The REL S and Reference Series line on Speaker Ranking spans 2 generations and 5 models, from the REL Acoustics R-528 to the REL Acoustics S/550, REL Acoustics S/850 and REL Acoustics Carbon Special Black Label. Ratings run from 3.5/5 to 4.2/5. Of these, 4 are still sold.
Each column below is one generation, oldest on the left. Each row follows one model into the model that replaced it; a long arrow means a model skipped a generation. Ratings are out of 5, and an estimated rating comes from measured models in the same family.
More from this brand: every REL Acoustics speaker ranked.
Generation by generation
R-528 to S/850
The REL Acoustics S/850 replaced the REL Acoustics R-528. Both rate 3.7/5.
| Spec | R-528 | S/850 |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers | 12” (305mm) driver | 12” (305mm) driver, 12” passive radiator |
| Amplifier Power | 500W RMS | 850W RMS (1,000W peak) |
| Weight | 58 lbs (26.3 kg) | 93.7 lbs (42.5 kg) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many generations of the REL S and Reference Series are there?
Speaker Ranking covers 2 generations of the REL S and Reference Series, from the REL Acoustics R-528 to the REL Acoustics S/550, REL Acoustics S/850 and REL Acoustics Carbon Special Black Label.
What replaced the REL Acoustics R-528?
The REL Acoustics S/850 replaced the REL Acoustics R-528. Both are rated 3.7/5.