Focal Sub One 8-inch Powered Studio Subwoofer
- Active Studio Subwoofer
- Two 8-inch carbon fiber woofers
- Frequency range: 32Hz – 120Hz
Focal Sub One Review
For producers and sound engineers who need more from their sub-bass, Focal introduces the Sub One—a subwoofer delivering 200W RMS of power. Thanks to its precision and very low distortion, this long-excursion, high-efficiency subwoofer pairs perfectly with Focal’s Alpha Evo monitors and also with the Shape line.
The speaker drivers feature a unique double-skinned Slatefiber cone: two cones are fixed together in opposite directions for even greater rigidity—ideal for a subwoofer. Finally, with its large front-facing vents, the Sub One can be easily and discreetly placed against a wall or under a desk, taking up less depth and fitting seamlessly into your workspace.
The Focal Sub One sets a new standard in studio monitoring by combining advanced materials with precision engineering. This compact, twin active subwoofer features dual 8-inch woofers made with Slatefiber cones, each handcrafted at Focal’s Saint-Étienne facility in France.
Driven by 200 watts of optimized Class D bi-amplification, the Sub One delivers flat, reliable tonal balance and impressive dynamic range. It’s a powerful and versatile addition to any modern production environment, providing accurate monitoring, high SPL, and deep low-end extension—everything you need to achieve professional results.
At the heart of the Sub One are Focal’s new Slatefiber low-frequency drivers. The unique properties of the Slatefiber material dramatically enhance low-frequency extension, dynamic range, and impact compared to previous models. If your work requires high SPL and ultra-deep bass, the Sub One is an indispensable upgrade to your monitoring system.
With its extended frequency response and precise imaging, the Focal Sub One is engineered for accurate audio reproduction. Beyond its outstanding performance, it’s designed for flexible and seamless integration into your studio setup.
The Sub One includes a fully adjustable low-pass crossover, volume control, phase polarity switch, and more. You also get LFE, left, and right inputs; left and right outputs; and a 2.1 low-frequency management system for optimal satellite speaker integration.
Focal Sub One Setup
In a standard stereo monitoring setup, Sub One serves as the main hub for the stereo signal. From there, a pair of parallel XLR outputs sends the feed to the satellite monitors. This allows Sub One’s high-pass filter to cut frequencies below either 60Hz or 90Hz from the satellites, helping the subwoofer blend in smoothly.
You can also disengage the filter, letting Sub One fill in up to where the stereo monitors naturally roll off, using the lowpass filter knob. A footswitch can be used to bypass both Sub One and the high-pass filter, if engaged, which is convenient for different setups and everyday use. For surround sound setups, there’s a dedicated LFE XLR input and parallel output that completely bypasses the lowpass filter.
Focal Sub One Design and Sound
The Sub One’s frequency response ranges from 32 to 120 Hz. In use, the subwoofer’s low-end extension felt effortless, natural, and refined. The latest Evo-class Focal monitors—including the newly released Alpha Twin Evo and the Sub One—feature slate fiber woofer cones powered by a matching Class D amplifier.
Focal’s slate fiber cone technology is a composite made from recycled, non-woven carbon fibers and thermoplastic polymer. This combination provides outstanding rigidity, resulting in more accurate bass response. The thermoplastic polymer binds the fibers together, which also improves damping.
Because carbon fibers are very light, the resulting speaker driver is also more sensitive. So, what does all this mean for a subwoofer? Character. At no point did the playback feel muddy or overly “subwoofer-y.” Instead, it delivered a clean, seamlessly integrated, and solid low end.
- 2 x 8” (20cm) woofers with Slatefiber cone made in France
- 200 W RMS amplifier
- Sound neutrality, precise control of bass equalisation
- Compact design, optimal integration
- Multiple settings: low-pass crossover, volume, Footswitch input, etc.
- LFE, left and right inputs / left and right outputs
- Reproduction of sonic micro-details; precise adjustment of signal compression
Why You Need the Focal Sub One
If your studio is missing that crucial sub and bass range that everyone’s after, this device is the solution you need. Just keep in mind that before adding this unit, you should properly treat your room acoustics so the subwoofer enhances your sound instead of disrupting it.
The Focal Sub One is one of the newest products in Focal’s lineup, designed with the latest technology and materials to meet today’s standards. In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with this subwoofer—Focal is known for delivering high-quality sound and solid construction.
Conclusion – Focal Sub One Review
Focal expands its Alpha Evo line with the launch of the Alpha 80 Evo and Alpha Twin Evo monitors, along with a brand-new subwoofer, the Sub One. This new gear is highly recommended for producers and sound engineers who want high volume and rich sub-bass extension.
Compared to the rest of the Alpha Evo range, the Sub One is a premium item. However, it is still more affordable than many of its high-end competitors, making it a solid choice for those who care about bass and want good value for their money.
