Audio T Verdict
The REL No.35 brings the latest Reference engineering into the proportions of REL’s 12-inch models, but “smaller” needs putting in context. This is a 59kg subwoofer with a newly developed 305mm Pure Carbon Fibre driver, a 900W RMS Class AB/D amplifier and the same level of cabinet craftsmanship as the larger No.36.
Its most significant advance is the relationship between that driver and amplifier. REL has reworked the frame, suspension, cone and supporting motor structure to make use of the amplifier’s greater current reserves. REL says the No.35 can play louder than its previous-generation 15-inch No.32, an impressive manufacturer claim from a cabinet that is considerably easier to accommodate.
For us, the attraction is the balance. The No.35 offers serious low-frequency reach and dynamic ability while giving a system owner the detailed adjustment needed to make it sound natural alongside fine loudspeakers. It belongs in a carefully considered stereo system, a premium home cinema or a Reference installation that may grow over time.
Reference Performance in Carefully Judged Proportions
The No.35 retains the dimensions of the earlier No.31, but the similarities do not extend far beneath the surface. REL has introduced a new Class AB/D amplifier architecture and comprehensively redesigned the 305mm driver that it controls. The cabinet continues the flowing Reference form, finished with twelve coats of hand-rubbed piano-black lacquer.
REL specifies extension to 17Hz at -6dB in room. That gives the No.35 the reach for demanding music and film, but the value of a well-integrated Reference subwoofer is heard throughout the system: in the body of an instrument, the depth of a soundstage and the way a performance can move from quiet detail to full scale without losing its shape.
- Redesigned 305mm Pure Carbon Fibre driver
- Finer 12K carbon-fibre cone weave
- New cast-aluminium driver frame
- Additional 12mm driver travel in each direction versus No.31
- 900W RMS Class AB/D amplifier
- 17Hz in-room extension at -6dB
- Closed-box, front-firing design
- High Level, stereo low-level and dedicated .1/LFE inputs
- RCA and balanced XLR connection options
- Dual parametric EQ and REL Reference Remote
- Optional REL AirShip Direct wireless connectivity
- Compatible with suitable Reference Line Arrays
A Thoroughly Reworked 305mm Driver
The No.35’s front-firing driver has been redesigned to handle demands beyond those faced by REL’s earlier 12-inch Reference model. Its new cast-aluminium frame creates room for greater movement. Changes to the spider and surround help keep the cone accurately controlled as it moves, while the suspension allows an additional 12mm of travel in each direction compared with No.31.
The Pure Carbon Fibre cone also moves to a finer 12K weave. REL has aimed to reduce unwanted cone noise and improve self-damping so that greater output does not come at the expense of detail. A bass guitar should retain the character of its individual notes; a piano should have both weight and a convincing decay. Those are the qualities that make this engineering relevant beyond its impressive output capability.
How Does No.35 Compare With No.31?
The two cabinets have the same stated dimensions. The No.35 introduces a new Class AB/D amplifier and a substantially redesigned driver with a finer carbon-fibre weave, new frame and greater travel. It is an engineering change rather than a cosmetic update to the existing model.
900W RMS and a New Amplifier Architecture
At the heart of the No.35 is a 900W RMS Class AB/D amplifier built around a substantial toroidal transformer. The traditional power-supply approach provides strong current reserves, while the Class D output stage delivers the power efficiently and with the speed needed to control the newly developed driver.
REL’s aim is effortless delivery across a wide range of listening levels. A quiet acoustic recording asks the subwoofer to preserve fine changes in pitch and ambience. A large-scale film soundtrack can demand a sudden burst of energy. The amplifier and driver have been designed together so that the No.35 can respond to both without losing composure.
The Reference Cabinet
The No.35 has the sculpted curves associated with REL Reference, inspired by the lines of classic wooden runabouts. The continuous surface flowing into the rear corners requires careful woodworking, while twelve coats of hand-rubbed piano-black lacquer create the depth of its finish. A curved string grille, carbon-fibre details and inset plated handles complete the design.
Inside, substantial bracing helps hold the enclosure steady while the driver is working hard. Precision-adjustable front supports aid levelling and become particularly useful when planning a Reference Line Array. This is a carefully made cabinet intended to be seen in the room, as well as heard.
High Level Connection for Music
The supplied Neutrik Speakon cable provides REL’s High Level connection for a suitable amplifier. This allows the No.35 to receive a signal associated with the main amplifier’s output while the loudspeakers remain connected and operating normally. Careful adjustment then lets the subwoofer support their low-frequency response.
Stereo RCA and XLR low-level inputs offer alternatives for compatible equipment, including suitable preamplifiers and active loudspeaker systems. Connection choice should be based on the actual electronics in the system, rather than an assumption that one socket type is universally better.
Check Your Amplifier Before Using High Level
Balanced, bridged, differential and some Class D amplifier designs may need a particular High Level wiring arrangement. If you are unsure how your amplifier should be connected, speak to Audio T or consult its manufacturer before attaching the supplied cable.
