EM Acoustics S-18 Operational manual

S-18 Subwoofer
Product User Manual
v2 November 2019
LOUDSPEAKERS REDEFINED

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Contents
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ................................................................................................................4!
1.0 - Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 5!
Unpacking.......................................................................................................................................................5!
2.0 – S-18 Subwoofer .....................................................................................................................................6!
S-18.................................................................................................................................................................. 6!
3.0 – Simulation................................................................................................................................................. 7!
Ease Focus 3 ................................................................................................................................................. 7!
4.0 - Safety Considerations..........................................................................................................................8!
General Considerations in use ................................................................................................................8!
Personal Injury.........................................................................................................................................8!
Ground Stacking......................................................................................................................................8!
Rigging and Suspension.......................................................................................................................9!
Material Damage from Magnetism ...................................................................................................9!
5.0 – Rigging Options................................................................................................................................... 10!
5.1 – S-18 Cabinet Hardware Overview ........................................................................................... 10!
5.2 – Stacking S-18 subwoofers.......................................................................................................... 11!
5.3 – Using the M20 threaded pole adapter................................................................................... 12!
5.4 – Flying the S-18 subwoofer......................................................................................................... 13!
5.5 – Fitting castors ................................................................................................................................. 14!
5.6 – Cardioid Use................................................................................................................................. 15!
6.0 – Powering the System........................................................................................................................ 16!
6.1 - Amplifier and Processing Requirements............................................................................... 16!
6.1.1 - Connections............................................................................................................................. 16!
6.1.2 - Connector Options................................................................................................................. 16!
6.1.3 – Amplifier Requirements ...................................................................................................... 17!
6.1.4 – Processing Requirements................................................................................................... 17!
6.2 - Presets and Settings .................................................................................................................... 18!
6.2.1 – Standard S-18 Preset........................................................................................................... 18!
6.2.2 – Cardioid Array Preset............................................................................................................ 18!
6.2.3 - Geometric Delay..................................................................................................................... 19!
6.2.4 - Applying EQ.............................................................................................................................. 19!
6.3 - Use with the DQ Series Advanced System Amplifiers ..................................................... 20!

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6.3.1 - Connections............................................................................................................................. 20!
6.3.2 - Preset Recall............................................................................................................................ 20!
6.4 - System Connectivity..................................................................................................................... 21!
6.4.1 - Cable Length and Specification........................................................................................ 21!
6.4.3 – Crossover Cable Use ............................................................................................................. 21!
7.0 – Servicing Information........................................................................................................................ 22!
7.1 – S-18: Removing the grille .......................................................................................................... 22!
7.2 – S-18: Removing the drive unit................................................................................................. 23!
Appendix A – Technical Specifications.................................................................................................. 24!
S-18 compact reflex subwoofer......................................................................................................... 24!
Appendix B – Technical Drawings ........................................................................................................... 25!
Appendix C – Spare Parts List ................................................................................................................... 26!
Appendix D – Warranty Information ....................................................................................................... 27!
Limited Warranty ................................................................................................................................. 27!
Warranty Coverage ............................................................................................................................. 27!
Returning your EM Acoustics loudspeaker................................................................................. 27!

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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
The products contained within this manual conform to the
requirements of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, amended by
92/31/EEC and to the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive
73/23/EEC amended by 93/68/EEC.
EMC Emission EN55103-1:1996
Immunity EN55103-2:1996
Electrical Safety EN60065:1993
RECYCLING
This product and its packaging constitute the applicable product according
to the WEEE directive. Please ensure that at the end of the working life of
this product, it is disposed of sensibly in accordance with local and national
recycling regulations. The packaging supplied with this product is
recyclable. Please retain all packaging, however if disposing of this
packaging please ensure that you comply with local recycling regulations.
These products also all comply to the RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC.

