Yamaha Speaker Rankings and Reviews

Coverage note. Speaker Ranking currently covers 49 Yamaha models across portable bluetooth speakers, powered speakers, pa speakers, passive speakers, subwoofers and headphones. These are the products in our database, not a complete list of everything Yamaha makes.

What this page covers. The Yamaha models ranked here span portable bluetooth speakers, powered speakers, pa speakers, passive speakers, subwoofers and headphones, including Yamaha DXR8mkII, Yamaha DZR15 and Yamaha DXR12mkIII. Use each model’s category position to compare it with alternatives of the same size and use case.

This page lists all 49 Yamaha speakers ranked on this site across portable bluetooth speakers, powered speakers, pa speakers, passive speakers, subwoofers and headphones. Each model is shown in the category where it competes, with its current rank and the size of that ranking.

Use the category position rather than the brand name alone: speakers from the same manufacturer can perform very differently by size, price and product family.

Prices on this page were last checked October 12, 2026 at 4:13 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.

Quick Navigation

• Medium Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers
• Small Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers
• Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers
• Large Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers
• 10-Inch PA Speakers
• 12-Inch PA Speakers
• 15-Inch PA Speakers
• Column and Line Array PA Speakers
• Surface-Mount and Background Music Speakers
• Large Size Bookshelf Speakers
• Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs)
• Over-Ear Headphones
• Discontinued Yamaha Models
• Product Line History

Medium Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers

Ranked #121 of 175 in Medium Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers - Yamaha True X Speaker 1A: $150 Amazon $150 eBay

Pros: Doubles as a wireless surround speaker for Yamaha True X soundbars, or a standalone speaker via ‘Solo’ mode. IP67 rated. Clear Voice technology boosts dialogue clarity.

Cons: Not very deep bass, upper mids peak that makes voices sibilant

Full Yamaha True X Speaker 1A review and specifications →

Released	Sep 2023 (3 years ago)
Amplifier Power	10W
App	No
Aux Input	No
Battery Life	12 hours (Manufacturer specified)
Bluetooth	Yes
Bluetooth Codecs	SBC (inferred; additional codecs unverified)
Bluetooth Version	5.0
Built-in Microphone	No
Digital Aux Input	No
Dimensions	4.1” x 3.5” x 3.5” (105 x 90 x 90 mm)
Drivers	1x 55mm (2.2”) full-range driver + 2x passive radiators
EQ	No
IP Rating	IP67
Omnidirectional	No
Power Bank	No
Power Input	USB-C
Stereo	Yes
TWS	No
Weight	1.1 lbs (500 g)

• Links
  • Official Yamaha True X Speaker 1A Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • スピーカー音質比較: YAMAHA　WS-B1A　音質比較　　Eric Clapton　「Change The World」
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Sony SRS-XB20
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Tribit Stormbox
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Sony SRS-XE300
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Bose SoundLink Color II
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Marshall Emberton III
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Marshall Emberton II
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Klipsch Groove
  • Yamaha True X Speaker 1A vs Ultimate Ears Boom 3
  • See all 12 comparisons

Small Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers

Ranked #32 of 47 in Small Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha HS4: $249.99 per pair Amazon $249.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha HS3 (smaller bookshelf, ranked lower, estimated 2.9/5), the Yamaha HS5 (larger bookshelf, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha HS7 (larger bookshelf, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha HS8 (larger bookshelf, rated 4.4/5) and the Yamaha HS8S (subwoofer, rated 3/5).

Pros: Active compact desktop monitor featuring a 4.5-inch white cone woofer and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter driven by a clean 26W + 26W Class-D amplifier. Delivers a more balanced low-end response (reaching down to 60Hz at -10dB) and smoother high-frequency dispersion than the Yamaha HS3, while including flexible XLR/TRS, RCA, and 3.5mm stereo inputs along with Room Control and High Trim boundary acoustic switches.

Cons: Rating estimated from HS-series measured lineage. Lower output capability and less bass extension than the dedicated bi-amplified Yamaha HS5; master/slave passive wire configuration for the second speaker.

Full Yamaha HS4 review and specifications →

Released	Nov 2023 (2 years ago)
Amplifier Power	52W (26W + 26W dynamic)
Bluetooth	No
Crossover Frequency	2.3kHz
Dimensions	9.4” x 5.9” x 8.4” (240 x 150 x 213 mm)
Drivers	1” soft dome tweeter, 4.5” cone woofer
Frequency Response	60Hz - 22kHz (-10dB)
Weight	8.2 lbs (3.7 kg) (pair total)

• Links
  • Official Yamaha HS4 Website
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha HS4 vs Bose Companion 2 Series III
  • Yamaha HS4 vs Monoprice Monolith MM-3
  • Yamaha HS4 vs Yamaha HS3
  • Yamaha HS4 vs Edifier MR5
  • Yamaha HS4 vs Edifier MR4

Ranked #40 of 47 in Small Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha HS3: $229.99 per pair Amazon $229.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha HS4 (larger bookshelf, ranked higher, estimated 3.1/5), the Yamaha HS5 (larger bookshelf, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha HS7 (larger bookshelf, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha HS8 (larger bookshelf, rated 4.4/5) and the Yamaha HS8S (subwoofer, rated 3/5).

Pros: Compact desktop studio monitor system translating the iconic Yamaha HS white-cone aesthetic and neutral voicing into an ultra-compact footprint. Features a 3.5-inch woofer and 0.75-inch dome tweeter driven by a Class-D 26W + 26W amplifier. Equipped with rear Room Control (0/-2/-4dB below 500Hz) and High Trim (0/±2dB above 2kHz) switches to correct boundary proximity buildup on desktop surfaces.

Cons: Rating estimated based on acoustic specs and larger HS-series (Yamaha HS5, Yamaha HS7, Yamaha HS8) laboratory data. Small 3.5-inch woofer and rear Twisted Flare port roll off sharply below 70Hz (-10dB), with limited maximum SPL compared to full nearfield studio monitors.

Full Yamaha HS3 review and specifications →

Released	Nov 2023 (2 years ago)
Amplifier Power	52W (26W + 26W dynamic)
Bluetooth	No
Crossover Frequency	3.2kHz
Dimensions	8.8” x 5.2” x 7.4” (223 x 132 x 189 mm)
Drivers	0.75” soft dome tweeter, 3.5” cone woofer
Frequency Response	70Hz - 22kHz (-10dB)
Weight	6.2 lbs (2.8 kg) (pair total)

• Links
  • Official Yamaha HS3 Website
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha HS3 vs Fiio SP3
  • Yamaha HS3 vs Yamaha HS4
  • Yamaha HS3 vs Bose Companion 2 Series III
  • Yamaha HS3 vs ADAM Audio D3v

Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers

Ranked #66 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha HS5: $399.98 per pair Amazon $399.98 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha HS3 (smaller bookshelf, estimated 2.9/5), the Yamaha HS4 (smaller bookshelf, estimated 3.1/5), the Yamaha HS7 (larger bookshelf, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha HS8 (larger bookshelf, rated 4.4/5) and the Yamaha HS8S (subwoofer, rated 3/5).

Pros: ASR found reasonably smooth early-reflection directivity, which makes broad EQ correction more promising than on speakers whose off-axis response changes abruptly. Balanced inputs and placement controls suit studio use. The measured preference scores are 3.70 standalone and 6.32 with an ideal subwoofer. Measured bass extension of 88Hz (-3dB).

Cons: The measurements do not support describing it as very neutral: excess midrange and reduced lower-midrange/upper-bass weight produce a bass-light balance. The 300Hz-5kHz span is 4.3dB. Its automated -3dB crossing is affected by response shape, so it should not be treated as a simple bass-cutoff specification. A subwoofer adds low bass but does not fix the elevated midrange.

Full Yamaha HS5 review and specifications →

Released	Apr 2013 (13 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	45w Per Speaker
App	No
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-10dB)	68Hz (measured, Audio Science Review)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	88Hz (measured, Audio Science Review)
Bluetooth	No
Coaxial Input	No
Dimensions	11.2”H x 6.7”W x 8.7”D (284.5 x 170.2 x 221 mm)
Drivers	5” (127mm) woofer
EQ	Yes (Room adjustment)
Frequency Response	58Hz - 24kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified)
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	XLR
Optical Input	No
RCA Input	No
Spinorama Preference Score	3.70
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	6.32
TRS Input	No
USB Input	No
Weight	12.1 lbs (5.5 kg) each
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Official Yamaha HS5 Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Audio Science Review Measurements More from Audio Science Review →
  • Audio Science Review Measurements (spinorama.org)
  • DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review KRK Classic 5 CL5G3 vs Yamaha HS5 sound.DEMO More from DSAUDIOreview →
  • DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review Focal Alpha 50 EVO vs Yamaha HS5 sound.DEMO
  • DSAUDIO.review: Genelec 8020D vs Yamaha HS5 Soun & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: JBL 305P MKII vs Yamaha HS5 6-Track Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Adam Audio T5V vs Yamaha HS5 5 Track Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS5 vs Presonus Eris E5 Sound Demo
  • DSAUDIO.review: KRK Rokit 5 G4 RP5G4 vs Yamaha HS5 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: New PreSonus E5 XT and Yamaha HS5 could not sound any more different! SOUND AND RESPONSE COMPARISON
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS8 vs Yamaha HS5 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Genelec 8010A (Genelec G One) vs Yamaha HS5 Sound Demo w/ Bass Test
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha HS5 vs ADAM Audio A4V
  • Yamaha HS5 vs PreSonus Eris Studio 5
  • Yamaha HS5 vs Palmer STUDIMON 5
  • Yamaha HS5 vs Edifier MR4.5
  • Yamaha HS5 vs PreSonus Eris E5 XT
  • Yamaha HS5 vs Edifier S2000MKIII
  • Yamaha HS5 vs Edifier MR4
  • Yamaha HS5 vs KRK Rokit 5 G4
  • See all 73 comparisons

Large Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers

Ranked #36 of 119 in Large Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha HS8: $797.98 per pair Amazon $797.98 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha HS3 (smaller bookshelf, estimated 2.9/5), the Yamaha HS4 (smaller bookshelf, estimated 3.1/5), the Yamaha HS5 (smaller bookshelf, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha HS7 (smaller bookshelf, ranked lower, rated 3.9/5) and the Yamaha HS8S (subwoofer, rated 3/5).

