Electro-Voice EKX-18SP

The Electro-Voice EKX-18SP is a professional 18-inch powered subwoofer for live music and DJ applications. A 1300W Class-D amplifier drives a high-sensitivity EV transducer for up to 134 dB peak SPL, and QuickSmartDSP with Cardioid Control Technology lets you steer bass toward the audience and away from the stage when multiple subs are deployed.

Highlights

• 1300W Class-D amplifier; up to 134 dB peak SPL
• 18-inch high-sensitivity EV woofer
• QuickSmartDSP with single-knob interface and LCD
• Cardioid Control Technology: up to 35 dB reduction on stage with multiple subs
• Intelligent thermal management with variable-speed fan
• Two XLR outputs, large slot ports, and M20 pole-mount plate

Electro-Voice EKX-18SP: Serious Low End

The EKX-18SP delivers the deep, powerful bass that bands and DJs need to fill a room. Its large slot ports reduce distortion and extend low-frequency response, and the 1300W amplifier provides plenty of headroom for loud, punchy shows. A metal grille with reinforcement bar protects the driver on the road.

Cardioid Control Technology

Bass spreads in all directions, so stages often get flooded with low end that muddies monitors and causes feedback. When you deploy multiple EKX-18SP subs, Cardioid Control Technology uses DSP to cancel bass behind the array, delivering up to 35 dB of reduction on stage while keeping full output toward the audience. The result is a cleaner stage sound and better control in reflective rooms.

Setting Up the EKX-18SP

Place the subwoofer on the floor at the front of the stage. Connect your mixer’s outputs to its inputs, and use the two XLR outputs to feed your full-range speakers or additional subs. Choose a QuickSmartDSP preset and crossover setting to match your tops, then adjust the sub level until it blends smoothly. For cardioid setups, follow EV’s placement guidance and select the cardioid mode.

What to Pair With the EKX-18SP

Pair the EKX-18SP with EKX-12P or EKX-15P full-range speakers, an M20 speaker pole, a padded subwoofer cover, and quality XLR cables. Two or more subs enable Cardioid Control for cleaner stage sound.

Intelligent Thermal Management

Powered subwoofers work hard at loud shows, and heat is the enemy of amplifiers. The EKX-18SP uses multiple onboard sensors to control a variable-speed fan, so it runs quietly at moderate levels and cools aggressively when pushed. That means consistent performance through long, loud sets and a longer life for the amplifier.

One Sub or Two?

A single EKX-18SP adds strong bass to small and mid-size rooms, but two subs give you more output, better coverage, and the ability to use Cardioid Control Technology. If you play dance music or run full bands, two subs paired with two tops is the most common configuration, delivering balanced stereo sound with plenty of headroom so no single speaker has to work too hard.

Electro-Voice EKX-18SP FAQ

What is Cardioid Control Technology? A DSP mode that, with multiple subs, steers bass toward the audience and reduces it on stage by up to 35 dB.

Can I pole-mount a speaker on top? Yes. The EKX-18SP has an M20 threaded pole-mount plate.

Electro-Voice EKX-18SP Specifications at a Glance

• Type: 18-inch powered subwoofer
• Amplifier: 1300W Class-D
• Max SPL: 134 dB peak
• Frequency response: 40-150 Hz (-3 dB); 35-180 Hz (-10 dB)
• DSP: QuickSmartDSP, Cardioid Control Technology
• Outputs: 2 XLR
• Mounting: M20 threaded pole-mount plate
• Weight: 72.4 lb (32.8 kg)

Who Buys the Electro-Voice EKX-18SP

• Bands and live sound engineers
• Mobile DJs
• Rental and production companies
• Clubs, bars, and venues

Why Buy the Electro-Voice EKX-18SP From Metro Sound & Lighting

Metro Sound & Lighting isn’t a catalog-only retailer. We design, install, and service sound systems in-house, so our team can help you build and tune a complete EKX system and support it after the sale. We offer B2B and integrator pricing for churches, schools, and venues.

Browse more options in our Powered Subwoofers category, or see the full specifications on the official Electro-Voice EKX-18SP product page.