Monitor Audio WS1-W10, WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 – Three New In-wall Subwoofers for the Creator Series
The Monitor Audio WS1-W10, Monitor Audio WS2-W12 and Monitor Audio WS3-W12 bring dedicated low-frequency solutions to the Monitor Audio Creator Series. Shallow C-CAM drivers, acoustically matched backboxes and dedicated DSP amplification allow installers to specify the appropriate performance level for each project. The compact WS1-W10 stands apart through its ability to operate either with an optional enclosure or as an infinite-baffle design.
- Monitor Audio is not approaching architectural bass with three loosely related subwoofer drivers, but with a clearly tiered system of drive units, installation enclosures and DSP amplifiers. The WS1-W10 provides the greatest freedom where space or construction dictates a more individual solution, while the larger WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 address projects in which higher output, defined cabinet volumes and installation planning form part of the brief from the outset.
The Monitor Audio Creator Series already provides a modular range of in-wall and in-ceiling loudspeakers for sophisticated Custom Installation projects. What it lacked was an equally coherent way of extending these systems into the lowest octaves without placing a conventional subwoofer in the room.
Monitor Audio Ltd. now fills that gap with the Monitor Audio WS1-W10, Monitor Audio WS2-W12 and Monitor Audio WS3-W12. Although all three are designed for concealed installation, they differ in more than driver diameter and power handling. Each represents a specific combination of subwoofer, enclosure concept and DSP amplification, allowing the bass system to be selected according to the architecture, available installation space and required output.
The Monitor Audio IA500-S is assigned to the WS1-W10 and WS2-W12 configurations, while the more powerful Monitor Audio IA750-2 partners the flagship WS3-W12 system. This makes the new subwoofers part of an architectural audio ecosystem rather than isolated additions to the Creator Series.
Key Facts Monitor Audio WS1-W10, Monitor Audio WS2-W12 and Monitor Audio WS3-W12
- Three new in-wall subwoofers for the Monitor Audio Creator Series
- Three system configurations for different performance requirements
- Monitor Audio WS1-W10 with a 10 inch Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM driver
- Monitor Audio WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 with 12 inch Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM RST II drivers
- Installed frequency response at -6 dB extending to 22 Hz for the WS1-W10 in an infinite-baffle configuration, 25 Hz for the WS2-W12 and 23 Hz for the WS3-W12
- Continuous power handling of 250 Watt, 500 Watt and 750 Watt respectively
- Driver mounting depths between 87 and 90 mm
- WS1-W10 available separately and suitable for installation without a dedicated backbox
- WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 supplied as solutions with acoustically matched installation enclosures
- Monitor Audio IA500-S specified for the WS1-W10 and WS2-W12
- Monitor Audio IA750-2 specified for the WS3-W12
One Series, Three Distinct Installation Strategies
The three configurations are arranged according to performance, but Monitor Audio has avoided turning the individual model names into tier designations. Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 describe complete system combinations; the subwoofers themselves are named exclusively WS1-W10, WS2-W12 and WS3-W12.
At the most flexible end of the range, the WS1-W10 can be combined with the Monitor Audio IA500-S and the optional WS1-W10 BOX. The second configuration brings together the WS2-W12, its purpose-designed enclosure and the same IA500-S amplifier. At the top of the range, the WS3-W12 uses a more elaborate cabinet and is driven by the two-channel Monitor Audio IA750-2.
This approach enables the low-frequency section to be specified at the same early project stage as the in-wall or in-ceiling loudspeakers. It also makes the differences between the three systems clear: the WS1-W10 is intended to accommodate varying construction requirements, while the WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 prioritise defined acoustic conditions and progressively greater output.
Monitor Audio WS1-W10 – The Most Adaptable Option
The Monitor Audio WS1-W10 uses a 254 mm or 10 inch Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM driver. Its 88 mm mounting depth keeps the space required directly behind the visible front remarkably shallow.
Its defining feature, however, is not simply its compact size. Monitor Audio offers both the WS1-W10 driver and the WS1-W10 BOX separately, giving installers a choice between a closed, defined cabinet volume and an infinite-baffle installation without a dedicated backbox.
With the WS1-W10 BOX, Monitor Audio specifies an installed frequency response of 27 Hz to 250 Hz at -6 dB. In an infinite-baffle arrangement, the quoted extension reaches 22 Hz at the lower end, again with an upper limit of 250 Hz.
This distinction may prove particularly useful where the long format of a conventional installation enclosure would be difficult to accommodate. Depending on the construction, that could include selected ceiling installations as well as wall structures offering sufficient open volume but limited space for a dedicated backbox.
Tri-Grip II fixings are used for installation, while a flat magnetic grille is all that remains visible in the room. The required cut-out measures 280 × 280 mm, and the overall front assembly measures 313 × 313 × 97 mm.
The WS1-W10 has a nominal impedance of 6 Ohm and continuous power handling of 250 Watt. When driven by the Monitor Audio IA500-S, the manufacturer quotes a maximum peak output of 112.4 dB.
