K-Array Thunder KS1 I – Self-Powered 12" DSP Subwoofer

Product Overview

The K-Array Thunder KS1 I powered subwoofer is an ultra-light, self-powered 12 inch subwoofer with DSP designed to act as the core of a complete K-Array sound reinforcement system. Its onboard 4x 1500 W @ 4-ohm Class D amplifier module includes speaker power outputs, so this single cabinet is also a subwoofer with amplifier outputs for passive speakers — it powers and processes K-Array passive satellites and mid-high elements directly. For integrators specifying a compact installation subwoofer for commercial AV, the KS1 I combines deep 35 Hz extension, networked control, and system-building amplification in a 21.6 kg enclosure.

Product Description

At the heart of the Thunder KS1 I is a 12" neodymium magnet woofer in a polyurea-coated birch plywood enclosure with no bass reflex port, producing controlled, dynamic low-frequency output to 134 dB peak. The integrated four-channel amplifier with DSP routes processed signal both to the internal driver and to two SpeakON NL4 speaker outputs, allowing one KS1 I to drive passive K-Array loudspeakers — mid-high satellites or additional passive subwoofers — without an external amplifier rack. This makes the KS1 I the central device in distributed and portable K-Array systems, reducing rack space, cabling, and installation labor.

Connectivity covers analog and AES3 digital line inputs and link outputs on XLR, RJ45 networking, four USB-A ports, and powerCON TRUE1 TOP mains. DSP parameters and signal routing are managed through the built-in Web App, K-Framework3 software, or the K-array Connect mobile app, and control system plugins for Q-SYS, Crestron, Control4, and Dante licensing extend integration into managed commercial AV environments. The DSP-controlled crossover (low pass at 150 Hz, preset dependent) and factory presets simplify pairing with K-Array satellite series. The same model is available in white as the Thunder KS1W I, and you can build a complete system from the K-Array collection at Creation Networks.

Key Features

• 4x 1500 W @ 4-Ohm Amplifier Module — The onboard Class D four-channel amplifier powers the subwoofer and external passive cabinets from one chassis.
• Speaker Power Outputs for Passive Satellites — Two SpeakON NL4 outputs let the KS1 I drive K-Array passive mid-high speakers and passive subwoofers, eliminating separate amplifier racks.
• Integrated DSP Processing — Built-in DSP handles crossover (low pass at 150 Hz, preset dependent), routing, and factory presets for matched K-Array system tuning.
• Deep 35 Hz Extension — Frequency response of 35 Hz to 150/450 Hz (-6 dB, crossover dependent) reinforces full-range program material with 134 dB peak output.
• Analog and AES3 Digital I/O — Dual XLR inputs and link outputs accept analog or AES3 digital feeds for flexible signal distribution between system devices.
• Networked Remote Control — RJ45 networking with the built-in Web App, K-Framework3, and the K-array Connect mobile app enable remote DSP management and monitoring.
• Control System Integration — Published plugins for Q-SYS, Crestron, Control4, Symetrix, and Dante licensing support managed commercial AV deployments.
• Ultra-Light Sealed Enclosure — The polyurea-coated birch plywood cabinet with no bass reflex weighs only 21.6 kg for fast single-person handling.
• Pole-Mount System Accessories — The optional K-POLE2 extendable pole mounts a satellite speaker directly above the subwoofer for compact point-source systems.

Typical Applications

• House of worship low-frequency reinforcement powering passive satellite arrays
• Auditorium and multi-purpose room systems where one cabinet supplies amplification and DSP
• All-hands room and commercial meeting space sound reinforcement for music and program audio
• Broadcast studio playback and live audience reinforcement
• Government space and training room AV systems requiring networked remote control

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Thunder KS1 I power my passive K-Array speakers?

Yes — this is its defining feature. The onboard 4x 1500 W @ 4-ohm amplifier feeds two SpeakON NL4 power outputs, so the KS1 I can drive K-Array passive mid-high loudspeakers and passive subwoofers directly, serving as the amplification and DSP core of the system.

How is the DSP configured and controlled?

Routing, crossover, levels, and presets are managed through the built-in Web App, K-Framework3 desktop software, or the K-array Connect mobile app over the RJ45 network connection, allowing remote adjustment after installation.

Does the KS1 I integrate with control systems like Q-SYS or Crestron?

Yes. K-Array publishes plugins for Q-SYS, Crestron, Crestron Home, Control4, Symetrix, RTI, and others, and offers Dante licensing, so the KS1 I fits managed commercial AV and networked audio environments.

Does it accept digital audio inputs?

Yes. The two XLR line inputs accept analog or AES3 digital signals, and matching XLR link outputs pass signal on to additional system devices.

Is this subwoofer available in white?

Yes. The identical model in white is sold as the K-Array Thunder KS1W I, and Custom RAL finishes are available for architectural color matching.

What warranty and support are included?

K-Array products carry the manufacturer's 5-year warranty policy. Creation Networks provides system design assistance, amplifier-speaker matching guidance, and post-installation support for commercial integrators.