Pros: ASR measurements support broadly neutral sound: a 2.3dB response span from 300Hz to 5kHz and 7.58 ideal-subwoofer score. Measured -3dB bass extension of 43.9Hz gives useful weight for music, with straightforward analog connections and room-adjustment controls. Measured bass extension of 43.9Hz (-3dB).

Cons: Its response and off-axis behavior are not as refined as the leading monitors. Vertical positioning around the crossover matters, and a subwoofer remains useful for deep bass. Basic rear-panel controls do not replace measured room correction.

Full Yamaha HS8 review and specifications →

Released	Apr 2013 (13 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	120w Per Speaker
App	No
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-10dB)	34.7Hz (measured, Audio Science Review)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	43.9Hz (measured, Audio Science Review)
Bluetooth	No
Coaxial Input	No
DSP	No
Dimensions	15.4”H x 9.8”W x 13.1”D (391.2 x 248.9 x 332.7 mm)
Drivers	8” woofer, 1” dome tweeter
EQ	Yes (Room adjustment)
Frequency Response	47Hz - 24kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified)
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	XLR
Optical Input	No
RCA Input	No
Spinorama Preference Score	5.85
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	7.58
TRS Input	No
USB Input	No
Weight	22.5 lbs (10.2 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Official Yamaha HS8 Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Audio Science Review: Yamaha HS8 Studio Monitor Review More from Audio Science Review →
  • Audio Science Review Measurements (spinorama.org)
  • DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review Adam Audio A7X vs Yamaha HS8 sound.DEMO More from DSAUDIOreview →
  • DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review Edifier R2850DB vs Yamaha HS8 sound.DEMO
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS7 vs Yamaha HS8 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS8 vs Yamaha HS5 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Genelec 8020D vs Yamaha HS8 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review APS Klasik 2020 vs Yamaha HS8 sound.DEMO
  • DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review Focal Alpha 65 EVO vs Yamaha HS8 sound.DEMO
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS8 vs Kali Audio LP-8 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: KRK Rokit 8 G4 RP8G4 vs Yamaha HS8 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Neumann KH80 DSP vs Yamaha HS8 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS8 vs IK Multimedia iLoud MTM Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS8 vs PreSonus Eris E8 XT Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • Sercan Solmaz: Adam Audio T8V vs Yamaha HS8 vs KRK Rokit 8 (STUDIO SPEAKER SOUND TEST)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha HS8 vs Kali Audio LP-6 V2
  • Yamaha HS8 vs Kali Audio IN-8 V2
  • Yamaha HS8 vs JBL 308P MKII
  • Yamaha HS8 vs Genelec 8050B
  • Yamaha HS8 vs JBL 4305P
  • Yamaha HS8 vs SHIVAUDYO Point Zero
  • Yamaha HS8 vs Genelec S360
  • Yamaha HS8 vs PSI Audio A21-M
  • See all 56 comparisons

Ranked #93 of 119 in Large Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha HS7: $699.98 per pair Amazon $349.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha HS3 (smaller bookshelf, estimated 2.9/5), the Yamaha HS4 (smaller bookshelf, estimated 3.1/5), the Yamaha HS5 (smaller bookshelf, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha HS8 (larger bookshelf, ranked higher, rated 4.4/5) and the Yamaha HS8S (subwoofer, rated 3/5).

Pros: A straightforward analog monitor with boundary and treble controls. The measured -6dB point is 43.9Hz, so there is useful bass below the upper-bass region; the ideal-subwoofer score is 6.48.

Cons: Its uneven bass response crosses -3dB around 87.9Hz in the normalized measurement, so quoting the 41Hz low-frequency score input as flat bass extension is misleading. A 2.8dB response span from 300Hz to 5kHz and crossover-related variation also limit neutrality. Bass support does not fix all midrange and treble irregularities.

Full Yamaha HS7 review and specifications →

Released	Apr 2013 (13 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	95W each (60W LF, 35W HF)
Aux Input	No
Bluetooth	No
Coaxial Input	No
Country	Japan (design)
Dimensions	13.1H x 8.3W x 11.2D in
Drivers	1” dome tweeter, 6.5” cone woofer
Enclosure	2-way active, rear-ported
Frequency Response	43Hz - 30kHz (Manufacturer specified)
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	Balanced XLR and 1/4” TRS
Optical Input	No
RCA Input	No
Spinorama Preference Score	4.54
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	6.48
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	18.1 lbs (8.2 kg) each
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha HS7 Official Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Audio Science Review Measurements (spinorama.org) More from Audio Science Review →
  • DSAUDIO.review: Adam Audio T7V vs Yamaha HS7 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison More from DSAUDIOreview →
  • DSAUDIO.review: Yamaha HS7 vs Yamaha HS8 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
  • DSAUDIO.review: KRK Rokit 7 G4 RP7G4 vs Yamaha HS7 Sound & Frequency Response Comparison
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha HS7 vs ADAM Audio T8V
  • Yamaha HS7 vs ADAM Audio T7V
  • Yamaha HS7 vs Pioneer DJ VM-80
  • Yamaha HS7 vs KRK Rokit 7 G4
  • Yamaha HS7 vs PreSonus Eris Studio 8
  • Yamaha HS7 vs Edifier R2850DB
  • Yamaha HS7 vs ADAM Audio A7V
  • Yamaha HS7 vs KRK Rokit 8 G5
  • See all 11 comparisons

10-Inch PA Speakers

Ranked #12 of 39 in 10-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DXR10mkIII: $899.99 Amazon $899.99 B&H Photo Video $899.99 Guitar Center $899.99 eBay

Older model: the Yamaha DXR10mkII (ranked lower, rated 3.8/5). See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Same family: the Yamaha DXR12mkIII (larger powered model, rated 4.1/5), the Yamaha DXR15mkIII (larger powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CXR10mkIII (smallest passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.5/5), the Yamaha CXR12mkIII (passive model, estimated 3.8/5) and the Yamaha CXR15mkIII (largest passive model, estimated 3.5/5).

Pros: The third-generation DXR10 raises claimed output to 132dB with refined porting and Yamaha’s newest onboard DSP, while staying light at 14.5kg with a familiar 90° x 60° pattern. Measured bass extension of 61.5Hz (-3dB).

Cons: The low-quality local data is truncated and cannot produce a preference score, so its tonal advantage over the proven Yamaha DXR10mkII is unconfirmed.

Full Yamaha DXR10mkIII review and specifications →

Released	Jun 2026 (4 months ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	2000W peak / 1000W RMS (1700W LF + 300W HF peak)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	61.5Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	Yes
Bluetooth Version	5.0
Cabinet Material	PP plastic
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
Crossover Frequency	1800Hz (FIR-X)
DSP	Yes, FIR-X tuning, Drive Motion Calibration and D-Remote
Dimensions	19.8”H x 12.2”W x 12.2”D (502 x 310 x 310 mm)
Drivers	10” woofer, 1” throat/1.75” diaphragm compression driver
Frequency Response	53Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo; XLR thru and DSP outputs
Maximum SPL	132dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	No
Rigging	3 x M8 points plus U-bracket points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	32 lbs (14.5 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs Yamaha DXR10mkII
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs RCF ART 910-A
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs dB Technologies Opera Reevo 210
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs Vue Audiotechnik A-10
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs Seeburg X4
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs RCF KX 10-A
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs KV2 Audio EX10
  • Yamaha DXR10mkIII vs Turbosound NuQ102
  • See all 19 comparisons

Ranked #28 of 39 in 10-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CXR10mkIII: $649.00 Passive B&H Photo Video $649.00 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DXR10mkIII (smallest powered model, ranked higher, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha DXR12mkIII (powered model, rated 4.1/5), the Yamaha DXR15mkIII (largest powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CXR12mkIII (larger passive model, estimated 3.8/5) and the Yamaha CXR15mkIII (larger passive model, estimated 3.5/5). See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DXR10mkIII, with the same 10” woofer, 1.75” voice coil compression driver, horn and port design. Yamaha rates it at 93dB sensitivity, 123dB maximum SPL and bass to 54Hz (-10dB) with 90° x 60° coverage, and its PX and PC-D amplifiers carry a dedicated processing preset for it.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier and, for its rated response, speaker processing; the powered model has that built in. Without Yamaha’s preset its tonal balance depends on the amplifier’s EQ.

Full Yamaha CXR10mkIII review and specifications →

Released	2026 (this year)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	10” woofer, 1.75” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	54Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	123dB (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	550W continuous
Rigging	2 x 35mm pole sockets; 6 x M8 and 1 x M6 inserts
Sensitivity	93dB
Weight	26.9 lbs (12.2 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CXR10mkIII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CXR10mkIII vs RCF HD 10-A MK5
  • Yamaha CXR10mkIII vs Yamaha CZR10
  • Yamaha CXR10mkIII vs RCF ART 710-A MK5
  • Yamaha CXR10mkIII vs dB Technologies Opera Reevo 210

Ranked #29 of 39 in 10-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DBR10: $409.99 Amazon $409.99 B&H Photo Video $409.99 Guitar Center $409.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DBR12 (larger powered model, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha DBR15 (larger powered model, rated 2.9/5), the Yamaha CBR10 (smallest passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.2/5), the Yamaha CBR12 (passive model, estimated 3.4/5) and the Yamaha CBR15 (largest passive model, estimated 2.7/5).

