Aimed at the top echelon of the market, the DD+ series offers a 10, 12, and 15-inch versions. With its glossy finish and slick controls, the DD+ series was created to compete with the JL Fathom series subwoofers. All of Velodyne's new DD+ subwoofers include their latest software and EQ, which offers a level of control that makes it easy to adjust the DD+ subwoofers to perform optimally even in difficult acoustic environments. Using Velodyne's patented digital high-gain servo technology and Energy Recovery System (ERS) amplifier, the DD+ subwoofers deliver over 3,000 watts of dynamic power while producing under a half of a percent of distortion. This is a 4.5 to 6 dB improvement from the previous generation of Digital Drive subwoofers.
The DD-10+'s installation and set-up software lets you get as hands-on or hand's-off as you wish during set-up. You can set it up like a conventional subwoofer where you merely dial in a volume level and frequency crossover point from the front panel controls. Or you can use Velodyne's auto-set-up, which takes less than ten minutes to run through using a special test disc to optimize Velodyne's auto EQ system. Finally, you can use a Windows computer to adjust every parameter of the Velodyne DD-10+ EQ system, including Q, boost point, and intensity via a supplied software program. I tried all three methods. Velodyne's auto set-up produced results that very nearly matched a far more time-intensive manual computer install. The auto system chose a 79 dB crossover point with a pair of Studio Electric Monitors, while with a pair of Aerial Acoustic 5B speakers it used 76 dB. Both of these speakers are sealed cabinet two-way speakers with similar dimensions and sensitivities but the DD-10+'s built-in software is sufficiently sophisticated to discern the differences between them.
In both my main room and computer-based systems the Velodyne DD-10+ performed with aplomb. I've rarely felt my pant's cuffs shake from low frequencies, but the DD-10+ did just that when installed in my desktop system. The only subwoofer I've used with similar capabilities was the JL Audio Fathom F-112. The JL sub offers more manual controls and a very good self-contained auto-set-up that doesn't require an external sound source of test CD. But the JL sub lacks the DD-10+'s remote control with EQ presets and volume controls.
High Points• The DD+ series has the lowest distortion figures for any subwoofer that Velodyne has ever made.
• Multiple set-up options make it so the DD+ series is both user and room-friendly.
• The DD+ subwoofer's remote control has six EQ presets as well as volume and mute.
• This subwoofer is beautifully built and styled to be far more than another big black box.
Low Points
• Not the most cost-effective or highest value-for-the-dollar subwoofer from Velodyne.
• Should be set-up via a computer by a knowledgeable installer for optimal performance.
• Prospective buyers with small rooms or small speakers don't need this level of performance.
Competition and Comparisons
As I mentioned earlier, the DD+'s chief competitor in terms of both price and performance is JL Audio's Fathom Subwoofer line.
Conclusion
If you are looking for the highest level of performance from a subwoofer, the DD+ series should be on your short list. Only the JL Audio Fathom and Gotham subwoofers offer a similar level of performance, ergonomics, and overall fit and finish. Worthy of installation in even the finest cost-no-object systems, the DD+ series reestablishes Velodyne's place as one of the premier subwoofer manufacturers in the world today.
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