability – HT-Air MKII Wireless or AirShip II, Sold separately
Dimensions (Inc. feet and rear controls) W x H x D – 350 x 470 x 298 mm
Net Weight – 18.1 Kg
Finish – Walnut veneer