Pros: Yamaha’s most portable 10-inch powered speaker carries the same DSP and amplification platform as the DXR and DZR series, with a built-in 2-channel mixer accepting XLR, 1/4-inch and RCA sources. Measured bass extension of 69Hz (-3dB).

Cons: Medium-quality vendor data shows a 4.75 ideal-subwoofer preference score, mid-pack for this ranking, so a subwoofer partner matters for full-range material.

Full Yamaha DBR10 review and specifications →

Released	Sep 2014 (12 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	700W dynamic / 325W continuous (500W LF + 200W HF dynamic)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	69Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plastic
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	19.4”H x 12.1”W x 11.4”D (493 x 308 x 289 mm)
Drivers	10” woofer, 1” compression driver
Frequency Response	55Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo and stereo RCA; XLR output
Maximum SPL	129dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	Yes
Rigging	2 x M8 points; 35mm pole mount
Spinorama Preference Score	2.00
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.75
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	23.1 lbs (10.5 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DBR10 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • W. Weiss: The $400 Club - Budget Portable PA’s Mackie Thump Go, JBL Partybox 110, Yamaha DBR10
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs Yamaha DZR10
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs RCF NX 910-A
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs RCF HD 10-A MK5
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs Yamaha CBR10
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs Amate Audio X102FD
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs RCF ART 710-A MK5
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs Yamaha DXR10mkII
  • Yamaha DBR10 vs Yamaha DXR10mkIII
  • See all 15 comparisons

Ranked #30 of 39 in 10-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DZR10: $1,309.99 Amazon $1,309.99 Lowest B&H Photo Video $1,349.99 Guitar Center $1,349.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DZR12 (larger powered model, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha DZR15 (larger powered model, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DZR315 (larger powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CZR10 (smallest passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.2/5), the Yamaha CZR12 (passive model, estimated 3.6/5) and the Yamaha CZR15 (largest passive model, estimated 3.7/5).

Pros: The bi-amped 2-inch titanium compression driver and 137dB claimed peak, the highest maximum-output claim in this ranking, give it genuine main-speaker capability in a 10-inch cabinet with sophisticated onboard DSP. Measured bass extension of 60Hz (-3dB).

Cons: Medium-quality vendor data shows a 4.7 ideal-subwoofer preference score, one of the more modest results here relative to its price, and it lacks Bluetooth audio or app control.

Full Yamaha DZR10 review and specifications →

Released	Jan 2019 (7 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	2000W dynamic / 1100W burst / 950W continuous
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	60Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plywood with polyurea coating
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bi-amped bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°, rotatable
Crossover Frequency	1800Hz (FIR-X)
DSP	Yes, FIR-X tuning and Drive Motion Calibration
Dimensions	21.1”H x 12.4”W x 13.6”D (537 x 315 x 345 mm)
Drivers	10” woofer, 2” compression driver
Frequency Response	44Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo; 2 x XLR output
Maximum SPL	137dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	No
Rigging	8 x M10 and 2 x M8 points; dual 35mm pole mounts
Spinorama Preference Score	2.24
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.72
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	39.5 lbs (17.9 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DZR10 Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs Yamaha DBR10
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs RCF HD 10-A MK5
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs RCF NX 910-A
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs Martin Audio CDD10
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs HK Audio Linear 5 MK2 110 XA
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs Amate Audio X102FD
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs RCF ART 710-A MK5
  • Yamaha DZR10 vs KV2 Audio EX10
  • See all 17 comparisons

Ranked #32 of 39 in 10-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CZR10: $814.00 Passive B&H Photo Video $814.00 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DZR10 (smallest powered model, ranked higher, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DZR12 (powered model, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha DZR15 (powered model, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DZR315 (largest powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CZR12 (larger passive model, estimated 3.6/5) and the Yamaha CZR15 (larger passive model, estimated 3.7/5).

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DZR10, with a 10” woofer and a 2” voice coil compression driver in a plywood cabinet with 90° x 60° coverage. Yamaha rates it at 700W handling, 127dB maximum SPL and bass reaching 43Hz, and its PX and PC-D amplifiers carry a dedicated processing preset for it.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier and speaker processing to match the powered DZR, which has its FIR-X tuning built in. It costs about as much as the powered model before the amplifier.

Full Yamaha CZR10 review and specifications →

Released	Jan 2019 (7 years ago)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plywood
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	10” woofer, 2” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	43Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	127dB (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	700W
Rigging	8 x M10 and 2 x M8 inserts; 2 x 35mm pole sockets (0° or -7°)
Weight	30.9 lbs (14.0 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CZR10 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CZR10 vs RCF HD 10-A MK5
  • Yamaha CZR10 vs Yamaha CXR10mkIII
  • Yamaha CZR10 vs RCF ART 910-A

Ranked #33 of 39 in 10-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CBR10: $299.99 Passive B&H Photo Video $299.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DBR10 (smallest powered model, ranked higher, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DBR12 (powered model, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha DBR15 (largest powered model, rated 2.9/5), the Yamaha CBR12 (larger passive model, estimated 3.4/5) and the Yamaha CBR15 (larger passive model, estimated 2.7/5).

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DBR10, sharing its 10” woofer, compression driver and lightweight polypropylene cabinet with 90° x 60° coverage. Yamaha rates it at 94dB sensitivity, 123dB maximum SPL and bass to 50Hz (-10dB), and at 9.4 kg it is one of the lighter 10-inch boxes.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier, and without the powered model’s DSP its response depends on the amplifier’s EQ. The measured powered version is a budget design, so expect the same limits on output and smoothness.

Full Yamaha CBR10 review and specifications →

Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	10” woofer, 1” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	50Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	123dB (calculated, manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	700W peak
Rigging	2 x M8 eyebolt points; 35mm pole socket
Sensitivity	94dB
Weight	20.7 lbs (9.4 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CBR10 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CBR10 vs Yamaha DBR10
  • Yamaha CBR10 vs Seeburg K20
  • Yamaha CBR10 vs RCF ART 710-A MK5

12-Inch PA Speakers

Ranked #13 of 78 in 12-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DXR12mkIII: $999.99 Amazon $999.99 B&H Photo Video $999.99 Guitar Center $999.99 eBay

Older model: the Yamaha DXR12mkII (ranked lower, rated 4/5). See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Same family: the Yamaha DXR10mkIII (smaller powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha DXR15mkIII (larger powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CXR10mkIII (smallest passive model, estimated 3.5/5), the Yamaha CXR12mkIII (passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.8/5) and the Yamaha CXR15mkIII (largest passive model, estimated 3.5/5).

Pros: The third-generation DXR raises claimed output to 134dB and adds 2000W amplification, app-based control and more capable onboard DSP while staying light at 17.4kg. Medium-quality vendor data shows measured extension around 60Hz. Measured bass extension of 60Hz (-3dB).

Cons: The truncated Spinorama data does not produce a preference score, so its tonal advantage over the proven Yamaha DXR12mkII is not yet quantified. Wireless connectivity is for remote control, not a substitute for a wired production-audio input.

Full Yamaha DXR12mkIII review and specifications →

Released	Jun 2026 (4 months ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	2000W peak / 1000W RMS (1700W LF + 300W HF peak)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	60Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	Yes
Bluetooth Version	5.0
Cabinet Material	PP plastic
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
Crossover Frequency	1800Hz (FIR-X)
DSP	Yes, FIR-X tuning, Drive Motion Calibration and D-Remote
Dimensions	23.6”H x 14.4”W x 13.8”D (600 x 366 x 350 mm)
Drivers	12” woofer, 1” throat/1.75” diaphragm compression driver
Frequency Response	50Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	Balanced mic/line inputs and link output
Maximum SPL	134dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	Yes
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	No
Rigging	3 x M10 points plus U-bracket points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount
TRS Input	No
USB Input	No
Weight	38.4 lbs (17.4 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs RCF ART 912-A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs HK Audio LINEAR 7 112 XA
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs RCF NX 932-A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs RCF ART 932-A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs Yamaha DXR12mkII
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs Axiom ED120A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs RCF KX 32-A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkIII vs RCF NX 912-A
  • See all 25 comparisons

Ranked #22 of 78 in 12-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DZR12: $1,409.99 Amazon $1,409.99 B&H Photo Video $1,198.49 Guitar Center $1,198.49 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DZR10 (smaller powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DZR15 (larger powered model, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DZR315 (larger powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CZR10 (smallest passive model, estimated 3.2/5), the Yamaha CZR12 (passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.6/5) and the Yamaha CZR15 (largest passive model, estimated 3.7/5).

Pros: Premium cabinet construction, 139dB claimed output and deep onboard 96kHz DSP suit demanding live work. The local vendor data shows useful 48Hz measured extension, the deepest result among the scored Yamaha models here. Measured bass extension of 48Hz (-3dB).

Cons: Its medium-quality vendor measurement produces only a 4.91 ideal-subwoofer preference score, so the price buys output, processing and build more than neutral tonality. It is heavy at roughly 21kg and has no Bluetooth audio.

