I recently had the chance to try the Revel Recovery Nova Infrared Sauna right after I tested the Aura version, and I must say, it intrigued me from the start. The fact that it uses full-spectrum infrared heating and comes built with Canadian cedar made it stand out.
After regularly testing for three months, this sauna seemed like a solid option. What also caught my attention were the extra features, and for its price, I’d say it’s there in the mid-levels. Let’s take a closer look.
Before You Buy Revel Recovery Nova Infrared Sauna
I understand if you’re feeling lazy to read today, so let me give you a quick breakdown of the Revel Nova Infrared Sauna to see if this has what it takes to convince your wallet:
- Efficient Full-Spectrum Heating: Provides consistent, even heat with options for dual-zone control.
- Premium Features: Bluetooth speakers, chromotherapy lighting, and a digital control panel for easy customization.
- Price Point: Positioned in the higher range, making it important to weigh whether the features justify the cost.
- User-Friendly: Suitable for both beginners and experienced sauna users.
- Solid Build: Durable Canadian cedar construction with quality infrared heaters.
- Room for Improvement: Lacks small conveniences like phone storage for added practicality.
Get the Revel Recovery Nova Infrared Saunas here:
Product Specifications
Revel Recovery Nova 2-Person Model
- Material: Canadian Western Red Cedar
- Heaters: 5 full-spectrum heaters, 2 ultra-low EMF carbon panels
- Lighting: Adjustable chromotherapy and LED strip lighting
- Control Panel: Digital with temperature and light control
- Audio: Bluetooth and dual resonance speakers
- Temperature Range: 40°C to 70°C
- Power: 2500 Watts, 15 Amp plug
- Dimensions: 130 x 120 x 195 cm
- Weight: 221 kg
- Warranty: 6 years for major components
Revel Recovery Nova 3-Person Model
- Material: Canadian Western Red Cedar
- Heaters: 6 Full Spectrum heaters, 2 Ultra-Low EMF carbon panels
- Control Panel: Digital touch control with adjustable temperature and lighting
- Audio: Bluetooth, USB, FM, with dual resonance speakers
- Temperature Range: 40°C to 70°C
- Power: 3000 Watts, 15 Amp plug
- Dimensions: 160 x 120 x 195 cm
- Weight: 261 kg
- Warranty: 6 years on infrared panels, cabin, and electrical components
Revel Recovery Nova Infrared Sauna Review
Revel Recovery Nova Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna
Experience 360 degrees of full-spectrum infrared wellness. Apply for 0% interest when you make a purchase.
Comes with two and three-person capacity models.
Setup Experience
The Revel Recovery Nova setup took almost the same amount of time as when I set up the Aura. In total, it took about 90 minutes, which wasn’t too bad. What’s nice is that you don’t need power tools for the assembly, though I did cheat a little and used a tool for a few nuisance bolts that were a bit tricky. My experience is that having someone help is essential, so it was a two-person job, including me.
One thing that stood out was the glass. It felt a bit heavier than what I remembered with the Aura. But, to be fair, I might have just been a little worn out since I had done some heavy deadlifting earlier that week. Still, we managed to get it in place without too much hassle. If you’re like me and don’t want to risk handling heavy glass solo, I’d definitely recommend an extra set of hands.
Once everything was assembled, I took a step back to admire the sauna. The cedar finish is just as impressive in person as it looks in the photos. There’s something about the wood’s natural look and smell that adds to the whole experience. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, which helped keep the process stress-free.
A small challenge was connecting the power, mostly because I had to make sure the cord reached my outlet without moving the sauna around too much. It’s something to keep in mind when planning where you’ll set it up. All in all, it was a fairly smooth process, aside from a few minor tweaks here and there.
If you’ve set up saunas before, you’ll probably find this one similar. I was relieved that the Nova didn’t have any complex wiring or overly complicated steps. It took a bit of time but wasn’t overwhelming. The hardest part for me was probably the weight of the glass and dealing with some bolts, but I’ve definitely had worse setups before.
First Impressions
Once the Nova was set up, I took some time to explore its features. The control panel immediately stood out for being a bit more tech-savvy than other saunas I’ve tried, including the Aura.
It has more buttons and features, which I think justifies the higher price range. It took me a moment to get used to the controls, but once I got the hang of it, I appreciated the variety of options it offers. You can easily adjust temperature settings, control the LED lights, and switch between heat zones.
The Canadian cedar gives the sauna a warm, natural aesthetic. I also loved the spacious interior, which is perfect for two people without feeling cramped. The LED lighting options are another cool feature that added a bit of customization to each session. Whether I wanted a calming blue or a more energizing red, it was easy to change the mood inside.
Connecting my phone to the Bluetooth speakers was simple, and the sound quality was decent for sauna sessions. I didn’t bother with the AUX cord, but it’s there if needed.
Visually, the Nova blends well into my space—modern but not overly flashy. The glass door, though a bit heavy during setup, adds to its sleek design.
Actual Performance and Experience
The Revel Recovery Nova sauna provides solid performance through its full-spectrum infrared heating system. It heats up the cabin efficiently, and the warmth spreads evenly. One of the more useful features is the dual-zone heating, which allows you to control different temperatures in separate areas of the sauna. This makes it particularly convenient for two users with different heat preferences. The heat builds up steadily, and once inside, I found it easy to reach a comfortable level of warmth within minutes.
