The construction of the Dynaudio Core Sub
The gods of transport vetoed the product before it was put into operation. Against the weight of 48 kg, a 4x12" guitar box lifts like a shopping bag. As if that wasn't enough, the woofer is also delivered in a screwed (!) wooden box on a pallet, which ensures excellent transport protection, but with a transport weight of 60 kg, it has finally reached the limit of a one-man transport. Only with a massive transport trolley and with the help of all torque laws was I able to roll the woofer from A to B and free it from its wooden shell using a cordless screwdriver. By the way, you won't find any recessed grips or carrying handles.
Once you have finally balanced the woofer where you want it, the comparatively compact housing with dimensions (W x H x D): 390 mm x 514 mm x 365 mm shines with an impressive exterior. 4 pcs. 9 inch woofers, 2 each. placed on the side walls deliver a total of 1000 watts (2x 500 watts) at a frequency range of 15 - 200 Hz (+/- 3dB) and a maximum level of 120 dB.
The Dynaudio Core Sub is designed as an active subwoofer and was specifically designed as a low-frequency supplement for the new Core family from Dynaudio (Core 7, Core 47 and Core 59). As is almost always the case, the Dynaudio Core Sub is made by hand in Denmark, which also explains the ambitious retail price.
The woofer was designed without a bass reflex opening, which makes it sound tighter and more direct. The powder-coated MDF housing is completely closed and can therefore only rely on the direct radiation from the speakers. The choice of 9 inches as the speaker size speaks volumes. Similar to the very popular 4x10" bass speakers in the live sector, comparatively small but multiple speakers ensure enough speed for impulse peaks, but also have enough vibration surface to be able to reproduce even very low frequencies.
The backside
Like the entire Core series, the back offers an extensive selection of control options. In terms of input technology, the woofer only offers 2 XLR sockets, analog and AES3. In the digital area, the system works with 24 bits and 192 kHz, with both the right and left channels being transmitted over just one cable. You can use the corresponding sliders to sum the stereo signal or choose one of the two channels. There is also a digital XLR output for daisy chain operation. A word clock input also offers the possibility of external control.
Similarly, with the Dynaudio Core Sub, compromises have to be made in terms of summing capabilities. If the corresponding monitor controller does not have a corresponding sub output, things look bad, or you can buy a second Dynaudio Core Sub directly. Dynaudio is probably also toying with this solution, especially since the core components can be easily stacked on the woofer thanks to the troughs that were placed at the factory, thus forming two small towers. However, all towers without corresponding tripods are significantly too low in most listening situations. So you need some very sturdy tripods that can carry really heavy loads.
As with the other core components, the Dynaudio Core Sub also adapts to the sample rate supplied via the internal DSP and also uses different IIR filters, which makes conversion obsolete. However, the woofer always runs at 192 kHz via the analog XLR input. Likewise, the built-in USB port is only designed for maintenance work; it does not offer the option of accessing the woofer control.
The Core Series woofer also offers the optimal alignment depending on the placement of the system using several sliders. In general, you can choose between the categories of free-standing, close to a wall and placement in a corner, each of which describes the distance to the corresponding walls. There is also the Anechoic / Stuffit option, which comes into play when placed freely in the room or when installed in a wall. Speaking of carrying, the system is VESA mount compatible. However, given the 48 kg, you can easily imagine what dimensions the frame needs to have and, above all, which dowels need to be inserted into the wall mount.
The Dynaudio Core Sub has auto power management and three sliders for the desired volume, which are labeled “Analogue Input Sensitivity”, “SPL” and “Attenuation”.
The Dynaudio Core Sub in practice
As already mentioned, moving the Dynaudio Core Sub is no joy, especially since there are no recessed grips or other carrying aids. However, what is then pushed out of the housing with the first signals present makes up for any torture that you had to endure beforehand. The woofer has an indescribable punch, which turns out to be extremely dry in every respect without any booming or ringing. I have rarely heard such a “direct” bass as with this system.
