The REL Acoustics Classic 98 is an active subwoofer, which means it is a dedicated speaker built to reproduce the deepest, lowest sounds in your music and movies, and it has its own built-in amplifier. The word "active" simply tells you that you do not need to buy a separate power source for it. You plug it in, connect it to your system, and it handles the bass on its own.
The Classic 98 belongs to REL's Classic line, a family of products with a vintage inspired look. That means it is designed to feel warm and familiar, like a beautiful piece of audio gear from an earlier era, while using modern engineering inside.
What does a subwoofer actually do in a system?
A subwoofer fills in the lowest notes that your main speakers cannot fully produce on their own. Most regular speakers do a wonderful job with voices, guitars, and cymbals, but they often struggle with the deep foundation of a track, like the low rumble of an organ, the body of a kick drum, or the sense of air in a large room. The Classic 98 adds that foundation so the whole recording feels complete and lifelike.
Think of it as the bottom floor of your sound. Without it, the music still plays, but with it, everything feels more grounded, richer, and more physical.
Where does the Classic 98 fit in my setup?
The Classic 98 sits alongside your main speakers and works together with them, usually placed on the floor near the front of your listening area. It connects to your amplifier or receiver and quietly supports your existing speakers rather than replacing them. You can use it with a two speaker music system or as part of a home theater setup for movies.
REL is especially well known for the idea that a subwoofer should support the entire system, not just the low effects in films. The Classic 98 is built with that philosophy in mind, so it blends with music as naturally as it does with movie soundtracks.
The Sound Engine: Driver and Amplifier
How does the active driver work?
The active driver is the main cone that pushes air to create bass, and on the Classic 98 it measures 10 inches (250 mm) and faces forward. "Forward-firing" means the cone points out toward the room, sending its energy in your direction. This front facing design is a hallmark of many REL subwoofers and helps the bass feel fast and connected to the music.
A 10 inch driver is a nicely balanced size. It is large enough to move plenty of air for satisfying depth, while staying agile enough to keep up with quick, detailed passages.
What is the down-firing passive radiator and why does it matter?
The passive radiator is a second cone that faces downward toward the floor, and it has no motor of its own. Instead, it is driven by the air pressure created inside the cabinet by the active driver. As the powered cone moves, it energizes the passive radiator, which then adds extra low frequency output.
In plain terms, this design lets a compact cabinet produce deeper, fuller bass than the active driver could manage alone. It is a clever way to get more low end without needing a giant box.
What does Class A/B amplification mean for me?
Class A/B describes the type of built-in amplifier that powers the subwoofer, and it is a long trusted design known for a smooth, musical character. You do not need to memorize the engineering. What matters day to day is that Class A/B is a well proven approach that many listeners associate with a natural, easy sound, which suits the vintage inspired spirit of the Classic line.
Connections: Getting It Into Your System
What is the high-level Speakon input for?
The high-level Speakon input is the connection REL is famous for, and it lets the subwoofer take its signal directly from your amplifier's speaker outputs. This is important because it means the Classic 98 hears exactly the same signal your main speakers hear, which helps the bass match the tone and timing of the rest of your system.
The Speakon is a secure, locking type of connector, so once it is plugged in, it stays put. This is often the preferred way to connect a REL for music listening.
What is the low-level RCA input for?
The low-level RCA input is a standard connection that accepts a line level signal, the same familiar type of cable used across a lot of home audio gear. It is a simple, convenient way to connect the subwoofer when your amplifier or receiver has a dedicated output for it.
What is the .1/LFE input for?
The .1/LFE input is designed for home theater and connects to the dedicated subwoofer output on an AV receiver or processor. "LFE" stands for Low Frequency Effects, which is the channel movie soundtracks use for deep rumbles, explosions, and cinematic impact. If your main use is films, this is the input you will likely reach for.
Can the Classic 98 work without wires running across the room?
Yes, the Classic 98 is compatible with the REL AirShip II wireless system, which allows you to send the signal to the subwoofer without running a long cable across your floor. This is helpful when your listening area makes wired placement awkward. The AirShip II is a separate REL system that works with the subwoofer to give you flexible placement.
Controls: Dialing In the Sound
What does the continuously variable crossover do?
The crossover control sets the point where the subwoofer takes over the low notes, and "continuously variable" means you can adjust it smoothly to any setting rather than choosing from fixed steps. In practice, you turn this dial to decide how much deep bass the subwoofer handles compared to your main speakers, so the two blend seamlessly and neither doubles up nor leaves a gap.
What does the gain control do?
The gain control adjusts how loud the subwoofer plays, and you use it to balance the amount of bass with the rest of your system. Set it too high and the bass can feel heavy. Set it too low and you lose the foundation. The goal is a level where you barely notice the subwoofer as a separate object and simply hear a fuller, richer whole.
What does the phase control do?
The phase control aligns the timing of the subwoofer's output with your main speakers so their bass arrives together rather than fighting each other. When phase is set correctly, the low notes feel tight and powerful. When it is off, bass can sound thin or vague. It is a simple adjustment that makes a real difference once you find the right setting for your room.
Build, Style, and Who It Suits
Why does REL build quality and design matter?
REL build quality matters because a subwoofer has to control a lot of energy without adding unwanted noise or vibration, and REL has a long reputation for careful cabinet construction and thoughtful engineering. The Classic 98 wears a vintage inspired cabinet finish, giving it a warm, timeless look that fits comfortably in a real living space rather than looking like a piece of industrial equipment.
That combination of solid construction and attractive design means it can be both a serious performer and something you are happy to have on display.
Who is the Classic 98 a good fit for?
The Classic 98 is a great fit for someone new to high-end audio who wants to add real depth to their system without wrestling with complicated setup. Its clear controls, flexible connections, and wireless option make it approachable, while its forward-firing driver, down-firing passive radiator, and Class A/B amplifier deliver the kind of musical, room filling bass REL is known for. If you love both music and movies and want a subwoofer with genuine character and charm, the Classic 98 is well worth a close listen.
