Designed for larger listening spaces and systems demanding greater low-frequency scale, the Wharfedale NOVA 12 is a 12-inch active subwoofer combining powerful output with the control and precision required for both music and home cinema.
The Wharfedale NOVA 12 is engineered for systems where bass needs to carry greater scale without sacrificing definition. Combining a 300mm active driver, ABR-assisted low-frequency loading, Class-D amplification and advanced DSP control, NOVA 12 extends down to 28Hz (-6dB) while maintaining the speed and articulation required for demanding two-channel music and high-impact movie soundtracks.
Greater Low-Frequency Scale
ABR-Assisted Low-Frequency Loading
All NOVA models benefit from a down-firing mass-loaded ABR (Auxiliary Bass Radiator) system featuring a sophisticated dual-suspension design.
An ABR works with the active driver to extend low-frequency output without using a conventional reflex port. This allows NOVA to deliver deeper bass from a more compact enclosure, while avoiding common port-related problems such as turbulence, chuffing, port compression and unwanted resonance.
Advanced DSP Management
Balanced Bass at All Volumes
NOVA subwoofers use advanced DSP to automatically optimise bass output in real time, delivering full, natural low-frequency performance across a wide range of listening levels.
From late-night listening to full-scale impact, the DSP-controlled Dynamic EQ manages the subwoofer’s dynamic response in relation to the input level, maintaining balanced low-frequency extension across a wide range of listening levels and source material.
NOVA – Dynamic EQ Response
From Music to Cinema
Each NOVA subwoofer has two built-in DSP-controlled operating modes. Music mode prioritises speed, definition and controlled integration with the main loudspeakers, while Movie mode is tuned to deliver greater low-frequency impact and scale for film soundtracks.
By tailoring the DSP behaviour to different types of content, Music mode keeps bass tight, articulate and naturally integrated for two-channel listening, while Movie mode increases the sense of weight, scale and dynamic impact required for more immersive cinematic playback.
Nova – Music and Movie EQ Response
Control at Greater Scale
Aluminium Shorting Rings
Wharfedale engineers have incorporated aluminium shorting rings within the NOVA motor system to enhance transient response and reduce distortion.
As the voice coil moves through the magnetic gap, changes in inductance can introduce distortion and soften transient behaviour. Shorting rings help reduce inductance modulation, allowing the motor system to behave more consistently as the driver moves. Linearity is improved while unwanted distortion artefacts are minimised.
Power with Precision
High-Current Class-D
A high-current Class-D amplifier provides NOVA 12 with the control required to manage its larger 300mm driver while preserving transient accuracy and low-frequency definition. Delivering 280W nominal power and up to 770W peak output, the amplifier provides substantial headroom for demanding musical passages and high-impact movie effects.
Flexible Integration
Set-up and Connections
All NOVA subwoofers provide adjustable crossover, phase and output level controls, allowing their bass response to be matched to your main loudspeakers, listening position and room. Stereo line-level inputs, LFE compatibility and speaker-level connections provide flexible integration with both modern AV systems and traditional stereo amplifiers.
Four-model range
From the compact 8” and 10” models up to the larger 12” and 15” options, the series is designed to complement all manner of spaces and systems.
Find the right NOVA for your room
| NOVA 8 | NOVA 10 | NOVA 12 | NOVA 15 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active driver | 8in (200mm) | 10in (250mm) | 12in (300mm) | 15in (380mm) |
| Best suited to | Smaller rooms / compact systems | Small-medium rooms | Medium-large rooms | Large rooms / maximum output |
| Bass extension(-6dB) | 33Hz | 29Hz | 28Hz | 28Hz |
| Amplifier power (nominal/peak) | 200W / 500W | 230W / 500W | 280W / 770W | 360W / 770W |
| Dimensions | Height: 348mm (including plinth and rubber pads) Width: 320mm Depth: 361mm (including grille and terminals) | Height: 391mm (including plinth and rubber pads) Width: 363mm Depth: 408mm (including grille and terminals) | Height: 443mm (including plinth and rubber pads) Width: 435mm Depth: 487mm (including grille and terminals) | Height: 549mm (including plinth and rubber pads) Width: 540mm Depth: 607mm (including grille and terminals) |
| Model | NOVA 12 |
|---|---|
| Description | Active ABR subwoofer system |
| Driver Unit | (12") 300mm cone long-throw |
| Passive Radiator | (12") 300mm SPL paper cone |
| LF extension (-6dB) | 28Hz |
| Amplifier Type | Class-D |
| Amp Power | 280W Nominal / 770W Peak |
| Crossover Range | 40Hz-160Hz |
| Low Level Input | Stereo Line In (2 x RCA, R to support LFE) |
| High Level Input | Speaker-level input: 4 x binding posts (4mm) |
| Low Level Output | Stereo Line Output (2 x RCA) |
| Trigger | 12V |
| USB | Update |
| AC Input | AC 100-240V |
| Standby consumption | <0.5W |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Dimensions | Height: 443mm (including plinth and rubber pads) Width: 435mm Depth: 487mm (including grille and terminals) |
| Other accessories | Power cord, manual, rubber feet pads |
| Net Weight | 29.3kg/pcs |
| Gross Weight | 33.2kg/ctn |