Subwoofers — Paradigm Electronics Defiance X10

The Defiance X10 was the entry point to the X-Series, the upper tier of the Defiance subwoofer range that Paradigm Electronics launched on August 20, 2018. Priced at USD 999 at launch, it sat below the X12 and X15 and above the V-Series models, and Paradigm lists it as made in Canada, with research carried out in partnership with the National Research Council of Canada. Paradigm now marks the X10 as discontinued on the maker site, and it was produced in Satin Black only.

Key specs that matter

The X10 drives a 254 mm carbon-loaded polypropylene cone from a Class-D amplifier specified for 300 W RMS and 600 W dynamic peak, well above the 120 W RMS of the V10 that uses the same driver size. Paradigm specifies on-axis response of 29 Hz to 240 Hz within 3 dB and low frequency extension of 24 Hz to DIN. The variable low-pass filter spans 30 Hz to 120 Hz, and sub to satellite phase can be moved anywhere from 0 to 180 degrees either from the control panel or from the app. RCA inputs present 10 kohm, and sensitivity is quoted as 100 mV mono with the level control fully up. Including grille, the box is 41.7 cm tall, 38.1 cm wide and 41.7 cm deep, and it weighs 19.1 kg.

Engineering and use context

The X-Series differs from the V-Series mainly in the patented Active Ridge Technology surround, known as ART, fitted to the X-Series drivers. Its ridged profile permits greater cone excursion, and Paradigm credits it with higher output along with a 50 percent reduction in audible distortion. Like the other Defiance models, the X10 uses a downward-firing, flush-mounted driver in a ported enclosure. The free Paradigm Subwoofer Control app, available for both iOS and Android, adds listening modes named Movie, Music and Night, and the X10 is ready for the optional Defiance wireless kit. A Micro USB port on the back receives firmware updates. Auto on and off switching and improved soft-clipping circuitry are built into the amplifier.

Pairing

The rear panel has three RCA sockets - separate Left, Right and LFE inputs - so a stereo preamplifier and a surround processor can stay connected at once, plus two speaker-level inputs for amplifiers without a line output. The high upper response limit gives room to cross over to small satellites or on-wall speakers that need the sub to carry more of the upper bass.

Alternatives

The Paradigm Defiance X12 moves to a 305 mm ART driver powered by a 650 W RMS amplifier.