Prolight + Sound 2015 saw the launch of the 7040A, a new ultra-compact subwoofer from Genelec. Designed to complement the 8010, 8020 and M030 active monitors, the 7040A delivers accurate sound reproduction and precise monitoring of low frequency content. These performance characteristics, combined with a compact form factor, make the 7040A ideal for use in music creation and sound design applications, as well as audio and video production work in small rooms and improvised monitoring environments.

The Genelec 7040A subwoofer packs the cutting-edge technology and the highest performance in an extremely compact package. All electronics, amplifier circuitry, drivers and enclosure have been designed and assembled, tested and calibrated individually in the Genelec factory in Finland. The 7040A features Genelec’s Laminar Spiral Enclosure (LSE) technology. This unique enclosure design is the result of more than 10 years of research work and manufacturing experience and allows the 7040 to achieve a high sound pressure level (an essential property for a subwoofer) and move high volumes of air without distortion.

“In recent years, we have observed an explosion in small-scale, audio and video production work,’ observes Lars-Olof Janflod, marketing and PR director at Genelec. “These smaller productions, while often more limited in scope than larger works, still demand the highest levels of equipment performance and we have addressed this need with our 8010, 8020 and M030 active monitors. The 7040A joins this family and visitors to our stand were able to see that it is possible to create a professional, reliable, low frequency reproduction subwoofer, in a transportable package.’

Small rooms have limited floor space and Genelec engineers have optimised the 7040 subwoofer enclosure with this in mind. With external dimensions of 410 x 350 x 205 mm (16 1/8 x 13 ¾ x 8 1/8 in), the 7040A has a footprint that is smaller than that of a small practice guitar amplifier. It is also narrow enough to fit in a 19 inch rack and weighs a mere 11.3 kg (25 lb).

Calibration of the Genelec 7040A subwoofer to the listening environment is done using DIP switches located on the subwoofer connector panel. These controls address typical monitoring placement configurations. An optional carry bag allows professionals to work on the move, with portable recording devices and in non- purpose-built monitoring environments with an accurate and flexible monitoring tool.

The 7040A produces 100 dB of sound pressure level (SPL) using a 6 ½ inch woofer and a powerful Genelec-designed Class D amplifier. At the lowest frequencies this SPL is radiated from the bass reflex port by channelling large volumes of air movement through it. The LSE enclosure is made from a spiral-shaped strip of steel, providing maximal mechanical stability for the large pressures generated inside the subwoofer. The spiral forms the bass reflex port as well, enabling linear air flow also at the highest SPL outputs. This flow-optimized construction provides extended low frequency capacity and low distortion resulting in precise bass articulation.