San Andreas - 18" Aluminum Frame Subwoofer Driver Speaker
The San Andreas 18" subwoofer driver is built for sound engineers, cabinet builders, and venues that need powerful low-end reinforcement. Whether you're replacing a blown driver or building custom subwoofer enclosures from scratch, this raw speaker delivers professional-grade bass extension down to 35Hz.
This 18" driver handles 500W RMS and 1000W peak power, producing deep, controlled bass that cuts through live mixes without muddiness. The 4" voice coil and 120 oz magnet provide the thermal capacity and magnetic force needed for sustained high-SPL performance in demanding live sound applications.
The die-cast aluminum frame ensures rigid mounting and heat dissipation, while the paper cone with cloth surround delivers natural bass response with excellent durability. At 8 ohms impedance and 100 dB sensitivity, it matches well with most pro audio amplifiers and provides efficient power transfer for maximum output.
Perfect for building custom PA subwoofers for bands, DJ rigs, or permanent installations in churches and venues up to 500 people. Also ideal for replacing damaged drivers in existing subwoofer cabinets, particularly 18" ported or bandpass designs that require extended low-frequency response.
This is a raw driver only – you'll need to mount it in an appropriate enclosure with proper internal volume and port tuning. Standard 18" mounting hardware and speaker wire connections required (not included).
Backed by Seismic Audio's one-year warranty with fast shipping direct from our warehouse. Professional-grade performance at a price point that makes sense for working musicians and sound contractors.
Technical Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Driver Size | 18" |
| Power (RMS) | 500 Watts |
| Power (Peak) | 1000 Watts |
| Frequency Response | 35Hz - 2kHz |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB |
| Impedance | 8 Ohm |
| Voice Coil | 4" |
| Magnet | 120 oz |
| Cone Material | Paper |
| Surround | Cloth Edge |
| Frame | Die Cast Aluminum |
| Weight | 30 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| What's in Box | 1 x 18" Subwoofer Driver |
| Recommended For | Custom subwoofer builds, driver replacement, PA reinforcement |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size enclosure does this 18" driver need?
This driver works best in ported enclosures with 4-8 cubic feet of internal volume, tuned between 35-45Hz depending on your application. For maximum output, consider a bandpass design with proper port calculations. Always consult enclosure design software or a qualified acoustician for optimal results, as box tuning dramatically affects bass response and power handling.
Can I use this to replace the driver in my existing subwoofer cabinet?
Yes, if your current cabinet uses an 18" driver with similar power handling and impedance. Check that your cabinet's internal volume and port tuning match this driver's requirements – simply swapping drivers without considering enclosure design can result in poor performance or damage. Measure your current driver's mounting diameter and depth to ensure proper fit.
What amplifier power do I need to drive this subwoofer driver?
This driver handles 500W RMS, so pair it with an amplifier rated between 400-600W RMS at 8 ohms for optimal performance. Using slightly more amplifier power than driver rating provides better headroom and reduces distortion. Ensure your amp can handle 8-ohm loads and has proper high-pass filtering to protect the driver from subsonic frequencies.
How low does this driver play compared to 15" subwoofers?
This 18" driver extends down to 35Hz, providing deeper bass than most 15" drivers which typically bottom out around 40-45Hz. The larger cone area also moves more air, resulting in higher SPL capability in the low frequencies. For applications requiring true sub-bass extension – like electronic music or theater sound – the 18" format provides noticeable improvement over smaller drivers.
Do I need crossover components with this raw driver?
Yes, you'll need an external crossover or amplifier with built-in high-pass filtering to prevent damage from subsonic frequencies and low-pass filtering to integrate with your main speakers. Most installations cross this subwoofer between 80-120Hz. Without proper filtering, you risk driver damage and poor sound quality, especially when used with full-range program material.
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