Yamaha DXS18 Subwoofer Review

This newly released sub from Yamaha has some serious punch! Check out the DXS18 subwoofer!

[@rosariofamily8098]

Hey Arnoldo, you give the best reviews on products. I know your tired of people asking what sub is better. So I think its time to do but subs head to head. 18 inch subs Ev vs Yamaha vs Qsc. You will get a record breaking views. Then compare 15 inch tops mains. People need better videos to watch then wack Namm reviews.

[@spinmoney101]

Thanks for the review, enjoying all your videos...very helpful!

[@GearItFirst]

Thanks for watching?

[@livesoundz2576]

Very helpful review. I purchased this sub after this review and the bass is amazing. Just one question, can I use dxs 18 and dxs18xlf together? Will there be any freq response issues?

[@synapticflow]

Hello Arnoldo. I was wondering if you can help me. So I just bought two Yamaha DBR12s. They are a lot better than the Guitar Center Harbinger speakers I used to have and look like they will last a long time. And now I want a subwoofer and only two come to mind. I am looking at the Cerwin Vega CVX18S and the Yamaha DXS18. I love the idea of finally having matching components for the first time. My old subs were garbage Seismic Audio. I have not seen one single bad review about the Yamaha DXS18, but I have seen something that scares me as a person who is poor. I saw a few people complaining that it is a bandpass design. So I did some research and learned that bandpass subs are much easier to destroy because there is a lot more stress on the woofer. That stress is due to the front of the sub being blocked which stresses the movement freedom of the woofer. This really bothers me to have learned that. I can't afford another one if this one dies on me. I know how to run my gear safely and without overdriving it, but the stress is going to be there at any volume due to the bandpass design. What do you think? Thanks for your time.

[@bensmith1195]

If I were you I would go with the new Yamaha DXS18XLF. Its a standard bass reflect design unlike the DXS18, and is essentially the new version of it, meaning its louder, goes lower, has more features, and where I live, is hardly more expensive. That way you can still have all matching components. To be honest though I really wouldn't worry too much about longevity with the standard DXS18 though, its not a cheap crappy sub and has a decent warranty. I'm currently looking to buy a DXS18XLF to go with my DBR15s, with the DXS18 being my second option

[@reubentyler-wilkinson8218]

@@bensmith1195 I'm buying a Yamaha dbr15 and was wondering if the dxs18 might be overkill or overpower the sound of the dbr15. And if not might the dxs18xlf be a good option

[@bensmith1195]

@@reubentyler-wilkinson8218 I recently bought a dxs18xlf to go with two of my yamaha dbr15s. 1 of the dbr15s can quite easily out do 1 of the dxs18xlfs when set to a 100hz crossover, and when you lower it to 80hz, the dbr15 still out performs it, but not by as much. I considered the dxs18 after seeing it in store, but the dxs18xlf is slightly smaller and lighter, and out performs it for practically the same price where I live, hence I would absolutely recommend it over the standard dxs18. I would say two dbr15s could definitely keep up with two of the dxs18xlfs centre coupled at a 100hz crossover, and probably more bass still, so a single dbr15 with a single dxs18xlf would be a good combo. I would only really recommend the dxs18 over the xlf is if you could get a pretty heavy discount on it.

[@reubentyler-wilkinson8218]

@@bensmith1195 thanks for the advice, I think I'm gonna go and pick that up

[@pierrelacroix31]

Excellent review, thanx! Would you pair this sub with 2 DXR10? Or should it be DXR12 at minimum?

[@achrefwithc]

Great review! one question please, would 2 of these will do well in a small sized club, 100 people capacity, playing house music on, along with 2 15" tops? thanks!

[@GearItFirst]

Definitely!

[@elishasoussan798]

For hip hop and EDM which one would you use the DXS18 or the EV ETX18

[@SQchico]

Do you still use them? Thinking on getting a pair. After 5 years do you still recommend them? Any problems besides the weight you talkedabout?

[@GearItFirst]

No issues!

[@dougtodd9184]

I want some high output 18" subs to pair with my DSR12'S. Would you recommend the DXS18 or newer DXS18XLF subs. Thanks Doug

[@GearItFirst]

Def the newer. The #s are better

[@elishasoussan798]

What a wonderful and informative review!! Thank you for you great video! Just a Quick question, Which subwoofer can you really compare to this in terms of output. And also how many people can you use a pair of these for? Thanks so much

[@GearItFirst]

Hmm.. that's tough. I'd say these are a good alternative to my EV ETX 18SP. They're way louder than the QSCs for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@elishasoussan798]

@@GearItFirst Thanks so much for the response :) ! And with regards to the amount of people you can you use 2 of these for to have some nice good low end on the Dancefloor

[@djsoo]

I'm definitely considering upgrading my subs to this. You think one (or even two) can fit in the back seat of a camry?

[@GearItFirst]

Doubt it, you'll need a van for sure! Take a look at the DXS12s. I did a review on these, too!

[@djsoo]

I run Yorkville LS720Ps (15" subs) - can fit 3 of them in my car with my 4 tops (DXR10s and DXR8s). Sound good, but lacking in throw. Really looking to upgrade to something with a bit more oomph, but size is a concern.

[@NickDash]

I would fucking love to see one of those in a car!

[@user-py9gi3bv7j]

Even if you haven't done a side by side comparison with an EV ETX-18SP, since you have experience with both ETX-18SP and DXS18, can you give your initial thoughts on how they compare in terms of sound quality and SPL? The published/marketing specs of each can only tell you so much. Assuming you are not a paid/compensated spokesperson/reviewer or dealer for either company, do you have a personal preference with one over the other? They both seem to be in and around the same tier for subs (similar price points) but use different sub designs. I'm curious if the DXS18 carries a little more SPL at the expense of a little less flatter frequency response and if the ETX-18SP has a flatter frequency response (some would say more musical) at the expense of a little less SPL. For the DXS18 there is also an optional FUNCTIONAL speaker cover that should be available in the future. You can use the sub with the cover always on for additional protection from the elements and from people!

[@GearItFirst]

+Freddie Garcia 1) Never use a sub with the cover on. That's a terrible idea. 2) I am not a paid reviewer. I don't appreciate the insinuation. 3) I've not used the ETX or the DXS side by side or in similar situations. I won't damage my credibility by saying one is louder/cleaner when I would need to listen to them in the same scenario to do so. You did hit the nail on the head that the EV loses a little SPL for a good sound quality (as opposed to a folded horn design). I will do more testing with the DXS to give more info on this.

[@user-py9gi3bv7j]

+Arnoldo Offermann 1. Can you please explain why using a functional indoor/outdoor sub speaker cover that does not cover any of the sound ports, back amp panel, or grille would be a terrible idea? JBL, RCF, and Carvin are some other company's that offer indoor/outdoor functional sub covers. The DXS18 cover (SPCVR-18S01) is designed to be able to have the sub operate with it on without affecting the sound and performance. From the pictures of it that are available, it looks nice. 2. Not sure why you are insulted. I said I was assuming you were not paid. 3. That's why I asked and was curious for your INITIAL thoughts since you've worked with both. I think it would be interesting to hear more of your thoughts if you decide to perform more tests. Thanks. I appreciate your insight.

[@GearItFirst]

We're not talking an acoustical cover. You said there IS a functional cover for the DXS18. Yamaha doesn't offer one for the subs that doesn't block the port nor the grills. Even then, I've used similar covers and I hear the cover shifting.. I hate it, personally. Once I play with more with both subs side by side, I'll put in some thoughts.

[@leonquinn2432]

Now that you've had more experience.. I'm buying a sub tomorrow, for mainly EDM/Hip-Hop.. should I go for a pair of ETX 18 or DXS18? Thank you

[@djsash77oldmanradic]

dxs 18 go much louder and better electronics inside

[@snowvalleyrat]

Great video! How many people do you think a single dxs 18 could handle in a high school gym?

[@GearItFirst]

Depends on the gym

[@djtallguy5163]

i have both the ev etx 18 and the yamaha dxs 18 the yamaha is louder and deeper and hits harder! plus 7 year warranty wow!

