The dB Technologies Sub 612 is a traditional bass reflex subwoofer, with an 18" driver powered by an active module that is equipped with a Class D power amplifier. With a peak power output of 1,200W (600W RMS), the Sub 618 will really make the ground shake while still maintaining an incredibly clean low end – even when it is turned right up, thanks to a 56-bit DSP that manages the subwoofer's frequencies, and the RMS, peak, and thermal limiters. For all its power, the Sub 618 is unusually light for an active subwoofer, weighing only 31kg (68.3lbs). The integrated active module has two inputs, making the Sub 618 an ideal basis for a 2.1 stereo setup (i.e. one mono bass and two tops in stereo mode). The enclosure is made of high-quality composite wood with a black textured finish and also has an M20 spacer rod mount.
Thanks to its active module, the dB Technologies Sub 618 is immensely flexible, and is easily combined with tops from other manufacturers. Key here is the Sub 618's built-in crossover, which can pass on the input signal either unprocessed or with an activated lowcut filter if desired. The active module is also capable of reversing the polarity, should the device's positioning negatively affect the sound quality in any way. In addition, there is a bass boost that can be activated at the touch of a button if the occasion calls for some extra low end. A pair of LEDs – "Signal" and "Limiter" – indicate when a signal is present (green LED) and when the level limit has been reached (red LED). As is usual at this price point, a standard IEC socket provides the mains supply.
This compact all-rounder is easy to transport, thanks both to its dimensions (500 x 625 x 690mm) and its modest weight. With its flexible connection options, the dB Technologies Sub 618 can be combined with a top (for a mono stack) or two satellites (stereo). For smaller setups or the more restrained music genres, one Sub 618 will provide more than enough bass. For gigs with a full band or DJ events, on the other hand, we'd be quick to recommend two Sub 618s. The unit's controls are accessible and pretty streamlined: A control knob for gain and three pushbuttons will have even less experienced users achieving their desired results quickly. With its operating frequency range of 35–130Hz, the dB Technologies Sub 612 is suitable for more or less every style of music. Practically, the device offers two fundamentally different bass sound settings, allowing users to switch between "flat" and "bass boost" at the flick of a switch.
In the mid-90s, dBTechnologies was established as a wholly owned subsidiary of A.E.B. Industriale s.r.l.. Since then, the company has established itself as one of the world's leading suppliers of professional sound systems. Today, dBTechnologies is present in more than 100 countries with its own sales offices or representing distributors. In the mid-2000s dBTechnologies switched to digital amplifier technology on its own initiative and as one of the first manufacturers in the industry, and can look back on more than 10 years of experience in the development of digital power amplifiers and their environments, including power supply and Digital Signal Processing. Their current catalogue includes active and passive loudspeakers, power amplifiers, and electronics as well as wireless systems for a wide range of applications from musicians and DJs to event technology service providers and permanent installations.
The dB Technologies Sub 618 can be set up quickly, and its small footprint means it will fit into any club or rehearsal room. It's so easy to use: To get started, the user simply connects the mixer's sum outputs to the Sub 618's XLR inputs. Active tops, such as the dB Technologies Opera 10, can be docked via the amp module's link-out XLR outputs. All that then remains is to plug in the power supply and it's "go" time! The dB Technologies Sub 618 makes for a strong foundation on which to build a classic satellite PA (i.e. subwoofer -> distance rod -> top) or a 2.1 system (one bass and two tops). All in all, a solid basis for a super-compact PA that delivers quality results fast, not least thanks to its intuitive usability.