JBL AC118S 18" High-Power Subwoofer System (Black)

Product Overview

The JBL AC118S 18-inch subwoofer is a passive, high-power install subwoofer built to deliver deep, high-output low-frequency reinforcement in demanding commercial sound systems. A single 459 mm (18 in) long-excursion driver in a vented, front-loaded enclosure extends usable response to 32 Hz with high efficiency. As part of JBL's AE Application Engineered Series, this commercial subwoofer for fixed installation is designed to pair with AE Series full-range loudspeakers and external amplification. Twelve M10 suspension points make it a flexible suspendable subwoofer for flown or ground-stacked deployment in larger venues.

Product Description

The JBL AC118S 18-inch subwoofer uses one 459 mm (18 in) driver with a 75 mm (3 in) voice coil in a vented, front-loaded configuration tuned for high output with low power compression. Rated at 450 W continuous (1800 W peak, IEC) into an 8-ohm nominal load, this passive front-loaded subwoofer reaches a maximum SPL of 122 dB (128 dB peak) across a 32 Hz to 250 Hz range, providing substantial bass extension for music and sound reinforcement in large commercial spaces. The 18 mm multi-ply hardwood enclosure carries dual Neutrik NL4MP connectors plus covered barrier-strip terminals for flexible wiring, and a powder-coated perforated-steel grille with acoustically transparent foam backing protects the driver. As an AE Series subwoofer, it integrates cleanly with JBL AE full-range models and Crown or comparable amplifiers for a complete installed system. Twelve M10 threaded suspension points support rigging, while the 15-inch JBL AC115S subwoofer offers a more compact option where space or output requirements are lower.

Key Features

• 18-inch long-excursion driver — A 459 mm woofer with a 75 mm (3 in) voice coil delivers deep, high-output bass with minimal power compression.
• Vented, front-loaded enclosure — A large port supports high output and efficient low-frequency reinforcement down to 32 Hz.
• High power handling — 450 W continuous, 900 W program, and 1800 W peak (IEC) provide substantial headroom.
• 122 dB maximum SPL — 122 dB (128 dB peak) at 1 m supports large rooms and high-output systems.
• Flexible connectivity — Dual Neutrik NL4MP connectors plus covered barrier-strip terminals simplify daisy-chaining and fixed wiring.
• 12 x M10 suspension points — Multiple threaded attachment points allow flown or stacked installation with appropriate hardware.
• Durable install-grade construction — An 18 mm multi-ply hardwood enclosure with textured finish withstands continuous commercial use.
• Protective steel grille — Powder-coated 1.5 mm perforated steel with acoustically transparent foam backing shields the driver.

Typical Applications

• House of worship — High-output low-frequency reinforcement for music and spoken word in large rooms.
• Auditorium — Deep bass extension for full-range program in performance and assembly spaces.
• Multi-purpose room — Flexible flown or stacked bass support for varied event types.
• Commercial meeting space — Added low-end headroom for AV playback and large-format presentation audio.

Technical Specifications

What's in the Box

• 1 x JBL AC118S 18" High-Power Subwoofer System (black)
• Product documentation

Suspension and bracket hardware are sold separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the AC118S require an external amplifier?
Yes. The AC118S is a passive subwoofer and requires external amplification. JBL recommends Crown or comparable amplifiers matched to its 8-ohm load and power rating.

What full-range loudspeakers does it pair with?
It is designed to integrate with JBL AE Series full-range models for a tonally matched system. Use a processor or amplifier with crossover capability to set an appropriate low-pass point.

Can the AC118S be flown or suspended?
Yes. The enclosure includes 12 x M10 threaded suspension points for flown or stacked installation. Use JBL-approved rigging hardware and follow a qualified rigging plan.

How does the AC118S compare to the AC115S?
The AC118S uses an 18-inch driver for greater output and deeper extension, while the 15-inch AC115S is more compact. Choose the AC118S for larger rooms or systems requiring higher low-frequency SPL.

What warranty and support apply?
The AC118S carries JBL Professional's manufacturer warranty. For specification sheets, rigging documentation, and technical support, contact our team at sales@creationnetworks.net or browse the full JBL Professional collection.