The LED lighting system adds some customization, though it’s more of a cosmetic feature than a necessity. You can change the lighting color depending on your preference, which can be relaxing, especially during evening sessions. However, this is something you’d find in most saunas at this price point, so it didn’t feel like a game-changer.
The Bluetooth function worked just as expected, which was a nice touch. However, one thing I noticed was the lack of a dedicated compartment for phones or other small electronics. Given how hot it can get inside, I was hoping for a space to safely store my phone to avoid any potential damage from the heat. It’s a minor issue, but something that could’ve been addressed.
While it offers more control, the interface might take some getting used to if you’re unfamiliar with more advanced sauna systems. The increased level of customization could explain why the Nova is priced on the higher end of the spectrum compared to other Revel models.
After spending some time with the Revel Recovery Nova, I have a few thoughts on the overall experience. For someone like me, at 5’9″, the bench height felt a bit low. I noticed this with the Aura model as well, and I feel it might be more comfortable if the seating were raised a bit in future versions.
In terms of heat performance, the Nova’s full-spectrum infrared technology did a good job of penetrating deeply into the muscles, helping with post-workout recovery. It performed as expected, delivering consistent and effective heat without any issues.
How Maintenance Is
Maintanenance-wise, the Revel Recovery Nova is simple, but it’s important to take care of the cedar properly to avoid issues like watermarks or potential mold. Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, but it’s still a good idea to use a specific wood cleaner or oil designed for cedar to keep it in good shape. Avoid letting water sit on the wood, as it could lead to dampness over time. Products like Murphy’s Oil Soap or any cedar-specific wood cleaner can help prevent buildup and keep the surface clean and fresh.
Additionally, wiping the sauna down after each use with a soft cloth is key. Pay extra attention to any areas where moisture might collect, and make sure the sauna is well-ventilated after each session to allow it to fully dry. If you notice any stubborn stains, a diluted vinegar solution could also help, but always follow up with a dry cloth to prevent watermarks.
In terms of long-term durability, the cedar appears to hold up well, and the infrared panels show no signs of wear. It’s too early to comment on long-term maintenance, but for now, regular care should keep the Nova in top condition.
Revel Nova Infrared Sauna Price Value
Revel Recovery Nova Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna
Experience 360 degrees of full-spectrum infrared wellness. Apply for 0% interest when you make a purchase.
Comes with two and three-person capacity models.
The Revel Recovery Nova sauna comes in two options: the 2-person version at $8,999 AUD and the 3-person version for $9,999 AUD. That extra $1,000 over the Aura models isn’t just for show—it reflects real differences in materials, features, and build quality.
If you’re looking to invest in a sauna that’s a step up from the basics, the Nova sits right in the sweet spot of affordability and premium features. It’s not the cheapest out there, but you’re getting more than just the basics.
Mid-Level Infrared Sauna Features
What justifies the price? Well, for starters, the Nova offers better materials, including premium Canadian cedar, which not only looks and smells great but also adds durability. The extra heaters provide more even heat distribution compared to simpler models.
Plus, the tech side of things is noticeably more advanced, with a control panel that gives you way more customization than you’d find in basic models. Think dual-zone heating, adjustable LED lighting, and more—features that aren’t always standard at this price point.
Even though the Nova packs in a lot of advanced features, it’s surprisingly user-friendly. The control panel may look a bit tech-heavy at first glance, but it’s pretty intuitive once you get the hang of it. The dual-zone heating is especially handy if you’re sharing the sauna, as you can control the temperature for each section.
Whether you’re new to owning a personal sauna or you’ve been using them at the gym, the Nova offers an experience that’s easy to get into but with enough depth to keep things interesting.
Value for Experienced Users
Now, if you’re a seasoned sauna user, the Nova still holds its own. The customization options like Bluetooth connectivity and dual-zone heating offer plenty of flexibility. Sure, the lack of a phone compartment is a bit of a miss, but overall, the advanced features help create a more tailored experience.
It’s ideal if you’re someone who wants more control over your sauna sessions without jumping into the high-end price range. The Nova sits comfortably in that middle ground, offering a lot more than just the basics, but without the hefty price tag of top-tier models.
Final Verdict: A Good Investment
After spending time with the Revel Recovery Nova, I can say it’s a solid option for anyone looking to invest in an infrared sauna with an intentional budget. The full-spectrum infrared heating, dual-zone control, and Canadian cedar construction make it feel premium without being overly complicated.
It’s not the cheapest sauna out there, but for the price, you’re getting a sauna that’s well-suited for both beginners and more experienced users. The control panel offers a lot of customization, and though it takes some time to get used to, it’s nice to have options like adjustable heat zones and LED lighting. I also liked that the Nova provides a comfortable, spacious interior, though I do think the bench could be a bit higher for taller users like me.
One area for improvement would be the addition of a small storage compartment for electronics—something that would be a practical addition for a sauna with Bluetooth connectivity. But overall, it’s a well-built, reliable sauna that delivers on its promises.
For those who are serious about making an investment in their health and relaxation, the Revel Recovery Nova strikes a good balance between performance and price. It’s an investment, yes, but one that feels justified with its range of features and quality materials.
Get the Revel Recovery Nova Infrared Saunas here:
