QSC PL-SUB18 – Passive 18-Inch Installation Subwoofer

Product Overview

The QSC PL-SUB18 is an 18-inch passive installation subwoofer from QSC's PL Series, delivering powerful, extended low frequency for permanently installed audio systems. A single 18-inch driver in a weatherized IP54 plywood bass-reflex enclosure suits entertainment venues, sporting facilities, auditoriums, and houses of worship. When two or more units are deployed, the PL-SUB18 can be configured for omnidirectional or cardioid radiation directly in Q-SYS, giving integrators precise control over bass dispersion. Integrated rigging allows secure ground stacking or flying, including with the PL-LA12 line array.

Product Description

The PL-SUB18 brings high-output low frequency to large installation systems while retaining install-friendly weatherization and rigging. Its selectable omnidirectional or cardioid modes (cardioid requires two or more subwoofers) help minimize unwanted stage and rear-wall bass energy in acoustically sensitive rooms. Integrated retractable rigging hardware supports flying up to ten subwoofers in a column on their own, or up to three PL-SUB18 plus ten PL-LA12 modules using the PL-LA12-AF array frame. As a passive subwoofer it presents an 8-ohm load with speakON NL4 and Euroblock connections. Build a full-range flown system with the QSC PL-LA12 line array, or choose the smaller QSC PL-SUB12 subwoofer for compact rooms.

Key Features

• 18-inch LF transducer — 4-inch voice-coil driver in a tuned bass-reflex enclosure for deep, high-output bass.
• Selectable omni or cardioid radiation — Configurable in Q-SYS (cardioid requires two or more units) to control low-frequency dispersion.
• Weatherized IP54 plywood enclosure — Exterior plywood with polyurea paint, treated grille, and sealed input cup for indoor or protected outdoor use.
• Integrated rigging hardware — Retractable hardware enables secure ground stacking or flying.
• Flyable with PL-LA12 — Combine with PL-LA12 line array modules on the PL-LA12-AF array frame for full-range flown systems.
• Q-SYS platform integration — CX-Q Series amplifiers add Intrinsic Correction™ voicings, protection, and telemetry.

Typical Applications

• Auditoriums
• House of worship
• Multi-purpose rooms
• All-hands spaces

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the PL-SUB18 powered or passive? It is passive and requires external amplification. QSC recommends the CX-Q 8K4 network amplifier (up to one per channel).

How do I get cardioid bass? Cardioid radiation is selectable in Q-SYS and requires deploying two or more PL-SUB18 units; a single unit operates omnidirectionally.

Can it be flown with a line array? Yes. Using the PL-LA12-AF array frame, it can be flown with PL-LA12 modules; up to ten subwoofers can also be flown in a column on their own. Consult the QSC user manual for factor-of-safety information.

Is it suitable for outdoor use? The IP54-rated plywood enclosure with polyurea paint and sealed input cup is suitable for protected outdoor locations.

What warranty applies? Coverage follows QSC's published warranty terms. For warranty registration or support, contact Creation Networks or refer to QSC's warranty documentation.