***2023 Updates/Context/Corrections*** This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. I feel this subwoofer is overpriced in todays market (in the USA) If you like what I said about this subwoofer here are 3 alternative options that are way better, around the same price, and all the popular sizes: Rythmik L12 (12"), REL HT1003 MK2 (10") or REL T5X (8"). Naturally the 8" REL T5X is the most similar to the ASW608 so if the size was important for you that's what you want to get. The main difference is the T5x has a little less extension at lower volumes but much better fidelity overall. The 1003MK2 and L12 are better than the ASW608 in every way.
A shame you're so far away, I'm selling my 608 right now :(. If you have a little bit more space I would recommend you consider the REL HT1003. I sounds just as good but has more power so will grow with you for many years to come where as you may outgrow the 608 as soon as you move to a bigger place.
Hi - great review and just what I was looking for. I have some older B&W DM303 bookshelf speakers that I’m wanting to add some low-end for music only. Given you comments that it is fast, tight and accurate - it would seem to fit the bill perfectly. This is for my home office set up which includes a NAD C338 integrated amp. So my space is limited. My question is: Is this still your recommendation based upon all of the above? It would seem so.
@@geoffreysmith4618 So while the ASW608 is still fantastic the REL 1003 makes the 608 seem like a bad deal at this point. I would say if you listen at lower volumes and simply want a matching system the 608 might be right for you but if you want a sub that has all the same qualities but will have the potential to play louder and grow with you the REL 1003 is the better choice. Granted if we're talking used prices the 608 can be found for as little as $250 and at that point it's a great option!
Hi, I really like your reviews. As im exactly the guy with a child in college my budget is limited . I liked your review for the b&w asw608 and I noticed that since you suggested the rel 1003. My initial question was, I could get hands on a good deal, whether it would be worth spending extra £100 on the B&W ASW610 brand new compare to £345 for the ASW608. I found out i could get the rel ht1003 for £399. What would be your choice please? It is predominantly for a TV sound set up.with an external Amp. Unfortunatelly, odd shaped room which is about 6m long x 3.4m wide x 2.4m high. Any opinion greately appreciated. Regards Jan (North Wales, UK)
@@shlinomaz I like the BW ASW range but it's old and very limited in output so it's really hard to recommend unless you're finding them on the used market around $250 so the 1003 is always the better option with it's larger driver and nearly triple the power it's just a no brainer. Don't even look back at the asw.
Great video. You explained the strength of these subs well and I like the part where you said there are no cons, just not the right buyer. Brilliant! I will borrow that un the future!
Probably one of the best, honest, straight to the point, clear reviews I've seen on RUclips... also I'm buying this sub 😁 I'm adding it to Cambridge audio CXA81 & wharfedale4.4 evo floorstanders ✌️
I was debating whether to get a sub for over a year. I tried a cheap one on my amp and it added another dimension of music. Realizing something was missing I started researching this sub. After this review I bought it. No regrets. SQ is it’s forte. Sounds composed. Differentiates with different bass instruments really well. Love it! Thanks
I have a full 9.2 Bowers and Wilkins system with 700 series main speakers, however for Sub's I have a ASW610 and a ASW608 , the 610 sits at the front of the room and the 608 towards the rear, Once I got everything set-up (which took a while) the tone of my system is incredible. I am a tone not volume guy, so these subs work for me so well, I have the crossover set around 80hz on both. I like to listen to classical, folk and single instrument / voice music and the tone is simply stunning. Thank you for your review, I thought I was just strange not wanting massive booming bass, looking for quality and tone, but you make me realise that I was right......... Thanks
oh yes, some of us like crazy volume, some of us like really good SQ, and many people like a good balance of both, ultimately we're all different and that's why i get so frustrated when i see some audiophiles are so stubborn and narrow minded like only 1 way is the right way but it's not true at all. Personally 75db-80db is loud enough for me so i like quality and low powered sub is okay.
FYI, I bought the 608 partially due to this review.. Then I even bought a second one as I was very pleased with it.. Thank you Nemo for taking the time to review these..
Great video. I took your advice and bought one for my 2 channel music. Absolutely delighted with the richness and mellowness from lower mid range to bass. Oddly it seems to add depth to my front to back soundstage also. Thanks.again.
Great video- I’ve subscribed and appreciate your honest reviews and comparisons which enable us to ‘get it’. I fit your description of audiophile with college kids. Keep up the good work!
Picked up a asw608 on the used market after my a/d/s mu3’s board died. I was on the fence over this b&w because of its size. It delivers beautiful deep tight bass and out preformed my 4 times larger mu3. I bought it based on this video review and I’m glad i was able to score one so cheap. Now I’m looking for a second one!
Great review! And you are absolutely right, this one isn't for extreme powerful explosions in movies, it is for great sounding bass in music. Thanks for your observations.
Thank you for such a onest and informativ review. Bought this sub after watching your video. can`t wait to test it with my old b&w FPM speakers i got from my dad. Looking forward for more videos
Thank you for this great review! Found your review right after I ordered that little beauty for my Muzishare X7 tube-amp and Elac DBR-62s. After watching this I'm quite sure that I made right decision.
Great video! I am thinking of buying the 10inch version, the EQ setting is a big pluss atleast for me, and i only listen to a maximum of 80db myself aswell, so i think i will enjoy it truly.
Well I feel pretty good about my little ASW 608 I picked up for $120 this weekend (used). It pairs up nicely with my B&W DM602's and just helps fill out the bottom end. Thanks for the review
Thank you, keep in mind this review is over 1 year old now and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003
This is a good review. For me ( in the UK ) REL HT1003 = £559 and the B&W ASW608 = £349: no contest. Personally, I have no identification with the way subs so often are used with the emphasis on shuddering bass vibrations instead of actual musical sound. It becomes another spec - fest. I like music and my listening room isn't going to grow any bigger unless I start feeding it more, so I'm happy and your review pointed me in that direction :-)
@@NemoPropaganda Does the subwoofer cable really make any difference? Some audiophiles say a quality cable is better, while others say any cheap RCA cable is just as good.
@@dystoniaify for a subwoofer, I would use any decent quality cable with good shielding. Just stay away from the really cheap stuff like fospower, their cables don't even stay on they are so loose and have hardly any shielding.
@@NemoPropaganda Damn. I just let the $324 open box 'satisfactory ' condition go because I was winning one on Ebay for $154! But someone swooped in last second. Best buy still has a ton of their excellent condition open boxes on ebay (or the store, but eBay has a$10 coupon) for $399. But I have seen almost new asw610s on ebay go for 330 or less WITH shipping. There's one now for $330, but I'm in a tiny apartment. I'm debating on taking the plunge on the best buy 608 for $390, including shipping and the 2 year warranty or holding out for another ebay deal. But for some reason the 610s seem to be selling more,and for less than the 608. I don't really have much cash, but I'm depressed in my lockdown and want it so bad.
loved your review and subscribed to your channel... the part of the subwoofer comparison to your old Velodyne and how it is "unbearable to listen to" is priceless!! thanks for your thorough review of the B&W sub...
I bought 2 of these 2nd hand from the distributor in 2017, one was MDF with a greyish white and the other was vinyl particulate board in a pure white. The vinyl had a tiny rattle in it, so I sold it on to a person who couldn't hear the rattle for $100. The MDF sounded a little and I still have it, but I plastiDip'd it in white to match my plastidip'ped Klipsch. I don't really like the plastidip finish, but sure beats the fugly white and walnut vinyl.
Nemo, you've made this sub-woofer review series really interesting. I have a buddy that bought 2 B&W sub's about 20 years ago and he really loves to crank up the Joules on that awesome Carver amp to get the subs really working. Over the years i've personally owned subs from RBH, Velodyne, and REL 528. I have also had the pleasure of listening to subs from JL and lately from Sonor. My Rel sub quit working in 2018 after only 7 years of light to moderate use for H.T. and sometimes for music. I paid $1500 for it so I think it was a poor return on my investment compared to my buddy's B&W which just keeps going and going like the energizer rabbit. I know in my other post I was really leaning toward the Emo pairing but dang.....product longevity matters a lot to me as much as overall SQ. Ya, am thinking that the B&W is the smart choice for sub-woofers. Man, am sure glad I checked out this particular review. Thanks for all the insights!
Thanks Leroy, it's hard to know these days what gear will last and what gear will not. The ASW608 is a great sub as long as you're okay with using it within it's limits and it's possibly the most full range subwoofer of it's size.
