4× Martin Audio W8S – Hybrid Sub-Bass System (Wavefront Touring Series)

Name: 4 Martin W8S | Electronic Space
Price: 4500 EUR
Availability: InStock

The 4× Martin Audio W8S system is a high-output professional sub-bass solution designed for large-scale touring and live sound reinforcement, delivering deep low-frequency extension, high efficiency, and powerful transient response.

Built around the hybrid design of Martin Audio Wavefront Touring Series, the W8S combines horn-loaded and bass-reflex technologies in a single enclosure, making it a unique and highly efficient subwoofer solution for demanding environments across Europe.

When deployed as a 4-unit system, the W8S delivers massive low-end headroom, extended coverage, and controlled bass projection, suitable for festivals, arenas, and high-impact live productions.

System Overview (4× W8S Configuration)

System Type: Hybrid horn/reflex subwoofer array
Configuration: 4 × W8S sub-bass enclosures

Core Function:

Reinforces low-frequency range for full-range PA systems
Provides extended bass depth and high SPL output
Integrates with W8 full-range systems and other touring rigs

System Behavior

With 4 units deployed:

Increased low-frequency headroom
Greater acoustic coupling for higher output
More consistent bass coverage across large areas

Key Specifications (Per Cabinet)

Configuration: Hybrid horn/reflex sub-bass system

Drivers:

1 × 15″ horn-loaded LF driver
1 × 18″ reflex-loaded LF driver

Frequency Response (±3 dB):

40 Hz – 150 Hz

Max SPL (1 m):

131 dB continuous
137 dB peak

Power Handling:

800 W AES
3200 W peak

Sensitivity:

104 dB (high efficiency design)

Nominal Impedance:

8 Ω per driver

Physical & Mechanical Details

Construction: Multi-laminate birch plywood enclosure
Finish: Touring-grade textured coating

Grille:

Steel protective grille

Mobility & Handling:

Rear-mounted castors
Integrated handles for transport

Rigging:

Load-certified flying points
Compatible with flown or ground-stacked deployment

Dimensions (Per Cabinet):

~556 × 1066 × 911 mm

Weight:

~90 kg per cabinet

Connectors:

NL8 and EP8 connectors (parallel wiring)

Key Features & Configuration

Hybrid Horn/Reflex Design:
The W8S combines:

Horn-loaded 15″ driver for fast transient response
Reflex-loaded 18″ driver for deep bass extension

This results in tight, punchy bass with extended low-frequency reach, a rare combination in traditional subwoofer designs.

High Efficiency Output:
With a sensitivity of 104 dB, the W8S produces high output with relatively low amplifier power, improving system efficiency.

Touring-Ready Construction:
Built for demanding environments with:

Durable plywood construction
Integrated rigging hardware
Mobility features for fast deployment

System Configuration (4× W8S Setup)

Typical Deployment

Ground-stacked in front-of-house configuration
Flown with W8 arrays for integrated systems
Positioned in sub arrays for even low-frequency coverage

Practical Setup Example

4 × W8S subwoofers (clustered or spaced)
2–4 × W8 tops per side
External amplification and processing

Result

Deep and powerful bass extension
High impact low-end for live music
Consistent coverage across audience areas

Acoustic Performance & Real-World Behavior

The 4× W8S system is designed for high-impact low-frequency reinforcement.

Performance Characteristics

Strong sub-bass extension down to ~40 Hz
Fast transient response from horn-loaded section
High output with minimal distortion

Field Insight

In real-world touring environments:

The hybrid design delivers both “punch” and “depth”
Bass remains tight even at high SPL levels
Systems maintain clarity without excessive EQ

System Integration

The W8S is typically used with:

W8 full-range loudspeakers
Touring PA systems requiring sub-bass reinforcement
External amplifiers with dedicated system processing

Deployment Options

Ground-Stacked Arrays:
Most common configuration for maximum low-frequency impact.

Flown Sub Arrays:
Used when space or coverage requirements demand elevated bass sources.

Distributed Sub Systems:
Multiple stacks placed strategically for even coverage.

Ideal Applications

Large-scale touring productions
Festivals and outdoor events
Concert venues and arenas
High-output club systems
Live music reinforcement requiring deep bass

System Advantages in Practice

Output Power:
4 cabinets provide significantly higher SPL and headroom.

Efficiency:
Hybrid design delivers strong output with optimized power usage.

Flexibility:
Supports both flown and ground-stacked deployment.

Impact:
Delivers both deep bass and fast transient response.

Summary

The 4× Martin Audio W8S system is a powerful hybrid subwoofer solution combining horn and reflex technologies to deliver high-output, controlled low-frequency performance.

Bottom Line

For professional audio systems in Europe, a 4× W8S setup provides a high-impact, touring-grade sub-bass solution, ideal for large events where deep, tight, and powerful bass is essential.