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1.0 - Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the S-18 subwoofer from EM Acoustics. This product has been
designed and rigorously tested to give you the utmost in sonic performance and many
years of reliable, trouble-free operation. Please take the time to read this user manual
thoroughly to ensure you get the best performance from your system and to ensure you
set it up correctly and safely. If you have any questions or are in any doubt whatsoever
about any aspect of your new product, please do not hesitate to contact us directly or your
local EM Acoustics representative.
The S-18 is a high-power compact reflex subwoofer, intended for a wide variety of low
frequency applications in medium to large applications. The S-18 is equally at home in
permanent installations as well mobile applications due to its rugged construction. A state-
of-the-art 18” high-excursion neodymium drive unit allows a surprising amount of SPL and
low frequency extension from a compact and lightweight cabinet.
This manual contains all the information you should need on topics of set up, amplifier
connection and basic service. If you feel we have missed anything, or you have a question
not covered by this manual, please visit our website www.emacoustics.co.uk and send us
a message or give us a call – we’re only too happy to help.
Unpacking
Please take care when unpacking your loudspeaker system. Once unpacked, please inspect
each enclosure thoroughly for any transit damage and in the case of any damage please
notify your carrier immediately. It is the responsibility of you, the consignee, to instigate
any claim. Please retain all original packaging in case of future re-shipment.

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2.0 – S-18 Subwoofer
S-18
Compact high-power reflex subwoofer
FEATURES & BENEFITS
•Signature EM Acoustics “maximum headroom” design approach ensures
consistency of performance regardless of SPL level.
•Integral M20 theaded pole adapter for mounting of fullrange loudspeakers.
•Multiple M10 threaded flying points for temporary and permanent
installation.
•Enclosure coated with 3-step polyurethane process - ensuring the cabinets
are not only weather resistant but more resilient to impact damage.
•Various features and accessories for easy moving & handling.
•Tour grade castor set included.
•Single amplifier channel required.
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
!
ENCLOSURE TYPE:
DRIVE UNITS:
FREQUENCY RESPONSE:
NOMINAL DISPERSION1:
MAXIMUM SPL:
NOMINAL IMPEDANCE:
DIMENSIONS (HxWxD):
NET/SHIPPING WEIGHT:
!
!
Compact reflex subwoofer
1 x 18” neodymium LF drive unit
35Hz - 150Hz +/-3dB
omniirectional
131dB continuous, 137 dB peak
4 ohms
635 (25) x 590 (22.2) x 650 (25.6) mm/(ins)
51/55kg (112.2/121lbs)

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3.0 – Simulation
Ease Focus 3
For acoustic reasons it is advised that users familiarize themselves with Ease Focus 3 – this system
provides the user with accurate simulations for setting up S-18 subwoofers.
Ease Focus 3 can be downloaded for free from the AFMG website at http://focus.afmg.eu and is
currently available as a stand-alone application for Windows (XP or Higher) only. It can also be
downloaded directly from the EM Acoustics website with all the current product files embedded.
Tutorials for Ease Focus 3 are available from with the application itself.
For training on the design and implementation of S-18 subwoofers including the specific use of
Ease Focus 3, please contact your local distributor.

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4.0 - Safety Considerations
General Considerations in use
Loudspeaker systems are potentially dangerous objects if used incorrectly. Please ensure
that you read this section fully, and contact EM Acoustics or your local dealer should you
be in any doubt over correct operation procedures.
Personal Injury
Never stand in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers when in use at high level.
Professional loudspeaker systems are capable of producing sound pressure levels which
can cause permanent damage to human hearing. Levels in excess of 90dB can cause
hearing damage if people are exposed to them over a long period of time, so care and
attention must be used for both staff and audience members.
When deploying loudspeaker systems on the ground or when flown, please take careful
note of the following important safety considerations:
• Only use accessories and flying hardware supplied or approved by EM Acoustics for
flying or transporting loudspeaker systems. Pay close attention to specific
instructions, especially those considering maximum load capabilities as detailed in
the appropriate user manuals or on the legend labels on the accessories
themselves.
• Ensure all additional accessories, fasteners and secondary safeties are of an
appropriate size, working load limit and safety factor.
• All loudspeakers and accessories should be regularly inspected for signs of wear
and tear, and any damaged parts should be replaced.
• All load bearing parts and assembly bolts on accessories should be regularly
checked to ensure they are tight and not worn.
Ground Stacking
• Ensure that the floor or stage surface can withstand the weight of the system.
• Wherever possible, avoid high stacks and use ratchet straps to secure loudspeakers
together. Please also remember that vibrations from subwoofer systems can shake
other loudspeakers out of place, which may present a toppling hazard. The use of
ratchet straps and non-slip material is recommended to prevent this.