[@drummerboy100jh]

Hey man do you still own both the etx and the dxr 18s are you still liking them or had any trouble or both of them been Rock Solid for you which one do you prefer?

[@stephenscharf643]

Hi Arnoldo! been diggin your videos and I really like the Q & A's you do I been learning a bunch. I recently purchased 2 dxs18's along with 2 DSR115's and man does this rig get loud! I been loving it. Lately however I been thinking about adding 2 more subs to the setup. I play a lot of jungle/drum and bass music and I really want to get some extra bass thump in my setup. Do you think 2 more DXS18s are worth the money with all their features(cardiod mode and the xtd LF features) or should I save a few bucks and just go with a single double 18' like the jbl srx828? Do you think the jbl will compliment the yamahas? Or just keep everything uniformed and go all out yamaha? I'm leaning towards keeping everything yamaha but my wallet is saying otherwise haha. Thanks! I appreciate all the info much respect!

[@GearItFirst]

4 single 18's give you more options than 2 double 18s. Add 2 more DXS18s and get that beautiful sound you deserve! Thanks for watching!

[@LTParis]

Very interesting review. I've been very happy with my DXS12s and they are good for 200+ people although that is pushing the edge of it's capabilities. Good to know that the quality extends to the DXS line. I do wish that is was not 125 lbs since I am a solo operation.

[@GearItFirst]

+Lou Paris Lou, I own the DXS12s, too! :) These are heavy, but there are ways to lift them up!

[@LTParis]

All I can think of is my load-ins to my van at home, navigating some of the stairs, and then the couple venues I perform at that I can't use my Rock and Roller to get them into. But I can still see getting these at some point. :)

[@GearItFirst]

There's a cart at Harbor Freight that has a handle that pumps.. as you pump, the cart has a platform that lifts!

[@LTParis]

+Arnoldo Offermann I must find out more about this cart. My R&R is getting a bit beat up.

[@GearItFirst]

Problem is this one weighs more than the sub; maybe they make a light duty one? www.harborfreight.com/1000-lbs-capacity-hydraulic-table-cart-69148.html

[@rakjud8854]

Quite old post but I would like to confirm if the DXS18 paired with DXR 15 can handle 800 persons in outdoor setup ?

[@jobelewis6416]

People suggest one DXS18 for every 200 people indoors. The DXR15’s around loud but not that loud

[@deanbarker9773]

I am looking at the DSR112 tops for my function band. I am looking to pair with subs. My options are either 2 of these Subs or 4 of the dsr 118. Which option do you think will work better?

[@javiermolina411]

Im looking forward to getting subs for a house of worship. Im currently running QSC's E115's for front and E112's for my back and have them delayed. To power them I have a QSC PLD 4.5. My subs have been farting like crazy lately and deff. need to upgrade. Im debating between these DXS18 and the EV ETX18sp. If you were in my shoes, what would your route be? Thanks in advance

[@desmorider747]

So how does this compare to you ls800/801p's. Also how do they compare to etx18?

[@GearItFirst]

+desmo rider I've not done an A/B test soon!. They don't "sound" as loud as the Yorkvilles, but they hit LOWER *and* sound better!!!

[@LanceMX8]

With 2 Subs at a School dance is there benifit to running Cardiode Mode vs Stereo mode? WOuld Cardiode Mode be "Loader" than Stereo?

[@xtremebassist777]

Hey Arnoldo, have you ever worked with a QSC KW181? Is there any possibility of you being able to compare the two? I'm in a bind between this sub and the QSC, and your review is the only one that I can find on the DXS18. Trying to get a sub to go with my two Yamaha DXR15's. Thanks for your time!

[@GearItFirst]

+Ashkahn Shojaei I don't care for the K and KW series. I've used the KW and it wasn't bad, but the DXS18 kills it in quality + features!

