Description
The FBT Subline 118SA is a professional active 18" subwoofer designed for powerful low-frequency reinforcement in portable and installed sound systems. As the larger model in the Subline active range, it delivers deeper bass extension, higher output and greater system impact than the compact 12" and 15" variants, making it well suited to live sound, DJ systems, venue PA, event production, hire stock, hospitality spaces, houses of worship, schools, theatres and AV installations where strong bass performance is required.
Built around a 1x 18" high-excursion woofer with a 3" voice coil, the Subline 118SA is designed to produce high-output low-frequency performance from a compact bass reflex cabinet. It delivers a frequency response of 33Hz to 100Hz at -6dB, making it suitable for kick drum, bass guitar, electronic music, DJ playback, live bands, club-style systems and general programme audio where a full-range loudspeaker alone will not provide enough low-end weight. FBT lists the Subline 118SA with a maximum SPL of 137dB peak and 134dB continuous.
The integrated 1200W RMS Class D amplifier provides substantial power for demanding professional use, with peak amplifier power listed at 2400W. This built-in amplification removes the need for an external power amplifier, reducing rack requirements and simplifying deployment for portable PA users and fixed installations. For AV installers and production companies, the powered format makes system design more straightforward, as the amplifier and loudspeaker are already matched by the manufacturer.
The Subline 118SA includes onboard digital signal processing for practical setup and system optimisation. The DSP provides 6 presets, 4 equalisation settings and 2 low-pass filter crossover settings, giving users the ability to configure the subwoofer for different loudspeaker pairings and applications. This is particularly useful when using the subwoofer with FBT active tops or when adapting the system for different rooms, venues and event types.
A 6-step digital delay line up to 3.5m is also included, alongside phase reversal from 0° to 180°. These features help with subwoofer alignment and system integration, particularly where subs and top speakers are not physically aligned or where multiple subwoofers are used across a stage or venue. For live sound engineers and installers, these tools provide useful control without requiring external loudspeaker management in simpler systems.
The control panel includes stereo XLR inputs and link outputs, allowing the Subline 118SA to sit cleanly within a professional audio signal chain. Signal can be fed from a mixer, DSP processor or audio interface into the subwoofer, then linked onward to full-range loudspeakers or additional subwoofers. This makes it suitable for compact PA stacks, stereo systems, DJ rigs and modular sound reinforcement packages.
The enclosure is manufactured from Baltic birch plywood with a scratch-resistant finish, giving it the durability required for professional use. This construction makes it suitable for mobile applications where equipment is regularly transported, as well as fixed installations where cabinet strength and reliability are important. The subwoofer is also prepared for castor mounting, helping improve mobility for users who need to move the cabinet regularly.
An M20 top mount allows a compatible full-range loudspeaker to be pole-mounted above the subwoofer, creating a clean and practical sub-and-top PA system. This is ideal for mobile DJs, school events, small live stages, hospitality venues, churches and AV hire packages where a compact but powerful system needs to be set up efficiently. With suitable FBT tops, the Subline 118SA can form the low-frequency foundation of a professional active loudspeaker system.
The FBT Subline 118SA measures 555 x 572 x 666mm and weighs 44.5kg. These dimensions and weight should be considered when planning transport, storage, vehicle loading and venue access. While compact for an 18" active subwoofer, it remains a professional low-frequency cabinet that requires appropriate handling and suitable space within the system layout.
For customers needing stronger bass output than a 12" or 15" subwoofer can provide, the FBT Subline 118SA offers a powerful and professional solution. With an 18" driver, 1200W RMS Class D amplifier, 137dB peak SPL, DSP presets, XLR input and link outputs, delay, phase control, birch plywood construction and M20 pole mount, it is a strong choice for portable PA systems, venue sound reinforcement, live events and installed AV systems requiring dependable low-frequency performance.