Definitive Technology's Descend Series subwoofers promise more impactful, dynamic and extended bass response than similarly sized competitors. That boast is bolstered by what we're told is a new innovation from Definitive Technology, dubbed 3XR Architecture. The company states that this triples the bass-producing surface found in a traditional ported subwoofer.

Definitive Technology 3XR Architecture

According to the brand, 3XR Architecture employs a symmetrical dual-radiator array which, they say, generates deeper bass and higher output levels from a smaller form factor.  This, we're told, is due to the unique design of the two radiators, which are the same size as the woofer. Furthermore, because this proprietary design doesn't rely on conventional bass ports, Descend Series subwoofers do not produce any chuffing or distortion, so says Definitive Technology. Naturally, each model also features custom amplification.

As well as the 3XR Architecture, the DN12 is also rocking Intelligent Phase Control. The latter is said to provide a full 360-degrees of customisable phase adjustment. In short, you can fine-tune the subwoofer's phase by combining the best elements of a polarity toggle, but with greater granularity, along with an all-pass filter, all while automatically aligning the phase adjustment with the low-pass filter.

There are models to choose from in the range, starting with the DN8 500W 8” Subwoofer With Dual 8” Bass Radiators, DN10 500W 10” Subwoofer with Dual 10” Bass Radiators, DN12 1500W 12" Subwoofer with Dual 12" Bass Radiators, and the range topping DN15 Ultra-Performance, 1500W 15" Subwoofer with Dual 15" Bass Radiators.

Each model features custom amplification designed to deliver impactful, dynamic and extended bass. All four models boast connectivity via LFE, while the 12- and 15-inch models also have a stereo line level RCA input. All four models are available in non-resonant cabinets finished in Midnight Black and two models (DN8 and DN10) are also available in Glacier White.

Descend DN15 and DN12 are 15-inch and 12-inch subwoofers and are said to have been designed for reference music systems and significant home theatre applications. Each model is powered by a custom-built Definitive Technology 1500-Watt Class H sliding rail amplifier, which should handle both transient peaks and super low bass extension - Definitive Technology claims below 20Hz (in the case of the DN15). To produce smooth and precise reproduction from the deepest bass-heavy content, 3XR Architecture pairs custom drivers with a same-sized, dual-radiator array.

Also found on these two models is another proprietary innovation called Intelligent Phase Control, which provides a full 360-degrees of customizable phase adjustment. To better align phase, most subwoofers offer either a polarity toggle between zero or 180-degrees, or an all-pass filter that can cause smearing. Intelligent Phase Control, on the other hand, allows you to fine-tune your subwoofer’s phase by combining the best elements of a polarity toggle, but with greater granularity, along with an all-pass filter, while automatically aligning the phase adjustment with the low-pass filter to support the entire audio system. 

Both the DN15 and DN12 also have an advanced 56-bit Digital Signal Processor (DSP) that is designed to improve bass response and overall sound quality while closely monitoring the woofer system to prevent potentially harmful distortion at ultra-high volumes. In addition, the DN15 and DN12 have three built-in performance EQ modes (Flat, Deep, and Loud), The out-of-the-box "Flat Mode" is designed as a starting point for level adjustment and system calibration. "Loud Mode" provides listeners with the most output level and is excellent for big action movies and cinematic sound effects, while “Deep Mode" offers the lowest frequency extension possible, perfect for music reproduction, particularly passages with wide dynamic range.

The DN15 and DN12 models come with a slim remote and built-in front LED display, which allow you to adjust volume level, phase and EQ with visual confirmation from the listening position. Further, each model features a 12V trigger and IR pass-through for integration with popular control systems to achieve full functionality and custom adjustments from anywhere in the room.

The Definitive Technology Descend DN10 and DN8 are 10-inch and 8-inch subwoofers and are powered by a 500-Watt Class D amplifier matched with custom drivers and the same 3XR dual-radiator architecture found in the 15-and 12-inch models. To ensure the DN10 and DN8 are tuned to the rest of the system and room acoustics, each model features built-in controls to adjust output level, low-pass filter and phase (0/180°).

The Definitive Technology Descend Series is now available. Pricing in North America is DN8 ($499), DN10 ($799), DN12 ($1,199) and DN15 ($1,799).

Visit Definitive Technology for more information