HSD Sound Systems is entering a new chapter by integrating Celestion TSQ Series drivers into some of its most renowned loudspeakers.
With this strategic move, HSD has updated its flagship Sherman subwoofer with the 24-inch Celestion TSQ2460 low-frequency driver, its versatile Tomahawk subwoofer with the 21-inch TSQ2145, and its reliable DJ18 monitor with the 18-inch TSQ1845.
Seeking more than just sonic improvements, HSD founder Bob Trinanes highlights the extreme durability of the TSQ Series as a decisive factor, advancing his goal of delivering unmatched performance for demanding applications ranging from nightclubs to large-scale festivals.
Originally founded by Trinanes in 2014 as Hennessey Sound Designs, HSD Sound Systems emerged from a lifelong passion for sound and loudspeaker building. Inspired by an unforgettable sound system experience in Las Vegas, he built a custom rig for his own nightclub, which quickly drew attention. “People began calling, asking who had built it, and that’s how Hennessey Sound Design started—almost by accident”, Trinanes explains. Today, HSD Sound Systems is a well-established name on the EDM festival circuit, providing systems for One Vibe Festival, Resonance, Electric Forest, Miami Music Week, and many more.
Based in Fall River, Massachusetts, HSD takes pride in its unique, fully in-house manufacturing process. “We do everything in-house: assembly, painting, and shipping. We are one of the few companies that handle these processes internally”, says Trinanes, supported by the company’s detailed workflow, which also includes research and development, woodworking, finishing, driver integration, and polyurea coatings. This end-to-end control ensures meticulous quality standards and enables rapid iteration. HSD systems are recognized for their “sonic clarity, physical resilience, and ease of deployment in demanding environments”.
HSD’s long-standing appreciation for Celestion has strengthened with the introduction of the TSQ line.
We have used Celestion in the past in our more budget-friendly subwoofers, but we always wanted something with more powerful capabilities. When Celestion released its new high-performance TSQ line, we were among the first in the country to test it. We found that these new drivers handle power well, sound phenomenal, and are very musical, notes Trinanes.
This rigorous testing process has led to a key partnership with Celestion, whose drivers are now incorporated into four different HSD models. The most notable is the Celestion TSQ2460 LF driver, which has revived the colossal Sherman subwoofer—previously discontinued due to reliability issues with drivers from another manufacturer. The TSQ2460 was chosen for its unwavering performance and durability, redefining the standard for loudspeaker longevity.
The Sherman, HSD’s largest horn-loaded subwoofer, is engineered for extremely low-frequency reproduction and unprecedented output, delivering the equivalent of two HSD BattleAxes, their second-largest subwoofer. This 200-kg giant, measuring 76 × 122 × 183 cm, boasts an impressive low-end extension of 29 hertz.
“While the Sherman was initially designed around a different 24-inch driver, that unit proved fragile and we experienced failures during extreme stress testing”, recalls Trinanes. “After testing five different 24-inch drivers in this cabinet, the Celestion TSQ2460 was the unanimous winner. It immediately stood out for its sound quality and exceptional durability, handling abuse and power much better”. He adds: “Now that the TSQ2460 is available, the Sherman is back in production. In fact, we have already secured the first sale of the new TSQ-loaded Shermans during a customer demo last week”.
The 21-inch Celestion TSQ2145 is now an integral part of HSD’s Tomahawk model, a compact and scalable subwoofer designed to provide a highly sensitive, truck-pack-friendly solution for touring and installations. The integration of the TSQ2145 enhances its efficient power handling and robust performance.
Similarly, HSD’s DJ18 subwoofer monitor, designed for stages and DJ booths, now incorporates Celestion’s 18-inch TSQ1845 driver, ensuring precise and reliable low-frequency response.
Although not part of the TSQ Series, Trinanes adds that he also “chose the Celestion FTX1225 for our REF12, a high-performance powered point-source loudspeaker, to achieve the exceptional clarity we were striving for”.
“Celestion stands out for offering excellent value for money”, Trinanes states. Beyond competitive pricing, HSD values its proven reliability.
We always knew Celestion had the capability to build rugged products for our market. We often say: ‘Can it survive a week at Burning Man?’ Celestion’s new TSQ line fully meets that standard.
He concludes by praising Celestion’s collaborative approach: “Celestion is one of the easiest companies to work with, and I appreciate their ability to adapt to our needs”.
With the integration of Celestion’s TSQ drivers, HSD Sound Systems continues pushing the boundaries of professional audio, delivering systems that “not only move air, but move people”.
Celestion TSQ2460
The Celestion TSQ2460, a 24-inch low-frequency loudspeaker with a cast aluminum chassis and neodymium magnet, is engineered for exceptional performance and durability. It features an advanced three-channel vented cooling system, and its voice coil operates at significantly lower temperatures than other drivers in its class. With a continuous power rating of 4800 W, 98 dB sensitivity, and a frequency range of 20–200 Hz, it is built for demanding low-frequency applications. Its polysiloxane-laminated dual suspension and weatherproof cone coating contribute to its stability and resilience.
Celestion TSQ2145
The TSQ2145 is a 21-inch low-frequency loudspeaker with a cast aluminum chassis and neodymium magnet, offering 3600 W of continuous power handling and 97 dB sensitivity, covering a range of 30–1000 Hz. It features advanced thermal control for efficient cooling, a voice coil that operates at significantly lower temperatures, and a polysiloxane-laminated triple suspension for enhanced stability and cone displacement symmetry, along with a double-sided weatherproof cone coating for increased durability.
Celestion TSQ1845
The Celestion TSQ1845 is an 18-inch low-frequency loudspeaker with a cast aluminum chassis and neodymium magnet. It features a three-channel tuned venting system for highly efficient cooling across the frequency band. This design allows its voice coil to operate up to 80°C cooler than other leading drivers in its category. For enhanced stability and improved cone displacement symmetry, it utilizes a polysiloxane-laminated dual suspension. Its durability is further reinforced by a double-sided weatherproof cone coating.