Full Yamaha DZR12 review and specifications →

Released	Jan 2019 (7 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	2000W dynamic / 1100W burst / 950W continuous
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	48Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plywood with polyurea coating
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
Crossover Frequency	1800Hz (FIR-X)
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	25.4”H x 16.1”W x 15.5”D (646 x 410 x 394 mm)
Drivers	12” woofer, 2” compression driver
Frequency Response	39Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo
Maximum SPL	139dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	No
Rigging	M10 points; dual 35mm pole mounts
Spinorama Preference Score	2.64
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.91
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	47.2 lbs (21.4 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DZR12 Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs Seeburg X6
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs RCF NX 912-A
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs FBT Mitus 112A
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs HK Audio LINEAR 7 112 FA
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs Axiom ED120A
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs RCF ART 732-A MK5
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs Yamaha DXR12mkII
  • Yamaha DZR12 vs Yamaha DXR12mkIII
  • See all 25 comparisons

Ranked #33 of 78 in 12-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CXR12mkIII: $699.00 Passive B&H Photo Video $699.00 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DXR10mkIII (smallest powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha DXR12mkIII (powered model, ranked higher, rated 4.1/5), the Yamaha DXR15mkIII (largest powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CXR10mkIII (smaller passive model, estimated 3.5/5) and the Yamaha CXR15mkIII (larger passive model, estimated 3.5/5). See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DXR12mkIII, with the same 12” woofer, 1.75” voice coil compression driver, horn and port design. Yamaha rates it at 94dB sensitivity, 124dB maximum SPL and bass to 51Hz (-10dB) with 90° x 60° coverage, and its PX and PC-D amplifiers carry a dedicated processing preset for it.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier and, for its rated response, speaker processing; the powered model has that built in. Without Yamaha’s preset its tonal balance depends on the amplifier’s EQ.

Full Yamaha CXR12mkIII review and specifications →

Released	2026 (this year)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	12” woofer, 1.75” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	51Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	124dB (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	1,100W peak
Rigging	3 x M10 eyebolt points; 4 x M8 points
Sensitivity	94dB
Weight	34 lbs (15.4 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CXR12mkIII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CXR12mkIII vs RCF ART 732-A MK5
  • Yamaha CXR12mkIII vs RCF ART 712-A MK5
  • Yamaha CXR12mkIII vs LD Systems Stinger 12 A G3

Ranked #39 of 78 in 12-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DBR12: $459.99 Amazon $459.99 B&H Photo Video $459.99 Guitar Center $459.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DBR10 (smaller powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DBR15 (larger powered model, rated 2.9/5), the Yamaha CBR10 (smallest passive model, estimated 3.2/5), the Yamaha CBR12 (passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.4/5) and the Yamaha CBR15 (largest passive model, estimated 2.7/5).

Pros: A lightweight, widely supported entry point with a useful two-channel mixer, FIR-X crossover processing and straightforward main/monitor presets. The 58Hz measured extension is adequate for speech and modest music playback without a subwoofer. Measured bass extension of 58Hz (-3dB).

Cons: Medium-quality vendor data produces a below-average 4.92 ideal-subwoofer preference score, indicating substantial tonal/directivity compromises. Its 131dB output claim and controls also sit below Yamaha’s DXR and DZR tiers.

Full Yamaha DBR12 review and specifications →

Released	Sep 2014 (12 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	1000W dynamic / 465W continuous (800W LF + 200W HF dynamic)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	58Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plastic
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	23.7”H x 14.8”W x 13.7”D (601 x 376 x 348 mm)
Drivers	12” woofer, 1.4” compression driver
Frequency Response	52Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo, stereo RCA
Maximum SPL	131dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	Yes
Rigging	3 x M8 points; 35mm pole mount
Spinorama Preference Score	2.32
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.92
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	34.8 lbs (15.8 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DBR12 Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs RCF ART 712-A MK5
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs Coda Audio G512
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 FA
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs DAS Audio Vantec 12A
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs RCF HD 12-A MK5
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs Martin Audio XP12
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs RCF ART 732-A MK5
  • Yamaha DBR12 vs Yamaha CBR12
  • See all 27 comparisons

Ranked #46 of 78 in 12-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CZR12: $914.00 Passive B&H Photo Video $914.00 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DZR10 (smallest powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DZR12 (powered model, ranked higher, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha DZR15 (powered model, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DZR315 (largest powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CZR10 (smaller passive model, estimated 3.2/5) and the Yamaha CZR15 (larger passive model, estimated 3.7/5).

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DZR12, with a 12” woofer and a 2” voice coil compression driver in a plywood cabinet with 90° x 60° coverage. Yamaha rates it at 800W handling, 129dB maximum SPL and bass reaching 38Hz, and its PX and PC-D amplifiers carry a dedicated processing preset for it.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier and speaker processing to match the powered DZR, which has its FIR-X tuning built in. It costs about as much as the powered model before the amplifier.

Full Yamaha CZR12 review and specifications →

Released	Jan 2019 (7 years ago)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plywood
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	12” woofer, 2” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	38Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	129dB (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	800W
Rigging	12 x M10 inserts
Weight	39.7 lbs (18 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CZR12 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CZR12 vs PreSonus CDL12P
  • Yamaha CZR12 vs HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 X
  • Yamaha CZR12 vs RCF ART 732-A MK5

Ranked #53 of 78 in 12-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CBR12: $334.99 Passive Amazon $334.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DBR10 (smallest powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DBR12 (powered model, ranked higher, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha DBR15 (largest powered model, rated 2.9/5), the Yamaha CBR10 (smaller passive model, estimated 3.2/5) and the Yamaha CBR15 (larger passive model, estimated 2.7/5).

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DBR12, sharing its 12” woofer, compression driver and lightweight polypropylene cabinet with 90° x 60° coverage. Yamaha rates it at 96dB sensitivity, 125dB maximum SPL and bass to 48Hz (-10dB), and at 13.9 kg it is one of the lighter 12-inch boxes.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier, and without the powered model’s DSP its response depends on the amplifier’s EQ. The measured powered version is a budget design, so expect the same limits on output and smoothness.

Full Yamaha CBR12 review and specifications →

Released	Dec 2014 (11 years ago)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	12” woofer, 1” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	48Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	125dB (calculated, manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	700W peak
Rigging	3 x M8 eyebolt points; 35mm pole mount
Sensitivity	96dB
Weight	30.6 lbs (13.9 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CBR12 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CBR12 vs Bose AMM112
  • Yamaha CBR12 vs LD Systems Stinger 12 A G3
  • Yamaha CBR12 vs Yamaha DBR12

15-Inch PA Speakers

Ranked #8 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DZR15: $1,519.99 Amazon $1,519.99 Lowest B&H Photo Video $1,564.99 Guitar Center $1,564.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DZR10 (smaller powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DZR12 (smaller powered model, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha DZR315 (larger powered model, ranked lower, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CZR10 (smallest passive model, estimated 3.2/5), the Yamaha CZR12 (passive model, estimated 3.6/5) and the Yamaha CZR15 (largest passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.7/5).

Pros: Medium-quality vendor data returns a 5.25 ideal-subwoofer preference score with 39Hz measured extension, deeper than the Yamaha DZR12. The bi-amped 2-inch compression driver and sophisticated onboard DSP target serious main-speaker duty. Measured bass extension of 46.2Hz (-3dB).

Cons: The bass-extension figure comes from truncated manufacturer data and should be read cautiously. It lacks Bluetooth audio and app control, and at this price competes with systems-grade alternatives from RCF and HK Audio.

Full Yamaha DZR15 review and specifications →

Released	Jan 2019 (7 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	2000W dynamic / 1100W burst / 950W continuous
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	46.2Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plywood with polyurea coating
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bi-amped bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 50°, rotatable
Crossover Frequency	1700Hz (FIR-X)
DSP	Yes, FIR-X tuning and Drive Motion Calibration
Dimensions	30”H x 17.7”W x 18.1”D (761 x 450 x 460 mm)
Drivers	15” woofer, 2” compression driver
Frequency Response	34Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo; 2 x XLR output
Maximum SPL	139dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	No
Rigging	12 x M10 points; dual 35mm pole mounts
Spinorama Preference Score	3.35
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.25
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	55.6 lbs (25.2 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DZR15 Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs KV2 Audio EX15
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs JBL PRX915
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs RCF NX 945-A
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs LD Systems DDQ15
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs HK Audio LINEAR 7 115 FA
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs RCF ART 935-A
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs RCF KX 45-A
  • Yamaha DZR15 vs RCF ART 945-A
  • See all 21 comparisons

Ranked #15 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DXR15mkIII: $1,099.99 Amazon $1,099.99 B&H Photo Video $1,099.99 Guitar Center $1,099.99 eBay

Older model: the Yamaha DXR15mkII (ranked lower, rated 3.7/5). See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Same family: the Yamaha DXR10mkIII (smaller powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha DXR12mkIII (smaller powered model, rated 4.1/5), the Yamaha CXR10mkIII (smallest passive model, estimated 3.5/5), the Yamaha CXR12mkIII (passive model, estimated 3.8/5) and the Yamaha CXR15mkIII (largest passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.5/5).

Pros: The third-generation DXR15 raises claimed output to 134dB with 2000W amplification, app-based control and Yamaha’s newest onboard DSP, while its 90° x 60° pattern matches the well-regarded Yamaha DXR12mkIII. Measured bass extension of 54.5Hz (-3dB).

Cons: The low-quality local data is truncated and cannot produce a preference score, so its tonal advantage over the proven Yamaha DXR15mkII is unconfirmed. Wireless connectivity is for remote control, not audio streaming.

