Overview

The WS-6.2 is a compact powered studio subwoofer using two horizontally opposed 6.5-inch high-excursion woofers (15 mm p-p), a Class-D amplifier (400 W continuous / 1000 W peak), and a low-noise front port. Kali rates frequency range at 31.5–180 Hz (±3 dB), extension to 27 Hz (-10 dB), and 120 dB peak SPL at 1 m. I/O includes balanced XLR/TRS, RCA, an 80 Hz HPF output, polarity switch, and footswitch bypass. All are manufacturer specifications. [1][2]

Scientific Validity

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From manufacturer data: 31.5–180 Hz (±3 dB), 27–200 Hz (-10 dB), and max SPL 120 dB (peak @1 m) with system THD <2% at 90 dB SPL (1 m). These figures are adequate for nearfield monitoring, and the opposed-driver layout reduces cabinet reaction force, limiting vibration transmission. However, with only manufacturer-published THD and no independent distortion plots, we set a conservative score. Overall, bandwidth within the intended use band and output capability are solid, but the lack of third-party measurements prevents a higher rating. [1][2]

Technology Level

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Technically thoughtful execution: opposed 6.5-inch drivers to cancel net vibration, custom excursion spec (15 mm p-p), limiter, polarity switch, selectable crossover (80 Hz/LFE/external), and a low-noise front port designed to mitigate turbulence. Integration features are complete for small studio workflows. This is above industry-average implementation for a compact sub at this price, though not groundbreaking. [1][2]

Cost-Performance

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Market price: 599 USD. The Mackie MRS10 is the cheapest equal-or-better alternative we could confirm: max SPL 119 dB (within ~1 dB of WS-6.2’s 120 dB) and extension to 28 Hz (-10 dB), with comparable balanced I/O and variable crossover—thus equivalent for typical studio use. Current US price observed at 449.99 USD.
Calculation: 449.99 USD ÷ 599 USD = 0.75 → rounded to 0.8. [3][4]

Reliability & Support

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Kali provides a 1-year limited warranty (manual and website). Construction is straightforward (Class-D amp, MDF, front-ported cabinet) and includes protective limiting. Dealer support is typical; no firmware concerns for this category. The short warranty relative to some competitors keeps this item at an average score. [1][5]

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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Kali’s approach emphasizes measurable, practical improvements: compact footprint, vibration-canceling opposed woofers, and a low-noise port to reduce chuffing—features with direct, audible benefits in small rooms. Marketing claims are tied to technical mechanisms and standard integration options; no occult audio. [1][2]

Advice

Choose the WS-6.2 when you need under-desk placement, minimized mechanical vibration, and straightforward integration with 80 Hz HPF outputs. In small control rooms or edit suites, one unit should cover reference levels; for larger rooms or higher SPL margins, consider dual WS-6.2 or a larger sub. If maximum value is paramount and you can accommodate a larger box, Mackie MRS10 offers near-equivalent extension/output for less. If you need club-voiced XLF mode and accept lower peak SPL, JBL LSR310S remains a budget option (27 Hz extension, ~113 dB peak). [3][4][6][7]

References

[1] Kali Audio, WS-6.2 User’s Guide (Full Specifications), PDF, accessed 2025-08-31. https://kali-audio-staging-bucket.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Assets/Subwoofer/WS-6/Kali_Audio_WS-62_Subwoofer_Users_Guide_Apr_12_2023_Latest.pdf
[2] Kali Audio, Watts WS-6.2 Product Page, accessed 2025-08-31. https://www.kaliaudio.com/watts-ws62
[3] Mackie, MRS10 Owner’s Manual (Specifications), PDF, accessed 2025-08-31. https://mackie.com/img/file_resources/MRS10_OM.pdf
[4] Sweetwater, Mackie MRS10 10-inch Powered Studio Subwoofer (price as observed 2025-08-31). https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MRS10–mackie-mrs-10-10-inch-powered-studio-subwoofer
[5] Kali Audio, Warranty & Return Policy, accessed 2025-08-31. https://www.kaliaudio.com/warranty-and-return-policy
[6] JBL, LSR310S Product Page/Specs, accessed 2025-08-31. https://www.jbl.com/studio-monitors/LSR310S-.html
[7] Sweetwater, JBL LSR310S Tech Specs, accessed 2025-08-31. https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/LSR310S–jbl-lsr310s-10-inch-powered-studio-subwoofer

(2025.9.1)