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NOVA 12

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 8NOVA 10NOVA 12NOVA 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)
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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

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