Monitor Audio WS2-W12 – Greater Surface Area and Output
The Monitor Audio WS2-W12 moves to a 305 mm or 12 inch Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM driver. Its cone also incorporates Monitor Audio’s RST II Cone Geometry, intended to support controlled operation at higher output levels.
Monitor Audio specifies a frequency response of 25 Hz to 250 Hz at -6 dB, continuous power handling of 500 Watt and a nominal impedance of 3 Ohm. Used with the Monitor Audio IA500-S, the system is rated for a maximum peak output of 115.3 dB.
Unlike the WS1-W10, this model is conceived around its matched enclosure. Monitor Audio describes the closed design as a Dual Multi-length Cabinet. The complete enclosure measures 1,950 × 351 × 111 mm, yet the driver itself requires a mounting depth of only 87 mm.
The WS2-W12 therefore suits projects in which the subwoofer can be incorporated into the building plan and where considerably greater reserves are required than the compact WS1-W10 configuration can provide. Its defined enclosure also removes uncertainty over the acoustic volume available behind the wall.
Monitor Audio WS3-W12 – The Flagship System
The Monitor Audio WS3-W12 also employs a 305 mm or 12 inch Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM RST II driver, but combines it with a more powerful motor system, higher power handling and the most sophisticated enclosure of the three configurations.
Its specified response extends from 23 Hz to 250 Hz at -6 dB. Continuous power handling rises to 750 Watt, nominal impedance is 4 Ohm and Monitor Audio quotes a maximum peak output of 116.1 dB when the subwoofer is partnered with the IA750-2.
The cabinet is a closed Triple Multi-length design constructed from metal and wood, with internal bracing used to reduce unwanted vibration. The structure is also intended to provide a large usable acoustic volume despite the dimensional constraints associated with wall installation.
At 1,981 × 355 × 113 mm, the WS3-W12 enclosure is the largest in the range. The complete system weighs 36.7 kg, although the driver’s mounting depth remains limited to 90 mm.
This is consequently a solution for installations in which substantial low-frequency capability must be concealed without compromising the defined operating conditions required by the driver.
Why the Enclosures Matter
Backboxes in architectural audio can easily be regarded as construction accessories. Monitor Audio instead treats each enclosure as an integral part of the acoustic design.
For the WS2-W12 and WS3-W12, the enclosure dimensions, internal structure and cabinet volume have been developed around the respective driver and its performance targets. According to the manufacturer, the designs are intended both to optimise acoustic performance and to reduce unwanted vibration entering the surrounding structure.
The WS1-W10 follows a deliberately different path. Its optional WS1-W10 BOX provides the predictability of a sealed cabinet where required, but installers retain the option of using the driver without a dedicated backbox. The larger models are designed around their matched enclosures and are not presented as unrestricted standalone drivers.
Dedicated DSP Amplification for Each Configuration
Monitor Audio assigns the slim Monitor Audio IA500-S Class D subwoofer amplifier to both the WS1-W10 and WS2-W12. It delivers 250 Watt into the 6 Ohm WS1-W10 and 500 Watt into the 3 Ohm WS2-W12.
An integrated DSP provides three application presets named Impact, Movie and Music. Level and crossover controls are joined by a phase switch offering settings of 0° and 180°.
The IA500-S should therefore be understood as part of these two defined system configurations rather than as a generic amplifier added after the subwoofer has been selected. Its output and signal processing have been specified for the respective WS1-W10 and WS2-W12 applications.
The WS3-W12 is partnered by the more powerful Monitor Audio IA750-2. This 2U amplifier provides two channels, each rated at up to 750 Watt into 2 or 4 Ohm, and also includes DSP-based signal processing. Bridged operation is available where required.
With 750 Watt available to the WS3-W12, the amplifier corresponds directly to the subwoofer’s quoted continuous power handling and completes the highest-performance system in the new range.
Proper Bass Without a Freestanding Subwoofer
The practical appeal of the new models lies in what disappears from the room. Once installed, the only obvious evidence of the subwoofer is a flat magnetic grille; the driver, cabinet and amplification remain integrated into the building or equipment rack.
That can be decisive in architecturally sensitive living spaces, but the application is not limited to visually discreet home cinema. The three performance levels can also support stereo systems and media rooms in which a conventional cabinet subwoofer would interfere with the layout or interior design.
Subwoofer, backbox and DSP amplifier can be planned alongside the Creator Series in-wall and in-ceiling speakers, allowing both output and installation requirements to be addressed as one system. This is the logic behind Monitor Audio’s description of the range as part of a complete Architectural Audio Ecosystem.
The Most Important Advantages at a Glance
- Three performance levels: The bass system can be scaled to suit the size, output target and construction requirements of a Custom Installation project.
- Flexible entry model: The Monitor Audio WS1-W10 operates with the optional WS1-W10 BOX or as an infinite-baffle installation without a separate backbox.
- High-excursion 12 inch drivers: The WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 employ C-CAM RST II cones for the more powerful configurations.
- Shallow driver installation: The three chassis require mounting depths of only 87 to 90 mm.
- Acoustically matched enclosures: Each cabinet solution is designed around the corresponding driver and performance level.
