Electro-Voice ETX-18SP - 18" (1,800 W) Active Subwoofer with FIR-Drive DSP and Cardioid Mode

Electro-Voice ETX-18SP - 18" (1,800 W) Active Subwoofer with FIR-Drive DSP and Cardioid Mode

The Electro-Voice ETX-18SP is a high-performance, self-powered subwoofer module designed to provide low-frequency reinforcement for ETX Series full-range systems. It features an FIR-Drive -optimized 457mm DVX3180A transducer and a 1,800W Class D amplifier with thermal blower protection, delivering up to 135dB peak SPL with deep, controlled bass. The tour-grade enclosure is constructed of 18mm (13-ply) birch plywood with an EVCoat finish, with two side handles and four detachable rear wheels for easy transport. A combined top cup (35mm + M20 thread) allows mounting of ETX Series satellites or other compatible tops.

The DSP panel with LCD display and encoder offers quick adjustments by function (Music/Live) and location (Normal/Cardioid) , plus polarity (Normal/Reverse), a dedicated subwoofer Room EQ ( 1 band ), and ample travel for delay alignment. Selectable low-pass filters ( 80/100/120/150 Hz ) include options optimized for ETX tops, ensuring coherent summing without the need for external processors. With a frequency response (−3 dB) of 33–150 Hz and a range (−10 dB) of 28–180 Hz , the ETX-18SP performs well on the road, in rental, corporate events, and in fixed installation applications.

Main features

• 18" DVX3180A (457 mm) high sensitivity for extended bass.
• 1,800W Class D amplification with FIR-Drive and advanced limiters.
• Max. SPL: 135 dB peak at 1 m.
• DSP with LCD : Music/Live , Normal/Cardioid , polarity , Room EQ 1 band (sub) and delay presets.
• Cardioid Control Technology : specific preset for cardioid arrays with multiple subs.
• Selectable low-pass filters 80/100/120/150 Hz ( Linkwitz-Riley slope 24 dB/oct ), with coupling modes to ETX-10P/12P/15P/35P.
• Connectivity : 2 balanced XLR/TRS combo inputs + 2 XLR link outputs.
• Tour-grade enclosure : 18mm birch (13-ply) with EVCoat , 16 AWG steel grille.
• Ergonomics : 2 side handles, removable rear wheels and 35 mm + M20 top cup.
• Configurable front LED (Power/Limit) and menu lock to prevent accidental changes.

User benefits

• Powerful, controlled bass with extended response down to 28 Hz (−10 dB) and 135 dB peak.
• Rapid deployment with application/location presets and crossovers ready to match ETX tops.
• Stage control via cardioid mode when using multiple subs, reducing power behind the system.
• Professional reliability : robust 18 mm birch construction, durable finish and active thermal management.

Use cases

• Tours and rentals requiring high SPL output with frequent transportation.
• Corporate events and live shows requiring clean coverage and directional bass.
• Fixed installation in clubs, auditoriums or performance halls that require solid LF reinforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I activate cardioid mode with just one sub? No. The cardioid preset is designed for multiple subwoofers working in an array; with just one, the behavior is omnidirectional.
• Do I need an external processor to crossover with my tops? No. The ETX-18SP includes selectable low-pass (80/100/120/150 Hz) and ETX top- specific options with internal delay for maximum summing.
• What neck cup is included? Combination : standard 35mm tube and M20 thread for added subwoofer security.

Description for projects

Electro-Voice ETX-18SP powered subwoofer; 1,800 W Class D amplifier; DVX3180A 457 mm LF transducer; response (−3 dB) 33–150 Hz , range (−10 dB) 28–180 Hz ; max. SPL 135 dB peak ; low-pass 80/100/120/150 Hz (Linkwitz-Riley 24 dB/oct); polarity Normal/Reverse; delay 0–343 m (0.25 m steps); 1-band sub Room EQ (30–100 Hz, ±12/+6 dB, Q=2.0); 2 × XLR/TRS combo inputs + 2 × XLR link outputs; 18 mm birch enclosure (EVCoat); 35 mm + M20 cup; dimensions without wheels 550 × 675 × 777 mm , with wheels 550 × 675 × 910 mm ; weight 51.8 kg .