Separate .1/LFE Inputs for Home Cinema
Dedicated RCA and balanced XLR .1/LFE inputs connect to a compatible surround processor or AV receiver. The No.35 can keep this cinema connection active alongside its High Level or suitable low-level music connection, with separate adjustment for the .1/LFE channel.
That flexibility is particularly useful when a high-quality stereo system forms the front left and right channels of a home cinema. The No.35 can be set up to integrate with the loudspeakers for music and still reproduce the dedicated effects channel when a film is playing.
Dual Parametric EQ and Reference Remote
The supplied REL Reference Remote puts gain, crossover, phase and the two parametric filters within reach of the listening chair. Being able to make a change and hear it immediately is valuable when you are trying to blend a capable subwoofer with equally capable loudspeakers.
The parametric filters allow more targeted adjustment than a broad bass control. They can help address a troublesome room resonance or refine the upper-bass transition to the main speakers. They work best as the finishing stage after sensible placement, phase, level and crossover settings have been established.
Optional AirShip Direct Wireless Operation
REL AirShip Direct is an optional wireless system for carrying High Level and .1/LFE audio signals where a long cable run would be impractical. Both signals can be used in an installation serving music and cinema.
The wireless accessory does not remove the need for mains power at the subwoofer, and its transmitter still requires the appropriate connection to the source equipment. Audio T can help check whether a conventional cable or AirShip Direct is the better solution for the room.
Build the System That Suits Your Room
One No.35
A single No.35 offers considerable reach and adjustment. It can be a complete solution where the room and main loudspeakers are well matched to its capabilities.
A Stereo Pair
Using one subwoofer for each channel preserves separate left and right bass information and allows each REL to be positioned and adjusted for its side of the room.
A Reference Line Array
Vertically arranged Reference subwoofers provide a route for larger rooms and ambitious systems. Space, hardware and individual adjustment all need careful planning.
An Existing No.31 System
The No.35 retains No.31’s dimensions. REL confirms it can anchor a suitable existing Reference Line Array incorporating earlier No.31 units.
REL No.35 or No.36?
REL No.35
- 305mm Pure Carbon Fibre driver
- 900W RMS Class AB/D amplifier
- 17Hz in-room extension at -6dB
- 638 x 435 x 724mm cabinet
- 59kg net weight
- Shares the dimensions of the earlier No.31
REL No.36
- 380mm Pure Carbon Fibre driver
- 1,000W RMS Class AB/D amplifier
- 15Hz in-room extension at -6dB
- 743 x 541 x 816mm cabinet
- 91.8kg net weight
- REL’s largest new Reference model
The No.35 gives you the latest Reference amplifier approach and cabinet craftsmanship in a smaller enclosure. The No.36 has the larger driver, greater specified extension and more substantial physical scale. Your room, loudspeakers and intended configuration should guide the decision.
Smaller Than No.36 Still Means Substantial
The No.35 measures 724mm deep and weighs 59kg. Allow extra space for rear connections and plan the route into its final position. Suitable assistance should be used when unpacking, lifting or repositioning it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What has changed from REL No.31?
The No.35 keeps the same cabinet dimensions but introduces a new Class AB/D amplifier and an extensively redesigned driver. The new cone weave, frame and suspension support greater driver travel and output.
Can No.35 be used for music and home cinema?
Yes. High Level and stereo low-level inputs provide music-system options, while dedicated RCA and XLR .1/LFE inputs connect to compatible home cinema equipment. The connections can operate together in a suitably configured system.
Is the High Level cable included?
Yes. REL lists an approximately 10-metre Neutrik Speakon High Level cable among the supplied accessories. RCA and XLR interconnects are not included.
Can I use the No.35 wirelessly?
Yes, with the separately available REL AirShip Direct system. Wireless audio does not remove the No.35’s need for a mains connection.
Can No.35 be added to a No.31 Line Array?
REL confirms compatibility with suitably planned arrays incorporating No.31 models. The No.35 retains the earlier model’s cabinet dimensions, although the complete array still needs proper installation and adjustment.
Is the No.35 a compact subwoofer?
Only relative to the larger No.36. It is a 59kg Reference model measuring 638mm wide, 435mm high and 724mm deep, so placement and handling need planning.
Related REL Products at Audio T
Why Buy the REL No.35 From Audio T?
The No.35 deserves more than a quick decision based on cabinet size or amplifier power. We can look at your loudspeakers, amplifier, room and listening habits, then help establish whether a single No.35, a stereo pair or a larger Reference installation is the sensible choice.
Our stores can discuss High Level compatibility, RCA and XLR connections, placement, crossover and phase adjustment, the optional AirShip Direct system and delivery into the room. We can also explore in-store and home demonstrations where appropriate, along with part-exchange options for existing equipment.
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss availability, system matching and the best way to hear the No.35 for yourself.