- Purpose-matched DSP amplification: Monitor Audio assigns the IA500-S and IA750-2 directly to the appropriate subwoofer systems.
- Considerable peak reserves: Depending on the configuration, Monitor Audio quotes maximum peak levels of up to 116.1 dB.
- Discreet room integration: A flat magnetic grille is essentially the only visible component after installation.
Price & Availability
The Monitor Audio WS1-W10, Monitor Audio WS2-W12 and Monitor Audio WS3-W12 systems are scheduled to become available in January 2027.
The Monitor Audio WS1-W10 is priced at € 750,-, while the separately available Monitor Audio WS1-W10 BOX costs € 200,-. A complete Monitor Audio WS1-W10 System comprising the subwoofer, WS1-W10 BOX and Monitor Audio IA500-S is listed at € 1.750,-.
The Monitor Audio WS2-W12 System, including the subwoofer, its matched enclosure and the Monitor Audio IA500-S, is priced at € 2.300,-. The Monitor Audio WS3-W12 System combines the subwoofer, Triple Multi-length enclosure and Monitor Audio IA750-2 for € 5.415,-.
The WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 are intended to be supplied with their respective matched enclosures rather than used as unrestricted standalone drivers. The Monitor Audio IA500-S is also available separately for € 800,-.
Getting to the Point
The addition of three subwoofers would have closed an obvious gap in the Monitor Audio Creator Series, but the more important decision is how Monitor Audio has done it. Defined combinations of drivers, enclosures and DSP amplifiers provide a far more useful basis for project planning than three unrelated in-wall bass units.
The distinction between the adaptable WS1-W10 and the enclosure-specific WS2-W12 and WS3-W12 is particularly sensible. Installers gain freedom where construction demands it, yet retain clearly engineered system options where output and acoustic predictability take priority. For stereo, media-room and home-cinema projects requiring powerful bass without a freestanding subwoofer, the new range completes the Creator Series in a coherent way.
| Product | Monitor Audio WS1-W10, Monitor Audio WS2-W12 and Monitor Audio WS3-W12 |
|---|---|
| Price | Monitor Audio WS1-W10 € 750,- Monitor Audio WS1-W10 BOX € 200,- Monitor Audio WS1-W10 System € 1.750,- Monitor Audio WS2-W12 System € 2.300,- Monitor Audio WS3-W12 System € 5.415,- |
Technical Specifications
| Product | Monitor Audio WS1-W10 | Monitor Audio WS2-W12 | Monitor Audio WS3-W12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Characterisation | Highly flexible in-wall subwoofer | High-output 12 inch in-wall subwoofer with matched enclosure | Most powerful in-wall subwoofer in the new range |
| Driver | 1 × 10 inch/254 mm Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM | 1 × 12 inch/305 mm Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM RST II | 1 × 12 inch/305 mm Low-profile High Linear-excursion C-CAM RST II |
| Installed frequency response (-6 dB) | 27 Hz to 250 Hz with WS1-W10 BOX; 22 Hz to 250 Hz infinite baffle | 25 Hz to 250 Hz | 23 Hz to 250 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 88 dB | 89 dB | 88.5 dB |
| Nominal impedance | 6 Ohm | 3 Ohm | 4 Ohm |
| Minimum impedance | 6 Ohm | 3 Ohm | 4 Ohm |
| Maximum peak output | 112.4 dB | 115.3 dB | 116.1 dB |
| Continuous power handling | 250 Watt | 500 Watt | 750 Watt |
| Recommended amplifier power | 250 Watt | 500 Watt | 750 Watt |
| Matched amplifier | Monitor Audio IA500-S | Monitor Audio IA500-S | Monitor Audio IA750-2 |
| Bass loading | Sealed with WS1-W10 BOX or infinite baffle without backbox | Sealed, Dual Multi-length Cabinet | Sealed, Triple Multi-length Cabinet |
| Recommended low-pass frequency (-6 dB) | 32 Hz to 250 Hz | 32 Hz to 250 Hz | 32 Hz to 250 Hz |
| Mounting depth | 88 mm | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Cut-out dimensions | 280 × 280 mm | – | – |
| Front/frame dimensions | 313 × 313 × 97 mm | 351 × 351 × 16 mm | 351 × 351 × 16 mm |
| Installation enclosure | WS1-W10 BOX, 1,450 × 351 × 87 mm, available separately | 1,950 × 351 × 111 mm | 1,981 × 355 × 113 mm |
| Recommended wall thickness | 9,5 to 40 mm | 12,5 to 40 mm | 12,5 to 40 mm |
| Weight | 5,3 kg subwoofer; 12.5 kg WS1-W10 BOX | 27,5 kg | 36,7 kg |
| Finish | Black | Black | Black |
| Brand | Monitor Audio Ltd. |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Monitor Audio Ltd. |
| Distribution Austria | R.M.S. State of the Art Audio Products |
| Distribution Germany | Pannes Vertriebs KG |
| Distribution Switzerland | cebrands.ch |
| More about this manufacturer at HiFi BLOG |