Thanks for the review. I was looking at the Kef Kube 8, Dali C8D or E9F, and Q 3600s for a small room sub. Guess there's another (older) option to check out now. The one thing you didn't talk too much about here was the speed side of the SPL/accuracy/attack equation. I'm attempting to match a small sub with Dali Oberon 3 s running off of a node2i through an old KA3500, so speed and accuracy are important to me in this set up. Any thoughts. Caveat is the Sub has to look good too. So klipsch especially but also many other are out of the question.
Thanks for the really good review. There's not a lot of attention paid to B&W subs on RUclips. (I'm definitely the "sound quality guy on a budget", haha).
Hi bro, I listen to a lot of EDM also, the B&W sub is great for a small bedroom if you don't listen too loud but its very limited in terms of total output, it's very old now and has very little wattage so for sure go for the SB 1000 Pro!! The SVS will have much more force to it and be able to play much louder than any of the B&W ASW range :) B&W sadly have really ignored this range and it's really needing an update so I don't really recommend it anymore.
This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003. If you don't need as much output the REL T5X is outstanding if you're looking for something very small but extremely high quality with respect to performance.
Can you help me understand why there are two volume controls on the back? I have the Dynaudio Xeo 30 floor speakers, and I ordered this sub to link with them. I don’t understand why this sub has two different volume controls, i’ve never seen a sub like this before. not sure if I should be setting volume (line) or volume (speaker)... owners manual is no help
Hello, the line volume is to be used if your sub is connected to your amp via an rca cable (modulation cable). the speaker volume is to be used if your sub is powered by the speaker output (not rca). So you only use one button depending on the connection. Have pleasure with your sub.
I am thinking of purchasing a used pair of B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition bookshelf speakers and selling my B&W CDM floorstanders. I love the sound of my B&W HTM6 Center Channel speaker. I use a 5.2 surround sound ( or house mode with all speakers firing in stereo) for music and movies. I recently purchased two of these B&W 608 subwoofers being reviewed here. I love them as well. So Much less finicky to position correctly and more musical than my old vintage Velodyne sub. I have also use, a bit older, B&W HTM6 Center channel. (Features a decoupled dome tweeter & 2 Contntuum drivers) when listening to music and for watching movies. I love the sound presentation of those continuum drivers. Wow! I listen to music at no higher than 55 dB. My room dimensions are approximate 17 feet (w) x 18 (L). I am powering my fronts & my rear 2 B&W surround speakers with a 200 wpc Rotel amp. I listen to some classical/ mostly small orchestra music, lots of rock, country, country-rock...Si, lots of music with accoustic instruments. Any onions about adding the B&W 606's into the mix? In kind of seems like a no-brainer for me to go for it but it's good to get other unformed opinions
Great review!! I bought an Audioquest Black Lab cable to hook it up, which comes with a ground wire on each end.. but I don't see a spot on the back of the unit to hook the ground to.. can you help?
@@johnwoods7891 I'd rather not get into it but the information is out there and easy to find if you're interested. Personally I use Maze Audio Ref4 cables for power & speakers and Analysis Plus Oval One for RCA.
I have asw610 since years back thinking of plugging it back to my system, my new b&w 702 s2 lacks a bit on the lowend, i was a beginner once i first bought asw610 so didin’t know how to set it up right
Can I use this with my Kef LS50W speakers? It has an RCA sub out. How would I go about connecting this sub to my speaker? Sorry for my ignorance but I’m new to speaker hifi.
No problem brother, you would use a 1 to 2 rca cable but If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for EU customers REL HT-1003. This is the type of cable you need: www.amazon.com/Mediabridge-Ultra-RCA-Y-Adapter-Feet/dp/B00NGV23XC/ref=sr_1_10?dchild=1&keywords=1+to+2+RCA+Y+cable&qid=1610749410&sr=8-10
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks for the quick response! I figured I would need something like that. Unfortunately I’m located in Canada and Rhythmik is quite hard to come by here. I can get quite a good deal for an ASW so I think I’ll be sticking with that model. Your help is appreciated :)
@@ChaiBearProductions ah yes, it is rather expensive outside the US sadly :(. The ASW608 is still fantastic as long as you don't listen too loud and take the time to set it up properly. Let me know if you need any help setting it up :)
@@ChaiBearProductions The ASW608 extends lower while the SE8 stops around 30hz but the SE8 can play A LOT louder. The SE8 really is fantastic. Most music doesn't have content below 30hz anyway and while the ASW608 can extend below 30hz it can't do it with any real volume so it may not even matter. The SE8 at $300 is a crazy good bargain, if you can get one for even less I would jump on that!
I have two asw 608 Peachtree nova 150 and Peachtree amp500 line out to the subs line in what should the low pass filter set to in or out from a iam new to this
Great video 👍 Do you think for general use I would notice much difference between this and the 10inch version? I would be pairing with the Klipsch R50M. For music and movies.
@@NemoPropaganda Hey thanks for the quick response! Would you say the T5x is better quality while the 1003 has lower extension? I can get the 1003 here in the UK for £100 less than the T5x.
I do not recommend the ASW range anymore as they are very underpowered and overpriced in todays market. Unless you are getting a crazy good deal I would highly suggest any of the REL options you've listed instead.
Hi @Nemo, i have asw608 and there is fluttering issue in some of contents ! How do i solve it ? My volume is at half and i am getting fluttering issue even in 50 decibels, specifically in “ nocturnal animals “ trailer on RUclips!
thanks for the review and comparisons. I have the Bowers and Wilkins 606 anniversary - I recently bought these as an upgrade after listening to floor standers... the B&W just sounded too good and most floor standers in my price range still needed a sub. I am contemplating this sub but was a bit hesitant because of the 8 inch driver. I currently have like a 12 year old polk psw110... I play mostly vinyl and a far second is theater... I have noticed that the Polk Sub is muddy and monotone as you describe. I am using an old Yamaha amplifier which is theater surround sound based and will eventually upgrade it in 6-12 months... My room is a living room 16 by 20 which opens into the kitchen... I generally play music at loud tv settings where you can still talk to others but will push a bit further at times - by no means house party volume. Do you think this sub fits the bill for me? My main goal is bass detail for albums. thanks and peace
This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003. If you don't need as much output the REL T5X is outstanding if you're looking for something very small but extremely high quality with respect to performance.
Looking for a sub for my Kanto YU6 for a medium size room with little space for a sub. The ASW608 costs more than the YU6 themselves. The REL are even more expensive right now. Should I get the ASW608 for music and movie watching, or would the much cheaper SUB8 from Kanto do the job?
Hi I love your review, I need help to set up my ASW608 sub, I have Marantz PM7000N Integrated Amp with Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 speakers, the manual that comes with the sub is not very helpful to me, I’ve tried various settings & I keep getting a continuous rumbling sound unless I turn the (line) volume to almost the minimum. What am I doing wrong. Currently connected to the sub to the left line input from the amp. From the top down, Auto, line vol 9.pm, low pass freq 36 (the 607’s have a lower freq response of 52 Hz) low pass filter out, bass extension A, EQ A, phase 0. Many thanks
Hi Peter, that's very kind of you to say, thank you for tuning into the my channel :) more reviews are coming very soon!! SVS SB2000 Pro is the next sub i will be reviewing along with 3 ultra budget bookshelf speakers.
Have you considered reviewing the b&W db series subs? I'm now running a b&W DB2d, fantastic sub, well worth a listen. I went from a DB2d to a JL e110, and then back to another DB2d.
Totally different subwoofers, SB1000 is going to have more than double the power and more than double the radiating surface area so it will be capable of play A LOT louder. Unless your room is very small or you listen at very low volumes the SB1000 would be a better choice.
Fantastic review! I’ve been looking to replace my very Muddy Cambridge audio Sub, and this review has convinced me that hooking this up to my Marantz PM6007 amp, and Bowers and Wilkins 606 speakers, then for my budget, this sub will, with all the other elements, be a match made in heaven....fingers crossed 🤞🏻😊
This review is over 1 year old now and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003.
Hi How does this compare to SVS SB 1000 Pro or the RSL Speedwoofer 10s? I would like to add a sub for music that would match my Magnepan MG12/QR. Thanks
Is this a compatible subwoofer replacement for the Bose Acoustimass 5 series iii speaker system? Its an older system. I don't have any issues with it, I would just like more bass.
@@kbirdsall8882 god bless sister! I think most people would enjoy quality sound more but the unfortunate side of this hobby is just how damn complicated it can be. Even for an avid enthusiast it’s rather complex imo. Feel free to ask any questions and may you enjoy the journey.
