DS18 MBKR Universal Marine RCA Bass Knob & Line Level Controller

Put control of your system's level right where you need it.

The DS18 MBKR is a universal RCA line-level controller designed to give you convenient remote control over the level of an audio signal without requiring you to reach the amplifier or source unit.

While commonly used as a remote bass knob, the MBKR is more versatile than a typical amplifier-specific bass controller. DS18 designed it as a universal RCA level control, allowing it to be used for subwoofer level adjustment or zone-level control in a variety of car, marine, jet ski, ATV and powersports audio systems.

The MBKR features RCA input and output connections, a simple one-hole flush-mount installation, and an IP65 water-resistant design that makes it particularly well suited to applications where moisture and exposure are concerns.

What Does the DS18 MBKR Do?

The MBKR provides a convenient way to remotely adjust the level of an RCA audio signal.

In a typical subwoofer application, the control can be mounted within easy reach of the driver so the bass level can be adjusted while the system is in use.

For example:

Head Unit → MBKR → Subwoofer Amplifier → Subwoofer

Turning the control allows the user to make quick level adjustments without accessing the amplifier.

But the MBKR isn't limited to subwoofer systems.

DS18 also identifies it as a zone-level control, making it useful for multi-zone marine and powersports systems where you may want convenient control over the level of a particular RCA signal path.

Universal RCA Design

Unlike some remote bass controllers that are designed to communicate with a specific amplifier through a proprietary cable or dedicated remote port, the MBKR is designed around an RCA input and RCA output.

That makes it useful in a much broader range of systems where an RCA signal is available.

DS18 identifies the MBKR as a Universal RCA Line Level Control and specifies it for remote volume or level control with source units using RCA connections.

This makes the MBKR useful for:

• Subwoofer level control
• Zone level control
• Marine audio systems
• Powersports audio
• ATV audio
• UTV audio
• Jet ski audio
• Boat audio
• Custom car audio installations

More Than Just a Bass Knob

The term “bass knob” is familiar to car-audio customers, but it doesn't completely describe what the MBKR can do.

DS18's specifications identify the MBKR as a Universal RCA Line Level Control and specifically list both subwoofer and zone-level control applications.

Subwoofer Control

Use the MBKR to conveniently adjust the level of a subwoofer signal.

This is especially useful when the customer wants to quickly change the amount of bass depending on the music, listening environment or personal preference.

Zone Control

In a multi-zone system, the MBKR can be used to control the level of an individual RCA signal path.

This can be particularly useful in marine and powersports systems where different areas of the vehicle or vessel may have separate audio zones.

Built for Marine & Powersports Applications

The MBKR's IP65 water-resistant rating is one of its most important differentiators.

DS18 specifically states that the waterproof design is intended for wet environments such as boats, jet skis and ATVs.

Ideal Applications

Marine

• Boats
• Pontoon boats
• Center consoles
• Wake boats
• Fishing boats
• Other marine audio installations

Powersports

• ATVs
• UTVs
• Jet skis
• Off-road vehicles
• Powersports builds

Automotive

• Cars
• Trucks
• SUVs
• Custom audio systems

The MBKR's water-resistant construction allows it to be installed in applications where a conventional indoor-style control may not be appropriate.

IP65 Water-Resistant Protection

The MBKR carries an IP65 rating.

That rating is important for customers shopping for marine and powersports equipment because it provides a defined level of protection against environmental exposure.

DS18 specifically describes the MBKR as waterproof/water-resistant for wet-environment applications and lists an IP65 rating in its technical specifications.

Simple One-Hole Mounting

The MBKR is designed around a straightforward one-hole mounting method.

This allows the control to be flush mounted in a convenient location without requiring a large mounting opening.

That makes it easier to integrate the control into:

• Dash panels
• Consoles
• Marine control panels
• UTV dashboards
• ATV panels
• Custom switch/control panels

Convenient Remote Control

The biggest benefit of installing a level controller is convenience.

Instead of reaching under a seat, opening a compartment or accessing the amplifier to make an adjustment, the MBKR puts the control in a location that's easy to reach.

This is particularly useful in powersports and marine applications where the amplifier may be installed in a concealed or protected location.

Example

An amplifier may be mounted:

• Under a seat
• Inside a storage compartment
• Behind a panel
• In a protected marine installation area
• In another location away from the driver

The MBKR allows the level control to remain accessible even when the amplifier itself is not.

Why Choose the DS18 MBKR?

Universal Application

The RCA-based design allows the MBKR to be used in a wide variety of systems rather than limiting it to a single amplifier model.

Marine-Friendly Construction

The IP65 rating makes it particularly appropriate for wet-environment applications.

Easy Installation

The one-hole flush-mount design makes it simple to integrate into a custom panel.

Convenient Control

The user can adjust the connected signal level from an accessible location.

Subwoofer or Zone Control

The MBKR can serve as a subwoofer level control or as a zone-level controller.

Affordable System Upgrade

At a relatively low price point, the MBKR can add useful functionality to an existing audio system without requiring a major system redesign.

Key Features

• Universal RCA line-level control
• Can be used as a remote bass knob
• Can be used for zone-level control
• RCA input
• RCA output
• IP65 water-resistant design
• One-hole flush-mount installation
• Designed for wet-environment applications
• Suitable for marine systems
• Suitable for powersports systems
• Suitable for automotive audio systems
• SKU: MBKR

DS18 lists the MBKR's primary features as universal bass-knob functionality, source-unit compatibility, RCA input/output, flush mounting and IP65 water resistance.

Technical Specifications

Specifications based on DS18's current product information.

Who Is the DS18 MBKR For?

The MBKR is a particularly good fit for customers who already have an audio system and want more convenient control.

It is ideal for customers who:

• Want a remote bass control
• Have a subwoofer amplifier with RCA signal routing
• Want convenient control over a subwoofer level
• Are building a multi-zone marine audio system
• Need a water-resistant control
• Are installing audio in an ATV, UTV or jet ski
• Want a clean flush-mounted control
• Need a universal RCA-based solution
• Have an amplifier installed somewhere that is difficult to access