Operation Manual
6
Introducon to the Design of Habitat1
Habitat1 Sub-Bass System
Many or most loudspeakers emphasize the mid-bass. This is the range from 50 to 90 Hz. We at REL believe
this is an incomplete approach and that loudspeakers need to be extended in the lower frequencies for
true full range reproducon. All of our designs are true Sub-Bass Systems, meaning they are designed to
reproduce very low frequencies (below 30 Hz) that are felt rather than heard. This is because we understand
that music is full-range, as are sound eects on movies, and we intend for our products to reproduce all of
these sounds, not just a narrow band.
Habitat1 is equipped to allow you to take full advantage of Dolby Digital AC3, DTS, MPEG 2 and any other
digital sound format that includes a dedicated Low Frequency Eects (LFE) channel.
The dedicated LFE input meets the tough specicaon laid down for digital 3/2.1 channels, usually known
as 5.1. The output is nominally at from 35 Hz – 90 Hz. It has a dedicated input level control which enables
users to set the LFE level independently of the processor. This is important because not all processors oer
control over this signicant parameter. The LFE channel is frequently output at 10 dB higher levels than the
other channels.
The Habitat1 also has a high-level (speaker level) input with dedicated input level control. Uniquely, both
the speaker level and the LFE input can be used simultaneously. This means you may set it up for the best
possible 2-channel performance sound with your CDs or other stereo signals and instantly revert to using
the Sub-Bass System as the dedicated LFE component when watching movies. This is a feature of real benet
if you wish to play music in stereo mode in the purist audiophile way and also in REL Theater Reference
mode with no switching necessary. By connecng BOTH High Level and .1 concurrently and seng your
processor to “Large” or “Full Range”, the best possible performance will be obtained. Consult the owner’s
manual of your loudspeakers or consult with your dealer before seng to large as a few speakers cannot
handle the bass that is then directed through to the main speakers.