Synthia Equipment is an experimental project exploring new ways to interface with music, sound, and the physical world.
An ongoing collaboration between Mickey Beach and Colby Janecka. Making noise from San Francisco, CA.
Synthia TH15
Designed and fabricated by Synthia as a custom tapped horn subwoofer built for efficient low-frequency output from battery power. The TH15 uses a JBL 2226H 15-inch driver and a Sure AA-AB31242 WONDOM T-AMP 1 x 600W Class D amplifier board, powered by two Soundboks-style batteries in series for more than 25 volts of input. The modeled response shows a broad high-output band around 50 to 100 Hz at roughly 120 dB, peaks near 120 to 150 Hz reaching about 125 to 126 dB, where a cutoff is applied to make room for the upcoming Synthia Mid/Tops to take over the remaining frequency range.
Design Overview
- Inspired by the Danley TH115 concept, but tailored for the target response curve and portable power requirements.
- Built to maximize output per watt for battery-powered operation.
- Tuned for strong bass performance with minimal cone excursion and efficient horn loading.
Performance Highlights
- Broad efficient output region around 50 to 100 Hz at roughly 120 dB.
- Peak modeled output near 120 to 150 Hz at approximately 125 to 126 dB.
- The shape of the response supports a design goal of maximum bass output while preserving battery life.
Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver | JBL 2226H 15" woofer |
| Amplifier | WONDOM AA-AB31242 1x600W Class D |
| Power | Dual 12.8v LifePo batteries in series (2C rating for 400+ watt peak) |
| Design | Custom tapped horn path |
| Tuning Goal | Specific bass response with minimal power draw |
Included Analysis
- Diaphragm displacement graph.
- Phase response graph.
- Hornresp parameter set.
- Schematic diagram.
- CAD and fabrication documents.
Power and Amplification
The TH15 is paired with a high-efficiency Class D amplifier and dual batteries wired in series to provide the voltage needed for strong output with low power waste. This makes the design well suited to portable use where runtime and efficiency matter as much as output.
Power Efficiency Notes
- Amp idles at ~5-9W, peaks at 20A for 400W@8Ω—efficient for Class D.
- Dual batteries (~200Wh total) enable hours of playtime at moderate volumes.
- Design minimizes waste: tapped loading + efficient amp = max bass per charge.
View AR Model
Click here to view an interactive AR model of the sub, along with a Soundboks as a size reference. It's chunky!
Download Technical Design
You can download the design reference document here
Made to order
- Every build is unique and customizable
- Expect 6-8 week build time
- Shipping available within the US