85185000
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT AND PARTS THEREOF; SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, TELEVISION IMAGE AND SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES OF SUCH ARTICLES›Microphones and stands therefor; loudspeakers, whether or not mounted in their enclosures; headphones and earphones, whether or not combined with a microphone, and sets consisting of a microphone and one or more loudspeakers; audio-frequency electric amplifiers; electric sound amplifier sets
Electric sound amplifier sets
Definition and scope of subheading 8518 50
Subheading 8518 50 covers electric sound amplifier sets - complete audio systems consisting of an amplifier and loudspeakers in one unit or supplied as an integrated set. The scope includes PA (Public Address) systems, presentation and conference amplifier sets, electric megaphones with amplifier and horn, building public address systems and karaoke sets with amplifier and speakers. The key criterion is the supply of amplifier and speaker(s) as a functional unit for sound amplification. Separately sold amplifiers fall under 8518 40. Separate loudspeakers under 8518 21-29. Professional line array systems may be classified under 8518 50 or as individual components.
Regulatory requirements
Sound amplifier sets under 8518 50 are subject to LVD (2014/35/EU) and EMC (2014/30/EU), requiring CE marking. Wireless sets fall under RED. RoHS 2 restricts hazardous substances. WEEE 2 requires registration. GPSR requires EU representative. CBAM does not apply. PA systems installed in buildings may need to comply with fire safety standard EN 54-16.
Duty rates and import conditions
Current MFN duty rates should be verified in TARIC. Sound amplifier sets may benefit from ITA 0%. Major producers include China, USA (JBL, Bose), Japan and Germany. Documentation includes commercial invoice, transport documents, EORI number, CE declaration and RoHS documentation. National VAT is levied on import.
Audio equipment imports and RED/EMC requirements 8518 50
Audio equipment under CN 8518 50 - microphones, loudspeakers, headphones and amplifiers - is subject to EMC 2014/30/EU. Wireless devices (Bluetooth, WiFi) additionally require RED 2014/53/EU compliance. MFN duty varies: 0% ITA for some devices, up to 2% for others. TWS earbuds with USB-C must comply with the universal charger directive.
Frequently asked questions
What distinguishes a sound amplifier set from a standalone amplifier?
A sound amplifier set under 8518 50 is a complete system consisting of an amplifier and speaker(s) supplied as a functional unit. An amplifier under 8518 40 is a standalone device sold without speakers. The classification criterion is completeness - whether the set includes both amplifier and speakers.
Is a megaphone classified under subheading 8518 50?
Yes. An electric megaphone with built-in amplifier, microphone and horn speaker is classified under 8518 50 as a sound amplifier set. A megaphone constitutes a complete integrated audio system. Megaphones are subject to LVD, EMC and require CE marking.
Does CBAM apply to sound amplifier sets?
No. CBAM covers only emission-intensive sectors. Sound amplifier sets under 8518 50 fall outside CBAM scope.
Do wireless headphones under 8518 50 require RED compliance?
Yes, wireless headphones (Bluetooth/WiFi) under 8518 50 require RED 2014/53/EU compliance. Wired headphones only require EMC.
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