[@cristianmedico2476]

+Ashkahn Shojaei I rent DSR112 as main in pair and normally use 1 QSC KW181 and it works great, so if you use DXR 15 is going to be enough,and I'm talking in outdoor situation, I wish yamaha had this subs before I got the 4 QSC

[@GearItFirst]

The DXR18 (let's stick with similar models) is louder than the KW

[@xtremebassist777]

+Cristian Medico I ended up taking the plunge and buying the DXS18, and I have no complaint other than the weight; which is easily offset when carrying it with another person or a dolly. This thing hits hard! I did also like the KW181 when I used it, even though on paper the DXS18 will technically get louder. I am going to eventually do a side by side of the two and I'll update on here. All in all, you cannot go wrong with this sub, it is awesome!!!

[@GearItFirst]

Glad to hear!!!

[@chrisbollinger1225]

Hey Arnoldo, I am replacing my gear. For a country band I have narrowed it down to dxs18/dsr112 or ext15sp/etx12. I want good clean lows and good flat tops that make vocals shine. Your input? Tks

[@GearItFirst]

Oh mannnnnn.. that's tough! Both are fantastic combos. Check out both reviews I did, try and hear them firsthand and go from there.

[@jamesmah4303]

Love your review

[@GearItFirst]

Thanks!

[@centerstageentertainment226]

are the direct radiating sub more or less omni directional than the band pass subs, so i was told need your help i have the ref tts18a band pass subs, need too no if your too either side of the the sub will there be hotter spots than others meaning more bass in one area than another, I called my self upgrading from the etx 18sp. which iI loved btw. with the etx seem as though I could feel the bass no matter where I was in the room. your expertise would be greatly appreciated. thank in advance

[@GearItFirst]

The real answer is it depends on the room and the overall positioning. All subs are omni directional... just some are better than others.

[@centerstageentertainment226]

thank for the fast response

[@Mr.Brolic]

How do these compare to the ev etx18

[@djflavianortizlll3813]

does these have fan cool for longer events?

[@benjaminmyles5886]

good review mate thanks

[@_FIYAZNX]

What is price of subwoofer

[@poperapping4450]

are these better than cerwin vega cvx18s

[@TCAMACHO92]

Have you heard the cerwin vega 18 inch earthquake el 36dp?

[@addonisryan]

The rreasowhich n it didn't bottom out was due to proper cabinet tuning as well as onboard DSP.which filters the frequencies which the subwoofer is not meant to reproduce.

[@drik165]

would you say that those yamaha are louder then the DSR118? i now have the DSR118 and mebay considering changing two those DXS18 mebay just for the cardioid

[@GearItFirst]

DXS = much louder!

[@drik165]

+Arnoldo Offermann thanks!

[@poperapping4450]

i had my girl sit on it like howard stern movie.she let me by a second one

[@prettyboyexclusive6614]

How to turn it to a surround sound system

[@raggaroaringsound]

Would it be a good or bad idea to pair these with qsc k12's?

[@tommynguyen3549]

the sub come with wheel or not? thank

[@GearItFirst]

It's sold in a kit.

[@prouserprouser9646]

if yamaha launched this sub to keep up with the dsr115 tops, then why the HELL did they call it DXS18?

[@GearItFirst]

+Philip Because it's in the DXS line of subs and it's an 18". Duh.

[@yamahacommaudio]

+Philip As Arnoldo mentioned, we decided to go with a different naming philosophy to show our customers that we believe the DXS Series is a line that can be paired with the DBR, DXR, and DSR series depending on the needs of the situation.

[@umbertoverbita6653]

Can I paired DSR215 and DXS18? Pleses answer me.

[@GearItFirst]

Yes

[@johgus96jg]

This sub seems almost too good for the proce point, was gonna go with RCF but Yamaha might just have changed my mind with these

[@GearItFirst]

You'll love it! Thanks for watching!

[@ljmike1204]

if you want a nice bass song try coone sirvival of the fittest i had it running outside on my alto tssubs 12" the wure blowing so mutch air it whas sick

[@GearItFirst]

+ljmike1204 What?

[@ljmike1204]

+Arnoldo Offermann its a cool song with a lot of low rumbling bass meby you want to give it a try on those cool subs

[@Lectrosoul]

would the DBR15's pair well with these?

[@GearItFirst]

Absolutely. For a smaller crowd, cross over at 80hz. For a larger crowd, do at 100hz. (100 makes the dbr produce less bass and be louder, but at 80hz the sub can focus its energy on deeper frequencies)

[@Lectrosoul]

Thanks!

