The
SCHOLAR Model 118 is one of the finest subwoofers available for sound
reinforcement applications. It is intended to enhance the performance of
full-range loudspeaker systems by providing maximum low-frequency
impact. Its single 18-inch woofer is rated to handle 600-watts RMS.
Sonic integrity, high SPL output, moderate size, and application
flexibility make the Model 118 unique among subwoofers. From the lowest
to the highest sound pressure levels, the Model 118’s design provides
unparalleled bass articulation and musicality. Effective when used in
single-cabinet applications, the Model 118’s performance excels when
used in a multi-cabinet array configuration. Due to its innovative
enclosure geometry multiple cabinets couple very effectively, resulting
in excellent bass definition and room-pressurizing effect.
The
term SCHOLAR is MacPherson’s acronym for Self-Cornering-HOrn
Line ARray, describing the Model 118’s unique deployment
characteristics. When arrayed in a self-cornering vertical line array,
the result is optimum low-frequency summation and directivity control.
With a SCHOLAR array, a veritable "acoustic corner" of
low-frequency output is created. In this way multiple cabinets take
advantage of their own band-specific eighth-space loading.
The
Model 118 utilizes a band-pass design with critically damped tuning to
achieve numerous performance advantages. Unlike most subwoofers that
require extensive electronic manipulation, the Model 118 does not
require any special processing. Only the standard high-pass and low-pass
functions provided by an electronic crossover are required for optimal
reproduction.
How
does the SCHOLAR Model 118 sound? Rather than modifying or exaggerating
the source material, the Model 118 faithfully reproduces only the
intended low-frequency slice of the audio spectrum. Unwanted content,
primarily cone distortion, is trapped by the acoustic properties
inherent in the enclosure’s design. The result is nothing short of
stunning—room pressurizing, highly defined low-frequency impact. When
first experiencing the Model 118, the absence of the distortion
associated with most other subwoofers is immediately apparent—the
Model 118 simply doesn’t have the typical "sub" sound. The
magic of the Model 118’s performance becomes even more evident when it
is used as part of a complete reinforcement system. Then the articulate
low-frequency output plays its part in a properly implemented
full-bandwidth system.
A
natural question arises as to how one Model 118 will compare to a
high-quality direct-radiating dual 18-inch subwoofer. In some cases, one
Model 118 may not produce as much apparent SPL as a dual 18-inch design.
When compared one-on-one using only low-frequency content it may not
seem as "loud." But in many cases the difference can be
misleading, as the distortion inherent in direct-radiating systems is
often perceived as loudness. But this is type of perceived loudness is
certainly unwelcome! When combined with full-range cabinets, as in a
normal listening environment, the Model 118’s effective loudness
becomes very prominent. Thanks to the highly efficient coupling in the
recommended SCHOLAR configuration, two Model 118’s will completely
dominate one dual 18-inch subwoofer. In fact, they will often outperform
two dual 18-inch subwoofers as well. But raw SPL is only part of the
story, the real strength of the Model 118 is its sonic excellence. The
result is impressive—dynamic, accurate, and musical.
The
Model 118 Road Version has many features specifically selected for
touring and portable use. Six heavy-duty thermoplastic skid rails are
incorporated into the cabinet design. They serve important physical as
well as acoustic roles. On a most basic level, the rails provide
protection for the cabinet’s epoxy finish. They also mechanically
interlock neighboring cabinets when used in an array configuration or
during transport. Acoustically, the skid rails provide a high-impedance
interface between each cabinet and adjacent surfaces. This works to
maintain the energy within the Model 118’s enclosure, helping to
preserve the character and accuracy of the reproduced signal.
The
physical dimensions of the Model 118 were carefully selected to maximize
usefulness. With an overall height of just over 23 inches, cabinets can
be used under standard 24-inch high portable staging systems. While no
large format subwoofer can be considered "easy" to transport,
the Model 118 goes a long way toward reaching that goal. Weighing in at
just over 160 pounds, and with two handles per side, two crew members
can easily maneuver a cabinet. When a Model 118 is used in the
vertical orientation, three integral pole-mounting cups allow full-range
cabinets to be supported. The locations of the outer two pole cups were
selected specifically to allow support of a MacPherson Monolith
loudspeaker. An optional dollyboard and cover is
available, allowing two Model 118 cabinets to be transported and stored.
Model 118 Road
Version
Specifications
Standard
Configuration:
M118-RD: Road
Version
Frequency
Response:
±3 dB, 30 Hz to 120 Hz
Recommended
Crossover Points: 30 Hz high-pass, 80 Hz low-pass, 24 dB per octave
Nominal
Impedance:
8 ohms
Sensitivity:
98 dB, one watt, one meter
Maximum
SPL:
126 dB,
broadband, one meter, one minute
Recommended
Amplifier Power:
600 watts
RMS into 8 ohms
Connectors:
2, Neutrik NL4
Pole
Mounting:
3, cast-aluminum mounting cup, accepts 1.5-inch diameter pole
Enclosure:
hardwood plywood, textured black epoxy finish, four flush-mounted steel
handles, powder-coated perforated steel grill with open-cell foam backing
Dimensions
- Overall (Includes skid rails on three surfaces):
23.2 inches high (58.9 cm)
35.9 inches wide (91.2 cm)
30.0 inches deep (76.2 cm)
Weight:
163 pounds (74.1 kg)
Accessories:
dollyboard and
cover to hold, secure, and transport two Model 118 subwoofers
Warranty:
three years from date of original purchase
Contents subject to change without notice.
Dimensions provided for general reference only.
