Definitive Technology Descend DN8

The Definitive next step

Definitive Technology is known for their high-performance audio equipment and a culture of constant innovation. They're never comfortable just sitting on their laurels, which is why their popular subwoofers are getting an update. The new Descend Series subwoofer lineup replaces the ProSub and SuperCube lines, both of which were big hits with Crutchfield customers. Surprisingly compact Descend subwoofers deliver the kind of deep, dynamic bass you might expect from a larger sub.

The Descend DN8 has an 8" long-throw woofer driven by a 200-watt RMS Class D amplifier, with dual 8" passive radiators to extend low-end output. Its proprietary 3XR™ architecture increases surface area and airflow, helping it get as loud and low as a ported sub — but without introducing pesky port turbulence. Definitive Technology explains that this design produces bass similar to a 10" sub, but with a smaller cabinet. That means you can enjoy accurate, hard-hitting bass even if you don't have a ton of room to spare.

Descend into your entertainment

A powerful subwoofer adds weight and impact to your favorite movies and games. When King Kong punches Godzilla in the jaw, you want to feel that thud reverberate through the room, not just see it pass by on the screen. The DN8 increases your immersion by bringing you closer to the action, bringing the rumble when things start to get exciting. It doesn't just hit hard though. Its precision and control allow it to perform well for music too, delivering accurate bottom end that drives the rhythm in your tunes.

Simple and clean

The DN8 looks elegant and has a modest footprint that makes it an easy match for most rooms. A helpful set of rear-panel controls and connections keep things straightforward too. A phase switch takes some of the guesswork out of placement and helps the sub integrate with the rest of your system. The dedicated LFE input hooks up to the subwoofer output of your home theater receiver, but you can also connect with a pair of speaker-level five-way binding post inputs. Using the built-in variable low-pass crossover, you have control over what frequencies the sub plays when using the speaker-level inputs. And a volume dial makes adjustments quick and easy, letting you blend the sub into the rest of your system.