AudioControl · The Epicenter (Concert Series)
AudioControl Epicenter Review: Bass Restoration Explained
The AudioControl Epicenter is a $159 RCA-level bass restoration processor with ParaBass and a dash remote. Research-based review of specs, setup and who needs it.
Pros
- Purpose-built bass restoration circuit from AudioControl, with ParaBass Sweep (27 to 63 Hz) and Width controls
- Listed specifications are strong: 0.003% THD, 10 Hz to 100 kHz response and balanced inputs up to 15 Vrms
- Includes a PFM subsonic filter (33 Hz factory) with optional 25 to 45 Hz modules to protect the subwoofer
- Jumper-selectable Bass Output Control from 2.5 V to 10 V to match amplifier input and speaker size
- ACR-1 dash remote included, with an LED that follows the restoration level
- Draws only 150 mA and uses a 1 A fuse, so power wiring is simple
Cons
- RCA inputs only, so factory radios without preamp outputs need an adapter or the Micro models
- Subsonic filter changes need the chassis opened and a separate module, and jumpers are inside the case
- Must be fed a full-range signal ahead of any crossover or it can sound garbled
- AudioControl's page and the 1998 manual disagree on noise, output units and warranty
- No independent measurements found; sound claims rest on the manufacturer and owner comments
- A look-alike Soundstream BX-10X lists similar headline specifications at about $60
Specifications
| Bass Output Control | 2.5, 5 (factory), 7.5 or 10 V by internal jumper (manual) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8 in W x 5.5 in D x 1.2 in H |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz to 100 kHz (manual: plus or minus 1 dB) |
| Inputs | 1 pair RCA (2 channels), balanced, up to 15 Vrms, 10 kohm |
| Outputs | 1 pair RCA (2 channels), 150 ohm, up to 13.5 Vrms (page); manual lists 13.5 V peak |
| PFM subsonic filter | 33 Hz factory module; optional 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 Hz modules sold separately |
| Para-Bass Sweep | 27 Hz to 63 Hz, 40 Hz factory (manual) |
| Para-Bass Width | Wide factory setting; range listed as 30 Hz to 250 Hz (manual) |
| Power | High headroom PWM switching supply; 150 mA draw; 1 A fuse recommended |
| Remote | ACR-1 dash remote included |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 110 dB on AudioControl's page; the 1998 manual lists -130 dB |
| Total harmonic distortion | 0.003% (AudioControl) |
| Type | Bass restoration processor (RCA level) |
| Warranty | 1 year per AudioControl's page; the 1998 manual describes 5 years if dealer-installed |
| Weight | 1.8 lb (0.8 kg) on AudioControl's page; the manual lists 1.7 lb |
Verdict
The Epicenter is a bass restoration processor for systems with full-range RCA sources and aftermarket subwoofer amplifiers, with ParaBass tuning, a subsonic filter and an included ACR-1 dash remote. Its strength is a purpose-built circuit with strong listed specifications from the original maker. Its main compromise is RCA-only inputs and a subsonic filter you change by swapping a module inside the case. At AudioControl's $159 price it is fair, though a look-alike sells for about $60.
Is AudioControl's EPICENTER worth buying? For a car that already has an aftermarket subwoofer amplifier and a full-range RCA source, and whose music sounds thin at the bottom, $159 is a fair price for the original bass restoration box from its maker. This EPICENTER review is less kind to anyone with only speaker-level outputs, and to anyone hoping it will rescue a weak subwoofer or an underpowered amp. It reshapes the signal. It adds no power and no cone area.
This page covers the Concert Series model, which AudioControl lists as The EPICENTER Bass Restoration Processor. It is a current product. The AudioControl EPICENTER PRO builds on it with more control and is sold alongside it, not in its place.
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EPICENTER design and build
AudioControl lists the chassis at 8 by 5.5 by 1.2 inches. The manual gives the weight as 1.7 lb, while the product page says 1.8 lb (0.8 kg), and the manual figure is used here. Our calculation puts the volume at 52.8 cubic inches. The manual says to mount the unit anywhere except the front bumper or radiator, usually in the trunk near the amplifiers, with self-tapping screws after a check for fuel tanks and existing wiring. The power supply is a high-headroom PWM design. Housing material is not confirmed.
