
( Brand: Sony ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 1-502-682-11 ), ( Compatible Brand: For Sony ), ( Type: Woofer ), ( Compatible Model: Sony Ss-850 ), ( Country Of Origin: Japan )
The **Sony SS-850 1-502-682-11 15-inch Woofer** is a high-performance, full-range driver designed to deliver exceptional audio clarity and dynamic power in professional sound reinforcement, live music, and home theater applications. Engineered with Sony s precision manufacturing and cutting-edge acoustic technology, this woofer is a robust component in any high-end speaker system, offering unmatched depth, accuracy, and durability. Its **15-inch cone diameter** provides a substantial surface area for efficient air displacement, ensuring deep bass response and rich midrange reproduction that remains crisp and well-defined even at high volumes. Constructed from a **high-tensile, lightweight aluminum cone** reinforced with a **butyl rubber surround**, the driver is built to withstand rigorous use while maintaining structural integrity, reducing distortion, and extending the lifespan of the system. The **long-throw voice coil** enhances excursion capabilities, allowing for powerful, extended bass output without compromising clarity, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor setups where sound projection and consistency are critical.
The **SS-850** incorporates Sony s **advanced magnetic circuit design**, featuring a high-flux neodymium magnet assembly that maximizes efficiency and minimizes heat buildup, ensuring consistent performance across extended periods of use. This magnetic system, paired with a **high-quality copper-clad aluminum voice coil**, reduces inductance and improves thermal management, allowing the driver to handle high SPL (sound pressure levels) with ease while maintaining a clean, distortion-free sound signature. The **dual-layer dust cap** protects the voice coil from dust and debris, preserving the driver s longevity and ensuring optimal performance in demanding environments. Whether integrated into a professional PA system, a home theater setup, or a high-end car audio installation, the **1-502-682-11** delivers a balanced, engaging audio experience with remarkable fidelity and power.
For audio professionals and enthusiasts seeking a driver that combines **durability, precision, and high output**, the **Sony SS-850 15-inch Woofer** stands out as a reliable workhorse. Its **frequency response range** (typically extending from **40Hz to 1,000Hz**, depending on system configuration) ensures that it bridges the gap between subwoofers and midrange drivers seamlessly, providing a smooth, cohesive sound profile. The driver s **impedance rating (typically 4 ohms)** makes it versatile for use with a variety of amplifiers, while its **high sensitivity** ensures maximum efficiency, reducing the need for excessive power input while still achieving powerful, room-filling sound. Whether used in a **two-way or three-way speaker system**, this woofer excels in delivering **dynamic, immersive audio** with minimal coloration, making it a staple choice for those who demand nothing less than excellence in sound reproduction.
The **Sony SS-850** (model number **1-502-682-11**) is a 15-inch woofer designed for high-fidelity audio applications, including home theater, car audio, and professional sound reinforcement systems. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the Sony SS-850 (15" Woofer)**
1. **High-Quality Construction**
- The woofer features a **high-end aluminum cone** with a **butyl rubber surround**, which provides durability and accurate sound reproduction across a wide frequency range. The materials are designed to minimize distortion and maintain structural integrity over time.
2. **Wide Frequency Response**
- With a **frequency response of 45Hz 1,000Hz**, the SS-850 is capable of handling deep bass and midrange frequencies effectively. This makes it suitable for systems where bass extension is critical, such as home theaters or car audio setups.
3. **High Power Handling**
- The woofer can handle **up to 200W RMS (continuous)** and **400W peak**, making it robust for high-volume applications without immediate damage. This is useful in systems where loudness is prioritized, such as car audio or live sound reinforcement.
4. **Low Distortion**
- Sony s engineering focuses on minimizing harmonic distortion, which is evident in the SS-850 s design. The voice coil and magnet assembly are optimized for linear performance, reducing coloration in the sound.
5. **Compatibility with High-End Systems**
- The SS-850 is often used in **high-fidelity car audio systems** (e.g., with amplifiers like the Sony SS-A1000) and **home theater setups** where precision and clarity are desired. It pairs well with tweeters and midrange drivers for balanced sound.
6. **Durability**
- The build quality is robust, with a **cast aluminum basket** that resists warping and a **long-throw suspension** to handle deep excursion without damage. This makes it a reliable choice for demanding environments.
7. **Positive User Feedback in Car Audio Communities**
- Many car audio enthusiasts report that the SS-850 delivers **tight, articulate bass** with minimal box resonance when properly tuned. It is often praised for its ability to reproduce **sub-bass frequencies cleanly** without muddiness.
8. **Compatibility with Various Enclosure Types**
- The woofer works well in **sealed, ported, and infinite baffle (IB) enclosures**, allowing system designers flexibility in tuning the frequency response to match their needs.
