Сабвуферы — Paradigm Electronics Signature SUB 2

The Signature SUB 2 was, at launch, the heaviest and most expensive product the Canadian company had built. Introduced in 2009 as the Reference Signature SUB 2 alongside the smaller SUB 1, it was designed without cost or size restrictions, with the aim of playing lower and louder than conventional subwoofers from a cabinet compact enough for a living room. It is designed and built by Paradigm in North America.

Key specs that matter

The SUB 2 uses six 10-inch (254mm) long-excursion drivers with mineral-filled polypropylene cones, 3-inch ten-layer voice coils, dual spiders and 25-pound (about 11kg) ferrite motor structures. They are mounted in pairs on three faces of a sealed hexagonal cabinet. The Ultra-Class-D amplifier delivers 3,000W continuous and 7,500W dynamic peak on a 120V supply, rising to 4,500W continuous and 9,000W peak on a 240V line, with power factor correction and integrated DSP. Frequency response is 9Hz to 260Hz (+/-3dB). Input impedance is 10 kilohms on RCA and 20 kilohms on XLR. The cabinet measures 62.2 x 60.3 x 56.8cm and weighs about 131kg (289lb).

Engineering and use context

Paradigm calls the layout Vibration-Canceling Design Architecture. Six identical drivers are radially aligned, two on each of three sides, so the reaction forces generated as the cones move are equal and opposite and cancel each other. The cabinet therefore stays almost motionless even at extreme output, which allowed Paradigm to build it without the heavy internal bracing a single large driver would need, and prevents the subwoofer from walking across the floor. Six 10-inch cones together move more air than a pair of 15-inch drivers, yet fit a cabinet of living-room size. A sealed enclosure gives a controlled, gradual low-frequency roll-off, and together with the large displacement it supports very deep extension. The drivers can handle more power than the amplifier supplies, so they work well within their limits and the subwoofer runs at low distortion even near full output. Power factor correction lets the amplifier draw current from the mains efficiently, and the 240V supply unlocks its full rating. Controls sit on one side panel, and finishes included cherry and high-gloss black.

Pairing

Balanced XLR and RCA inputs connect the SUB 2 to AV processors and stereo preamplifiers. Its output suits the largest home cinemas and big stereo rooms, and a dedicated 240V circuit is needed for full power. It pairs with Paradigm's Persona and Signature loudspeakers.

Alternatives

Paradigm's own SUB 1 uses the same hexagonal six-driver concept with 8-inch drivers in a smaller, lighter cabinet.