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L-Acoustics CS1 : Large-Format Cardioid Subwoofer
The L-Acoustics CS1 is a new-generation large-format cardioid subwoofer engineered for the most demanding professional sound reinforcement applications. Introduced in 2026 as the first model in the new L-Acoustics CS Series, CS1 combines extreme low-frequency output, advanced directional control and high deployment efficiency within a single enclosure.
Equipped with four 21-inch neodymium transducers, the CS1 delivers up to 150 dB maximum SPL and extends low-frequency reproduction down to 25 Hz. But the CS1 is designed to do more than simply produce powerful bass.
Its patented integrated cardioid architecture gives sound designers precise control over where low-frequency energy is distributed, with selectable Cardioid, Supercardioid and Side Rejection modes.
The result is a subwoofer designed to deliver maximum impact to the audience while reducing unwanted low-frequency energy on stage, behind the system and around the venue.
A New Generation of L-Acoustics Subwoofer
With the CS1, L-Acoustics introduces a new class of large-format professional subwoofer.
Traditional high-output subwoofer deployments often require several cabinets and complex physical configurations to achieve both the required SPL and effective directional control. CS1 approaches the problem differently.
Its ultra-dense acoustic architecture integrates four 21-inch drivers within one enclosure, combining high acoustic output and native cardioid behaviour in a single system element.
This allows system designers to achieve powerful and controlled low-frequency reproduction while reducing the number of enclosures required for large-scale productions.
For touring companies, festivals, stadium systems and major venues, this translates into greater acoustic performance with a more efficient physical deployment.
Four 21-Inch Drivers. Up to 150 dB SPL.
At the heart of the L-Acoustics CS1 subwoofer are four high-performance 21-inch neodymium transducers.
The system is arranged around two acoustic sections:
- 2 × 21-inch front-firing LF drivers
- 2 × 21-inch laterally positioned cardioid drivers
Together, these four transducers create an ultra-dense low-frequency source capable of producing up to 150 dB SPL.
With usable low-frequency extension down to 25 Hz, CS1 is designed to provide the depth, physical impact and headroom required for large concerts, electronic music, festivals, stadium productions and high-performance touring systems.
The enclosure uses a bass-reflex architecture with L-Vents, contributing to efficient airflow and high-output performance at demanding operating levels.
Integrated Cardioid Low-Frequency Control
The defining feature of the L-Acoustics CS1 is not only its output, but its ability to control that output. CS1 uses a patented cardioid topology in which two forward-facing 21-inch transducers operate together with two side-mounted 21-inch drivers. This configuration is designed to maximise acoustic summation toward the audience while reducing unwanted low-frequency energy behind and beside the enclosure.
Unlike conventional subwoofer systems where cardioid behaviour may require multiple cabinets arranged in dedicated physical configurations, CS1 integrates directional low-frequency control directly into the enclosure.
This provides a much more compact and repeatable approach to large-scale cardioid subwoofer deployment.
Cardioid, Supercardioid and Side Rejection Modes
CS1 provides several selectable directivity modes, allowing system designers to optimise bass distribution according to the venue, stage position and surrounding environment. Available operating modes include :
- Cardioid
- Supercardioid
- Enhanced Side Rejection
The Cardioid configuration concentrates energy toward the audience while reducing rear radiation.
Supercardioid mode provides additional control around the sides of the system, making it especially useful when reducing low-frequency energy on stage is a priority.
Side Rejection configurations provide another level of flexibility by allowing unwanted bass energy to be reduced toward specific areas.
This degree of directivity control gives engineers powerful tools for managing low frequencies in arenas, stadiums, festivals and outdoor environments where acoustic spill can be a major concern.
LA7.16 and LA12X Amplification
The L-Acoustics CS1 can be powered by both LA7.16 and LA12X amplified controllers, allowing it to integrate with different generations and configurations of L-Acoustics systems.
Up to two CS1 enclosures can be driven per amplified controller in supported configurations. The amplification platform can therefore be selected according to the complete PA architecture.
For L1-based systems, LA7.16 offers particularly close integration and enables advanced sub-low optimisation through Autofilter.
For large K Series systems, LA12X provides an efficient amplification workflow compatible with existing touring infrastructures.
This flexibility makes CS1 suitable for both newly designed L Series systems and professional rental inventories already built around L-Acoustics amplification.
L-Acoustics CS1 at XLR
As an L-Acoustics Certified Provider, XLR can assist professional users with the design, configuration and integration of the new L-Acoustics CS1 cardioid subwoofer.
From Soundvision system design and subwoofer configuration to amplification, rigging, network architecture and integration with L1, L2, K1 or K2 systems, our team can help develop an L-Acoustics solution tailored to the acoustic and operational requirements of your production or venue.
Whether CS1 is used as part of a new L1 system, as a powerful infra-subwoofer solution or within a large touring inventory, its combination of 150 dB output, 25 Hz extension and integrated cardioid control makes it one of the most advanced large-format subwoofer platforms in the current L-Acoustics range.
Contact XLR for more information about the L-Acoustics CS1, system design, availability and complete professional L-Acoustics solutions.