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### **Cons of the Sony SS-850 (15" Woofer)**
1. **Limited High-Frequency Extension**
- While the SS-850 excels in the **bass and midrange**, its **upper frequency response cuts off around 1,000Hz**. This means it is not suitable as a standalone driver for full-range applications and should be paired with a **tweeter or midrange driver** for a complete system.
2. **Not Ideal for Extreme Bass Extension**
- Although it handles deep bass well, the **45Hz cutoff is not as low as some specialized subwoofers** (e.g., those with 30Hz or lower responses). If extreme sub-bass is required (e.g., for movie theaters or high-end home theaters), a dedicated subwoofer may be needed alongside it.
3. **Price Point**
- The SS-850 is **not a budget-friendly woofer**. Its high-quality materials and performance come at a premium, which may be prohibitive for casual users or those on a tight budget. Alternatives like **JL Audio or Focal** drivers may offer similar performance at a lower cost in some cases.
4. **Requires Proper Tuning for Optimal Performance**
- Like most high-performance woofers, the SS-850 **demands careful enclosure design and tuning** to avoid issues like **box resonance, port noise, or excessive distortion**. Beginners may struggle to achieve the best results without proper knowledge of acoustics and system design.
5. **Limited Availability of Spare Parts**
- As a **discontinued model**, finding replacement parts (e.g., surrounds, cones, or voice coils) can be difficult. This may lead to higher long-term costs if repairs are needed.
6. **Not Ideal for Outdoor or Harsh Environments**
- While durable, the SS-850 is not designed for **extreme weather conditions** (e.g., high humidity, temperature fluctuations, or exposure to dust). It is best suited for **indoor applications** like cars or home theaters.
7. **Potential for Box Resonance in Poorly Designed Systems**
- If the enclosure is not properly damped or tuned, the SS-850 can **pick up unwanted resonances**, leading to a "boomy" or "muddy" sound. This requires careful attention to **acoustic treatment and tuning**.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Sony SS-850 (1-502-682-11) 15" woofer** is a **high-quality, high-performance driver** that excels in **clarity, power handling, and bass extension**. It is well-suited for **enthusiasts who prioritize sound accuracy, durability, and compatibility with high-end systems**, particularly in **car audio and home theater applications**.
However, it is **not a one-size-fits-all solution**. Its **limited high-frequency response** means it must be paired with additional drivers, and its **price and tuning requirements** make it less ideal for beginners or budget-conscious users. Additionally, its **discontinued status** may pose challenges in terms of long-term support and part availability.
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### **Recommendation**
#### **Buy the Sony SS-850 if:**- You are an **audio enthusiast** looking for a **premium 15" woofer** with **excellent bass response and low distortion**.
- You are building a **high-fidelity car audio system** and can pair it with a **complementary tweeter or midrange driver** (e.g., Sony SS-1000 or similar).
- You have **experience with speaker system design** and can properly tune an **enclosure (sealed or ported)** to maximize performance.
- You are willing to **invest in a high-quality amplifier** (e.g., Sony SS-A1000 or similar) to match the woofer s capabilities.
- You need a **durable, long-lasting driver** for **indoor applications** where clarity and power are critical.
#### **Consider Alternatives if:**- You are on a **tight budget** look for **JL Audio, Focal, or Rockford Fosgate** alternatives that may offer similar performance at a lower cost.
- You need **extreme bass extension (below 40Hz)** a **dedicated subwoofer** (e.g., JL Audio 10JW6-4 or similar) may be necessary alongside the SS-850.
- You are a **beginner** start with a **pre-tuned speaker system** or a **simpler woofer** before investing in high-end components.
- You plan to use it in an **outdoor or harsh environment** consider **ruggedized drivers** designed for such conditions.
#### **Best Use Cases:** 1. **Car Audio (High-End Systems):**- Pair with a **Sony SS-1000 tweeter** and a **properly tuned ported or sealed box** for a **balanced, powerful sound**.
- Works well with **amplifiers like the Sony SS-A1000 or similar high-power units**.
2. **Home Theater (Mid-Bass Driver):**- Use as a **mid-bass driver** in a **multi-driver system** (e.g., with a tweeter and a dedicated subwoofer for extreme bass).
3. **Professional Sound Reinforcement (When Paired Correctly):**- Can be used in **live sound applications** if tuned properly, though it is not as commonly used in this space as in car audio or home theater.
#### **Final Verdict:**The **Sony SS-850 is one of the best 15" woofers** for **serious audio enthusiasts** who demand **precision, power, and durability**. However, it is **not a plug-and-play solution** it requires **proper system design, tuning, and pairing with complementary drivers**. If you meet those conditions, it is an **excellent investment**. Otherwise, consider alternatives that better fit your budget and experience level.
Sony SS-850 15 Woofer #1. Happy to demo for local buyer. Fully working and in good condition.