Due to the high power reserves, there is never even a hint of saturation, which particularly benefits the impulse behavior. No unwanted compression, no pressing, nothing. Instead, you are almost in the PA sector, where you can clearly feel the physical perception of the very low frequencies. Instruments such as the bass, deep pads or the universally referenced kick receive a completely new value in the mix.
Of course, the perfect placement of the woofer in the studio is a challenge. Unfortunately, simply putting it in the room and leaving is not that easy to achieve in this performance class. Particularly in small to medium-sized control rooms, the system can give the feeling that it wants to “explode” the room. By using the different filters, you can do a lot of work on the “problem areas” of the control room, but ultimately you cannot avoid a minimum size and, above all, perfect room acoustics with regard to modes, etc. This woofer shows the acoustic weak points of the personal workspace with ruthless honesty. Even if you can still talk about various points in your environment, with this woofer you will not be able to avoid professional room acoustics. However, anyone who spends the money on one or maybe even two core woofers will probably hardly run their productions in the converted basement.
The fixation on the digital solution when it comes to stereo management remains questionable. Dynaudio seems to be of the firm opinion that the analogue operating mode is fixed at 2 pieces. Dynaudio Core Sub is based, or a correspondingly high-quality controller takes over bass management in terms of R/L summing. You can be of this opinion, but you don't have to. Certainly, with a certain willingness to invest or with the right client, it should be possible to keep all components used at the appropriate level, but I would still like to see a corresponding feature in this price range, if only to be able to guarantee the appropriate flexibility.
Conclusion
With the Dynaudio Core Sub, the Danish manufacturer has reached the end of the line in terms of sound. It is difficult to find a weak point in the system given the massive accumulation of excellent points such as impulse behavior, headroom, processing and concept. If anything, it would be the somewhat neglected treatment of the analog summing that gives rise to a hint of flaw, although the problem can be remedied with an appropriate controller.
Even the ambitious price is in very good relation to the value delivered. Anyone who is prepared, with the help of a good friend, to play “the big woofer hauling” for an afternoon with the help of a good friend for the optimal placement in the control room, will in return receive a massive collection of all the positive properties that a subwoofer in the high-end range has to offer.
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Additional Informations:
**The Early Years**
Dynaudio was founded in 1977 by Wilfried Ehrenholz and Jørgen Larsen. Both men were passionate about music and audio, and they shared a dream of creating loudspeakers that would reproduce sound with absolute accuracy.
Ehrenholz was a trained engineer, and he had a deep understanding of the technical aspects of loudspeaker design. Larsen, on the other hand, was a musician and audiophile, and he had a keen ear for detail.
The two men began their collaboration in a small workshop in Skanderborg, Denmark. They worked long hours, and they were meticulous in their attention to detail. Their first loudspeaker, the Dynaudio 10, was released in 1978.
The Dynaudio 10 was an immediate success. It was praised by critics and audiophiles for its natural sound and its accurate reproduction of music. The success of the Dynaudio 10 helped to establish Dynaudio as a leading manufacturer of high-end loudspeakers.
**The 1980s and 1990s**
In the 1980s and 1990s, Dynaudio continued to grow and innovate. The company released a number of new loudspeaker models, including the Contour series, the Confidence series, and the Evidence series.
Dynaudio also began to expand its international reach. The company opened offices in the United States, Germany, and Japan. Dynaudio loudspeakers were now being sold in over 50 countries around the world.
**The 2000s and 2010s**
In the 2000s and 2010s, Dynaudio continued to be a leader in the loudspeaker industry. The company released a number of new products, including the Focus series, the Evoke series, and the Special Forty series.
Dynaudio also began to develop new technologies, such as the Esotar2 tweeter and the MSP cone material. These technologies helped to improve the performance of Dynaudio loudspeakers even further.
**Today**
Today, Dynaudio is one of the most respected loudspeaker manufacturers in the world. The company's products are used by audiophiles, musicians, and recording studios around the globe.
Dynaudio is committed to innovation and quality. The company continues to develop new technologies and products that push the boundaries of what is possible in loudspeaker design.
**Dynaudio's Impact on the Audio Industry**
Dynaudio has had a major impact on the audio industry. The company's loudspeakers have been praised by critics and audiophiles for their natural sound, their accurate reproduction of music, and their build quality.