The box holds the processor, an ACR-1 dash remote, a power connector, the manual and a warranty card. The remote mounts under the dash with two screws, or flush through a 9/32 inch hole, and its LED can be switched between green and amber by turning a plug 180 degrees. The processor has a lighted display that flashes when the restoration circuit is active.
EPICENTER features and controls
AudioControl says the EPICENTER analyzes the signal from your source, recreates bass tones lost in recording, and feeds that low-frequency information back into the signal path. According to the manual, the patented circuit reads harmonics in the upper frequency range and uses them to drop down a few octaves. That makes it synthesis rather than a plain boost, so placement matters. The manual says to install it before any crossover, and a source with a built-in crossover or processor must send it a full-range output.
Para-Bass is a single-band equalizer for the restored bass. Sweep sets the center frequency between 27 Hz and 63 Hz, shipped at 40 Hz, and Width sets how broad the filter is, shipped on Wide. The sweep spans about 1.22 octaves by our calculation. A PFM subsonic filter ships at 33 Hz, and a Bass Output Control jumper inside the chassis sets the maximum output voltage, shipped at 5 V. The dash remote adjusts the amount of restoration.
The inputs are two-channel RCA, balanced, and accept up to 15 Vrms at 10 kohm. Jumpers inside the case switch between balanced and unbalanced input and between ground isolation modes (isolated as shipped, with 200 ohm and ground as alternatives), which the manual offers as fixes for alternator whine. Changing the subsonic filter means removing the top cover and swapping a module. The manual lists 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 Hz modules as separate purchases, and current availability is not confirmed. The AudioControl EPICENTER PRO uses a switch for this, so the swap is a real usability cost.
AudioControl's documents show no speaker-level inputs. A factory radio with no RCA outputs needs a line output converter first, or the AudioControl EPICENTER Micro PRO, which adds speaker-level inputs (40 V / 400 W at 20 kohm) at $249. AudioControl also lists an EPICENTER Link feature for pairing with its EPIC monoblock, EPICFIVE and EPICBIGFOUR amplifiers. How it connects is not confirmed here.
Rated performance of the EPICENTER
Our research found no independent lab measurements for this model. AudioControl's manual rates it at 10 Hz to 100 kHz within 1 dB, 0.003% total harmonic distortion, 130 dB signal-to-noise, more than 60 dB of balanced input noise rejection, a 13.5 V peak maximum output and 150 ohm output impedance, all measured at 14.4 V. The product page gives 110 dB and 13.5 Vrms for two of those figures. This page follows the manual.
The rated figures work out to a few useful comparisons. The 20 dB gap between the two signal-to-noise figures is a tenfold difference in noise voltage. A 13.5 V peak sine wave is about 9.55 Vrms, close to the 9 Vrms rating of the AudioControl EPICENTER PRO, so the higher-looking output number may not mean more output. The 0.003% distortion rating equals -90.5 dB.
The manual says the effect depends on a full-range feed. If the system plays no restoration at all, it asks you to check the unit sits ahead of every crossover. For distortion, it says to turn the dash control down, raise the PFM frequency or lower the Bass Output setting, and then to raise the Sweep frequency.
The Bass Output Control pairs each voltage with a minimum speaker size. For an amplifier input of 3 V or less the manual gives 2.5 V and speakers of 8 inches or larger. For 5 V or less it gives 5 V and 10 inches, and for 7.5 V or less it gives 7.5 V and 12 inches. For 10 V it offers no size guidance. The steps are 6.0 dB from 2.5 V to 5 V and 3.5 dB from 5 V to 7.5 V. Using nominal diameters as a model, with real cone areas smaller, the step from 8 to 10 inches adds about 56% area and the step from 10 to 12 inches about 44%.
The lowest Sweep setting of 27 Hz sits 0.29 octave below the shipped 33 Hz filter point, so the bottom of the sweep range lands in the filter's roll-off unless a 25 Hz module is fitted. The shipped 40 Hz center is 0.57 octave above the bottom of the range. The filter slope is not confirmed.
The rated 150 mA draw is 2.16 W at 14.4 V, or 0.15 Ah per hour of use if the draw stays steady (a model, not a measurement). The recommended 1 A fuse is 6.7 times that draw.
