REL Acoustics Airship Direct

The Receiver Disappears Into the Amplifier Panel

Wireless subwoofer links usually solve one problem and create another: you lose the long signal run, but you gain a black box on the floor and a second power supply to hide. AirShip Direct removes that. The receiver plugs into a dedicated port on the amplifier panel of the new Serie S — no separate enclosure, no RCA interconnects, no external power supply at the subwoofer end.

What's left is a transmitter at your amplifier and nothing visible at the sub. Plug in, pair, play.

Same Transmission Platform as AirShip II

Worth being clear about what this product is and isn't. REL states that in terms of wireless transmission, AirShip Direct performs identically to AirShip II — the 5.8 GHz platform, zero compression, wide bandwidth, and ultra-low latency are the same. This isn't a step up in signal quality over the AirShip II.

What it changes is integration. If you own a new Serie S subwoofer, AirShip Direct gives you that same transmission with a cleaner install and a faster setup. If you own an older REL that AirShip II supports, the II remains your product — the Direct won't connect to it.

Zero Compression, Low Latency

Many wireless subwoofer links compress the signal to fit available bandwidth — the wrong compromise for low-frequency material, where dynamic range is the point. AirShip Direct transmits uncompressed at 5.8 GHz with latency low enough that the subwoofer stays in time with your main speakers.

The high-level input accepts stereo signals from the speaker terminals of your receiver, integrated amp, or power amps. That's REL's preferred connection for a reason: the subwoofer receives the same signal your main speakers do, including your amplifier's own character, which is what lets a REL blend rather than announce itself.

Scales to Stereo Pairs and Line Arrays

A single transmitter supports multi-subwoofer configurations — stereo pairs and vertical line-array setups — so a system that grows over time doesn't need a second transmitter to go with each sub.

Before You Order — Check Compatibility

Designed for the new Serie S subwoofers. The direct-connect receiver requires the dedicated port on the new Serie S amplifier panel. REL has indicated additional models will join the platform, and it debuts alongside the 212 Black Label and Carbon Special Black Label — but this is not a universal wireless kit.

If your REL isn't a new Serie S, the AirShip II is the product you want — it covers the No.32, No.31, 212/SX, Carbon Special, S/812, and S/510. Call us with your model and we'll confirm which applies before you order.

One operational note: you can't use the AirShip Direct wireless connection and a wired direct connection at the same time. It's one or the other.

Specifications

• Transmission: 5.8 GHz, zero-compression, ultra-low latency
• Transmitter inputs: High level (Neutrik Speakon), L/R low level (RCA), .1/LFE (single RCA), .1/LFE (balanced XLR)
• Input impedance: High level 150k ohms; low level, .1/LFE RCA, and .1/LFE XLR all 10k ohms
• Wireless output power: Less than -3dBm
• Receiver: Direct-connect to dedicated port on new Serie S amplifier panel; no external power supply required
• Transmitter power: AC wall adapter (supplied), DC in 500mA
• Multi-sub support: Stereo pairs and line-array configurations
• Transmitter dimensions (W × H × D): 8.5" × 8.5" × 1.8" (215.5 × 215.5 × 46.5 mm)
• Controls: Power switch and pair button on both transmitter and receiver; status LED on receiver

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I buy this or the AirShip II?
It comes down to which subwoofer you own. AirShip Direct connects only to the new Serie S; AirShip II covers the earlier Reference and Serie S models. Since REL says the two transmit identically, you're not choosing between performance levels — you're choosing the one that fits your sub. If your Serie S has the dedicated port, the Direct gives you a cleaner install for the same transmission.

Will I lose sound quality going wireless?
The signal isn't compressed, which is the usual culprit in wireless subwoofer links, and latency is low enough to keep the sub timed with your speakers. REL positions this as equivalent to a wired connection. Whether you could tell the difference in your own room is a question best answered by listening — the 60-day return window is there for that.

Do I still need a power cord at the subwoofer?
The subwoofer itself still needs an outlet, but the receiver doesn't add a second one — it draws what it needs through the amplifier panel port. So you're planning for one power run instead of a power run plus a long signal cable.

Why Audio Advisor?

• 40+ Years of Expertise — Since 1981, we've helped over a million music lovers find the right gear.
• 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Take your time. Listen, enjoy, and make sure it's right for you.
• Real Experts, Real Help — Our team is here at 800-942-0220, weekdays 9am–6pm EST.
• Free Shipping — On orders over $49, delivered to your door.
• Flexible Payment Options — Financing available so you can start listening now.