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Rigging and Suspension
Please see Chapter 5 for further information on the detailed rigging options for your
loudspeaker system.
WARNING: The overhead suspension of loudspeakers is a very serious issue with
potentially lethal consequences should anything go wrong. Rigging should only be
carried out by experienced personnel following safe working practice. Should you be
in any doubt whatsoever, please contact your local dealer who will be able to refer you
to a suitable rigging company.
Material Damage from Magnetism
Loudspeakers produce a static magnetic field at all times – even when not in use. Certain
devices are susceptible to external magnetism, and as such a safe distance should be
maintained to prevent damage. It is recommended that a safe distance of 0.5m (1.5ft) is
maintained from loudspeakers when stored, transported and in use, from devices such as
computer hard drives, magnetic media, bank cards to remove the risk of corruption. Larger
distances may be required for some older cathode ray tube displays.

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5.0 – Rigging Options
5.1 – S-18 Cabinet Hardware Overview
[2]
[1]
[4]
[5]
[3]
1
Lifting & Carrying Handle
2
M20 threaded pole adapter
3
Rubber foot
4
Stacking recess
5
M10 threaded flying point
C
6
Castor attachment point
[6]

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5.2 – Stacking S-18 subwoofers
The S-18 subwoofer has four rubber feet on the underneath, and matching recesses in the
top face of the cabinet. When stacking S-18 subwoofers, this provides a neat and clear
way of creating a tidy stack.
PLEASE BE AWARE THAT STACKS SHOULD ALWAYS BE PLACED ON LEVEL GROUND,
AND STRAPS OR SIMILAR SHOULD BE USED TO SECURE THEM.

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5.3 – Using the M20 threaded pole adapter
The S-18 has an M20 threaded adaptor in the
top face, designed to receive M20 threaded pole
fittings such as the EM Acoustics DP-01 or DP-
02. To fit such a device, carefully start the
threaded end in the fitting, and continue to turn
clockwise until the flange of the pole is secure
against the threaded adapter.
Ensure that the pole is screwed fully into the
adapter before mounting any loudspeaker on to
the pole.

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5.4 – Flying the S-18 subwoofer
The S-18 has a total of 16 M10 threaded fittings internal to the cabinet woodwork – each
one has an M10 countersunk socket bolt fitted in the factory. Various methods for
installation can be used – from forged shoulder eyebolts and steel wires to hook clamps.
Any of the S-18 points can be used for suspension. Due to the location of points and the
centre of gravity of the loudspeaker, it is strongly advised to use four points to suspend
the loudspeaker as shown below to ensure the subwoofer sits straight.
Always ensure that a secondary safety is used when suspending any loudspeaker.
Using a 5mm Allen key, remove the relevant
countersunk M10 bolts on the cabinet where you will be
attaching your chosen suspension method.

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Using a 5mm Allen key, remove the 16 M8 x 20
countersunk socket machine screws on the rear panel.
Ensure that all the threaded fittings inside the cabinet
are still intact and the threads are clear before
proceeding.
Fit each castor to the rear of the cabinet, ensuring
all four bolts are started in their threads before
tightening completely. The Form A (flat) washer
should be in contact with the castor frame, and the
spring washer should be between the flat washer
and the bolt head.
5.5 – Fitting castors
The S-18 is supplied with a set of four tour-grade castors which can be fitted for ease of
movement. The carton should contain:
4pcs 32 x 100mm heavy duty castor
17pcs M8 x 30 hex head set screw
17pcs M8 Form A (flat) washer
17pcs M8 spring washer
Step 1.
Step 2.
M8x30 hex head set screw
M8 spring washer
M8 Form A washer

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Standard subwoofer column
All subwoofers forward
Cardioid subwoofer column
One subwoofer in three reversed
5.6 – Cardioid Use
The S-18 feet and recess locations are symmetrical front-to-back, so subwoofers can be
reversed to create cardioid arrays. Simply assemble the subwoofer stack or flown column
as normal but reverse every third subwoofer. The stack of subwoofers should be secured
with ratchet straps or similar for safety.
For guidance on correct cabling for cardioid subwoofer arrays, see Section 6.2.2 of this
manual.

