Subwoofers — Fluid Audio FC10S

The FC10S is an active studio reference subwoofer from Fluid Audio, designed to extend the bass of studio monitors, including Fluid Audio's own FPX and FX ranges. Fluid Audio lists it at USD 379, and it sits above the brand's smaller model.

Key specs that matter

A 10 inch composite paper cone with a high-temperature voice coil and a damped rubber surround is driven by a 200 W continuous Class D amplifier. Frequency response is 20 to 200 Hz, and maximum level is 107 dB SPL in Flat mode and 108 dB with the bass boost engaged. The variable low-pass filter covers 50 to 200 Hz, and an 80 Hz high-pass filter acts on the outputs to the satellite speakers. Phase is variable from 0 to 180 degrees, and input gain is adjustable. Inputs are stereo balanced XLR, 6.35 mm balanced or unbalanced jacks and unbalanced RCA, and outputs to the full-range monitors are XLR and 6.35 mm. The cabinet is vinyl-laminated MDF and measures 387 x 317 x 394 mm, with a weight of 12.8 kg. Units leave the factory configured for either 100 to 120 V or 220 to 240 V mains.

Engineering and use context

The subwoofer sits between the audio interface and the monitors, so the high-pass filter removes deep bass from the monitors and the subwoofer takes over below that point, which lets small monitors play louder with less strain. The low-pass filter sets where the subwoofer's own output rolls off. An EQ switch selects either a flat setting or a bass-boost setting that Fluid Audio intends for dance and other bass-heavy music. A ground lift switch breaks ground loops that cause hum between the subwoofer and the rest of the studio. Auto standby puts the amplifier to sleep when no signal is present, and the included footswitch bypasses the subwoofer, so a mix can be checked with and without it. The bass-reflex port faces the front, so a wall behind the cabinet does not obstruct it. A high-temperature voice coil withstands the heat of long sessions at high levels. Balanced connections suit studio interfaces, while the RCA inputs accept consumer sources. Because inputs and outputs are stereo, the subwoofer passes left and right channels on to a pair of monitors after filtering, and the vinyl laminate on the MDF cabinet resists knocks in a studio.

Pairing

Nearfield monitors with 4 to 8 inch woofers, including Fluid Audio's FPX and FX models, connect through the XLR or jack outputs, and the interface feeds the subwoofer inputs.

Alternatives

The Fluid Audio F8S is the smaller 8 inch studio subwoofer of the Fader series.