Cinema 4642A 2X18 Subwoofer System
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- Brand new in original box
- Full Cinema manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- 4642A
Description
JBL 4642A 2X18 Subwoofer System
The JBL 4642A is a professional-grade dual 18-inch subwoofer engineered for recording studios and mastering facilities demanding authoritative low-frequency performance and exceptional reliability. Built to cinema standards, this system delivers the punch and control required in high-end control rooms where accurate bass monitoring directly impacts mix decisions.
Powerful Output with Tight, Articulate Bass
This system handles 2400 Watts continuous program power with room to spare, while maintaining a usable response extending to 22 Hz at –10 dB and flat to 22 Hz with external EQ. The 506-liter enclosure tuned to 25 Hz ensures tight, articulate bass rather than bloated low end—critical for accurate monitoring during tracking, mixing, and mastering sessions where low-frequency clarity directly impacts your final product.
Driver Technology & Consistent Performance
Each of the dual 460 mm (18-inch) low-frequency transducers features a 100 mm (4-inch) voice coil and employs JBL's patented Vented Gap Cooling (VGC) process, minimizing power compression and heat buildup during extended recording and mixing sessions. This design approach ensures consistent output across long studio days, keeping your low-end reference stable from first take through final mixdown.
Key Features
- Dual 460 mm (18 in) direct radiator low-frequency transducers in bass-reflex enclosure
- 1200 Watts continuous pink noise power handling; 2400 Watts continuous program power handling
- Usable response to 22 Hz (–10 dB, no EQ); flat to 22 Hz (–3 dB) with external EQ
- Sensitivity: 100–101 dB (1W @ 1m)
- 4 Ohm impedance
- 506-liter internal volume enclosure tuned to 25 Hz
- 19 mm particle board construction with 25 mm baffle and back panel; extensively braced
- 2241H transducers with Vented Gap Cooling (VGC) for reduced power compression
- 100 mm (4-inch) voice coil per driver
- Dimensions: 762 × 1219 × 610 mm (H × W × D); Weight: 98 kg
- THX®-approved by Lucasfilm, Ltd. for cinema installations
The 4642A combines THX cinema certification with proven JBL driver technology, making it a reliable foundation for control rooms where accurate bass reproduction translates to mixes that translate.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The JBL 4642A is a dual 18-inch subwoofer system engineered for film post-production and theatrical mixing, delivering extended sub-bass response (22 Hz) with a flat, articulate character that translates mixes accurately to cinema playback. Studio and mastering engineers use it to verify low-frequency balance and ensure mixes translate to theatrical and high-end commercial environments. Its THX certification, precision tuning, and minimal power compression make it an ideal reference tool for critical monitoring and film soundtrack work.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ cinema
- ✓ theatrical mixing
- ✓ high-end commercial installations
- ✓ film post-production
Not the best pick for
- – home listening
- – portable applications
- – budget-constrained venues
Skill level: Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What does THX certification mean for this subwoofer?
THX approval by Lucasfilm, Ltd. confirms the 4642A meets cinema-industry standards for accurate bass reproduction, reliability, and performance in theatrical installations. This certification is a mark of professional-grade quality and ensures the system will deliver consistent, reference-accurate low-frequency response in demanding mixing and playback environments.
How does Vented Gap Cooling (VGC) improve performance during long sessions?
VGC minimizes power compression and heat buildup in the voice coils, so the subwoofer maintains consistent output and tonal character even during extended operation or high-SPL mixing sessions. This technology extends driver lifespan and prevents the low end from sagging or becoming muddy under sustained load.
What is the actual frequency response of this subwoofer?
The 4642A delivers usable response to 22 Hz at –10 dB (without EQ) and flat to 22 Hz at –3 dB with external EQ applied. The 506-liter enclosure is tuned to 25 Hz, ensuring tight, articulate bass rather than bloated or boomy low end.
Is this subwoofer suitable for portable or touring applications?
No; the 4642A is designed for installed systems in cinemas, theaters, and high-end commercial facilities. At 98 kg and optimized for fixed installations, it is not practical for portable or touring use.
What amplifier or processor does this subwoofer require?
The 4642A is a passive system (4 Ohm impedance) requiring an external amplifier or subwoofer processor rated for 2400 watts continuous program power to operate at full specification. Integration with cinema or studio control systems is handled via external processing.
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