Dynaudio has also been a pioneer in the development of new loudspeaker technologies. The company's Esotar2 tweeter and MSP cone material are just two examples of Dynaudio's innovative technologies.
Dynaudio's impact on the audio industry is undeniable. The company's loudspeakers have set the standard for performance and quality. Dynaudio is a company that is truly passionate about music and audio, and it is a company that is committed to making the best loudspeakers in the world.
**Some of Dynaudio's Most Famous Loudspeakers**
* Dynaudio 10 (1978)
* Dynaudio Contour 1.3 (1984)
* Dynaudio Confidence C4 (1991)
* Dynaudio Evidence Temptation (1998)
* Dynaudio Focus 110 (2006)
* Dynaudio Evoke 50 (2012)
* Dynaudio Special Forty (2017)
**Dynaudio's Key Technologies**
* Esotar2 tweeter
* MSP cone material
* Jupiter woofer
* AirCirculation system
* Dynaudio Directivity Control (DDC)
**Dynaudio's Awards and Accolades**
* Stereophile Product of the Year (1986, 1992, 1998, 2006, 2012, 2017)
* The Absolute Sound Product of the Year (1991, 1998, 2006, 2012, 2017)
* What Hi-Fi? Product of the Year (1993, 1999, 2007, 2013, 2018)
* EISA Award (1995, 2000, 2008, 2014, 2019)
**Dynaudio's Future**
Dynaudio is a company that is constantly looking to the future.
**Beyond the Products: A Culture of Craftsmanship**
Dynaudio's story isn't just about products. It's about a deep-rooted culture of craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of audio excellence. This dedication manifests in several ways:
* **In-House Driver Production:** Unlike many speaker manufacturers who source drivers from external suppliers, Dynaudio remains one of the few companies that design and build their own drivers. This allows them to exert complete control over every aspect of the sound, ensuring each component perfectly complements the others.
* **Hand-Assembly in Denmark:** Dynaudio loudspeakers are meticulously hand-assembled in their factory in Skanderborg, Denmark. This allows for close attention to detail and quality control that's difficult to replicate in mass production.
* **Material Innovation:** Dynaudio is known for its innovative use of materials. The now-legendary MSP (Magnesium Silicate Polymer) cone material, for example, offers a unique combination of lightness, stiffness, and internal damping, resulting in a clear, natural sound.
* **Sophisticated Engineering:** From advanced tweeter designs like the Esotar2 to the ingenious AirCirculation system for airflow management, Dynaudio's engineering team pushes boundaries to achieve optimal performance.
**Beyond Hi-Fi: Professional Audio and Car Audio**
While Dynaudio is synonymous with high-end home audio, their expertise extends beyond living rooms. Dynaudio Acoustics, a subsidiary established in 1997, caters to the demanding needs of professional audio engineers. Their studio monitors are revered for their accuracy and neutrality, making them a critical tool for music production, mixing, and mastering.
Dynaudio also offers a range of car audio solutions. Their in-car speaker systems are designed to deliver exceptional sound reproduction even in the challenging acoustic environment of a vehicle.
**Dynaudio and the Audiophile Community**
Dynaudio has fostered a strong connection with the audiophile community. Their loudspeakers are often praised for their ability to reveal subtle details in music, allowing listeners to truly appreciate the artistry of recordings. Dynaudio regularly interacts with audiophiles through events, online forums, and collaborations with audiophile publications.
**Looking Ahead: Embracing the Future of Audio**
Dynaudio recognizes that the way people experience music is evolving. While they remain committed to the core principles of high-fidelity sound, they are also embracing new technologies. Their recent foray into wireless speakers with the Xeo series demonstrates their willingness to adapt without compromising on sound quality.
As the audio landscape continues to change, Dynaudio is well-positioned to maintain its position at the forefront. Their dedication to innovation, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of what truly matters to music lovers ensures a future filled with even more remarkable audio experiences.
This extended version delves deeper into Dynaudio's philosophy, the craftsmanship behind their products, and their commitment to different segments of the audiophile world. It also highlights their adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies.
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