@@chris_520x4 yes, go buy it right now before they run out, REL no longer has any inventory and the only ones left are at retailers. That's a killer price and you can't do better for the money, GO NOW!
Did you ever end up getting your hands on the 610 model? Just curious what your thoughts would be. I'm thinking of buying a pre-owned ASW 610 for $250. At that price, assuming it's in good shape, how can you go wrong?
despite the shocking amount of views this review got on my channel B&W ghosted me pretty hard when I asked for a review sample. Just keep in mind the 610 has the same plate amp so maybe about an honest 100 watts, it should have good sound quality but not very much output. I would suggest you buy a new RSL 10E instead.
May I ask I question? Im in the market for a sub to augment my livingroom setup which is a Powernode Edge and a pair or Dali Oberon 1´s. The livingroom is about 35 square meters. We live in a attached townhouse. We rarely listen over 80 db. I first tried to sell in the REL but my wife hate the looks of all REL´s. She is ok with a white SB-1000 PRO and of course the B&W ASW608/610. In Sweden the SVS is 200$ more than the ASW608 and about 120$ more than the ASW610. I personally is a SQ guy all the way, so Im note sure if the SVS is a perfect match? Have not had a chance to listen to it. This is my first audio setup and the first sub I buy. Can you give som guidience? :)
REL is the perfect match for Dali speakers, has your wife seen a REL sub with the grill on? A T7X for example with the grill on is very small and looks very nice in the room, I think you need to go back and have a little chat but don't get a divorce over a subwoofer :). Second best match would be B&W ASW608 though they do not have very much output so as long as that's okay the 608 sounds great. Lastly SVS SB1000 Pro is my favorite SVS sub, it will not be the best match with the dali but it will play tremendously louder and lower than either REL or B&W sub.
@@NemoPropaganda well, trust me, I've tried it all but she says they look tacky. I even tried to show her how small they are, yet no 😄 I'll see If I can borrow a ASW608 from my retailer and test at home! 🙂👍🏻 Have a beautiful day!
Yes the 1003 MK2 is worth saving for unless you listen at very low volumes. The ASW does not have much output. I think you would need 3 asw608 subs to equal a single 1003 MK2 in terms of output.
@@NemoPropaganda just to give some feedback: for the price i paid i'm very happy with it. I'm using it mainly for music listening and i only listen to low/ moderate volume levels in a small/ medium sized room so I don't need a lot of output...excellent fit for me. Love the possibilities for customization in the back and the sound quality is very good. Tight, controlled and textured bass. You can very easily distinguish all the different notes. Build quality seems great too. And love the fact that it's small and discreet. For someone that doesn't need a lot of output and uses a sub mainly for music i think this is (still) a very good option in the used market. Great bang for the buck! I'll buy a second one if i can find another one at a similar price.
@@NemoPropaganda thx for your response. Let’s say my budget is under the 1k. I now own a rel T5 subwoofer. But I feel it’s not powerful enough for my new Denon receiver.
@@SuperDuffy1985 REL's T5 is a fantastic sub but it is very small so we can't expect tremendous output, you could add a second one or you could sell the one you have and go for something bigger. Personally if I was you I think I would sell the T5 and buy something like a HT 1003 MK2. It has a lot more output capability for movies and still sounds very nice for music. It's one of my favorite smaller subs. Of course if you can fit the larger 1205 MK2 that's a great option also but I have a feeling you prefer smaller.
@@NemoPropaganda thx bro. Looks like a great sub. Really gonna check that one. But you think the b&w 608 sub is not better then the eel t5 is already own?
Hi I need your opinion. I have a pool house and planning on putting a nice on wall speakers and I will use it mainly for music. I was thinking of pairing it with this exact b&w or a canton sub10.3 with a 10” woofer and it has 300 watts. I’m looking for clean sound.
Please watch the video where i compare 3 different 8" subwoofers, i think that will help you a lot!! The canton isn't really up my alley as cheap ported subs usually don't have the best SQ. In the other video i compared the Emotiva S8 Flex, BW ASW608, and Aperion Bravus 8D, all 3 subs are phenomenal but very different. I think you will be pretty happy with the Emotiva honestly but watch the video as the Aperion is also very good if you're willing to give up a little bit of speed it will have tons more output vs the other two.
I am not in the market for a sub, but is it good enough, or have you considered getting another one for increased output and maybe 'stereo' pairing? Maybe it's not necessary with your SVS in the house.
Great review, please cand you explain me how i can connect this subw. on my pioneer sx n30ae who have an pre out sub (1 rca) port? Thanks very much,sorry about my english i.m from Romania.
Per the sticky comment: "**2021 Updates/Context/Corrections** This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003. If you don't need as much output the REL T5X is outstanding if you're looking for something very small but extremely high quality with respect to performance. "
Great review awesome info. I just bought the Bowers and wilkins entry level book shelf 600 series and I love them. I too am looking for clarity over volume and this is coming from a guy who saw ACDC open for Thin Lizzy at the Aragon brawl room...but I digress. 500.00 would be more than I paid for the pair. I would only use the sub for music no HT. I listen to a lot of classic rock as well as prog rock and I am leaning toward making the plunge but it does seem counter productive to spend more on the sub than the pair of speakers. your thoughts?
If you're looking to save more money the Emotiva SE8 is rather good at $300 but if you're willing to spend the $500 my new recommendation at that price is the Rythmik L12, it's like a bigger and more powerful asw608 and still remains tonally articulate and a pleasure to listen to all while being able to play loud when called upon or dig deep for those times you want to watch a movie.
Sorry and to answer the question no i don't it's crazy to spend more on a sub at this price point but if you had $4,000 speakers and a $8,000 sub while that would be weird it would probably still sound great. There are no rules in this hobby, just fun and personal taste my friend :)
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks for responding and I will be buying a sub now it just depends on how I'm feeling at the time of purchase weather or not I spend 300 or 500. Keep up the good work!
I'm really interested on the asw610 but also see the ht1003 a good option, I don't don't if I'm wrong but I see the asw610 has more features in the back. Does the ht1003 is still a better option over the asw610?
Great review. I bought some B&W 606 speakers this year and love them. They could use a little more bass and I've been looking at options. Good fit, you think?
if you are in the USA I would recommend the Rythmik L12 instead, it's only $69 more but a lot better. If you are in EU i recommend the REL HT-1003. The 608 is good but with it's limited power it's hard to recommend in todays market. The other two subs I mentioned are just as good but offer more power.
It really seems like this is the perfect sub for me. I am a college student. I am tight on budget. And I'd really like to extend the frequency range of my speakers with some detailed, quick and dry and all over unobtrusive bass, especially at low volumes. I don't even want to know, that there is a sub helping out the towers. Even though my Hero Aleva GT 602 are capable of reaching 29 Hz at -3dB, they're having a difficult time delivering them at low volumes combined with my Yamaha R-N803 D and I sure as hell don't want to alter the sound signature of them by turning the bass knob up to the max. Furthermore: my room not only is relatively small, with almost no space to place a sub (Luckily this one is tiny and ticks another box being so small). My Room really is a suboptimal listening environment, which will require some form of sub-eq, that in this case seems to be really effective as well. Up to this point: Great! Thanks for your awesome review! I think you explained to me in every little Detail, why this seems to be the perfect sub! But allow me to have two little questions: Do metal-spikes come with it in the box? And would you even recommend to decouple them from the ground? The house I'm living in is really clairaudient. P.s.: Sorry if my English is a bit weird and wordy, I'm from Germany haha
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks for your advice! I'll definitely check it out. Sadly I'm really tight on space, but we'll see :) However, does the ASW608 come with metal spikes for decoupling?
@@NemoPropaganda I think in the next month, or two I'm ready to spend some money on a sub. You recommended the REL HT1003 as an alternative to the ASW608. So here are my two last questions, I promise :D 1.: I never went beyond 90db with music and movies - How do their sound signatures differ below this volume? (As a reminder, I am looking for deep, fast and detailed bass) 2.: In case the REL is the clear winner over the B&W - I prefer the looks of the B&W a lot. Am I at least able to change the horrible feet of the REL to something more understated? :D
Hi Dear, Congrats..this review may be 2 years old..but its still valid according to me from point of view of SQ. One small doubt- how this ASW608 compares with KEF Kube 8, from Music and Sound Quality point.
@@NemoPropaganda Well, In the other review you have said that KEF KC-62 bass is just in the Golden spot, in between the SQ & SPL types...so, that just triggered my interest over these AFFORDABLE Kubes, as KC-62 ..not all can afford
@@rudran65 yeah, that's true, KC62 is very expensive, I have a lot of stuff to review right now so I just want to set realistic expectations, I probably won't get to another KEF Sub for a few months but I really will try.
