Any experience hooking up REL subwoofers to Boulder amps?

Solecky

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Joined
Dec 24, 2013
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71
Location
Stillwater, NY
I asked Boulder and they did not have experience. Was curious if anyone else hooked up REL subs (in my case 2 REL carbon specials) and which wires went to what. The owners manual has good instructions but not 100% sure which category my 2160 fits under, thanks.
 
No experience here with Boulders, but I had the same question hooking my RELs up to my new amps. I spoke with REL and they knew immediately that they were differential amps and therefore the connection was different. Boulder should know if their amps are differential or not and that will lead you. Also try REL who, in my case, knew immediately about the correct connection to my amp. REL has several good videos on the topic on youtube (but you have to know whether you have a differential amplifier). Let the record reflect that I have no idea what a differential amplifier is, but I do know the REL connection to them is different.
 
I have two REL subs that I've used with my Boulder 866. I attach both the 'hot' wires to the positive terminal and let the ground 'float' (it's not attached to the negative terminal). My dealer advised me not to hook up the negative terminal as it causes the amp to go into protect mode since it's a balanced design. I actually had a pair of aftermarket REL cables made with both hot wires combined into one spade connector and the ground cable with no termination. Never had a problem.
 
I am using the REL airship. There is a receiver built into the back of the Carbon special. I am pleased with the performance. REL was advising they feel it has benefits over the direct hot connection. I do not know the details...
Also, I understand I am not commenting about the unique Boulder amplifier...
 
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