The Proel S18A is the largest model in the S series - a new range of compact and powerful subwoofers that have been developed to complement the brand's wideband speakers. The lightweight and yet robust plywood construction comes with a particularly durable polyurethane finish. The subwoofer is fitted with Proel's new Class D amplifier module with Switch Mode Power Supply, and is capable of generating enormous power in an enclosure specifically designed to be compact and easy to transport. The Proel S18A is equipped with a high-excursion woofer housed in a hybrid bandpass (HBP) configuration: This innovative design ensures greater efficiency compared to directly radiating subwoofers, as well as improving the acoustic coupling of the tuning channels with the air outside the unit. By reducing both distortion and air turbulence, Proel has created a subwoofer with a defined sound and a deep, powerful bass response.
Like the other subs in the S series, the Proel S18A has a stereo preamp, as well as a 24dB/oct. crossover filter that allows users to manually select frequencies and activate phase reverse. This hybrid bandpass subwoofer generates a continuous output of 600W at a maximum SPL of 131dB, covering a frequency range of 36-160Hz. The connection panel comes equipped with an XLR/jack combination socket, and as such it can be used with devices with balanced or unbalanced outputs. The link left and link right sockets are set up as XLR outputs in parallel to the line input, providing a balanced line-level signal with a high-pass filter for connecting a satellite speaker. There are also switches for ground lift, low-pass, and high-pass, as well as rotary controls for the input level, level control, and phase.
Thanks to its compact dimensions and relatively low weight (36kg, under 80bs), the Proel S18A is ideal for in-demand DJs, busy mobile entertainers, and live musicians of all kinds – in fact, anyone who primarily plays at mid-sized venues and needs a sub that is solid, easy to transport, and affordable. Its sonic characteristics are excellent too, especially the adjustable frequencies, which keep interference with any satellite speakers to a minimum and allow users to select the optimum frequency ranges for their preferred genre of music. Another useful feature is the automatic output attenuation when the device is switched on or off – no risk of level peaks damaging the woofer or the user's hearing! All in all, the Proel S18A active subwoofer promises to be a consistently reliable source of quality low-end sound, especially considering that the trend towards running a PA with a second sub shows no signs of abating.
The Italian company Proel designs and manufactures durable and sustainable event technology across the fields of sound, video, lighting, and stage equipment for the global market. Proel products aim to combine affordability with user-friendly operation, ensuring the technology remains a supporting element rather than overshadowing the artistic experience. Every aspect of Proel’s process, from research and development to production, takes place in Italy, reflecting a commitment to quality and innovation. Their equipment is trusted worldwide for its reliable performance and simplicity.
In the specific context of subwoofers, the term phase essentially refers to the timing of the low-frequency sound waves. By adjusting the phase, users can alter the positive movement of the woofer's sound cone, and thus the beginning of the sound wave. Phase reversal can be useful (or even necessary) when the acoustic signals generated by the woofer need to be adjusted to suit a specific room and speaker configuration, eliminating the need to change the position of the speakers entirely, which is virtually impossible in day-to-day operation. Fortunately, phase switching is an integral part of the design of the Proel S18A active HBP subwoofer – as well as all the larger models in the series, of course. This function also enables the optimum utilisation of the woofer's extended frequency range, further underlining its potential as a cost-effective and efficient solution on the low-frequency market.