I would really like to see you do a comparison with the Rel t5i (or the t7i Thomas & Stereo recently reviewed), also compared to SVS, especially in terms of music integration. The subs I owned from KEF and Dali in the past, didn’t come even close to the Rel R328 I had.
Yes I am sometimes amazed that this brand is not better known among the music reviewers. The secret of Rel is mainly in the processing I believe and the response times. Rel actually advised me too use two t5i’s with my S400’s instead of one t7i, because of overall soundstage and better coverage/coherence. Spec wise, the frequency range, however, is not so far apart from the S400. So maybe it will not add a lot on the frequency range itself, but more on the fullness of the sound of those frequencies. Hope you will get a test example :)!!
Thank you for the review. So for me I am building a B&W setup but my room is only 11x10, it is for home theater use. Would this sub being 8 inches be enough for a home theater space of 11x10?
My room is 12x10 so we are very similar here. So yes this subwoofer is good for that room size and yes it will sound amazing with home theater and music BUT depending on how loud you watch movies you may need to adjust the bass roll off switch to position B or even C so the subwoofer does not distort because it does not have very much power. If this is a theater room only a ported subwoofer like the SVS PB-1000 will be a better option and it has 3x the power. Let us know how it turns out :)
please read the pinned comment, this sub is extremely old & underpowered. I don't recommend it anymore as the REL T5X is a better option for the money.
@@NemoPropaganda I came up with Browers of wilkins asw610 Svs sb pro 1000 Rel tx 5 Rel ht1003 mk 2 only it is cheaper than the rel tx 5 but rel tx5 is smaller and more convenient which is best for me because Rel tx5 is much more expensive than the rel ht1003 mk2 and smaller :)
@@Birmingham_racing despite being tiny the bass can actually get pretty deep as long as you're not demanding too volume from it. Based on what your listening habits this might actuallyb e a good fit for you. Keep it in the A postiion for maximum extension, move to B or C if you need more output.
@@NemoPropagandatried it today at a audio shop and I'm a little disappointed. After abit of tweaking from this well known audio store i got it to sound good with most music but still sounding like it was distorting with lower bass notes. Movies I tried trailers like Jurassic domination you can barely hear the bass notes which really put me off. I have a Kef t2 which a consider a decent subwoofer (only bought it because it was offered to me really cheap) which only goes down to 30hz despite that it seemed to handle low end much better. I didn't expect it to sound like my brothers rel t7x but didn't expect it distort with lower bass notes. Sounded terrible with rhythm and sound. I might just go for the q acoustic qb12 since that's for £400
Considering this or the 10" version. My room is large and I can not optimally place for best audio results. Will be used exclusively for turntable. As they are front-firing, can either be placed in a built-in bookshelf, bottom/floor, section?
You can place it in a bookshelf but it may rattle the shelf. At the price of the 10" version i would also consider the Rythmik F12-300. I have not heard it but it has double the power and many users report it being incredibly articulate and musical.
Where I live .... well, 500$ for a sub is way too much. Do you feel like there is something for music lovers which is below that budget with fewer features? I don't feel like I need any features, just to sound good when playing music in a 30sqm room. I don't listen to music loud either. I'm looking at Dali c-8d at the moment. Thanks in advance!
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
***2023 Updates/Context/Corrections***
This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. I feel this subwoofer is overpriced in todays market (in the USA) If you like what I said about this subwoofer here are 3 alternative options that are way better, around the same price, and all the popular sizes: Rythmik L12 (12"), REL HT1003 MK2 (10") or REL T5X (8"). Naturally the 8" REL T5X is the most similar to the ASW608 so if the size was important for you that's what you want to get. The main difference is the T5x has a little less extension at lower volumes but much better fidelity overall. The 1003MK2 and L12 are better than the ASW608 in every way.
A shame you're so far away, I'm selling my 608 right now :(. If you have a little bit more space I would recommend you consider the REL HT1003. I sounds just as good but has more power so will grow with you for many years to come where as you may outgrow the 608 as soon as you move to a bigger place.
Hi - great review and just what I was looking for. I have some older B&W DM303 bookshelf speakers that I’m wanting to add some low-end for music only. Given you comments that it is fast, tight and accurate - it would seem to fit the bill perfectly. This is for my home office set up which includes a NAD C338 integrated amp. So my space is limited. My question is: Is this still your recommendation based upon all of the above? It would seem so.
@@geoffreysmith4618 So while the ASW608 is still fantastic the REL 1003 makes the 608 seem like a bad deal at this point. I would say if you listen at lower volumes and simply want a matching system the 608 might be right for you but if you want a sub that has all the same qualities but will have the potential to play louder and grow with you the REL 1003 is the better choice. Granted if we're talking used prices the 608 can be found for as little as $250 and at that point it's a great option!
Hi, I really like your reviews. As im exactly the guy with a child in college my budget is limited .
I liked your review for the b&w asw608 and I noticed that since you suggested the rel 1003.
My initial question was, I could get hands on a good deal, whether it would be worth spending extra £100 on the B&W ASW610 brand new compare to £345 for the ASW608. I found out i could get the rel ht1003 for £399. What would be your choice please? It is predominantly for a TV sound set up.with an external Amp. Unfortunatelly, odd shaped room which is about 6m long x 3.4m wide x 2.4m high. Any opinion greately appreciated. Regards Jan (North Wales, UK)
@@shlinomaz I like the BW ASW range but it's old and very limited in output so it's really hard to recommend unless you're finding them on the used market around $250 so the 1003 is always the better option with it's larger driver and nearly triple the power it's just a no brainer. Don't even look back at the asw.
Great video. You explained the strength of these subs well and I like the part where you said there are no cons, just not the right buyer. Brilliant! I will borrow that un the future!
Hi Tomas! would this be a good match for Kef LSX or should I be looking at the Kube 8? music only. Thanks !
Probably one of the best, honest, straight to the point, clear reviews I've seen on RUclips... also I'm buying this sub 😁 I'm adding it to Cambridge audio CXA81 & wharfedale4.4 evo floorstanders ✌️
I was debating whether to get a sub for over a year. I tried a cheap one on my amp and it added another dimension of music. Realizing something was missing I started researching this sub. After this review I bought it. No regrets. SQ is it’s forte. Sounds composed. Differentiates with different bass instruments really well. Love it! Thanks
hell yeah brother, glad you like it :)
I have a full 9.2 Bowers and Wilkins system with 700 series main speakers, however for Sub's I have a ASW610 and a ASW608 , the 610 sits at the front of the room and the 608 towards the rear, Once I got everything set-up (which took a while) the tone of my system is incredible. I am a tone not volume guy, so these subs work for me so well, I have the crossover set around 80hz on both. I like to listen to classical, folk and single instrument / voice music and the tone is simply stunning. Thank you for your review, I thought I was just strange not wanting massive booming bass, looking for quality and tone, but you make me realise that I was right......... Thanks
oh yes, some of us like crazy volume, some of us like really good SQ, and many people like a good balance of both, ultimately we're all different and that's why i get so frustrated when i see some audiophiles are so stubborn and narrow minded like only 1 way is the right way but it's not true at all. Personally 75db-80db is loud enough for me so i like quality and low powered sub is okay.
FYI, I bought the 608 partially due to this review.. Then I even bought a second one as I was very pleased with it.. Thank you Nemo for taking the time to review these..
that's awesome, i'm happy it's working out well for you!!
Great video.
I took your advice and bought one for my 2 channel music.
Absolutely delighted with the richness and mellowness from lower mid range to bass.
Oddly it seems to add depth to my front to back soundstage also.
Thanks.again.
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks for this video. I was agonising/obsessing and now I have finally made the decision. Nice work mate.
Excellent review! I appreciate that you specify who the sub is and is not for, versus the typical pros/cons/dimensions review. GREAT JOB!
Great video- I’ve subscribed and appreciate your honest reviews and comparisons which enable us to ‘get it’. I fit your description of audiophile with college kids. Keep up the good work!
Glad you're enjoying the content!
I took your advice and bought me the REL 1003. Couldn't be happier! Thanks a lot and best wishes from Germany.
excellent choice.
Picked up a asw608 on the used market after my a/d/s mu3’s board died. I was on the fence over this b&w because of its size. It delivers beautiful deep tight bass and out preformed my 4 times larger mu3. I bought it based on this video review and I’m glad i was able to score one so cheap. Now I’m looking for a second one!
Nice dude, a pair should give some more headroom!!
