ArtSound AS-A80.2

The AS-A80.2 is an active subwoofer designed by ArtSound, a Belgian brand specializing in integrated audio solutions. It features a 200 W amplifier in a cubic cabinet with rounded corners. Equipped with an 8-inch polymica driver and a bass-reflex system, it is designed to provide sound for rooms up to 75 m². Its built-in grille and matte black finish contribute to its discreet appearance.

A compact cube that hides its true potential

ArtSound has taken the gamble of integrating an active subwoofer into a very compact cubic design. The MDF cabinet, a material commonly used in audio for its acoustic properties, measures 325 x 310 x 350 mm and weighs 10 kg. The softened edges contribute to the overall aesthetics and make it easier to integrate into an interior without creating unsightly sharp corners.

The matte black finish combined with a built-in grille allows the AS-A80.2 to blend into the décor. Rubber feet isolate the subwoofer from the floor to prevent any unwanted vibration transmission to the structure.

Driver and acoustic characteristics

The AS-A80.2 houses an 8-inch driver whose cone is made of polymica, a composite material that combines rigidity and lightness. This cone operates within a bass-reflex system, which helps extend the low-frequency response.

The built-in amplification is a major advantage over passive models. A 200 W amplifier (80 W continuous) powers the transducer, enabling it to fill any living room or even a commercial space without difficulty. The frequency range extends from 40 Hz to 150 Hz, thus covering most of the useful low-frequency spectrum for home theater and hi-fi.

Controls and connectivity

The rear panel of the AS-A80.2 brings together all the settings and connections needed to integrate it into an audio system.

The power switch offers three positions: “On” for continuous operation, “Auto” for automatic power-up as soon as a signal is detected, and “Off” to turn the unit off. A status LED indicates the subwoofer’s state: red when it is in standby and connected to the mains, green when it is active.

The available settings include:

• Gain (volume): a rotary knob that adjusts the subwoofer’s sound level
• Crossover (cutoff frequency): sets the upper limit of the reproduced frequency range, to be adjusted according to the speakers used
• Phase: allows the subwoofer to be brought into phase with the system’s other speakers for a more coherent sound

On the connectivity side, two options are provided:

• RCA line inputs: suitable for a full-band signal coming from a pre-out on an A/V receiver or a preamplifier
• High-level inputs: spring-clip terminals that accept a stereo speaker-level signal from an amplified output

For connection to a dedicated subwoofer output (common on home theater amplifiers), since the signal is already processed, a Y adapter can be used to feed both RCA inputs from this mono output.

Technical specifications

Acoustic performance

• Frequency response: 40 Hz – 150 Hz
• Coverage area: under 75 m²
• Woofer: 20 cm (8-inch) polymica cone

Features and settings

• Volume control: independent adjustment
• Phase control: adjustable
• Integration: compatible with surround systems
• Customization: adaptable to room size and sound preferences

Amplification and electronics

• Power: 80 W RMS / 200 W peak
• Impedance: 4 Ω
• Type: active subwoofer with built-in amplifier

Physical design

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 325 x 310 x 350 mm
• Weight: 10 kg
• Material: MDF
• Finish: elegant matte with integrated grille
• Design: compact cube
• Feet: anti-vibration rubber
• Magnetic shielding: no