Сабвуферы — Proficient Audio FDS-8

The FDS-8 is the smallest of four powered subwoofers in the Proficient Audio Protege FDS range, which also includes 10, 12 and 15 inch versions. Proficient describes the Protege family as carrying forward the know-how of its Sunfire subwoofer line, reworked for current installations where a compact box matters. The intended uses listed by the brand are home theatre, media rooms and music.

Key specs that matter

Three 8 inch drivers share the cabinet - one powered high-excursion polypropylene woofer and two passive units built with the same cone material. Rated frequency response is 29 to 160 Hz at plus or minus 3 dB. The amplifier is quoted only as a 400 W peak figure, with no RMS value given. Bass can be rolled off anywhere between 50 and 160 Hz. Outer dimensions are 298 x 316 x 317 mm. A selector adapts it to either 100 to 120 V or 220 to 240 V mains, the MDF enclosure has a smooth matte black surface, and cover runs for two years.

Engineering and use context

Passive radiators take the place of a reflex port here, which Proficient credits with allowing the small profile and discreet placement. The driven woofer is listed as a high back-EMF design. Controls on the back comprise a level knob, a crossover knob that can be turned to an LFE setting to bypass the internal filter, a phase switch with 0 and 180 degree positions, and a mode switch offering permanent ON, signal-sensing AUTO and OFF. When left in AUTO, the unit enters standby after about 15 minutes of silence and restarts when it detects audio. A USB port rated at 5 V and 500 mA, together with standoffs on the rear, supports the optional wireless receiver kit, which removes the need to run an RCA lead across the room. A removable IEC mains lead and a user-replaceable slow-blow fuse complete the panel.

Pairing

Home cinema systems connect through the dedicated LFE input from a receiver or processor subwoofer output, leaving bass management to the AV electronics. For a stereo setup, the red and white low-level inputs take the line outputs of a preamp or receiver, and the crossover knob should be set near the lower limit of the satellite or bookshelf speakers in use. Proficient advises shielded cables to avoid hum.

Alternatives

The Proficient FDS-10 moves to 10 inch drivers in the same Protege format, reaching 26 Hz with a 500 W peak amplifier.