Subwoofers — Monitor Audio Vestra W10

The Vestra W10 is the smallest of Monitor Audio's three Vestra subwoofers, below the W12 and W15. Monitor Audio presents it as a compact 10-inch sealed-enclosure subwoofer to be used on its own in a smaller two- or multi-channel system, or in multiples. According to Technical Director Michael Hedges, the Vestra line extends the brand's independent subwoofer range for stereo and AV systems such as the Bronze and Silver Series. US price is USD 979, and the warranty runs five years.

Key specs that matter

System format is active, with a sealed bass alignment. Drive unit complement is one 10-inch (254 mm) high linear-excursion C-CAM driver. Amplifier output is 250 W instantaneous (RMS) from a high-efficiency Class D amplifier. Frequency response is 19 - 200 Hz (in-room, -6 dB), and maximum usable SPL is 111 dB peak (CTA-2010-B, Z-weighted, half-space). Its low-pass filter covers 32 - 200 Hz (-6 dB), and phase control is a 0/180 degree toggle switch. Inputs are stereo unbalanced RCA, LFE unbalanced RCA and a 12 V trigger on a 3.5 mm mono jack, with an input impedance of 47 kohms. External dimensions with all accessories in place are 344 x 330 x 360 mm (H x W x D), and weight is 13.3 kg.

Engineering and use context

C-CAM stands for Ceramic-Coated Aluminium Magnesium. Monitor Audio describes it as a lightweight, rigid cone that minimises flexing, and in Vestra it is driven by a powerful motor system. Vestra bass drivers use long copper voice coils, additional venting and FEA-optimised steel components, and a custom surround maximises cone area. Triple suspension is reserved for the W12 and W15. Both the W10 and W12 have sealed enclosures, while the W15 is ported. Equalisation DSP offers three pre-set modes - Impact, Movie and Music.

Auto music sensing switches the W10 on at a line level above 3 mV and puts it into standby after 20 minutes without signal. Mains input is universal, 85 - 265 V AC at 50 - 60 Hz, and power consumption is 60 W at one-eighth of maximum output. A cloth-covered grille is supplied, and the finishes are Matte Black and Matte White.

Pairing

The LFE input connects to the subwoofer output of an AV receiver or processor. A stereo amplifier with pre-outs connects to the stereo RCA inputs. Monitor Audio names the Bronze and Silver Series as matching loudspeaker ranges.

Alternatives

The Vestra W12 is the next model up, with a 12-inch triple-suspension driver and a 500 W amplifier in a sealed enclosure.