QSC

QSC KS118 Active 18" Subwoofer

4.4 (60 reviews)
3600W

Deliver thunderous, controlled bass at 3600W with QSC's professional-grade active 18-inch subwoofer built for serious venues.

$2,199.99*
In Stock on Amazon.com
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 28, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The QSC KS118 is a high-performance active subwoofer engineered for professional live sound, mobile entertainment, AV production, clubs, and performance venues. At its core is an 18-inch direct radiating driver powered by a 3600-watt Class D amplifier, a combination that delivers exceptional sound pressure levels while maintaining the dynamic, musical character that distinguishes quality subwoofers from those that merely produce volume. The integrated DSP handles system optimization and driver protection automatically, while also providing user-accessible features including adjustable crossover, delay settings, and the selectable DEEP mode for extended low-frequency output when the application demands it.

One of the KS118's most valuable professional features is its ability to pair two units in a cardioid array configuration through the on-board DSP, focusing bass energy toward the audience while significantly reducing low-frequency energy behind the subwoofers. This is a critical capability for stages, houses of worship, and venues where controlling bass spill is important. The rugged enclosure is built for touring and daily use, with four integrated low-noise casters and multiple handles that make the 104-pound unit practical to move and position. An M20 threaded pole receptacle on top accepts standard 35mm poles for deploying full-range loudspeakers above the sub, and the optional KS-LOC security cover can prevent unauthorized access to rear-panel controls in permanent installations.

Key Features

A very high output active subwoofer producing impressive low frequencies for mobile entertainment, AV production, clubs and performance venues

Features an 18" direct radiating driver powered by a 3600W Class D amp, to deliver high SPL with dynamic and musical sound reproduction of very low frequencies

On-board DSP optimizes and protects system performance as well as offers advanced capabilities such as the ability to array two units in a cardioid arrangement

Highly transportable, the rugged enclosure features comfortable handles with a professional and elegant appearance in any application, plus four low noise casters

An M20 threaded pole receptacle accepts a 35 mm pole for easy vertical deployment with full-range loudspeakers

Features a selectable DEEP mode for extremely low frequency extension as well as adjustable crossover and delay

Optional KS-LOC security cover prevents unauthorized tampering of controls

Specifications

Brand
QSC
Model
KS118
Speaker Type
Active Subwoofer
Driver Size
18 inches
Amplifier Power
3600 Watts (Class D)
DSP Features
System optimization, cardioid array, crossover, delay, DEEP mode
Pole Mount
M20 threaded receptacle (35mm pole)
Dimensions
36"D x 30"W x 23"H
Weight
104 pounds
Connectivity
XLR
Power Source
Corded Electric (AC)
Transport
4 integrated low-noise casters, multiple handles

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • 3600-watt Class D amplifier delivers extremely high output with dynamic, musical bass reproduction
  • On-board DSP provides system optimization, cardioid array capability, adjustable crossover, and delay settings
  • DEEP mode extends low-frequency response for applications demanding powerful sub-bass
  • Four integrated low-noise casters and comfortable handles make a 104-pound unit manageable to transport
  • M20 pole mount receptacle allows easy vertical deployment with full-range speakers

👎 Cons

  • Weighs 104 pounds, requiring significant effort to lift into vehicles or onto stages without ramps
  • Large physical footprint at 36 x 30 x 23 inches may be difficult to fit in smaller venues or transport vehicles
  • Premium professional price point places it well above entry-level and mid-tier subwoofers
  • Requires AC power, limiting placement flexibility in outdoor or remote locations without generator access
  • Optional KS-LOC security cover for control protection is sold separately

Frequently Asked Questions

The KS118 features a built-in 3600-watt Class D amplifier driving an 18-inch direct radiating driver, delivering very high sound pressure levels suitable for clubs, concert venues, and large-scale AV productions.
Yes. The on-board DSP includes the ability to array two KS118 units in a cardioid configuration, which focuses bass energy toward the audience while reducing low-frequency spill behind the subwoofers — useful for stage and venue applications where rear noise control matters.
DEEP mode is a selectable DSP setting that extends the subwoofer's low-frequency response even further, producing deeper bass output. This is useful for music genres and applications that demand powerful sub-bass reproduction.
Despite weighing 104 pounds, the KS118 is designed for practical transport. It includes four low-noise casters built into the enclosure and multiple comfortable handles, allowing a single person to roll and maneuver it into position.
Yes. The KS118 has an M20 threaded pole receptacle that accepts a standard 35mm speaker pole, allowing you to mount a full-range loudspeaker directly above the subwoofer for vertical deployment.