Full Yamaha DXR15mkIII review and specifications →

Released	Jul 2026 (3 months ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	2000W peak / 1000W RMS (1700W LF + 300W HF peak)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	54.5Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	Yes
Bluetooth Version	5.0
Cabinet Material	PP plastic
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
Crossover Frequency	1800Hz (FIR-X)
DSP	Yes, FIR-X tuning, Drive Motion Calibration and D-Remote
Dimensions	27.5”H x 17.6”W x 15”D (699 x 447 x 380 mm)
Drivers	15” woofer, 1” throat/1.75” diaphragm compression driver
Frequency Response	46Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo; XLR thru and DSP outputs
Maximum SPL	134dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	No
Rigging	3 x M10 points plus U-bracket points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	46.3 lbs (21 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs Coda Audio G715
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs Axiom ED150A
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs RCF ART 915-A
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs RCF ART 935-A
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs FBT Mitus 115A
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs Yamaha DXR15mkII
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs JBL PRX915
  • Yamaha DXR15mkIII vs Yamaha DZR15
  • See all 24 comparisons

Ranked #16 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DZR315: $1,884.99 B&H Photo Video $1,884.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DZR10 (smaller powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DZR12 (smaller powered model, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha DZR15 (smaller powered model, ranked higher, rated 4/5), the Yamaha CZR10 (smallest passive model, estimated 3.2/5), the Yamaha CZR12 (passive model, estimated 3.6/5) and the Yamaha CZR15 (largest passive model, ranked lower, estimated 3.7/5).

Pros: A 3-way design with a 15-inch woofer, 8-inch midrange and 2-inch compression driver, powered by a 2000W bi-amp and rated to 143dB, so it covers a large room on its own. Manufacturer measurements give a 5.06 preference score with an ideal subwoofer, and bass reaches 82.5Hz at -3dB and about 65Hz at -10dB. Onboard FIR DSP with an LCD screen handles presets, PEQ, delay and routing, with two combo inputs. Measured bass extension of 82.5Hz (-3dB).

Cons: A 4.4dB reference band and a 7.19 directivity-index deviation mean tonal balance and off-axis consistency are uneven, and the standalone preference score is only 1.93. It is large and expensive next to the 2-way Yamaha DZR15.

Full Yamaha DZR315 review and specifications →

AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	2,000W Class-D bi-amplified
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-10dB)	about 64.6Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	82.5Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 3-way PA speaker
Coverage	75° x 50°
DSP	Yes, 96kHz FIR DSP with LCD, presets, PEQ, delay
Drivers	15” woofer, 8” midrange, 2” compression driver
Frequency Response	31Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Maximum SPL	143dB (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	No
Rigging	16 x M10 rigging points
Spinorama Preference Score	1.93
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.06
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	91.7 lbs (41.6 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DZR Series Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DZR315 vs Coda Audio G715
  • Yamaha DZR315 vs FBT Mitus 115A
  • Yamaha DZR315 vs Axiom ED150A
  • Yamaha DZR315 vs RCF NX 915-A
  • Yamaha DZR315 vs HK Audio Linear 5 MK2 115 FA

Ranked #22 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CZR15: $1,024.00 Passive B&H Photo Video $1,024.00 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DZR10 (smallest powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DZR12 (powered model, rated 3.9/5), the Yamaha DZR15 (powered model, ranked higher, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DZR315 (largest powered model, ranked higher, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CZR10 (smaller passive model, estimated 3.2/5) and the Yamaha CZR12 (smaller passive model, estimated 3.6/5).

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DZR15, with a 15” woofer and a 2” voice coil compression driver in a plywood cabinet with 90° x 60° coverage. Yamaha rates it at 800W handling, 129dB maximum SPL and bass reaching 33Hz, and its PX and PC-D amplifiers carry a dedicated processing preset for it.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier and speaker processing to match the powered DZR, which has its FIR-X tuning built in. It costs about as much as the powered model before the amplifier.

Full Yamaha CZR15 review and specifications →

Released	Jan 2019 (7 years ago)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plywood
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	15” woofer, 2” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	33Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	129dB (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	800W
Rigging	12 x M10 inserts; 2 x 35mm pole sockets (0° or -7°)
Weight	47 lbs (21.3 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CZR15 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CZR15 vs RCF ART 915-A
  • Yamaha CZR15 vs Yamaha DXR15mkIII
  • Yamaha CZR15 vs JBL PRX915

Ranked #32 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CXR15mkIII: $799.00 Passive B&H Photo Video $799.00 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DXR10mkIII (smallest powered model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha DXR12mkIII (powered model, rated 4.1/5), the Yamaha DXR15mkIII (largest powered model, ranked higher, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha CXR10mkIII (smaller passive model, estimated 3.5/5) and the Yamaha CXR12mkIII (smaller passive model, estimated 3.8/5). See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DXR15mkIII, with the same 15” woofer, 1.75” voice coil compression driver, horn and port design. Yamaha rates it at 95dB sensitivity, 126dB maximum SPL and bass to 50Hz (-10dB) with 90° x 60° coverage, and its PX and PC-D amplifiers carry a dedicated processing preset for it.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier and, for its rated response, speaker processing; the powered model has that built in. Without Yamaha’s preset its tonal balance depends on the amplifier’s EQ.

Full Yamaha CXR15mkIII review and specifications →

Released	2026 (this year)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	15” woofer, 1.75” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	50Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	126dB (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	1,200W peak
Rigging	3 x M10 and 4 x M8 inserts; 35mm pole sockets (0° or 7°)
Sensitivity	95dB
Weight	41.9 lbs (19 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CXR15mkIII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CXR15mkIII vs RCF ART 735-A MK5
  • Yamaha CXR15mkIII vs LD Systems Stinger 15-A-G3
  • Yamaha CXR15mkIII vs RCF ART 715-A MK5

Ranked #54 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DBR15: $559.99 B&H Photo Video $559.99 Guitar Center $559.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DBR10 (smaller powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DBR12 (smaller powered model, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha CBR10 (smallest passive model, estimated 3.2/5), the Yamaha CBR12 (passive model, estimated 3.4/5) and the Yamaha CBR15 (largest passive model, ranked lower, estimated 2.7/5).

Pros: Yamaha’s most portable 15-inch powered speaker carries the same DSP and amplification platform as the DXR and DZR series, with a built-in 2-channel mixer accepting XLR, 1/4-inch, RCA and 3.5mm sources. Measured bass extension of 53Hz (-3dB).

Cons: Medium-quality vendor data shows a 2.87 ideal-subwoofer preference score, one of the weaker results in this ranking and well below the Yamaha DBR12’s own measured result, so a subwoofer partner matters more here than with most alternatives.

Full Yamaha DBR15 review and specifications →

Released	Sep 2014 (12 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	1000W dynamic / 465W continuous (800W LF + 200W HF dynamic)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	53Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Plastic
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60° (constant directivity horn)
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	27.6”H x 17.9”W x 14.9”D (700 x 455 x 378 mm)
Drivers	15” woofer, 1.4” compression driver
Frequency Response	50Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo and stereo RCA; XLR output
Maximum SPL	132dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	Yes
Rigging	3 x M8 points; 35mm pole mount
Spinorama Preference Score	0.49
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	2.87
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	42.5 lbs (19.3 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DBR15 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs RCF ART 715-A MK4
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs Behringer Eurolive B215XL
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs Yamaha CBR15
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs Audiofocus VENU 15a
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs RCF ART 735-A MK4
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs RCF ART 745-A MK4
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs RCF ART 745-A MK5
  • Yamaha DBR15 vs RCF NX 915-A
  • See all 21 comparisons

Ranked #59 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha CBR15: $384.00 Passive B&H Photo Video $384.00 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DBR10 (smallest powered model, rated 3.4/5), the Yamaha DBR12 (powered model, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha DBR15 (largest powered model, ranked higher, rated 2.9/5), the Yamaha CBR10 (smaller passive model, estimated 3.2/5) and the Yamaha CBR12 (smaller passive model, estimated 3.4/5).

Pros: The passive version of the measured Yamaha DBR15, sharing its 15” woofer, compression driver and lightweight polypropylene cabinet with 90° x 60° coverage. Yamaha rates it at 96dB sensitivity, 126dB maximum SPL and bass to 46Hz (-10dB), and at 17.7 kg it is one of the lighter 15-inch boxes.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It needs an external amplifier, and without the powered model’s DSP its response depends on the amplifier’s EQ. The measured powered version is a budget design, so expect the same limits on output and smoothness.

Full Yamaha CBR15 review and specifications →

Released	Dec 2014 (11 years ago)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	15” woofer, 1” voice coil compression driver
Frequency Response	46Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Maximum SPL	126dB (calculated, manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	1,000W peak
Rigging	3 x M8 inserts; 35mm pole socket
Sensitivity	96dB
Weight	39 lbs (17.7 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha CBR15 Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha CBR15 vs Yamaha DBR15
  • Yamaha CBR15 vs Behringer Eurolive B215XL
  • Yamaha CBR15 vs FBT J15A

Column and Line Array PA Speakers

Ranked #21 of 23 in Column and Line Array PA Speakers - Yamaha VXL1-8: $444.99 each Passive Amazon $444.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha VXL1-16 (larger model, ranked lower, estimated 2.6/5) and the Yamaha VXL1-24 (larger model, ranked lower, rated 2.5/5).

Pros: A slim column speaker for commercial installations with eight 1.5” drivers in a line array. Yamaha’s measurements show a preference score of -0.38 that reaches 4.48 with an ideal subwoofer, with 0.69 listening window deviation.

Cons: Bass is very limited, so it needs a subwoofer, and the on-axis response is very uneven (2.37 average deviation). The data comes from Yamaha.