Great review! And you are absolutely right, this one isn't for extreme powerful explosions in movies, it is for great sounding bass in music. Thanks for your observations.
I've never heard anyone talking and explaining "bass" as well as you do, verry good and instructive review, thanks
Thank you!
Great review! Helped me a lot! Tx and keep the good work, Nemo.
Thank you for such a onest and informativ review. Bought this sub after watching your video.
can`t wait to test it with my old b&w FPM speakers i got from my dad.
Looking forward for more videos
Awesome subwoofer. Still using mine. Best cinema sound 👌
Brilliant review. Thanks for being so honest and informative about your review
My pleasure 😊
Great review! Ordered one. I like that you emphasize on quality vs quantity, and tonality.
Nice! Did you read the sticky comment though?
Thank you for this great review! Found your review right after I ordered that little beauty for my Muzishare X7 tube-amp and Elac DBR-62s. After watching this I'm quite sure that I made right decision.
That sounds like an awesome combination of gear, i LOVE the DBR62!!
Great video! I am thinking of buying the 10inch version, the EQ setting is a big pluss atleast for me, and i only listen to a maximum of 80db myself aswell, so i think i will enjoy it truly.
Well I feel pretty good about my little ASW 608 I picked up for $120 this weekend (used). It pairs up nicely with my B&W DM602's and just helps fill out the bottom end. Thanks for the review
that's a damn good price, great find!
This Chanel must have more viewers! Subscribed. Thank you
Thank you sir, I appreciate the kind words
This was a very enlightening video...Lots of useful information here.
Thanks so Much!
Great video, been thinking about one of these for a while, you've covered a lot of ground really well here. Thanks.
Thank you, keep in mind this review is over 1 year old now and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003
This is a good review. For me ( in the UK ) REL HT1003 = £559 and the B&W ASW608 = £349: no contest. Personally, I have no identification with the way subs so often are used with the emphasis on shuddering bass vibrations instead of actual musical sound. It becomes another spec - fest. I like music and my listening room isn't going to grow any bigger unless I start feeding it more, so I'm happy and your review pointed me in that direction :-)
oh yeah, that's a big price difference.
Have you heard the rel?
Great review. I just found one at best buy for $348, open box! I have a small apartment and this should go great with my Vanatoo T1Es. Can't wait!
That's a great deal!! Let me know if you have any questions setting it up. Make sure to read the directions.
@@NemoPropaganda It might not come with the directions for the price, but I'll look for it online. I'll let you know if I have any questions. Thanks!
@@NemoPropaganda Does the subwoofer cable really make any difference? Some audiophiles say a quality cable is better, while others say any cheap RCA cable is just as good.
@@dystoniaify for a subwoofer, I would use any decent quality cable with good shielding. Just stay away from the really cheap stuff like fospower, their cables don't even stay on they are so loose and have hardly any shielding.
@@NemoPropaganda Damn. I just let the $324 open box 'satisfactory ' condition go because I was winning one on Ebay for $154! But someone swooped in last second. Best buy still has a ton of their excellent condition open boxes on ebay (or the store, but eBay has a$10 coupon) for $399. But I have seen almost new asw610s on ebay go for 330 or less WITH shipping. There's one now for $330, but I'm in a tiny apartment. I'm debating on taking the plunge on the best buy 608 for $390, including shipping and the 2 year warranty or holding out for another ebay deal. But for some reason the 610s seem to be selling more,and for less than the 608. I don't really have much cash, but I'm depressed in my lockdown and want it so bad.
Thanks!
Aye thank's again Charles, you are a kind man :)
I have the big brother to this one (ASW610). I'll be setting mine up tomorrow. Thanks for the info 🤙
Yeah, i just wish they made a 12" :(
loved your review and subscribed to your channel... the part of the subwoofer comparison to your old Velodyne and how it is "unbearable to listen to" is priceless!! thanks for your thorough review of the B&W sub...
Than you sir i appreciate that!
I bought 2 of these 2nd hand from the distributor in 2017, one was MDF with a greyish white and the other was vinyl particulate board in a pure white. The vinyl had a tiny rattle in it, so I sold it on to a person who couldn't hear the rattle for $100. The MDF sounded a little and I still have it, but I plastiDip'd it in white to match my plastidip'ped Klipsch. I don't really like the plastidip finish, but sure beats the fugly white and walnut vinyl.
I had this sub, it is great sub, it hits low, one flaw was the power, it does not have enough power for the woofer size but still a great sub!
thank you for the fantastic review! 👍
Than you for the fantastic comment :)
Tnx this helped me make a decision and i bought the asw608 for my philips 65oled984 👍
Awesome, i hope it's a good fit!
Nemo, you've made this sub-woofer review series really interesting. I have a buddy that bought 2 B&W sub's about 20 years ago and he really loves to crank up the Joules on that awesome Carver amp to get the subs really working. Over the years i've personally owned subs from RBH, Velodyne, and REL 528. I have also had the pleasure of listening to subs from JL and lately from Sonor.
My Rel sub quit working in 2018 after only 7 years of light to moderate use for H.T. and sometimes for music. I paid $1500 for it so I think it was a poor return on my investment compared to my buddy's B&W which just keeps going and going like the energizer rabbit. I know in my other post I was really leaning toward the Emo pairing but dang.....product longevity matters a lot to me as much as overall SQ. Ya, am thinking that the B&W is the smart choice for sub-woofers. Man, am sure glad I checked out this particular review.
Thanks for all the insights!
Thanks Leroy, it's hard to know these days what gear will last and what gear will not. The ASW608 is a great sub as long as you're okay with using it within it's limits and it's possibly the most full range subwoofer of it's size.
Thanks for the review. I was looking at the Kef Kube 8, Dali C8D or E9F, and Q 3600s for a small room sub. Guess there's another (older) option to check out now. The one thing you didn't talk too much about here was the speed side of the SPL/accuracy/attack equation. I'm attempting to match a small sub with Dali Oberon 3 s running off of a node2i through an old KA3500, so speed and accuracy are important to me in this set up.
Any thoughts. Caveat is the Sub has to look good too. So klipsch especially but also many other are out of the question.
REL HT-1003 is the one you want.
@@NemoPropaganda thanks for the fast reply!
Great explanation of the product like usual!🤗😇😁
Awesome video totally helpful bro!!
Thanks for the really good review. There's not a lot of attention paid to B&W subs on RUclips. (I'm definitely the "sound quality guy on a budget", haha).
no problem bro, just make sure to read the pinned comment if you're in the market.
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks
Which one is better… the B&W or the SVS SB 1000 pro!!
Love your RUclips channel!!
I am a 90% music… hip hop… EDM … Reggae mostly…
Hi bro, I listen to a lot of EDM also, the B&W sub is great for a small bedroom if you don't listen too loud but its very limited in terms of total output, it's very old now and has very little wattage so for sure go for the SB 1000 Pro!! The SVS will have much more force to it and be able to play much louder than any of the B&W ASW range :) B&W sadly have really ignored this range and it's really needing an update so I don't really recommend it anymore.
Great job bro!
How does this one compare to the SVS SB-1000 Pro when it comes to sound quality for music and blending with small speakers?
This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003. If you don't need as much output the REL T5X is outstanding if you're looking for something very small but extremely high quality with respect to performance.
This is the ideal sub for a bedroom or office 2.1 desktop setup
Can you help me understand why there are two volume controls on the back? I have the Dynaudio Xeo 30 floor speakers, and I ordered this sub to link with them. I don’t understand why this sub has two different volume controls, i’ve never seen a sub like this before. not sure if I should be setting volume (line) or volume (speaker)... owners manual is no help
Hello,
the line volume is to be used if your sub is connected to your amp via an rca cable
(modulation cable).
the speaker volume is to be used if your sub is powered by the speaker output
(not rca).
So you only use one button depending on the connection.
Have pleasure with your sub.
great review, I am thinking to replace my current klipsch sub with this one or the asw610 , this for a very small room for jazz and edm music
only if the price is low otherwise I'd get the REL T5X instead :)
I am thinking of purchasing a used pair of B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition bookshelf speakers and selling my B&W CDM floorstanders.
I love the sound of my B&W HTM6 Center Channel speaker. I use a 5.2 surround sound ( or house mode with all speakers firing in stereo) for music and movies.
I recently purchased two of these B&W 608 subwoofers being reviewed here.
I love them as well.
So Much less finicky to position correctly and more musical than my old vintage Velodyne sub.
I have also use, a bit older, B&W HTM6 Center channel. (Features a decoupled dome tweeter & 2 Contntuum drivers) when listening to music and for watching movies.
