
Review Summary
Low-Frequency: 18" (45.72cm) cone transducer
40 Hz - 112 kHz
37 Hz - 129 Hz
135 dB peak
1000 W Class D continuous
XLR/1/4": 38 kOhms balanced / 19 kOhms unbalanced
Power
Gain
LF Mode (Normal/DEEP)
Polarity (Normal/Reverse)
Front LED (On/Off/Limit)
Limit, Standby, Power, Signal
Dual balanced female XLR / 1/4" line level input
Dual Balanced male XLR full range line level out
Remote gain control
Locking IEC power connector
On demand, 50mm (1.96") variable speed fan
Thermal limiting
Output overcurrent
Over temperature muting
GuardRail
Thermal limiting, Excursion limiting
Universal power supply 100 - 240 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz
100 VAC, 2.3 A
120 VAC, 2.01 A
230 VAC, 1.13 A
15mm (0.59") Painted birch plywood
Black Powder coated 16 gauge steel
20.1 x 23.4 x 29.9" / 51.05 x 59.43 x 75.94cm with casters
88lbs / 39.91kg
684284057839
The QSC KW181 features a QSC designed, 1000 watt Class D power module. And continuing in the K Series tradition, KW181 is fitted with the identical high-output 1.75" HF device and woofers of the same high quality design, regardless of speaker size.
Defined Coverage Area
Directivity Matched Transition (DMT) provides for matched LF and HF coverage across the entire listening area, eliminating unnatural "dead" or "hot" frequency zones.
DSP
Extensive signal processing is employed throughout, providing levels of sonic clarity and total output that defy all expectations for a product in this category: Intrinsic Correction, first featured in the high-end line array products maps 65-75 spatially-averaged measurements to IIR and FIR filters that actively adjust time, frequency and amplitude response to a maximally flat bandpass target. The result is a speaker that behaves equally well across the entire sound field. DEEP and excursion limiting allow for extended low-frequency response by actively managing low-frequency transients without degradation of the underlying signal or adjacent frequencies. GuardRail protection, first introduced on the GX Series amplifiers protects both the amplifier module and your performance from unnatural and destructive clipping.
Connectivity
The QSC KW181 features a four-position mic / line gain switch that allows for connection of a wide variety of devices. Combo XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs accept both mic and line level input while a set of RCA phono inputs (except KW181) allow additional connectivity to portable MP3 players, CD players and line-level mixers. Up to three audio sources can be mixed internally and summed to a balanced output for "daisy-chaining" of multiple units. Separate direct outputs are also provided on each channel for additional output flexibility.
Control
On-board switches provide preset EQ settings. The HF setting can be set to VOCAL BOOST for additional presence in the critical mid-frequency area or FLAT for accurate reproduction of the incoming signal. The LF switch can be set to NORM, DEEP for additional bass extension or EXT SUB for use with an external subwoofer. The rear panel LED switch can be set to POWER, illuminating the front-mounted LED when the unit is powered on, OFF for applications where it is not desirable to illuminate the front LED or LIMIT which indicates to the system operator that the clip limiter circuit has been engaged during operation.
Remote Gain
Remote gain control capability is offered via a potentiometer (not included) connected to the on-board Phoenix-Style connector. In an installed application, multiple KW Series speakers can be "daisy-chained" for total gain control from a single remote pot. Auto-standby mode is engaged after 5 minutes of inactivity.
Premium-grade Material
The QSC KW181 is designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. Advanced construction processes, premium-grade Baltic birch cabinetry, ergonomic, cast aluminum handles, low-noise casters (KW181) and a highly protective steel grille provide for ease of transport and long term durability. Integrated M10 suspension points allow for flown applications with a KW M10 KIT (sold separately) and a threaded pole receptacle (KW181) provides for a positive, wobble free connection to a threaded speaker pole (included).