McIntosh PS2K subwoofer is an uncompromising tower of bass

High-end audio outfit McIntosh has launched the PS2K Powered Subwoofer, a formidable, towering, premium-priced sub.

The PS2K utilises four 13-inch woofers and massive magnets, built around the brand’s patented Low Distortion High Performance (LD/HP) Magnetic Circuit Design, said to significantly reduce distortion while increasing the driver's power handling and efficiency.

Each of the four woofers is driven by a dedicated 500 Watt Class D amplifier, for a combined power output of up to 2,000 Watts.

The amplifiers have been calibrated to minimise distortion when played at volume in large theatres.

Features include multi-layer carbon fibre cones. Previously, carbon fibre cones were made from a single layer of the material that had a bit of flexibility, but these new multi-layered carbon fibre cones can resist long extended excursion travel, creating extreme rigidity.

“McIntosh has always prioritised top of the line sound quality, innovation, versatility, and longevity within its products,” said McIntosh President Charlie Randall. “The PS2K Powered Subwoofer is a true testament to all of the brand’s core principles. We are incredibly excited to see consumers' reactions as they transform their listening spaces with this premium subwoofer.”

Integrators can take advantage of a variety of connection options, to suit a variety of installations, be it a two-channel stereo system or a home theatre setup.

The PS2K offers balanced and unbalanced stereo inputs and outputs, as well as balanced and unbalanced subwoofer inputs and outputs. Models can be daisy-chained if more than one PS2K are required for a single system.

The PS2K also features two McIntosh protection technologies, Power Guard and Sentry Monitor, which disengages the amplifier's output stage before the current exceeds safe operating levels and automatically resets.

The finish is black gloss with carbon trim, and aluminium base. There are glide feet for hard floors, and spikes for carpeting.

Available from October, the PS2K will retail for £52,000 (€60,000 / US$50,000).