Overview

The Bowers & Wilkins DB2D is a premium active subwoofer featuring dual 250 mm (10-inch) Aerofoil drivers in a balanced push-push configuration, a 1,000 W Class-D amplifier, app-based room optimization with BT-LE control, and multiple inputs including balanced XLR and RCA. It targets high-end music and home theater systems [1].

Scientific Validity

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Manufacturer documentation specifies 10 Hz–350 Hz (−3 dB, centered on 100 Hz) and 8.5 Hz–500 Hz (−6 dB), with the dual-opposed layout minimizing cabinet vibration [1]. These are exceptional figures for a compact sealed sub. However, comprehensive third-party measurements for DB2D (e.g., standardized max SPL vs. distortion across bands) are not publicly available from established labs. Given the absence of independent verification for THD and deep-bass output, this score remains conservative pending independent testing.

Technology Level

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The DB2D leverages high-stiffness Aerofoil cones, a balanced push-push architecture, DSP-assisted response shaping, app-driven calibration, and a high-power Class-D platform. This is a modern, coherent implementation. Some competitors offer more granular user DSP, but the core tech here is advanced and rational.

Cost-Performance

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Price (US): 5,400 USD [2].

We searched for equal-or-better alternatives based on user-visible functions (powered sub with EQ/app control) and key performance (deep-bass extension at or below 10 Hz (−3 dB)).

• SVS SB-3000 is rated 18–270 Hz (±3 dB)—well short of 10 Hz—and thus not equivalent by spec [3].
• KEF KC92 (dual-opposed 9”) claims 11–200 Hz (±3 dB) at 2,499.99 USD, close but still inferior in extension by spec [4][5].
• JTR Captivator 2400-ULF (ported) lists ±3 dB 12–165 Hz, with very strong ULF output per independent testing, but its −3 dB window does not reach 10 Hz, and design/size are substantially different [6][7].

Based on current specifications and measurements, we could not identify any cheaper finished product that matches or exceeds the DB2D’s 10 Hz (−3 dB) spec while offering comparable built-in functionality. Therefore, DB2D is treated as the lowest-cost option meeting the target performance, and CP is 1.0.

Reliability & Support

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Bowers & Wilkins maintains a global dealer and service network. Build quality is premium. Warranty terms and long-term reliability statistics are not centrally published, and the firmware-update cadence for DB-series subs is not clearly documented. Overall support infrastructure appears solid at an industry-standard level.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The focus on measurable low-frequency extension, cabinet force cancellation, and room optimization is scientifically sensible. The engineering choices target audible improvements (deeper extension with reduced enclosure vibration) rather than cosmetic flourish.

Advice

If you require a compact sealed subwoofer with true 10 Hz (−3 dB) extension and app-based calibration, the DB2D is uniquely positioned. If your priority is value and you can accept less extreme extension (e.g., 11–18 Hz class), consider options like KEF KC92 or SVS models; or, if you can accommodate much larger enclosures and different acoustic trade-offs, ultra-low-tuned ported designs (e.g., JTR) deliver formidable ULF output but are not equivalent by the strict −3 dB extension spec.

References

[1] Bowers & Wilkins — “DB2D Information Sheet” (−3 dB/−6 dB extension; features). https://www.bowerswilkins.com/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-bowers_apac_shared/default/dwa115d052/downloads/db2d-information-sheet.pdf
[2] Bowers & Wilkins — “DB2D — High-performance 10-in subwoofer” (US pricing/specs). https://www.bowerswilkins.com/en-us/product/subwoofers/db-series/db2d/150194.html
[3] SVS — “SB-3000 Subwoofer — Specifications (18–270 Hz ±3 dB).” https://www.svsound.com/products/sb-3000
[4] KEF — “KC92 Subwoofer” (US pricing/specs). https://us.kef.com/products/kc92-subwoofer
[5] Crutchfield — “KEF KC92 — Specs & Price (2,499.99 USD).” https://www.crutchfield.com/p/991KC92WH/KEF-KC92-White-Gloss.html
[6] JTR Speakers — “Captivator 2400ULF — ±3 dB 12–165 Hz; price.” https://www.jtrspeakers.com/jtr-captivator-2400ulf
[7] Data-Bass — “JTR Captivator 2400 ULF Measurements.” https://data-bass.com/systems/5b0716e05964440004da1bae
(2025.8.20)