Rel Subwoofer questions and help

I own a REL B2 Britannia subwoofer, I hated subs all my life until It arrived back in 2013, I bought it used back then for around $1200. This is the best addition to my system as my speakers are Dynaudio Contour 3.0 which are fast speakers with 8 inch drivers, the SpkOn connection is unique to REL and I think if not for this type of connection I wouldnt even run a sub at all. REL B2 when inserted properly frees the main speakers and allows them to play more musically and the whole system is anchored by this foundation of low end information and musical coherence that is connected with such synergy the whole system is elevated to a new performance level. 

I wouldnt hesitate to purchase one, you can even contact REL in the Berkley CA area to get a newer replacement  driver which was a upgrade for the original. I paid around $350 (7 years ago) for this. Also, I have owned one of the T6 subs I think it was around $2500 and was very nice but my REL B2 is very special and its Cherry wood veneer finish match my main speakers perfectly. 

One REL is all you need Especially if its a B1 or B2. 

Matt M.  

Compared to the modern T/x series (the T/9x is likely the closest equivalent to the smallest B3), the B3 goes deeper and has greater bass presence, but it may feel a bit rounded or thick. The modern T/x series sound more precise, controlled, and faster, so they may blend better with the main system.

@nicksgem10s 
 

I can’t speak to your specific model of REL speakers but if you go to REL’s website (rel.net) you will find that you can call for assistance with “Speaker Pairing” or use their “Speaker Pairing Tool” to find out based on what speakers you have and how well they will pair with REL models or REL to REL pairing.

I used to own a REL 305 sub  (discontinued) with a SS sytem and it sounded fine until I changed systems due to amp failure. So I upgraded my system (you can see in My Vitual Systems) and now I use 2 - REL S/812’s (also discontinued) and couldn’t be happier to have made the change from using 1 to using 2 subs. I find that there is a more balanced air charging when the subs are doing their thing…

I’m an old bass guitar player, so of course I’m looking for the clarity in bass notes in the music I listen to which spans the spectrum but lean mostly to Jazz and Contemporary Jazz (NOT SMOOTH JAZZ!)

I think a pair of REL’s Sub-Arrays are in my future!

Happy pairing!

I ran all the different B-series in my system years ago.  I always liked them.  I'd keep the B3 pair you have now.  The only issue with the ST and the B series (essentially the same amp layout) is eventually the amps fail and they have to be sent off for repair.  I only know of one shop in the Chicago area that repairs them from about $300.  They had to repair my Stentor III amp and a B1 amp of mine years ago.

Adding a B1 could be a nice addition.  If it's a good deal, you could just use it as a spare if the day comes when you need your B3's repaired.

I don't have subs, I just wanted to say:

I went to NY Audio Show, I never saw so many REL subs in my life, and they all appeared substantial, well made, and in the brief listening in those rooms, added extension without revealing their location.