REL Carbon Special Black Label
REL Carbon Special Black Label £4,799: Serie S Pinnacle Performance
The REL Carbon Special Black Label represents the ultimate expression of Serie S engineering—a subwoofer that brings Reference-level technology within reach of serious enthusiasts. After extensive evaluation in our Norwich showrooms, we're convinced this is one of the most significant releases in REL's recent history.
What Makes It Special
12-inch all-carbon fibre driver closely related to REL's flagship No.31 Reference design. This isn't badge engineering—the driver handles three times the peak power of its predecessor, with newly engineered suspension allowing 60mm front-to-back travel for extraordinary dynamics with complete control.
900-watt Linear Class D hybrid amplifier combining the rich current delivery of Class A/B with Class D efficiency. A substantial 15-pound power transformer and extensive heatsinking sustain 1,250-watt peaks with complete composure—delivering louder, cleaner, and more controlled bass than any previous medium-chassis REL.
Black Label refinement means upgraded components, tighter tolerances, and distinctive finishes. The cabinet features subtle black crown inlays and curved stainless-steel handles recessed into elliptical returns, whilst precision knurled billet cylinders beneath each rail permit exact levelling.
Premium wood grille included as standard—not just for aesthetics, but engineered to enhance airflow for greater dynamics. It's a design where beauty and performance converge seamlessly.
Real-World Performance
The Carbon Special Black Label delivers bass that's effortless, powerful, and fluid. Whether reproducing subtle musical textures at concert levels or explosive theatre soundtracks, the Reference-derived driver transforms performance across the entire frequency range.
Frequency response extends to -6dB at 19Hz with authority that belies the medium chassis size. The sophisticated amplifier design ensures this power translates into musical reality—not just specification bragging rights
Line Array Excellence
Where the Black Label truly excels is in Line Array configurations. REL includes precision mechanical couplers for secure multi-unit stacking, growing from stereo pairs to three units per channel for floor-to-ceiling authority.
We've witnessed Carbon Special Line Arrays achieve genuine state-of-the-art performance even with compact monitors in medium rooms—delivering half-million-pound system presence in modest spaces. The soundstaging and dynamics rival the world's finest systems.
Professional Connectivity
REL's approach to connectivity remains uncompromised. The renowned High Level Input connects directly to amplifier speaker outputs through REL's 100% analogue input filters, achieving truly natural sound without drawing power from your amplifier.
For ultimate flexibility, AirShip Direct™ wireless capability preserves speed, transparency, and authority whilst eliminating cable constraints entirely. Simultaneous High Level and .1/LFE operation ensures music gains natural integration whilst movies deliver full intended impact.
Our Approach at Martins Hi-Fi
We're hosting a REL Double Stack Event on 16th October featuring the Carbon Special Black Label in various configurations. This is your chance to experience Line Array performance properly demonstrated in our Norwich showrooms. Booking is essential as spaces are limited.
Beyond the event, proper demonstration matters with components at this level. Room integration, positioning, and setup all affect performance significantly.
Our approach remains personal: understanding your specific requirements, room characteristics, and musical preferences before making recommendations. The Black Label is versatile, but like all high-performance components, it benefits from knowledgeable setup.
Why We Rate It
The Carbon Special Black Label gets the fundamentals right: exceptional driver technology, abundant clean power, and the flexibility to scale with Line Arrays. It's a subwoofer that disappears into your system whilst transforming what you hear. Black Label models represent the most advanced expressions of Serie S, built with tolerances and component quality that justify their premium positioning within the range.
Visit us in Norwich to hear the difference properly demonstrated. Some things need to be experienced rather than described.
