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REL Acoustics ST 5 User Manual

WELCOME

Thank you for buying a REL “ST” range Sub-Bass system. This manual contains important safety information as well as helpful advice and should be carefully studied before integrating the sub-bass system with your sound system.

The new ‘ST’ range of REL sub-bass systems represents a radical advance in technical design. The adjustment of level, phase and crossover is achieved through new microprocessor controlled circuitry, eliminating the need for multiple control knobs. Each model offers the remote control of all calibration adjustments, enabling the user to set-up the sub-bass system easily and more accurately from the listening position. All these settings can be saved into memory and recalled at any time. Most adjustments are available from the remote, but a few adjustments that are normally only set on installation are only available from the front panel.

Reliability, quality of construction and performance of REL products is maintained and enhanced by the innovative design of the latest ‘ST’ series of REL sub-bass systems.

STAMPEDE AND STRATA 5

Stampede and Strata 5 are designed as closed box systems. For their cabinet volume and drive unit, this arrangement offers the best compromise between extension and power handling. With smaller cabinets, the addition of a port to make it a reflex design can result in excessive port noise, which manifests itself as ‘chuffing’ when very low frequencies, such as organ pedal notes, are reproduced. Worse, a small cabinet will not extend down as deeply as its closed box alternative.

The cabinets are manufactured from 30 mm thick MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard). This is the material of choice when the very highest quality is demanded. There can be no substitute for weight and density in the quest for accurate low frequency reproduction.

Stampede and Strata 5 offer microprocessor control of all functions, either via the remote control or the encoder on the front control panel. Remote control makes it easier for the user to set-up the sub-bass system from the listening position.

For optimum performance we believe the electronics, cabinet and the drive unit should all be designed to work together.

All REL amplifiers are fully DC coupled to avoid phase shifts and compromises in their performance. The line level and filter stages are fully regulated to ensure total isolation from the power amp stages. The filter stages are unique, bespoke designs which utilise the highest quality components. The capacitors are high quality nitrogen filled polystyrene types of 1% very close tolerance and indefinite life. The use of very close tolerance components also ensures consistency of performance throughout the life of each model. Although digital control is used, the audio signals only pass through analog circuits, thus ensuring no digital hash is added to the signal.

Great care is taken to star-earth the circuit boards to maximise sound quality.

There is further filtering of the higher frequencies to ensure optimum performance at all settings of the ABC (Active Bass Controller). The built-in power amplifier is uses ultra-rugged audio grade MOSFET output devices. High quality smoothing capacitors offer long life with very low ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance). The transformers are ultra-quiet audio quality low-loss toroids, specially manufactured to REL’s strict specifications. Great care has been taken to deliberately over-engineer all REL products to ensure unparalleled reliability.

Stampede, Strata 5 specifications

The REL Acoustics Stampede and Strata 5 are two remarkable subwoofers that represent the pinnacle of modern sound engineering. Designed for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts, these models deliver deep, rich bass that transforms the listening experience.

The REL Stampede subwoofer stands out with its powerful 12-inch active driver and a pair of 12-inch passive radiators. This unique design allows the Stampede to produce deep bass frequencies effortlessly, reaching down to 20 Hz. Its robust cabinet construction minimizes unwanted resonance, ensuring clean and precise sound reproduction. Additionally, the Stampede boasts an advanced 500-watt Class D amplifier, providing the necessary power to drive the speakers with authority and clarity.

One of the key features of the Stampede is its ability to connect wirelessly using REL’s innovative LongBow wireless system. This technology eliminates the need for long, unsightly cables and allows for flexible placement within the room, ultimately enhancing both aesthetics and sound quality. The LongBow system uses advanced transmission protocols, ensuring a stable connection with minimal latency, making it ideal for movie viewing and music listening.

On the other hand, the Strata 5 subwoofer incorporates REL's signature high-level input option, which allows for a seamless integration with a wide range of audio systems. This feature ensures that the subwoofer can work effectively with both stereo and home theater setups, providing versatility for various listening environments.

Both models also include advanced controls for tuning the subwoofer to match the specific acoustics of the listener's room. These features allow for adjustments in gain, low-pass filter, and phase settings, enabling users to achieve the perfect blend with their main speakers. The easy-to-use control panel on the rear of each subwoofer makes these adjustments simple and intuitive.

In terms of build quality, both the Stampede and Strata 5 feature elegant designs with premium finishes, ensuring they look as good as they sound. They are engineered to last, with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of extended use.

In summary, the REL Acoustics Stampede and Strata 5 subwoofers combine advanced technology, solid construction, and user-friendly features to deliver a superior listening experience that satisfies the most discerning audio lovers. Whether for music or movies, these subwoofers provide powerful, immersive bass that enhances any sound system.