I love the sound presentation of those continuum drivers. Wow!
I listen to music at no higher than 55 dB.
My room dimensions are approximate 17 feet (w)
x 18 (L).
I am powering my fronts & my rear 2 B&W surround speakers with a 200 wpc Rotel amp.
I listen to some classical/ mostly small orchestra music, lots of rock, country, country-rock...Si, lots of music with accoustic instruments.
Any onions about adding the B&W 606's into the mix?
In kind of seems like a no-brainer for me to go for it but it's good to get other unformed opinions
Great review!! I bought an Audioquest Black Lab cable to hook it up, which comes with a ground wire on each end.. but I don't see a spot on the back of the unit to hook the ground to.. can you help?
Sorry I don't use nor trust audioquest products.
@@NemoPropaganda would you mind briefly sharing your reasons.. and what cables do you recommend
@@johnwoods7891 I'd rather not get into it but the information is out there and easy to find if you're interested. Personally I use Maze Audio Ref4 cables for power & speakers and Analysis Plus Oval One for RCA.
I am considering this or a M&K V8. Not sure if anyone has experience with these two...
that's a lot of money for a 150w 8" sub, why not get something like the REL HT 1003 MK2 instead?
I have asw610 since years back thinking of plugging it back to my system, my new b&w 702 s2 lacks a bit on the lowend, i was a beginner once i first bought asw610 so didin’t know how to set it up right
I think it's worth trying out :)
Can I use this with my Kef LS50W speakers? It has an RCA sub out. How would I go about connecting this sub to my speaker?
Sorry for my ignorance but I’m new to speaker hifi.
No problem brother, you would use a 1 to 2 rca cable but If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for EU customers REL HT-1003. This is the type of cable you need: www.amazon.com/Mediabridge-Ultra-RCA-Y-Adapter-Feet/dp/B00NGV23XC/ref=sr_1_10?dchild=1&keywords=1+to+2+RCA+Y+cable&qid=1610749410&sr=8-10
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks for the quick response! I figured I would need something like that.
Unfortunately I’m located in Canada and Rhythmik is quite hard to come by here. I can get quite a good deal for an ASW so I think I’ll be sticking with that model.
Your help is appreciated :)
@@ChaiBearProductions ah yes, it is rather expensive outside the US sadly :(. The ASW608 is still fantastic as long as you don't listen too loud and take the time to set it up properly. Let me know if you need any help setting it up :)
How does it compare to the Emotiva SE8? I have an option to get one used for a fairly good price.
@@ChaiBearProductions The ASW608 extends lower while the SE8 stops around 30hz but the SE8 can play A LOT louder. The SE8 really is fantastic. Most music doesn't have content below 30hz anyway and while the ASW608 can extend below 30hz it can't do it with any real volume so it may not even matter. The SE8 at $300 is a crazy good bargain, if you can get one for even less I would jump on that!
I have two asw 608 Peachtree nova 150 and Peachtree amp500 line out to the subs line in what should the low pass filter set to in or out from a iam new to this
How dose these compare to the klipsch r-120sw? In my region both subs are similar price, obviously the klipsch has a bigger driver and power output
i don't know.
Great video 👍
Do you think for general use I would notice much difference between this and the 10inch version?
I would be pairing with the Klipsch R50M.
For music and movies.
yes, unless you are getting a crazy good deal trust me and just buy a REL 1003 MK2 instead. The price of this sub is too high in todays market.
@@NemoPropaganda Hey thanks for the quick response! Would you say the T5x is better quality while the 1003 has lower extension? I can get the 1003 here in the UK for £100 less than the T5x.
@@taichiworld yes but both are good, I think you will prefer the 1003 MK2, it has a lot more output & force and still sounds very good!
Do you think two of these would be great in a small room home cinema use mostly
no, this subwoofer is great for lower volumes but does not have the output for theater in any size room.
Thanks for a insightful review. Question: Any problems with the 'Auto-On'? Does it go on and off as it should?
i havn't had this sub for many years now but I don't recall any issues with the auto on function.
thanks......................@@NemoPropaganda
So ASW610 is even better, right? How would it compare to Rel 7i/x? or Rel 9i/x? Or Rel T/H1205?
I do not recommend the ASW range anymore as they are very underpowered and overpriced in todays market. Unless you are getting a crazy good deal I would highly suggest any of the REL options you've listed instead.
Underpowered:)))) So you recommend rel sub zero at 38 hz :))))) You re Rel paid@@NemoPropaganda
Hi @Nemo, i have asw608 and there is fluttering issue in some of contents ! How do i solve it ? My volume is at half and i am getting fluttering issue even in 50 decibels, specifically in “ nocturnal animals “ trailer on RUclips!
Where is the bass extension switch set? A,B, or C?
@@NemoPropaganda it is set at “A” currently
Change it to B if it happens a lot. Or just avoid content like that. Movies have tremendous LFE that many small subs simply can’t handle.
thanks for the review and comparisons. I have the Bowers and Wilkins 606 anniversary - I recently bought these as an upgrade after listening to floor standers... the B&W just sounded too good and most floor standers in my price range still needed a sub. I am contemplating this sub but was a bit hesitant because of the 8 inch driver. I currently have like a 12 year old polk psw110... I play mostly vinyl and a far second is theater... I have noticed that the Polk Sub is muddy and monotone as you describe. I am using an old Yamaha amplifier which is theater surround sound based and will eventually upgrade it in 6-12 months... My room is a living room 16 by 20 which opens into the kitchen... I generally play music at loud tv settings where you can still talk to others but will push a bit further at times - by no means house party volume. Do you think this sub fits the bill for me? My main goal is bass detail for albums.
thanks and peace
This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003. If you don't need as much output the REL T5X is outstanding if you're looking for something very small but extremely high quality with respect to performance.
Looking for a sub for my Kanto YU6 for a medium size room with little space for a sub. The ASW608 costs more than the YU6 themselves. The REL are even more expensive right now. Should I get the ASW608 for music and movie watching, or would the much cheaper SUB8 from Kanto do the job?
why not buy this ruclips.net/video/KUrFQKJg-HA/видео.htmlsi=SbDaQZAgMT0I54Ci
Can someone please elaborate on first hand experience with ASW608 vs Rel small subwoofers if possible?
Which rel? What do you want to know?
Hi I love your review, I need help to set up my ASW608 sub, I have Marantz PM7000N Integrated Amp with Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 speakers, the manual that comes with the sub is not very helpful to me, I’ve tried various settings & I keep getting a continuous rumbling sound unless I turn the (line) volume to almost the minimum. What am I doing wrong. Currently connected to the sub to the left line input from the amp. From the top down, Auto, line vol 9.pm, low pass freq 36 (the 607’s have a lower freq response of 52 Hz) low pass filter out, bass extension A, EQ A, phase 0. Many thanks
Hey Andy, shoot me an email and i’ll see if i can help: nemopropaganda@gmail.com
Great video! And you appear to be a very likable guy.
Hi Peter, that's very kind of you to say, thank you for tuning into the my channel :) more reviews are coming very soon!! SVS SB2000 Pro is the next sub i will be reviewing along with 3 ultra budget bookshelf speakers.
Anyone used this with the KEF LSX 2’s? Got the KEF’s and want some more depth of lower end. Small room.
Is It necessary to unplug the speaker (the AC plug) when not in use?
no.
Have you considered reviewing the b&W db series subs?
I'm now running a b&W DB2d, fantastic sub, well worth a listen.
I went from a DB2d to a JL e110, and then back to another DB2d.
yes but the price is very high and I don't have any relationship with them so no way to get a review sample.
How does this one hold up against the svs sb1000?
This one is 150 euros cheaper where I live.
450 for the AS608
600 for the svs sp1000
Totally different subwoofers, SB1000 is going to have more than double the power and more than double the radiating surface area so it will be capable of play A LOT louder. Unless your room is very small or you listen at very low volumes the SB1000 would be a better choice.
@@NemoPropaganda thanks for your response. Ended up going with the SB 1000👍.
@@Thomas.c4647 Nice! I hope it's a good fit for you :)
Fantastic review! I’ve been looking to replace my very Muddy Cambridge audio Sub, and this review has convinced me that hooking this up to my Marantz PM6007 amp, and Bowers and Wilkins 606 speakers, then for my budget, this sub will, with all the other elements, be a match made in heaven....fingers crossed 🤞🏻😊
This review is over 1 year old now and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003.
