The NOVA 8 is the compact model in Wharfedale's four-strong NOVA active subwoofer series, which runs from this 8in version through 10in and 12in models up to the 15in NOVA 15. Built around a 200mm (8in) long-throw driver paired with a 250mm (10in) downward-firing auxiliary bass radiator, it is aimed at smaller rooms and compact systems, adding low-frequency weight to a stereo pair or a discreet home cinema installation without demanding much floor space.
ABR Bass Loading
Every NOVA model uses a downward-firing, mass-loaded auxiliary bass radiator (ABR) with a dual-suspension design in place of a conventional reflex port. The ABR works with the active driver to extend low-frequency output from a more compact enclosure, while avoiding the problems a port can introduce: turbulence, chuffing, port compression and unwanted resonance. Acoustic loading is optimised individually for each model in the range; in the NOVA 8 the result is bass extension to 33Hz at -6dB from a cabinet measuring 348mm high by 320mm wide by 361mm deep.
Driver and Motor System
The long-throw active driver is newly engineered for the NOVA series. Its rigid, lightweight paper cone carries a proprietary coating for stiffness and self-damping, and it sits on a heavy-duty die-cast chassis with an oversized high-roll surround to support the excursion that deep bass demands. A large-diameter voice coil improves thermal efficiency and power handling, while an aluminium shorting ring in the motor system reduces inductance modulation as the coil moves through the magnetic gap, improving linearity and lowering distortion artefacts.
Class D Amplification and DSP
Power comes from a high-current Class D amplifier rated at 200W nominal and 500W peak, with up to 80V of peak output voltage for dynamic headroom. DSP-controlled Dynamic EQ manages the subwoofer's output in relation to input level, holding low-frequency balance steady from late-night listening through to full-scale playback and protecting the driver against overdrive. Two DSP operating modes are provided: Music mode prioritises speed, definition and controlled integration with the main loudspeakers, while Movie mode adds weight, scale and impact for film soundtracks.
Connections and Setup
Stereo line-level input is on two RCA sockets, with the right channel doubling as the LFE input for use with an AV receiver or processor. A speaker-level input on four 4mm binding posts allows connection to a traditional stereo amplifier with no preamp output, and a stereo line output on two RCA sockets passes the signal on. The crossover is adjustable from 40Hz to 160Hz, with level and 0 or 180 degree phase controls alongside it. A 12V trigger input lets a connected amplifier or processor bring the subwoofer out of standby, and a USB port is fitted for firmware updates. The cabinet is finished in matte black and supplied with a power cord, rubber feet pads and the user manual.