The Bang & Olufsen Beolab 14 subwoofer is an active, sculptural subwoofer, as the heart of B&O's Beolab 14 surround sound system (also known as the Beoplay S8). Rather than functioning merely as a standalone bass speaker, it is designed as a complete multi-channel amplification hub capable of driving an entire 4.1 or 5.1 satellite speaker ecosystem without requiring a separate AV receiver.
Key Specifications & Audio Tech
• Built-in Power: It houses a 280-watt Class D amplifier dedicated exclusively to its own internal woofer, alongside five separate 140-watt amplifiers to power external satellite speakers.
• Driver Architecture: Features a 20cm (8-inch) downward-firing bass driver configured within a ported cabinet layout, allowing it to reach low frequencies down to 26Hz.
• Acoustic Processing: Utilizes B&O's proprietary Adaptive Bass Linearisation (ABL) to continuously monitor and adapt bass output to prevent distortion at extreme volumes.
• Room Adaptation: Includes a dedicated physical manual switch to optimize acoustic reproduction based on its placement in a room (e.g., in a corner, against a wall, or free-standing).
Design & Dimensions
• Form Factor: Designed by David Lewis to resemble a minimalist "vase," featuring an iconic cylindrical shape constructed from a thick-walled polymer enclosure and an aluminum rim.
• Physical Measurements: It stands 51.1 cm tall with a diameter of 29.3 cm, weighing in at exactly 10 kg.
Connectivity & Compatibility
The subwoofer functions as the central connection hub for the entire system and is highly flexible:
• B&O Ecosystem: Connects via traditional Power Link inputs to integrate seamlessly with Bang & Olufsen televisions.
• Universal Integration: Equipped with standard line-in and AV multi-connectors, allowing it to hook up to third-party TV brands or conventional AV receivers.
• Stand-Alone Audio:
The Bang & Olufsen BeoLab 14 subwoofer is a stylish, vase-shaped active bass unit featuring an 8-inch downward-firing driver powered by a 280-watt Class-D amplifier, capable of hitting low frequencies down to 26Hz. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Key Specifications & Design
Power Output: 280 watts for the 8-inch subwoofer driver, plus five individual 140-watt amplifiers built inside the unit to power each of the satellite speakers. [1, 2]
Frequency Response: Reaches down to 26Hz, offering deep bass for movies and music. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Amplification: Class-D digital amplification paired with a built-in Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and room adaptation switches (allowing adjustments for wall, corner, or free-standing placement). [1, 2, 3]
Connectivity: Includes Power Link connections for B&O equipment, line-in options, and an A/V multi-connector for third-party televisions and receivers. [1, 2]
Performance & User Consensus
Hub Design: The subwoofer acts as the central hub for the entire system, housing all the amplification and reducing cable clutter from the satellite speakers. [1, 2]
Compatibility: Unlike older B&O gear, the BeoLab 14 system is designed to work with third-party TVs (such as Samsung, Sony, or LG) via a receiver or preamplifier. [1, 2, 3]
Real-World Sound: According to user discussions on platforms like Reddit, users consensus is that the tiny satellite speakers are completely reliant on the subwoofer, producing a very thin sound on their own, but together with the sub, the system delivers impressive clarity, transparency, and theatrical punch for its size. [1, 2, 3]
Drawbacks: Reviewers note that it commands a luxury price tag (originally launching around £2,495 to £4,395 depending on the configuration), and the mid-range can feel slightly constrained by the small 4-inch satellite drivers. [1, 2, 3]
Here is an overview of the Bang & Olufsen BeoLab 14 surround system launch and features: