Powerful Low-End Performance for Demanding Sound Systems: The DAS VANTEC-118A
The DAS Audio VANTEC-118A is a premium 18-inch powered subwoofer designed to deliver deep, impactful bass with tight control and touring-grade reliability. Featuring a high-efficiency 2000W Class D amplifier and DAS’s proprietary 18FW4 transducer with a 4-inch voice coil, this subwoofer is purpose-built to reinforce full-range VANTEC systems in mobile, installed, and live production environments.
The front-loaded design ensures responsive low-frequency extension without time smear or distortion, while the onboard DSP section provides user-configurable low-pass filtering, polarity selection, and gain control. Its rugged birch plywood cabinet is coated in black ISO-flex paint, with recessed side handles and an M20 threaded pole socket for top-mounting a VANTEC-20A or similar full-range loudspeaker.
Real-World Applications and Sound Roles
Engineered for full-frequency system expansion, the VANTEC-118A thrives in high-SPL applications such as clubs, houses of worship, mobile DJ setups, rental fleets, and event production. Its front-loaded architecture and DSP flexibility allow seamless integration with flown, stacked, or ground-based systems.
Designed to anchor your sound with clean, authoritative lows—this sub is your foundation for serious performance.
Accessory Spotlight
- DAS Audio VANTEC-20A: Full-range 2-way powered top speaker with DSP and rotatable horn—optimized for use above the VANTEC-118A in stacked or flown configurations.
- DAS Audio ALTEA-715A: 15" powered loudspeaker with built-in EQ and Class D amp—ideal for budget-conscious users who want a punchy top paired with the VANTEC-118A.
- Pig Hog PHM25 25ft XLR Cable: Rugged, long-distance XLR cable for clean signal runs between your mixer, DSP, and subwoofer—built for mobile, touring, or stage use.
- ProX X-SPAM20X2PKG Speaker Pole Kit: Pair of heavy-duty M20 speaker poles—perfect for securely mounting tops above the VANTEC-118A using its integrated threaded socket.
Control Modes of the DAS VANTEC-118A Powered Subwoofer
The VANTEC-118A offers straightforward rear-panel DSP control for live audio professionals and AV installers alike. Its integrated digital processing includes a variable low-pass filter for custom crossover tuning, a polarity invert switch to address phase alignment in multi-speaker systems, and a dedicated gain control to fine-tune the output level relative to your full-range tops or DSP matrix.
Controls are accessible without software, enabling fast adjustments at the gig or install site. This hands-on functionality is ideal when pairing with tops like the VANTEC-20A or ALTEA-715A, and makes the VANTEC-118A adaptable across multiple deployment formats.
Whether stacking or splitting zones, the VANTEC-118A’s onboard DSP ensures you maintain sonic balance without requiring an external controller.
How to Deploy the DAS VANTEC-118A in the Field
Place the VANTEC-118A on a stable, level surface near the audience or front-of-house position. For maximum coverage and punch, face the sub forward and avoid corners or wall loading unless intentionally designed for bass reinforcement. Use the built-in M20 threaded pole socket to mount a top like the VANTEC-20A or ALTEA-715A directly above the sub using a secure speaker pole.
Feed signal into the balanced XLR input using a rugged, shielded cable like the Pig Hog PHM25. For longer distances or rackmount DSP integration, connect via output loop-thru to your satellite system or controller. Onboard controls let you fine-tune polarity and crossover without software.
This subwoofer is built to deploy fast—stacked, zoned, or spread—giving you total flexibility with minimal cabling and no complicated setup.
Amplifier Architecture of the DAS VANTEC-118A
At its core, the VANTEC-118A features a high-efficiency Class D amplifier delivering 2000W peak and 1000W continuous power. This amp platform is designed for maximum headroom, low thermal footprint, and tour-level stability—allowing the subwoofer to operate at high SPL without distortion or fatigue.
The amplifier module is backed by a universal switching power supply (90–250V AC) with active PFC, ensuring reliable performance across global power conditions. Thermally managed side-vent cooling and a clean internal layout prevent overheating in both mobile and fixed installations. The system supports a maximum peak SPL of 134 dB at 1 meter, powered by DAS's own long-excursion 18FW4 driver.
This amp is engineered to hit hard and stay cool—whether you're pushing subs all night or tuning zone coverage in a multi-rig setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the VANTEC-118A compatible with non-DAS tops?
Yes. It can be used with any full-range speaker that supports external sub pairing and standard XLR input/output routing.
Does the sub include an M20 socket?
Yes, the top-mounted threaded M20 pole socket supports safe, stable mounting of powered full-range speakers like the VANTEC-20A.
Can I use it for installed sound systems?
Absolutely. Its black birch plywood enclosure and minimal profile make it ideal for fixed club, worship, or venue installs.
What cables should I use?
We recommend tour-grade XLR cables like the
Pig Hog PHM25 for clean signal transfer over longer distances.
Lock in your low-end performance with the DAS VANTEC-118A—trusted by audio professionals, tour-ready, and fully supported by the AVMaxx team.