The KRK S8G4 is a subwoofer with a high-quality low-end transient response that makes it perfect for generating the lowest frequencies in professional settings. Its rear panel's flexible connection options make it easy to integrate into any existing setup, and the S8G4 is equipped with an adjustable crossover frequency for near-field monitors, which can also be connected via XLR or cinch sockets, and there are a number of further settings that can be used to optimise the sound output: Volume, input sensitivity, polarity, and even a ground/lift switch. The KRK S8G4 combines cutting-edge technology with a wealth of functions for perfect sound, resulting in a powerful subwoofer that can deliver a precise low end.
The KRK S8G4 is equipped with an 8" glass-aramid composite woofer that reproduces frequencies as low as 29Hz. The woofer itself is driven by a Class D amplifier with an output of 109W capable of achieving a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 112.8dB. The specially designed, low-profile MDF cabinet ensures that the unit is robust, and the unique shape of the front-facing bass reflex port expands low frequencies while reducing boundary effects. The rear panel has both RCA inputs for integration into a hi-fi setup, and XLR and cinch inputs for use as part of a professional setup. The crossover can be set to 70, 80, 90 or 100Hz, and the phase can also be rotated by 180°, in addition to which the ground/lift switch allows hum from ground loops to be cut.
The KRK S8G4 generates a powerful bass response that makes it especially suited to producing EDM and hip-hop tracks; it's also ideal for the post-production of advertising audio, where bass has become an absolutely indispensable part of the user experience. For this reason alone, a decent subwoofer is an essential component of every modern studio's equipment: The KRK S8G4 not only offers a number of features that will enable effortless integration into an existing setup, it can also be flexibly adapted to the acoustic characteristics of a specific space and the workflow of individual listeners. For example, a footswitch – available as a separate accessory - can be used to immediately mute the subwoofer itself so that only the near-field monitors attached to it can be heard. On top of all this, the KRK S8G4 is simply a very well-made device, offering a solid foundation for every studio setup, even one that is frequently installed, broken down, and reinstalled elsewhere. And if the subwoofer ever does blow a fuse, it's easy for users to replace it themselves.
The KRK Systems brand, today a subsidiary of US guitar manufacturer Gibson, has existed since 1986, and has acquired as many years of experience in the construction and design of studio monitors. Today, KRK's product range has extended to include subwoofers and headphones, in addition to their near- and midfield monitors. KRK adepts include such illustrious names as Mark "Spike" Stent (Ed Sheeran’s sound engineer), Grammy winner Ed Cherney, rock producer Jacquire King, rock and metal producer Ulrich Wild as well as trance DJ Armin van Buuren.
The KRK S8G4 has an omnidirectional signal pattern, meaning sound is produced uniformly in all directions. In practice, this means an ideal setup would involve it being placed – firstly – near the near-field monitors in order to avoid phase problems, and – secondly – at a sufficient distance from walls and corners. The process for finding the best position for a subwoofer in any space begins with it placed centrally relative to the listening position, with the unit then being moved further away until the bass sound is either at its most gentle or its loudest. If the bass is too quiet, it may be necessary to invert the phase (without moving the speaker itself). Finally, pink noise can be played over the subwoofer and near-field monitors to enable the precise adjustment of their volume settings.