I'm in between this one vs SVS sb1000. Which one would you prefer?
ruclips.net/video/rEz03XkcslI/видео.html
How does the b&w aws300 sound compared to this? I found one cheap but no reviews as detailed as this review
Asw300 is 20 years old. I have not heard it.
Excelente gracias por compartir sus conocimientos 👏👏
Hi
How does this compare to SVS SB 1000 Pro or the RSL Speedwoofer 10s? I would like to add a sub for music that would match my Magnepan MG12/QR.
Thanks
I don't have experience with Magnepan but based on what I've been told by other users REL or Rythmik are your best options.
Is this a compatible subwoofer replacement for the Bose Acoustimass 5 series iii speaker system? Its an older system. I don't have any issues with it, I would just like more bass.
Unfortunately not. What you have is a closed system that is designed to work together. You would have to upgrade to an entirely different system.
Thank you for responding.
@@kbirdsall8882 Anytime brother!
That would be...Sister!!! Women love quality sound too..hmph! Thanks again 😊
@@kbirdsall8882 god bless sister! I think most people would enjoy quality sound more but the unfortunate side of this hobby is just how damn complicated it can be. Even for an avid enthusiast it’s rather complex imo. Feel free to ask any questions and may you enjoy the journey.
I bought the Rel tzero mk3 three weeks ago and ended up returning it, is this an upgrade for basically the same price ?
if the Zero was not enough this will not be too much better is it also has very limited output. Maybe go for REL HT1003 MK2?
@@NemoPropaganda is the original REL HT1003 good ? It’s on special at my local Best Buy for $350. My budget is $500-600 looking for a front firing sub
@@chris_520x4 yes, go buy it right now before they run out, REL no longer has any inventory and the only ones left are at retailers. That's a killer price and you can't do better for the money, GO NOW!
Did you ever end up getting your hands on the 610 model? Just curious what your thoughts would be. I'm thinking of buying a pre-owned ASW 610 for $250. At that price, assuming it's in good shape, how can you go wrong?
despite the shocking amount of views this review got on my channel B&W ghosted me pretty hard when I asked for a review sample. Just keep in mind the 610 has the same plate amp so maybe about an honest 100 watts, it should have good sound quality but not very much output. I would suggest you buy a new RSL 10E instead.
May I ask I question? Im in the market for a sub to augment my livingroom setup which is a Powernode Edge and a pair or Dali Oberon 1´s. The livingroom is about 35 square meters. We live in a attached townhouse. We rarely listen over 80 db. I first tried to sell in the REL but my wife hate the looks of all REL´s. She is ok with a white SB-1000 PRO and of course the B&W ASW608/610. In Sweden the SVS is 200$ more than the ASW608 and about 120$ more than the ASW610.
I personally is a SQ guy all the way, so Im note sure if the SVS is a perfect match? Have not had a chance to listen to it. This is my first audio setup and the first sub I buy. Can you give som guidience? :)
REL is the perfect match for Dali speakers, has your wife seen a REL sub with the grill on? A T7X for example with the grill on is very small and looks very nice in the room, I think you need to go back and have a little chat but don't get a divorce over a subwoofer :). Second best match would be B&W ASW608 though they do not have very much output so as long as that's okay the 608 sounds great. Lastly SVS SB1000 Pro is my favorite SVS sub, it will not be the best match with the dali but it will play tremendously louder and lower than either REL or B&W sub.
@@NemoPropaganda well, trust me, I've tried it all but she says they look tacky. I even tried to show her how small they are, yet no 😄
I'll see If I can borrow a ASW608 from my retailer and test at home! 🙂👍🏻
Have a beautiful day!
@@Arthax83 Hard to believe. I thought women love LV, which like REL, putting its logo everywhere. 😂
What would the benefit of buying one of these to pair with 602 S2 ? Would it reveal more ?
good bass will upgrade any system brother :)
@@NemoPropaganda thanks, after futher watching I think HT/1003 MKII could be the even though I primarily use it for music and some HT ..?
@@jobe2080 do it, 1003 mk2 is way better.
REL HT1003 is 700USD and ASW608 is 400USD here where I'm at. In 15m2 room should I save for REL or is ASW608 good solution?
Yes the 1003 MK2 is worth saving for unless you listen at very low volumes. The ASW does not have much output. I think you would need 3 asw608 subs to equal a single 1003 MK2 in terms of output.
I just bought one of these for 250. I plan to use it with a pair of elac ubr62. In your opinion what would be the ideal point of crossover?
it doesn't really work that way as there are too many factors but 50hz is where I usually start my initial settings.
@@NemoPropaganda just to give some feedback: for the price i paid i'm very happy with it. I'm using it mainly for music listening and i only listen to low/ moderate volume levels in a small/ medium sized room so I don't need a lot of output...excellent fit for me. Love the possibilities for customization in the back and the sound quality is very good. Tight, controlled and textured bass. You can very easily distinguish all the different notes. Build quality seems great too. And love the fact that it's small and discreet. For someone that doesn't need a lot of output and uses a sub mainly for music i think this is (still) a very good option in the used market. Great bang for the buck! I'll buy a second one if i can find another one at a similar price.
What subwoofer should I use with mine 5 b&w m1 speaker set, hooked on a Denon avr x2700h reciever?
I use it for music and movies
can't make a rec without a budget.
@@NemoPropaganda thx for your response. Let’s say my budget is under the 1k. I now own a rel T5 subwoofer. But I feel it’s not powerful enough for my new Denon receiver.
@@SuperDuffy1985 REL's T5 is a fantastic sub but it is very small so we can't expect tremendous output, you could add a second one or you could sell the one you have and go for something bigger. Personally if I was you I think I would sell the T5 and buy something like a HT 1003 MK2. It has a lot more output capability for movies and still sounds very nice for music. It's one of my favorite smaller subs. Of course if you can fit the larger 1205 MK2 that's a great option also but I have a feeling you prefer smaller.
@@NemoPropaganda thx bro. Looks like a great sub. Really gonna check that one. But you think the b&w 608 sub is not better then the eel t5 is already own?
Hi I need your opinion. I have a pool house and planning on putting a nice on wall speakers and I will use it mainly for music. I was thinking of pairing it with this exact b&w or a canton sub10.3 with a 10” woofer and it has 300 watts. I’m looking for clean sound.
Please watch the video where i compare 3 different 8" subwoofers, i think that will help you a lot!! The canton isn't really up my alley as cheap ported subs usually don't have the best SQ. In the other video i compared the Emotiva S8 Flex, BW ASW608, and Aperion Bravus 8D, all 3 subs are phenomenal but very different. I think you will be pretty happy with the Emotiva honestly but watch the video as the Aperion is also very good if you're willing to give up a little bit of speed it will have tons more output vs the other two.
Nemo Propaganda Reviews what do u think of KEF 12B?
I am not in the market for a sub, but is it good enough, or have you considered getting another one for increased output and maybe 'stereo' pairing? Maybe it's not necessary with your SVS in the house.
Great review, please cand you explain me how i can connect this subw. on my pioneer sx n30ae who have an pre out sub (1 rca) port? Thanks very much,sorry about my english i.m from Romania.
a single rca cable should work just fine.
Muy chira la explicación 🥳
Gracias 🤓
Would you recommend the rel any time over de b&w asw608, the rel is al bit bigger. But i like the compact design of de b&w. It is also €100,- cheaper?
Per the sticky comment: "**2021 Updates/Context/Corrections**
This review is fairly old now as is this specific model and things change. If you like the idea behind this subwoofer but can accommodate something larger my new SQ recommendation at this price point for North American consumers is the Rythmik L12 and for European customers the REL HT1003. If you don't need as much output the REL T5X is outstanding if you're looking for something very small but extremely high quality with respect to performance.
"
What would you guys recommend for a room measuring 20 feet long x 30 feet wide x 35 feet high?
A pair of Rythmik F18, a quad stack of REL Predator 1508, or a pair of SVS PB16 or SB16.
Great review awesome info. I just bought the Bowers and wilkins entry level book shelf 600 series and I love them. I too am looking for clarity over volume and this is coming from a guy who saw ACDC open for Thin Lizzy at the Aragon brawl room...but I digress. 500.00 would be more than I paid for the pair. I would only use the sub for music no HT. I listen to a lot of classic rock as well as prog rock and I am leaning toward making the plunge but it does seem counter productive to spend more on the sub than the pair of speakers. your thoughts?
If you're looking to save more money the Emotiva SE8 is rather good at $300 but if you're willing to spend the $500 my new recommendation at that price is the Rythmik L12, it's like a bigger and more powerful asw608 and still remains tonally articulate and a pleasure to listen to all while being able to play loud when called upon or dig deep for those times you want to watch a movie.