Full Yamaha VXL1-8 review and specifications →

Released	Jun 2017 (9 years ago)
Bluetooth	No
DIY Kit	No
Drivers	8x 1.5” full-range drivers (line array)
Maximum SPL	111dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Rigging	Wall mount bracket included
Spinorama Preference Score	-0.38
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.48
Weight	4.6 lbs (2.1 kg)

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Manufacturer Measurements (spinorama.org)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha VXL1-8 vs Yamaha VXL1-16
  • Yamaha VXL1-8 vs JBL CBT 50LA-1
  • Yamaha VXL1-8 vs JBL COL600

Ranked #22 of 23 in Column and Line Array PA Speakers - Yamaha VXL1-16: $807.99 each Passive Full Compass $807.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha VXL1-8 (smaller model, ranked higher, rated 2.6/5) and the Yamaha VXL1-24 (larger model, ranked lower, rated 2.5/5).

Pros: The middle model of Yamaha’s VXL slim line arrays, with sixteen 1.5” full-range drivers in a 54mm wide column between the measured Yamaha VXL1-8 and Yamaha VXL1-24. A rear switch picks 20° or 30° vertical coverage, which helps speech intelligibility in reflective rooms.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. Small full-range drivers limit bass and output, so it is built for speech and background music, and it needs an external amplifier.

Full Yamaha VXL1-16 review and specifications →

Released	Jun 2017 (9 years ago)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive slim line array column
Coverage	Switchable 20° or 30° vertical
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	16x 1.5” full-range drivers
Maximum SPL	116dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	80W
Rigging	Wall mount bracket included
Weight	8.6 lbs (3.9 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha VXL Series Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha VXL1-16 vs Yamaha VXL1-8
  • Yamaha VXL1-16 vs JBL CBT 100LA-1
  • Yamaha VXL1-16 vs JBL CBT 50LA-1

Ranked #23 of 23 in Column and Line Array PA Speakers - Yamaha VXL1-24: $1,340 each Passive eBay

Same family: the Yamaha VXL1-8 (smaller model, ranked higher, rated 2.6/5) and the Yamaha VXL1-16 (smaller model, ranked higher, estimated 2.6/5).

Pros: A tall column speaker for commercial installations with 24 1.5” drivers in a line array. Yamaha’s measurements show a preference score of -0.75 that reaches 4.27 with an ideal subwoofer, with 0.68 listening window deviation. Measured bass extension of 272.0Hz (-3dB).

Cons: Bass is very limited, so it needs a subwoofer, and the on-axis response is very uneven (2.73 average deviation). The data comes from Yamaha.

Full Yamaha VXL1-24 review and specifications →

Released	Jun 2017 (9 years ago)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	272.0Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
DIY Kit	No
Drivers	24x 1.5” full-range drivers (line array)
Maximum SPL	117dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Rigging	Wall mount bracket included; optional pole and wall bracket
Spinorama Preference Score	-0.75
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.27
Weight	12.1 lbs (5.5 kg)

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Manufacturer Measurements (spinorama.org)

Surface-Mount and Background Music Speakers

Ranked #8 of 26 in Surface-Mount and Background Music Speakers - Yamaha VXS5: $392.98 per pair Passive Amazon $392.98 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha VXS1ML (smaller model, ranked lower, estimated 2.4/5), the Yamaha VXS3F (smaller model, ranked lower, rated 2.6/5) and the Yamaha VXS8 (larger model, ranked lower, estimated 3/5).

Pros: A compact surface-mount speaker for commercial installations with a 5.25” woofer and a dome tweeter, weather-resistant for covered outdoor use. Yamaha’s measurements show a preference score of 1.86 that reaches 5.17 with an ideal subwoofer, with 0.59 listening window deviation.

Cons: Bass is limited, so it needs a subwoofer for full-range music, and the on-axis response is uneven (0.95 average deviation). The data comes from Yamaha. Bass reaches 95.0Hz (-3dB) and about 70Hz (-10dB).

Full Yamaha VXS5 review and specifications →

Bass Extension (-10dB)	about 69.5Hz (measured, manufacturer data via spinorama.org)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	95.0Hz (measured, manufacturer data via spinorama.org)
Bluetooth	No
DIY Kit	No
Drivers	5.25” woofer, dome tweeter
Maximum SPL	114dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Rigging	Wall/ceiling mount bracket included
Spinorama Preference Score	1.86
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.17
Weight	7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Manufacturer Measurements (spinorama.org)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha VXS5 vs Martin Audio CDD6
  • Yamaha VXS5 vs Martin Audio CDD5
  • Yamaha VXS5 vs Electro-Voice EVID-S5.2X
  • Yamaha VXS5 vs JBL Control 24CT

Ranked #9 of 26 in Surface-Mount and Background Music Speakers - Yamaha VXS8: $662.98 per pair Passive B&H Photo Video $662.98 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha VXS1ML (smaller model, ranked lower, estimated 2.4/5), the Yamaha VXS3F (smaller model, ranked lower, rated 2.6/5) and the Yamaha VXS5 (smaller model, ranked higher, rated 3/5).

Pros: The 8-inch model of Yamaha’s VXS surface-mount range, a larger sibling of the measured Yamaha VXS5 with an 8” woofer and a 1” soft dome tweeter. Yamaha rates it at 91dB sensitivity and 117dB maximum SPL with bass to 51Hz (-10dB), so it reaches lower than the 5.25” model, and a transformer tap lets it run on 70V/100V lines or at low impedance.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. It is an installation speaker sold in pairs, with no built-in amplifier and a dome tweeter that limits output compared with horn-loaded PA boxes.

Full Yamaha VXS8 review and specifications →

Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive 2-way surface-mount speaker
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	8” woofer, 1” soft dome tweeter
Frequency Response	51Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Maximum SPL	117dB (calculated, manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Power Handling	90W noise / 180W program
Rigging	Wall/ceiling mount bracket included
Sensitivity	91dB
Weight	18.1 lbs (8.2 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha VXS Series Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha VXS8 vs JBL AC18/26
  • Yamaha VXS8 vs Martin Audio CDD6
  • Yamaha VXS8 vs JBL AC16
  • Yamaha VXS8 vs Electro-Voice EVID-S8.2
  • Yamaha VXS8 vs Electro-Voice EVID-S5.2X

Ranked #16 of 26 in Surface-Mount and Background Music Speakers - Yamaha VXS3F: $284 per pair Passive eBay

Same family: the Yamaha VXS1ML (smaller model, ranked lower, estimated 2.4/5), the Yamaha VXS5 (larger model, ranked higher, rated 3/5) and the Yamaha VXS8 (larger model, ranked higher, estimated 3/5).

Pros: A tiny full-range surface-mount speaker for commercial background music. Yamaha’s measurements show a preference score of 0.1 that reaches 4.71 with an ideal subwoofer, with 0.65 listening window deviation.

Cons: Bass is very limited, so it needs a subwoofer, and the on-axis response is very uneven (3.13 average deviation). The data comes from Yamaha. Bass reaches 218.0Hz (-3dB) and about 137Hz (-10dB).

Full Yamaha VXS3F review and specifications →

Bass Extension (-10dB)	about 136.9Hz (measured, manufacturer data via spinorama.org)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	218.0Hz (measured, manufacturer data via spinorama.org)
Bluetooth	No
DIY Kit	No
Drivers	3.5” full-range driver
Maximum SPL	105dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Spinorama Preference Score	0.1
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.71
Weight	2.2 lbs (1 kg)

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Manufacturer Measurements (spinorama.org)

Ranked #21 of 26 in Surface-Mount and Background Music Speakers - Yamaha VXS1ML: $96.99 per pair Passive Amazon $96.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha VXS3F (larger model, ranked higher, rated 2.6/5), the Yamaha VXS5 (larger model, ranked higher, rated 3/5) and the Yamaha VXS8 (larger model, ranked higher, estimated 3/5).

Pros: The smallest of Yamaha’s VXS surface-mount speakers, a single 1.5” full-range driver with a neodymium magnet and very wide 170° dispersion, so a few units can cover a large room for background music. It sits below the measured Yamaha VXS3F and is meant to pair with Yamaha’s VXS3S compact subwoofer.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so it can’t be compared with ranked PA speakers. A 1.5” driver alone has little bass, so it needs a subwoofer for anything beyond background music and speech.

Full Yamaha VXS1ML review and specifications →

Released	2017 (9 years ago)
Amplifier Power	Passive speaker; requires external amplification
Bluetooth	No
Configuration	Passive full-range surface-mount speaker
Coverage	170° x 170°
DSP	No (passive)
Drivers	1.5” full-range driver
Maximum SPL	92dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Passive	Yes
Rigging	Wall/ceiling bracket included
Weight	0.4 lbs (0.17 kg)
XLR Input	No

• Links
  • Yamaha VXS “M Model” Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha VXS1ML vs Bose DesignMax DM8SE
  • Yamaha VXS1ML vs Electro-Voice EVID-S8.2
  • Yamaha VXS1ML vs JBL AC16

Large Size Bookshelf Speakers

Ranked #81 of 216 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha NS-800A: $4,999.90 per pair The Music Room $4,999.90 eBay

Pros: Exceptionally well-built cabinet with no internal resonance issues at all: confirmed clean in both burst decay and impedance measurements. Good, wide directivity (~75 degrees horizontal) that stays consistent enough to EQ successfully. Distortion is low, staying under 3% at 96dB, and dynamic range holds up well until right near its 102dB limit. A shallower, higher-frequency bass rolloff profile (F3 68Hz, F10 35Hz) means it can be placed closer to the wall (about a foot) without turning boomy, actually gaining bass presence rather than losing it. Measured bass extension of 68Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 84.9dB.