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6.0 – Powering the System
The S-18 subwoofer can be powered from any amplifier & DSP combinations with the
relevant high & low pass filter, and limiter settings.However, due to the self-contained
nature of the package, the use of DQ Series advanced system amplifiers is highly
recommended. The use of DQ Series amplifiers provides a neat and flexible system that
will encompass all requirements for the system to function correctly, as well as providing
user control for room EQ and system alignment.
6.1 - Amplifier and Processing Requirements
6.1.1 - Connections
The S-18 requires only a single amplifier channel. Inputs to the S-18 enclosure are on
Neutrik SpeakON NL4 as illustrated below.
Two-core cable should be used for connecting S-18 subwoofers, and the connections are
as follows:
SpeakON connection 1+ 1- 2+ 2-
Drive unit connection LF + LF - Link Through Link Through
6.1.2 - Connector Options
The S-18 is supplied as standard with two NL4 connectors. For more demanding
environments, S-18 subwoofers can be supplied with other options by special order –
please contact EM Acoustics to discuss your requirement.

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6.1.3 – Amplifier Requirements
The S-18 is a very powerful subwoofer, making use of some of the most advanced drive
units available in the industry today. It is good practice to ensure that your amplifier can
deliver at least double the RMS power handling of the loudspeaker to ensure full headroom,
and as such the amplifier requirement is:
Product RMS Power Handling Recommended Min. Amplifier Power
S-18 1000W @ 8 ohms 2000W @ 8 ohms
A loudspeaker is far more likely to be damaged by an under-powered amplifier working
too hard, than an over-powered amplifier working well within its limits.
All of the DQ Series advanced system amplifiers can be used to power the S-18.
The following table shows the maximum number of S-18 that can be connected per
channel on the various different amplifiers:
Amplifier Max S-18 per channel
DQ6 1
DQ10 1
DQ20 2
* - The DQ6 does not provide sufficient power for maximum headroom for the S-18 and as
such should only be used in lower SPL environments.
6.1.4 – Processing Requirements
The S-18 requires active high and low pass filters, and appropriate limiter settings. If not
using DQ Series amplifiers, or the DSC48 Digital System Controller, then a suitable DSP
system must be used in conjunction with your S-18 to prevent damage to the subwoofer.
Check the EM Acoustics website for the most up-to-date DSP settings for the S-18.

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6.2 - Presets and Settings
6.2.1 – Standard S-18 Preset
When used with a DQ Series amplifier S-18 subwoofers require only a single amplifier
channel, and as such the preset recalled will only require one output from your DQ Series
amplifier.
6.2.2 – Cardioid Array Preset
The S-18 can be used to create cardioid arrays by ensuring that one in three S-18
subwoofers are physically reversed, and the appropriate S-18 Cardioid preset is loaded into
the amplifier. This preset requires three amplifier channels, and with a DQ20 amplifier can
power up to two S-18 subwoofers per amplifier channel.

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6.2.3 - Geometric Delay
Appropriate delay will need to be applied to account for physical location differences
between different elements of your system – for example time-aligning subwoofers to the
main system. The use of SMAART or similar can make this task a great deal simpler and
faster.
6.2.4 - Applying EQ
The presets are intended to be a starting point for your system and will almost certainly
require tuning on-site dependent on room characteristics, the rest of your system design
and the system voicing you are aiming for. The S-18 is designed with a significant amount
of system headroom, so applying EQ is perfectly acceptable.

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The four amplifier channels appear on four
speakON connectors on the rear of the DQ
Series amplifiers. S-18 subwoofers require one
amplifier channel.
6.3 - Use with the DQ Series Advanced System Amplifiers
The S-18 will perform best when using DQ Series advanced system amplifiers, as not only are they
state-of-the-art amplifiers, but the onboard DSP provides appropriate high/low pass filter settings
and limiters to get the best from your subwoofers. Please refer to the DQ Series User Manual for
detailed information on using the amplifiers and the System Engineer software.
6.3.1 - Connections
6.3.2 - Preset Recall
The family of S-18 presets is pre-installed on the DQ amplifiers, and as such can be used
following the normal preset recall procedure. The presets available are:
S-18.Sub Standard S-18 subwoofer preset
S-18.Card Cardioid Array S-18 subwoofer preset
As mentioned above, these presets are intended to be a starting point and additional work
may be required depending on the venue, the style of content and the end result you are
looking for.