Setting up the EPICENTER safely
The manual's quick install is short. Put the unit between a full-range source and the amplifiers, before any crossover. Run a 22 to 18 gauge remote turn-on lead from the head unit, +12 V from a constant source through a 1 A fuse using 18 gauge wire or larger, and a ground of the same gauge to the battery negative, a ground bus or a verified ground. The manual warns that the factory head unit ground is not a good one. It also advises turning down equalizer bass and any loudness or bass tone controls before enabling the unit.
Disconnect the battery negative before connecting power. Before drilling any mounting hole, confirm there is no fuel tank or wiring behind the panel, as the manual warns. Check behind the dash before cutting a flush-mount hole for the remote, and route its cable clear of pedals and moving parts. AudioControl recommends dealer installation. High sound pressure can cause permanent hearing loss, so keep volume sensible while tuning.
A short fitment checklist:
- Source: an aftermarket head unit or other full-range RCA source within 15 Vrms.
- Amplifier: RCA inputs, with the Bass Output jumper matched to the amp's rated input and the speaker size.
- Power: a constant 12 V feed, a verified ground and a remote turn-on lead, all behind a 1 A fuse.
- Space: 8 by 5.5 by 1.2 inches, plus a cable run to the dash for the ACR-1.
- Subwoofer: with a ported enclosure, choose the PFM module deliberately.
EPICENTER against two rivals
The AudioControl EPICENTER PRO costs $199 and is rated at 9 Vrms output (13 V peak), 0.03% distortion and more than 105 dB signal-to-noise. In return it adds a built-in line driver, a switch for output voltage, a 24 Hz subsonic filter that can be bypassed and a dual-knob ACR-4 remote. The Soundstream BX-10X is listed at $59.99 by one retailer with 13.5 V output, 0.002% distortion and 132 dB signal-to-noise. The maker's page for it is not confirmed, so those figures are retailer-listed, and no head-to-head test turned up.
| Feature | EPICENTER | AudioControl EPICENTER PRO | Soundstream BX-10X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (USD) | $159 | $199 | $59.99 (one retailer) |
| Inputs | RCA, 2 channels, balanced, up to 15 Vrms | RCA, up to 10 Vrms, built-in line driver | RCA plus high-level harness (listed) |
| Max output | 13.5 V peak per manual | 9 Vrms, 13 V peak | 13.5 V (basis not stated) |
| Output voltage setting | Internal jumper: 2.5 / 5 / 7.5 / 10 V | Switch: 5 / 7.5 / 10 V | Not confirmed |
| Subsonic filter | Swappable module, 33 Hz as shipped | 24 Hz or bypass | PFM filter, frequency not stated |
| THD | 0.003% | 0.03% | 0.002% (listing) |
| Signal-to-noise | 130 dB per manual | Above 105 dB | 132 dB (listing) |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz to 100 kHz | 10 Hz to 22 kHz, +/-1 dB | 10 Hz to 100 kHz (listing) |
| Dash remote | ACR-1, single knob | ACR-4, dual knob | Remote bass control (type not stated) |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year (retailer) |
The AudioControl EPICENTER PRO costs $40 more, a 25.2% premium. The BX-10X listing is 37.7% of the EPICENTER price, a saving of $99.01. On the rated figures, the EPICENTER beats the AudioControl EPICENTER PRO on distortion by 20 dB and on signal-to-noise by at least 25 dB, but ratings do not predict how either sounds.
Who should buy the EPICENTER and who should skip it
It suits you if:
- You have an aftermarket subwoofer amplifier and a source with full-range RCA outputs.
- Your music or source leaves the bottom octaves light.
- You want a long-established unit from its original maker with a parametric control and a dash remote.
Consider skipping it if:
- Your only source is a factory radio without preamp outputs. The AudioControl EPICENTER Micro PRO is the AudioControl route.
- Your subwoofer or amplifier is undersized, since the EPICENTER adds no power.
- You want a switch for the filter and output voltage rather than jumpers and modules.
- You want the cheapest trial of the idea. The BX-10X listing is far cheaper, with its figures unconfirmed.
EPICENTER price and what to check before buying
The EPICENTER is priced at $159 at AudioControl. Prices change often, so check the current listing. If you prefer Amazon, you can see the EPICENTER on Amazon, as long as you confirm who sells it.