Cons: A wide, roughly 2kHz-10kHz scoop in the upper-midrange/lower-treble gives it a laidback, soft, low-attack character: notably worse than the reviewer’s Audio First Fidelia reference in an A/B comparison. On top of that, treble breaks up badly above 10kHz, swinging up as much as 8dB: a significant, named flaw. Sounds inconsistently voiced as a result (bright on some material like cymbals and shakers, dull/laidback on vocals and instrument attack) until corrected with real parametric EQ (the reviewer needed a +2dB boost around 4.5kHz at Q0.5 plus taming the treble spike to bring it to life) combined with near-wall placement and 30-degree toe-out. Without that combination, it’s a tough sale for a $5000 bookshelf speaker.

Full Yamaha NS-800A review and specifications →

Released	2024 (2 years ago)
Bass Extension (-10dB)	35Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	68Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner)
Crossover Frequency	2600Hz
DIY Kit	No
Dimensions	16.5”H x 9.1”W x 14.1”D (419.1 x 231.8 x 358.8 mm)
Drivers	1.25” dome tweeter, 6.5” mid-woofer
Impedance	6 ohms nominal, 4.3 ohms minimum (measured above 80Hz, Erin’s Audio Corner)
Power Handling	40W nominal, 120W max
Sensitivity	84.9dB (measured average 300Hz-3kHz @ 2.83V/1m, Erin’s Audio Corner; 86.5dB manufacturer specified)
Spinorama Preference Score	4.66
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	6.43
Weight	28.7 lbs (13.0 kg) each
Woofer Cabinet	Bass reflex

• Links
  • Official Yamaha NS-800A Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Erin’s Audio Corner: I’m Revealing the "Yamaha Sound"! More from Erin’s Audio Corner →
  • Erin’s Audio Corner Website: Yamaha NS-800A
  • Erin’s Audio Corner Measurements (spinorama.org)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs Definitive Technology Demand D11
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs ELAC DBR62
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs Technics SB-C700
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs Paradigm Persona B
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs Focal Sopra N°1
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs Dynaudio Contour 20i
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs ELAC Uni-Fi Reference UBR62
  • Yamaha NS-800A vs SVS Ultra Bookshelf
  • See all 25 comparisons

Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs)

Ranked #54 of 73 in Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs) - Yamaha NS-SW100: $269.95 Amazon $269.95 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha NS-SW050 (smaller subwoofer, ranked lower, estimated 2.7/5).

Pros: 10-inch ported with 100W RMS. Compact 26-pound design delivers surprising deep bass at tight price point. Twisted flare port provides accurate, powerfully rich response. Stylish design complements home decor while delivering satisfying bass depth.

Full Yamaha NS-SW100 review and specifications →

CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz)	105.0 dB
Cabinet Color	black
Country	Japan
Dimensions	13.9”H x 13.9”W x 16.1”D (352.3 x 352.3 x 409.4 mm)
Drivers	10” (254mm) driver
Enclosure	ported, side
Measurement Source	ErinsAudioCorner
Output SPL at 40 Hz	97.4 dB
Output SPL at 50 Hz	103.2 dB
Output SPL at 63 Hz	108.6 dB
Output SPL at 80 Hz	110.7 dB
Output SPL at 100 Hz	109.7 dB
Output SPL at 125 Hz	107.8 dB
Warranty	2
Weight	26.5 lbs (12.0 kg)

• Links
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 Website
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Erin’s Audio Corner: Budget Amazon 10-inch Subwoofer Showdown: Polk, Klipsch, Elac, Yamaha, Sony More from Erin’s Audio Corner →
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 vs Yamaha HS8S
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 vs Polk Audio Monitor XT10
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 vs Sonos Sub Mini
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 vs Monoprice Premium Select 8in 200-Watt
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 vs Klipsch R-10SW
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 vs Yamaha NS-SW050
  • Yamaha NS-SW100 vs Klipsch Flexus Sub 100

Ranked #55 of 73 in Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs) - Yamaha HS8S: $499.99 Amazon $499.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha HS3 (smallest bookshelf, estimated 2.9/5), the Yamaha HS4 (bookshelf, estimated 3.1/5), the Yamaha HS5 (bookshelf, rated 3.6/5), the Yamaha HS7 (bookshelf, rated 3.9/5) and the Yamaha HS8 (largest bookshelf, rated 4.4/5).

Pros: Independent CEA-2010 testing records 104.8 dB through 40-80 Hz. The ported, front enclosure with 8” (203mm) driver is intended to add useful bass support without a full-size cabinet.

Cons: Without a published 20 Hz output result, deep-bass capability is less certain than its midbass figure. The 349.2H x 300.0W x 388.9D mm cabinet and 10.2 kg mass still need careful placement and calibration.

Full Yamaha HS8S review and specifications →

Released	Apr 2013 (13 years ago)
AES Input	No
Aux Input	No
CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz)	104.8 dB
Cabinet Color	black
Coaxial Input	No
Country	Japan
Dimensions	13.7”H x 11.8”W x 15.3”D (349.2 x 300.0 x 388.9 mm)
Drivers	8” (203mm) driver
Enclosure	ported, front
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	XLR (2), TRS (2, balanced)
Measurement Source	ErinsAudioCorner
Optical Input	No
Output SPL at 31.5 Hz	90.8 dB
Output SPL at 40 Hz	100.7 dB
Output SPL at 50 Hz	104.9 dB
Output SPL at 63 Hz	106.3 dB
Output SPL at 80 Hz	107.2 dB
Output SPL at 100 Hz	105.7 dB
RCA Input	No
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Warranty	2
Weight	22.5 lbs (10.2 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha HS8S Website
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Erin’s Audio Corner: $499 Subwoofer Shootout: Kali Audio WS-6.2 vs Yamaha HS8S. The Kali is a BEAST! More from Erin’s Audio Corner →
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha HS8S vs Yamaha NS-SW100
  • Yamaha HS8S vs Definitive Technology Descend DN8
  • Yamaha HS8S vs Monoprice Premium Select 8in 200-Watt
  • Yamaha HS8S vs ELAC IW-S10EQ in-wall
  • Yamaha HS8S vs Dayton Audio SUB-1000L
  • Yamaha HS8S vs Monoprice Monolith M-10 V2
  • Yamaha HS8S vs Kali Audio WS-6.2

Ranked #68 of 73 in Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs) - Yamaha NS-SW050: $219.95 Amazon $219.95 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha NS-SW100 (larger subwoofer, ranked higher, rated 3/5).

Pros: Yamaha’s smallest home subwoofer, with an 8” cone, Advanced YST II servo amplification and a Twisted Flare Port to reduce port noise. Rated 28 to 200Hz in a cabinet 29cm wide.

Cons: No independent measurements yet, so its output can’t be compared directly with ranked subwoofers; the rating is estimated from the measured Yamaha NS-SW100, which reached only 105.0dB in the 40 to 80Hz CEA-2010 bands. With an 8” driver and 50W it is suited to small rooms and modest levels.

Full Yamaha NS-SW050 review and specifications →

Amplifier Power	50W (100W peak)
Country	Japan
Dimensions	11.5”H x 11.5”W x 13.4”D (292 x 292 x 340 mm)
Drivers	8” cone woofer
Enclosure	ported
Frequency Response	28-200Hz (manufacturer specified)
Warranty	2
Weight	18.7 lbs (8.5 kg)

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha NS-SW050 vs Sony Bravia Theater Sub 7
  • Yamaha NS-SW050 vs Yamaha NS-SW100
  • Yamaha NS-SW050 vs Monoprice Premium Select 8in 200-Watt

Over-Ear Headphones

Ranked #67 of 231 in Over-Ear Headphones - Yamaha RH5Ma: $78.00 Amazon $78.00 eBay

Pros: A preference score of 82 with extra bass, 2.5 dB above target from 60 to 200 Hz, gives a warm, punchy sound with a bit of body in the low mids. At 163 g with 32 ohms and 98 dB/mW, it is light, closed-back and easy to drive from a phone or laptop.

Cons: Treble is about 5.6 dB above target, with a peak near 8.9 dB at 8.4 kHz, so cymbals and sibilance can be sharp. A 7.5 dB dip near 4.3 kHz recesses vocal presence, and sub-bass below 60 Hz is about 4.6 dB low. The deviation of 2.4 dB is among the least even in its group.

Full Yamaha RH5Ma review and specifications →

Back	Closed
Connection	Wired
Deviation From Target	2.44 dB standard deviation
Driver Type	Dynamic
Drivers	1 x 40mm dynamic
Form Factor	Over-ear
Frequency Response	20Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified)
Harman Preference Score	82 (measured by oratory1990, via AutoEQ)
Impedance	32 ohms
Sensitivity	98 dB/mW
Sub-bass Extension	Falls 6 dB below target at 32 Hz (-6.8 dB at 30 Hz)
Tonal Tilt	+0.12 (negative is warmer, positive brighter)
Weight	0.4 lbs (163 g)

EQ preset to match the Harman target

Set a preamp of -6.8 dB, then add these filters in any parametric equalizer (Wavelet, Equalizer APO, Peace, or a player with parametric EQ). Calculated by AutoEQ from its measured frequency response.

