Recording Sat, November 22, 2008

The new Equator Audio Research Q18S studio reference subwoofer is now shipping. It is the ideal complement to Equator Audio’s Q Series studio reference monitors, particularly for those facilities recording sound for picture where low frequency effects (LFE) are so critical to a project.

Measuring 29 x 25 x 25 inches and featuring an 18-inch low frequency transducer with a heavy duty 4-inch voice coil in a bass reflex enclosure, the Equator Audio Q18S has the muscle to produce bone shattering lows—making this the ideal sub bass system for both music applications as well as sound effects work for TV and film. Sporting a black/micro-metallic gray finish, the Q18S enclosure is constructed from three-quarter inch, 13-ply Baltic Birch and is heavily braced for cabinet rigidity. Of equal significance, the subwoofer’s baffle is constructed from 1-inch high density fiberboard (HDF) compared to many competing systems that use medium density fiberboard.

Designed as a 4-ohm system, the self-powered Equator Audio Q18S is driven by 2000 watts of pulse pounding, adrenalin-filled peak power that ensures the bass will be both heard and felt with conviction. This down firing system features a unique bell-shaped base that enables the Q18S to couple with any size room, reproducing frequencies down to 16 Hz.  As one would expect from a world-class subwoofer, Equator Audio’s extremely efficient Q18S employs LF compression, thermal, short circuit, and under voltage protection for the system’s driver complement.

The Equator Audio Q18S features the connectivity required for today’s high-tech audio production. Featuring both an RS-485 In/Thru interface and a USB connector, these ports enable Equator Audio’s room compensation and control software to communicate with multiple Q Series monitors and subwoofers for the purpose of adjusting crossover points, EQ curves, and a host of additional functions.  Audio connectors include balanced Neutrik Combo input connectors and XLR throughput connectors.

Like all Equator Audio Q Series products, the new Q18S benefits from cutting-edge DSP technology that helps mix engineers ensure their room is optimized for accurate monitoring. Included with every Equator Q Series product is a software application that enables a mix engineer to manually compensate for acoustic anomalies in addition to issues created by placement/boundary conditions. Along with the environmental compensation, this included software also provides extraordinary control over the monitors—including the ability to define crossover frequencies, equalization, mute, solo, and phase. Stereo, 2.1, 5.1, 6.1, 7.1, and 8.2 monitoring configurations can be quickly and easily optimized and saved. The optionally available Q Series Calibration kit fully automates the analysis and compensation process and includes a calibrated test microphone.

Ted Keffalo, President of Equator Audio Research, commented on the availability of the company’s new Q18S subwoofer. “The Q18S is the perfect complement to the entire Q Series monitor line and is designed and built to the same exacting standards as our reference monitors. Every aspect of its design—from the transducer complement to the enclosure and the system’s ability to integrate with our control software—has been meticulously planned to help the mix engineer deliver content that will translate well to a variety of playback mediums. At 160 lbs, this is one very solidly engineered sub bass system. I’m confident it will be very well received by those who audition it.”

The Equator Audio Research Q Series monitors and subwoofers are rapidly finding their way into leading recording and production facilities of all types from Groove Addicts in Los Angeles to Puff Daddy’s “Daddy’s House” studios in New York. They were most recently seen at Abbey Road Studios in London during the recording of the upcoming film Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor.

For more information:
Equator Audio Home Page
Equator Audio Q18S Subwoofer Product Page