The product page lists a one-year warranty. The 1998 manual describes five years when an authorized US dealer installs the unit and one year otherwise. AudioControl's current PRO manual says products from unauthorized resellers, including third-party marketplace sellers, are not covered by its warranty. Whether those terms apply to the EPICENTER is not confirmed, so check the seller either way.
Then confirm the model. AudioControl also sells the AudioControl EPICENTER PRO, the EPICENTER Micro, the AudioControl EPICENTER Micro PRO and an EPICENTER Mexico Edition. Specifications for the EPICENTER Micro and the Mexico Edition are not confirmed here. The in-box list covers the processor, the ACR-1, a power connector, the manual and a warranty card. Budget for RCA cables, power wire, a fuse and a ground connection.
EPICENTER final verdict and score
The EPICENTER earns 3.5 out of 5. The rubric weights performance and function at 40%, features and usability at 20%, build quality and design at 15% and value for the price at 25%. Performance scores 4.0 for strong rated distortion and noise figures and a clearly defined circuit purpose. Features score 3.5 because of RCA-only inputs and a filter that needs a module swap. Build scores 3.5 because few construction details are confirmed. Value scores 3.5 because $159 is fair, while the AudioControl EPICENTER PRO adds a switch and a dual remote for $40 more and the BX-10X listing sits far lower.
| Criterion | Weight | Score (0-5) | Weighted points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance and function | 40% | 4.0 | 1.600 |
| Features and usability | 20% | 3.5 | 0.700 |
| Build quality and design | 15% | 3.5 | 0.525 |
| Value for the price | 25% | 3.5 | 0.875 |
| Total | 100% | 3.70, rounded to 3.5 | 3.700 |
Our research score is based on the rated figures and documented details above.
Sources and further reading
- AudioControl EPICENTER product page (price, specifications, in-box list)
- AudioControl EPICENTER Concert Series manual (rated figures, jumpers, installation)
- AudioControl EPICENTER PRO product page (price and specifications)
- AudioControl EPICENTER PRO manual (current warranty wording)
- AudioControl EPICENTER Micro PRO product page (price and speaker-level inputs)
- Quality Mobile Video Soundstream BX-10X listing (price and listed specifications)
AudioControl Epicenter FAQ
What does the AudioControl Epicenter actually do?
It analyses harmonics in the incoming signal and recreates low bass notes that were lost in recording or processing, then feeds them back into the signal. It is a restoration circuit, not a simple bass boost. It does not add amplifier power or cone area.
Does the Epicenter work with a factory radio?
The Concert Series has RCA inputs only, so it needs a source with full-range preamp outputs or a line output converter ahead of it. AudioControl's Micro and Micro PRO models add speaker-level inputs for factory systems. Check which model your listing shows.
Where should the Epicenter go in the signal chain?
AudioControl says to install it before any crossover and, if you use one, before the equalizer. It needs a full-range signal. If you send it only a subwoofer-band signal it will likely sound garbled.
Which Bass Output Control setting should I use?
The factory setting is 5 V. The manual recommends 2.5 V for amps with 3 V input or less and speakers of 8 inches or larger, 5 V for 5 V or less and 10 inches or larger, and 7.5 V for 7.5 V or less and 12 inches or larger. Start with the factory setting and lower it if the system distorts.
What is the difference between the Epicenter and the Epicenter PRO?
The PRO adds a built-in line driver, a switchable subsonic filter, selectable output voltage and a dual-knob ACR-4 remote. Its listed maximum output is 9 Vrms against 13.5 Vrms on the Concert Series. AudioControl lists the PRO at $199 and the Concert Series at $159.
Is the Epicenter worth the money?
At $159 it is reasonable if you have an aftermarket subwoofer amp and bass-light music. A Soundstream BX-10X lists similar headline specs for about $60, but I found no head-to-head test. It will not fix an underpowered or undersized subwoofer.
What fuse and wire does the Epicenter need?
The manual calls for 18 gauge wire or larger fused at 1 A for +12 V, and the same gauge for ground. Remote turn-on uses 22 to 18 gauge wire. Disconnect the battery negative before wiring, and avoid using the factory head unit ground.
What warranty does the Epicenter have?
AudioControl's current product page lists a one-year manufacturer warranty. The older manual describes five years if installed by an authorized dealer. Confirm the terms with your seller before you buy.