QSC Subwoofer Buying Guide
Which QSC subwoofer should I buy?
Pick by the speakers on top, how much bass the room needs and how far you carry it. Max SPL is QSC's peak rating at 1 meter (3.3 feet), and low end is QSC's -10 dB figure.
| Subwoofer | Drivers and amp | Low end | Max SPL | Weight | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QSC KS112 | 12-inch, 2000 W peak | 38 Hz | 128 dB | 62.6 lb | The smallest KS sub, with casters; QSC's named sub for the CP8 and CP12 |
| QSC KS118 | 18-inch, 3600 W peak | 35 Hz | 136 dB | 104 lb | The deepest and loudest KS sub, with a DEEP mode; two or more can run in cardioid |
| QSC KS212C | Two 12-inch, 3600 W peak | 39 Hz | 132 dB | 88.5 lb | Built-in cardioid keeps bass off the stage: 15 dB quieter behind the box at 70 Hz |
| QSC LS118 | 18-inch, 4000 W peak | 35 Hz | 138 dB | 110 lb | L Class sub for the LA108 and LA112, with Dante and the SysNav app; a single unit can be flown |
| QSC LS218 | Two 18-inch, 5000 W peak | 35 Hz | 141 dB | 184 lb | The most output of these subs; casters are optional |
Which QSC sub goes with the K12.2, K10.2 or K8.2?
Any KS Series sub, set to its 80 Hz crossover, which QSC tuned for K.2 and CP speakers. QSC's K.2 FAQ names the KS212C. For the most bass, choose the KS118, and QSC suggests adding a second KS118 for more output. For CP8 and CP12 speakers, QSC names the KS112.
What does cardioid mean on the QSC KS212C?
Most subwoofers send bass out equally in every direction, including back onto the stage. The KS212C has one 12-inch driver firing forward and one firing back, and its DSP cancels the sound behind the box while adding it up in front. QSC measures it about 15 dB quieter behind than in front at 70 Hz, so less bass reaches the stage, open microphones and neighbors at outdoor events. The cardioid effect is always on. QSC says to keep the KS212C at least 20 inches (50 cm) from a back wall.
KS118 or KS212C?
Choose the KS118 for the deepest bass and the most output: it reaches 35 Hz and 136 dB. Choose the KS212C to keep bass off the stage, for bands with stage monitors and open microphones, or venues with neighbors behind the stage. The KS118 can also run in cardioid, but only with two or more units.
Can I use a QSC KSub with K.2 speakers?
With a K8.2 or K10.2, yes. QSC calls the older KSub a suitable one-to-one match for those speakers at the 100 Hz crossover setting. QSC says a K12.2 will overpower a KSub, so pair a K12.2 with a KS Series sub instead.
Do QSC subs work with older QSC speakers?
Yes. KS Series subs have a 100 Hz crossover setting for older QSC K, KW and KLA speakers, and an 80 Hz setting for the current K.2 and CP Series.
Can I fly a QSC subwoofer?
Not a KS Series sub: QSC says not to fly or suspend any KS sub. The L Class LS118 and LS218 can be flown one unit at a time with QSC's M10 eyebolt kit, with nothing hung beneath it.
Can I put a speaker on a pole over a QSC sub?
Yes. KS and LS subs have M20 threaded pole sockets for a 35 mm pole. QSC's KS manual does not recommend taller poles for some combinations, such as a K12.2 over a KS112 or KS212C standing upright, so check the manual or call us before you go tall.
Do QSC subs have wheels?
The KS112, KS118, KS212C and LS118 come with four casters. Casters for the LS218 are an optional kit.
Do you carry QSC install subwoofers?
Yes. QSC AcousticDesign includes surface-mount and ceiling subwoofers that match AcousticDesign speakers in installed systems. See all install speakers.
Can someone help me choose?
Yes. Hollywood DJ is listed in QSC's authorized dealer locator. Call 1-800-700-4542 or visit the showroom at 934 E 11th St in Downtown Los Angeles.