[@anthonyescante5487]

etx 18 sub or Yamaha sub

[@GearItFirst]

+Anthony Escante Depends

[@inhouseclubdj]

I am going need a subwoofer for my DJing

[@chrisbollinger1225]

Unfortunately there is nowhere I can go to a/b them

[@volumelux253]

You're a good salesman. I'll give you that. But this review does not feel very honest.

[@GearItFirst]

+VolumeLux I'm not a dealer... so yeah.

[@snowvalleyrat]

+VolumeLux I initially got the same impression, but then I saw Arnoldo Speaks highly of speakers from competing brands as well. And I've seen him critique products from Yamaha and other brands as well. (DBR's dent easily, EV ELX's sound harsh, ect...) So he's certainly not a just a yamaha salesman. And I found out today at Sam Ash that If you just listen to something made by Yamaha, you'll see why he speaks so highly of their products.

[@livesoundz2576]

Am a proud owner of this sub and I attest myself here that this sub is amazing and is by far the loudest sub I ve ever come across

[@cigarobsession]

Shoulda got the 20 just sayin'!

[@snowvalleyrat]

+cigarobsession They don't make a 20 inch version.

[@cigarobsession]

+Frank Pirolo That's a joke, son ;)

[@snowvalleyrat]

+cigarobsession Oops, haha. My Sarcasm radar must be broken.

[@pauloyoshizaki2103]

YAMAHA; CAIXAS Acústicas DXS 18 SUBWOOFER É MÁXIMO YAMAHA PARABÉNS YAMAHA;…………OK!!!…………………

[@georgegeorgio1751]

Over 50 kg's who's going to lift it?

[@snowvalleyrat]

I'm surprised that table can hold the sub!

[@GearItFirst]

+Frank Pirolo Me, too, LOL!!!

[@elaniycong4506]

To much word, bring that to action

[@youtuberiseng6699]

Too much talked.. Like my mom😂

[@GearItFirst]

Nah. Your mom makes good use of her mouth.

[@pauloyoshizaki2103]

YAMAHA;DXS 18 ; SUBWOOFER. YAMAHA LANÇAR CAXAS ACÚSTICAS MODELOS REDONDOS 3D Será ÓTIMO Aguardar Até Ano 2019~2020 YAMAHA ………………………………OK!!!!!!………………………………………………………………………………………

[@pauloyoshizaki2103]

YAMAHA : SPEAKERS : SUBWOOLFER : DXS 18 ; 2.000- WATTS : POTÊNCIA : CONTROLLER ~ Amplifier : Frequência ~ Amplitude ; Balanceadas ; Impedância : 120Hz ~ 20Khz ; Ohms ; Quality : Som : Digital : Limpo ! : Audível ! ; ( Audioversity ) : Future : Sistema :" Wireless " : Top : Sistema - Som - Digital : Sem : Cabos : Ou : Fios ? : incomodos ! : Eliminados ! : New - Projeto ! ; Yamaha ,: Desafio : Até : Ano : 2030 ; Wireless : Tudo : Audio = Vídeo = Digital = Wireless ," YAMAHA : 2030 : PROJETO .

[@pauloyoshizaki2103]

YAMAHA; EM 3D CAIXAS Acústicas REDONDOS ;AGUARDAR YAMAHA ……………………OK!!!…………………………………………………

[@andyfoz]

that is the 15" version you plank

[@GearItFirst]

Are you high? This is the 18" version.

[@andyfoz]

jbl 818xlf, dxs18 or rcf 8003as2 which is best?

[@GearItFirst]

You don't get to ask me questions after insulting me because you're too stupid to tell the difference between a 15" and 18" sub. Get lost, knob.

[@HaywoodCarey]

20930 Cruickshank Mill

[@DJ-Gboi]

how does it compare to the EV etx18sp

[@GearItFirst]

+DJ GBOI LIVE I've not done side by side

[@DJHOLLYWOODAMG]

Scott 1 ... I Have Two EV Etx 18sp and man they hit damn good I haven’t gotten a bad review yet!💯