Sorry and to answer the question no i don't it's crazy to spend more on a sub at this price point but if you had $4,000 speakers and a $8,000 sub while that would be weird it would probably still sound great. There are no rules in this hobby, just fun and personal taste my friend :)
@@NemoPropaganda
Thanks for responding and I will be buying a sub now it just depends on how I'm feeling at the time of purchase weather or not I spend 300 or 500. Keep up the good work!
@@TheSweetloudo1 I totally know that feeling. Good luck my friend, i hope it works out either way!
I'm really interested on the asw610 but also see the ht1003 a good option, I don't don't if I'm wrong but I see the asw610 has more features in the back. Does the ht1003 is still a better option over the asw610?
HT1003 is better for sure unless the 610 is a lot cheaper.
Great review. I bought some B&W 606 speakers this year and love them. They could use a little more bass and I've been looking at options. Good fit, you think?
if you are in the USA I would recommend the Rythmik L12 instead, it's only $69 more but a lot better. If you are in EU i recommend the REL HT-1003. The 608 is good but with it's limited power it's hard to recommend in todays market. The other two subs I mentioned are just as good but offer more power.
would you recommend this to pair with wharfedale diamond 220s? thanks!
no, the L12 is better for sure!
It really seems like this is the perfect sub for me. I am a college student. I am tight on budget. And I'd really like to extend the frequency range of my speakers with some detailed, quick and dry and all over unobtrusive bass, especially at low volumes. I don't even want to know, that there is a sub helping out the towers. Even though my Hero Aleva GT 602 are capable of reaching 29 Hz at -3dB, they're having a difficult time delivering them at low volumes combined with my Yamaha R-N803 D and I sure as hell don't want to alter the sound signature of them by turning the bass knob up to the max. Furthermore: my room not only is relatively small, with almost no space to place a sub (Luckily this one is tiny and ticks another box being so small). My Room really is a suboptimal listening environment, which will require some form of sub-eq, that in this case seems to be really effective as well. Up to this point: Great! Thanks for your awesome review! I think you explained to me in every little Detail, why this seems to be the perfect sub! But allow me to have two little questions: Do metal-spikes come with it in the box? And would you even recommend to decouple them from the ground? The house I'm living in is really clairaudient.
P.s.: Sorry if my English is a bit weird and wordy, I'm from Germany haha
It's good, if you have a little more space the REL 1003 is a better option though it's a bit larger.
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks for your advice! I'll definitely check it out. Sadly I'm really tight on space, but we'll see :) However, does the ASW608 come with metal spikes for decoupling?
@@moritz.braeuer.leisureaccount Yes, it comes with both metal spikes and hard plastic footers.
@@NemoPropaganda I think in the next month, or two I'm ready to spend some money on a sub. You recommended the REL HT1003 as an alternative to the ASW608.
So here are my two last questions, I promise :D
1.: I never went beyond 90db with music and movies - How do their sound signatures differ below this volume? (As a reminder, I am looking for deep, fast and detailed bass)
2.: In case the REL is the clear winner over the B&W - I prefer the looks of the B&W a lot. Am I at least able to change the horrible feet of the REL to something more understated? :D
Hi Dear, Congrats..this review may be 2 years old..but its still valid according to me from point of view of SQ.
One small doubt- how this ASW608 compares with KEF Kube 8, from Music and Sound Quality point.
I have not heard the KEF Kube but maybe one day.
@@NemoPropaganda Well, In the other review you have said that KEF KC-62 bass is just in the Golden spot, in between the SQ & SPL types...so, that just triggered my interest over these AFFORDABLE Kubes, as KC-62 ..not all can afford
@@rudran65 yeah, that's true, KC62 is very expensive, I have a lot of stuff to review right now so I just want to set realistic expectations, I probably won't get to another KEF Sub for a few months but I really will try.
@@NemoPropaganda thats right; Thanks dear
Can get them in store at best buy for $240 these days, a lot of the Bowers 600 series stuff is clearancing at awesome prices
$599 here :/, you may be in a different region.
@NemoPropaganda for the $240 price it has to be ordered in the store, online will show full price
Also has to be the black color
@@formuIafun okay, that's cool, $240 is a very fair price.
I would really like to see you do a comparison with the Rel t5i (or the t7i Thomas & Stereo recently reviewed), also compared to SVS, especially in terms of music integration. The subs I owned from KEF and Dali in the past, didn’t come even close to the Rel R328 I had.
Yes I am sometimes amazed that this brand is not better known among the music reviewers. The secret of Rel is mainly in the processing I believe and the response times. Rel actually advised me too use two t5i’s with my S400’s instead of one t7i, because of overall soundstage and better coverage/coherence. Spec wise, the frequency range, however, is not so far apart from the S400. So maybe it will not add a lot on the frequency range itself, but more on the fullness of the sound of those frequencies. Hope you will get a test example :)!!
Can you write the configuration o setup for music and movies?
It really depends on your room and setup brother. Send me an email and i’ll see if i can help :)
@@NemoPropaganda can you give your email
It’s listed in my about section.
Is there a video from you where you explain dual vs single sub? Thanks
No, I have not made a video for that topic yet.
Thank you for the review. So for me I am building a B&W setup but my room is only 11x10, it is for home theater use. Would this sub being 8 inches be enough for a home theater space of 11x10?
My room is 12x10 so we are very similar here. So yes this subwoofer is good for that room size and yes it will sound amazing with home theater and music BUT depending on how loud you watch movies you may need to adjust the bass roll off switch to position B or even C so the subwoofer does not distort because it does not have very much power. If this is a theater room only a ported subwoofer like the SVS PB-1000 will be a better option and it has 3x the power. Let us know how it turns out :)
How does this sub compare against the svs sb1000 pro?
please read the pinned comment, this sub is extremely old & underpowered. I don't recommend it anymore as the REL T5X is a better option for the money.
@@NemoPropagandaYou make me buy the 608.Thanx.
bowers en wilkins asw610 vs elac sub 3010 . what its better i can not choose :)
those are both really old subwoofers, why not pick something newer? Old stuff is good too but newer stuff is often times a better value for money.
@@NemoPropaganda I came up with
Browers of wilkins asw610
Svs sb pro 1000
Rel tx 5
Rel ht1003 mk 2 only it is cheaper than the rel tx 5 but rel tx5 is smaller and more convenient which is best for me because Rel tx5 is much more expensive than the rel ht1003 mk2 and smaller :)
How is this for like for movies?
it will not have enough output.
@@NemoPropagandaI mostly watch movies late night so I don't need loudness I just need something that produces deep bass notes
@@Birmingham_racing despite being tiny the bass can actually get pretty deep as long as you're not demanding too volume from it. Based on what your listening habits this might actuallyb e a good fit for you. Keep it in the A postiion for maximum extension, move to B or C if you need more output.
@@NemoPropagandaI have b&w 707 s2 so that's what I'm looking for so thanks for your help
@@NemoPropagandatried it today at a audio shop and I'm a little disappointed. After abit of tweaking from this well known audio store i got it to sound good with most music but still sounding like it was distorting with lower bass notes. Movies I tried trailers like Jurassic domination you can barely hear the bass notes which really put me off. I have a Kef t2 which a consider a decent subwoofer (only bought it because it was offered to me really cheap) which only goes down to 30hz despite that it seemed to handle low end much better. I didn't expect it to sound like my brothers rel t7x but didn't expect it distort with lower bass notes. Sounded terrible with rhythm and sound. I might just go for the q acoustic qb12 since that's for £400
Considering this or the 10" version. My room is large and I can not optimally place for best audio results. Will be used exclusively for turntable. As they are front-firing, can either be placed in a built-in bookshelf, bottom/floor, section?
You can place it in a bookshelf but it may rattle the shelf. At the price of the 10" version i would also consider the Rythmik F12-300. I have not heard it but it has double the power and many users report it being incredibly articulate and musical.
@@NemoPropaganda Greatly appreciate the response. I will look into the Rythmik F12-300's and let you know the final decision.
@@eugenescanzera4613 Cool, I'm very tempted to order one for myself :D
Where I live .... well, 500$ for a sub is way too much. Do you feel like there is something for music lovers which is below that budget with fewer features? I don't feel like I need any features, just to sound good when playing music in a 30sqm room. I don't listen to music loud either. I'm looking at Dali c-8d at the moment. Thanks in advance!
Emotiva SE8 is the best one I know of, $299, has 200w RMS, and sound very good and even has high pass filters for easy setup.