ATC unleashes the beast: new SCS120 Pro subwoofers take sound to another dimension

ATC announces the availability of the floor-standing SCS120 Pro and in-wall SCS120iW Pro models as its flagship 15”/375 mm subwoofers, designed to elevate professional monitoring systems to new levels.

These models have been conceived to complement the manufacturer’s larger mid-field and main monitors, offering exceptional low-frequency extension, expanded dynamic range and seamless integration for stereo, surround and immersive formats —including Dolby Atmos.

The two models build on the success of the active 12”/300 mm SCS70 Pro (floor-standing) and SCS70iW Pro (in-wall) subwoofers, but both incorporate a new hand-built 15”/375 mm sub-bass transducer, developed and produced by ATC at its facilities in Stroud, Gloucestershire. All components of the driver —from the motor system to the suspension— have been precisely optimized using state-of-the-art analysis tools for both small and large signal performance. The transducer combines a powerful short-coil motor with optimized airflow and cooling, along with a paper-and-carbon composite cone, delivering deep and clean bass from 120 Hz down to below 20 Hz, with minimal distortion and maximum impact.

In fact, the SCS120 Pro and SCS120iW Pro provide extended low-frequency response without resorting to EQ or complex electronic processing, instead using a more elegant combination: exceptional transducer engineering and a slightly larger cabinet volume. This simplicity reduces phase shift and group delay, facilitating integration of the subwoofer with associated monitors to deliver a more balanced and coherent listening experience, combining deep bass extension with outstanding clarity in the upper-bass region.

Both new flagship subwoofers are powered by a 300 W Class A/B amplifier, hand-assembled and optimized for fast, dynamic response. Connectivity and control include balanced stereo inputs, balanced full-range outputs and 4th-order Linkwitz-Riley analog filters with multiple crossover options —including a standard 80 Hz setting and a bypass mode for external processing. Additionally, a polarity switch, variable phase control and stepped attenuator allow precise system tuning. The amplifier also includes pedal mute control with daisy-chain capability for multiple subwoofers.

In the case of the SCS120iW Pro (in-wall), all of the above features are offered but optimized for wall installation thanks to a slimmer cabinet and a recessed rear connection panel that maximizes floor space. A remote R1-300 Pro amplifier (7U/19”) enables flexible installation on a wall near the subwoofer, in a control rack or in a machine room, with connections via NL4 cabling and 5-pin XLR.

The two new subwoofers are the perfect complement to the SCM100ASL Pro, SCM110ASL Pro and SCM150ASL Pro studio monitors, and can be easily integrated into larger systems with SCM200ASL Pro and SCM300ASL Pro main monitors. Multiple units may be deployed to enhance performance and cover larger rooms.

In practice, surround and immersive formats such as Dolby Atmos place high demands on subwoofers, and both models offer significant improvements over the SCS70 Pro and the now-discontinued SCM0.1/15SL Pro.

Thanks to advanced transducer and amplifier technology, the SCS120 Pro and SCS120iW Pro deliver greater dynamic range and superior low-frequency extension, strengthening ATC’s Professional Product lineup. In summary, they offer an enhanced subwoofer solution for users of medium- to large-format monitors and/or those working in spacious control rooms, while the increased dynamic range is particularly useful in immersive audio and post-production applications with highly demanding LFE content.