XTZ 99 W12.18 ICE review

This is a big subwoofer so it needs a big room, but it suffers from lack of finesse Tested at £550.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Imposing size and sound, but sonically it lacks control and cohesion

Pros

  • +

    Big sonic personality

Cons

  • -

    Lacks subtlety

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The XTZ is just under 50cm tall and 52cm deep, so you wouldn't consider it for a smaller room. In fact, you could quite easily fit three or four Dynaudio Sub250 Compacts inside just one of these beasts.

The XTZ uses a Bang & Olufsen ICEpower amplifier, which produces 500W of power, driving a 12in Peerless XXLS driver unit.

The cabinet has two large bass-reflex ports. Underneath, the subwoofer is fitted with vibration- suppressing rubber feet.

There are balanced, RCA and high-level inputs and you're also given the choice of a couple of different EQ settings (which can be turned off).

The imposing appearance is mirrored in a big-boned sound. Subtlety isn't high on the agenda, and bass notes sound muddied and confused due to a lack of control and cohesion.

Extra definition can be had if you use the supplied bungs, but then you lose a little impact and drive.

This is a big sub with a big sonic personality, but it suffers from lack of finesse.

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What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.


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