90%
GoldenEar SuperSub X
Like the SuperSub XXL, the ultra-compact SuperSub X (just a little bigger than a 12-1/2″ cube) utilizes the same dual-plane, patented* inertially-balanced driver array, but instead employs two horizontally-opposed 8˝ ultra-long-throw active drivers and two vertically-opposed 10-1/2˝ x 9-1/2˝ planar back-wave-driven radiators, driven by a 1400 watt Class D Digital amplifier. “Simply unbelievable” raved the press about its stunning output after their first audition.
Dealers selling GoldenEar near you
Exceptionally detailed bass and surprisingly deep low-frequency extension make the SuperSub X a musical yet impactful performer for both music and movies. Its ultra-compact design couples with a DSP-driven 1400W amp to deliver tight dynamics, smooth room coupling and even seat-to-seat bass; reviewers from HomeTheaterHifi and Audioholics praise its power-to-size balance.
Pros
- Clean, detailed bass with real-room extension into the low‑20sHz that preserves musical nuance.
- Strong dynamics and low distortion at typical operating frequencies thanks to the DSP-controlled 1400W amplifier.
- Compact, furniture-quality enclosure that can energize medium rooms and integrates well in multi-sub setups.
&
Cons
- Placement-sensitive — reviewers report it may require careful positioning to reach its smoothest in-room response.
- No balanced (XLR) input and lacking a variable phase control, which limits connectivity and manual phase fine-tuning for some systems.
- Output and distortion increase as you approach ~20Hz, so it isn’t a guaranteed sub‑20Hz performer in every room.
Sound Quality
92/100
Bass
94/100
Reviewers consistently praised deep, tight, and detailed bass with in-room extension into the low‑20s; on-axis spec is -6dB at 26Hz but reviewers heard energy to ~20–26Hz. THD good at typical frequencies but rises near 20Hz.
Dynamics
89/100
Reports of solid slam, more headroom and impactful hits ('will hit solidly when you ask it to', 'more headroom at my disposal'), plus low distortion at 50Hz (~0.7%) support strong dynamic performance with some audible strain approaching extreme sub‑20Hz levels.
Show Less
Integration
90/100
Multiple reviewers report the sub 'couple[s] really well with a room,' that a single unit 'did an excellent job filling my medium sized home theater,' and that it produces an even, seat-to-seat bass distribution — outcome language showing seamless blending.
Build Quality
88/100
Described as 'fine furniture level of finish' with 'solid construction' and a compact footprint — well made and attractive, though not positioned as exotic or boutique heavy‑duty.
Features Connectivity
86/100
1400W class‑D amp with DSP, variable 40–150Hz low‑pass, LFE direct input, left/right inputs and auto signal sensing. Compact size and patented dual‑plane inertially balanced layout aid placement and multi‑sub setups.
Value for Money
82/100
At $1,499 reviewers call it an 'excellent little sub' that can energize medium rooms and even approach much larger siblings, but none explicitly label it a 'no‑brainer' bargain — solid performance for the price, but premium priced.
Reviews
Online Reviews & Mentions
YouTube Reviews
Forum Mentions
No forum mentions found yet