Filter	Frequency	Gain	Q
Low shelf	105 Hz	+7.8 dB	0.70
Peak	77 Hz	-5.9 dB	0.62
Peak	863 Hz	+4.6 dB	2.37
Peak	8,259 Hz	-4.7 dB	2.01
Peak	2,447 Hz	+2.1 dB	2.39
High shelf	10,000 Hz	+2.4 dB	0.70
Peak	4,968 Hz	-3.5 dB	6.00
Peak	4,244 Hz	+2.5 dB	6.00
Peak	444 Hz	-1.8 dB	4.31
Peak	329 Hz	+0.5 dB	2.10

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • AutoEQ results for the Yamaha RH5Ma (oratory1990 measurement)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha RH5Ma vs Sony MDR-ZX310
  • Yamaha RH5Ma vs Mackie MC-250
  • Yamaha RH5Ma vs Philips SHP9500

Ranked #158 of 231 in Over-Ear Headphones - Yamaha HPH-200: $160.00 Amazon $160.00 eBay

Pros: The open 40mm dynamic design has an airy, speaker-like staging, and at 48 ohms and 98.5 dB/mW it runs fine from a phone or laptop. Bass from 60 to 200 Hz is about 1.6 dB above target and the midrange sits close to it, giving voices a natural body.

Cons: Sub-bass is roughly 9 dB under target, so deep bass is largely absent. A 12.3 dB dip near 4.8 kHz and presence about 6 dB low are paired with a 4.8 dB peak near 7.4 kHz, which makes vocals recede while hi-hats and sibilants stand out. The open back leaks sound and gives no isolation.

Full Yamaha HPH-200 review and specifications →

Back	Open
Connection	Wired
Deviation From Target	3.20 dB standard deviation
Driver Type	Dynamic
Drivers	1 x 40mm dynamic
Form Factor	Over-ear
Frequency Response	20Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified)
Harman Preference Score	64 (measured by oratory1990, via AutoEQ)
Impedance	48 ohms
Sensitivity	98.5 dB/mW
Sub-bass Extension	Falls 6 dB below target at 42 Hz (-11.2 dB at 30 Hz)
Tonal Tilt	-0.64 (negative is warmer, positive brighter)

EQ preset to match the Harman target

Set a preamp of -6.3 dB, then add these filters in any parametric equalizer (Wavelet, Equalizer APO, Peace, or a player with parametric EQ). Calculated by AutoEQ from its measured frequency response.

Filter	Frequency	Gain	Q
Low shelf	105 Hz	+5.8 dB	0.70
Peak	83 Hz	-6.4 dB	0.54
Peak	4,730 Hz	+6.7 dB	1.88
Peak	41 Hz	+3.8 dB	0.94
Peak	6,680 Hz	-5.1 dB	4.60
High shelf	10,000 Hz	+1.2 dB	0.70
Peak	518 Hz	+1.1 dB	1.05
Peak	1,328 Hz	-1.1 dB	2.04
Peak	8,923 Hz	-2.3 dB	4.29
Peak	243 Hz	-0.7 dB	1.68

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • AutoEQ results for the Yamaha HPH-200 (oratory1990 measurement)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha HPH-200 vs Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
  • Yamaha HPH-200 vs FiiO FT1
  • Yamaha HPH-200 vs 1MORE Triple Driver Over Ear
  • Yamaha HPH-200 vs Fostex T40RP Mk3
  • Yamaha HPH-200 vs Austrian Audio Hi-X15

Ranked #194 of 231 in Over-Ear Headphones - Yamaha YH-5000SE: $4,999.95 Amazon $4,999.95 eBay

Pros: The open back planar magnetic driver has a 34 ohm, 98 dB/mW load that a phone or small dongle can drive. Its warm tilt suits listeners who prefer a relaxed, bass-leaning balance over a bright one. At 320 g it is moderate in weight for a planar headphone.

Cons: In oratory1990’s measurement a deep 16.7 dB dip near 2.75 kHz and a presence band 6.9 dB under target push vocals and lead instruments far back, for a preference score of 52 with 3.88 dB of deviation. Sub-bass also sits 6 dB below target, and the open back leaks sound. The Audeze LCD-2 Closed Back rates far higher for much less money.

Full Yamaha YH-5000SE review and specifications →

Released	Dec 2022 (3 years ago)
Back	Open
Built-in Microphone	No
Connection	Wired
Deviation From Target	3.88 dB standard deviation
Driver Type	Planar magnetic
Drivers	1 x planar magnetic (Orthodynamic)
Form Factor	Over-ear
Frequency Response	5Hz - 70kHz (Manufacturer specified)
Harman Preference Score	52 (measured by oratory1990, via AutoEQ)
Impedance	34 ohms
Sensitivity	98 dB/mW
Sub-bass Extension	Falls 6 dB below target at 27 Hz (-5.4 dB at 30 Hz)
Tonal Tilt	-0.90 (negative is warmer, positive brighter)
Weight	0.7 lbs (320 g)

EQ preset to match the Harman target

Set a preamp of -6.6 dB, then add these filters in any parametric equalizer (Wavelet, Equalizer APO, Peace, or a player with parametric EQ). Calculated by AutoEQ from its measured frequency response.

Filter	Frequency	Gain	Q
Low shelf	105 Hz	+9.4 dB	0.70
Peak	2,812 Hz	+6.8 dB	1.88
Peak	1,242 Hz	-7.9 dB	2.00
Peak	57 Hz	-8.0 dB	0.46
Peak	3,792 Hz	+2.7 dB	5.86
High shelf	10,000 Hz	-5.1 dB	0.70
Peak	9,174 Hz	+2.0 dB	0.67
Peak	326 Hz	-0.9 dB	2.14
Peak	230 Hz	+0.8 dB	2.83
Peak	4,523 Hz	-2.0 dB	6.00

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • AutoEQ results for the Yamaha YH-5000SE (oratory1990 measurement)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha YH-5000SE vs Audeze LCD-4z
  • Yamaha YH-5000SE vs Dan Clark Audio Voce
  • Yamaha YH-5000SE vs T+A Solitaire PSE

Discontinued Yamaha Models

Still ranked, and often still worth buying used, but no longer in production. Check availability before planning around one of these.

8-Inch PA Speakers

Ranked #4 of 44 in 8-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DXR8mkII: $769.99 Discontinued Amazon $769.99 Guitar Center $769.99 eBay

Same family: the Yamaha DXR10mkII (larger model, rated 3.8/5), the Yamaha DXR12mkII (larger model, rated 4/5) and the Yamaha DXR15mkII (larger model, rated 3.7/5). See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Pros: Medium-quality vendor data shows a 5.89 ideal-subwoofer preference score with 64Hz measured extension, among the strongest results here. Yamaha’s FIR-X processing, a 1.75-inch neodymium compression driver and a 90° x 60° constant-directivity horn carry over the larger DXR models’ engineering into a compact cabinet. Measured bass extension of 69Hz (-3dB).

Cons: No mkIII successor exists for this size yet, so it is the oldest design generation in this ranking’s Yamaha lineup, without app control or Bluetooth audio. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha DXR8mkII review and specifications →

Released	2019 (7 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	69Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Matte-finish ABS
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	18”H x 11”W x 11”D (458 x 280 x 280 mm)
Drivers	8” woofer, 1.75” compression driver
Frequency Response	57Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	XLR, dual 1/4-inch, stereo RCA; XLR thru and link outputs
Maximum SPL	130dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	Yes
Rigging	3 x M8 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount
Spinorama Preference Score	3.08
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.89
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	28.2 lbs (12.8 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs Turbosound NuQ82
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs JBL PRX908
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs L-Acoustics 108P
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs L-Acoustics X8
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs QSC K8.2
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs RCF KX 08-A
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs RCF ART 708-A MK5
  • Yamaha DXR8mkII vs RCF ART 708-A MK4
  • See all 12 comparisons

10-Inch PA Speakers

Ranked #13 of 39 in 10-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DXR10mkII: $814.99 Discontinued Amazon $814.99 Guitar Center $814.99 eBay

Newer model: the Yamaha DXR10mkIII, ranked higher, rated 3.8/5, released Jun 2026. It adds Bluetooth, but drops the RCA input. See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Same family: the Yamaha DXR8mkII (smaller model, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DXR12mkII (larger model, rated 4/5) and the Yamaha DXR15mkII (larger model, rated 3.7/5).

Pros: A proven, broadly distributed workhorse: medium-quality vendor data shows a 5.16 ideal-subwoofer preference score with 67Hz measured extension, and Yamaha’s FIR-X processing and D-Contour compressor simplify setup. Measured bass extension of 73Hz (-3dB).

Cons: It lacks app control or Bluetooth audio found on some newer competitors, and its measured preference sits mid-pack for this ranking. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha DXR10mkII review and specifications →

Released	Aug 2019 (7 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	73Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Matte-finish ABS
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60° (wide-dispersion constant directivity horn)
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	19.8”H x 12”W x 12.2”D (502 x 305 x 310 mm)
Drivers	10” woofer, 1.75” compression driver
Frequency Response	56Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	XLR, dual 1/4-inch, stereo RCA; XLR thru and link outputs
Maximum SPL	132dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	Yes
Rigging	3 x M8 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount
Spinorama Preference Score	2.30
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.16
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	30.6 lbs (13.9 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs Yamaha DXR10mkIII
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs Vue Audiotechnik A-10
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs KV2 Audio EX10
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs dB Technologies Opera Reevo 210
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs RCF KX 10-A
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs RCF ART 710-A MK5
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs FBT ProMaxX 110A
  • Yamaha DXR10mkII vs QSC K10.2
  • See all 16 comparisons

12-Inch PA Speakers

Ranked #17 of 78 in 12-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DXR12mkII: $909.99 Discontinued Amazon $909.99 Guitar Center $909.99 eBay

Newer model: the Yamaha DXR12mkIII, ranked higher, rated 4.1/5, released Jun 2026. It adds Bluetooth, but drops the XLR input and the RCA input. See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Same family: the Yamaha DXR8mkII (smaller model, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DXR10mkII (smaller model, rated 3.8/5) and the Yamaha DXR15mkII (larger model, rated 3.7/5).

Pros: A proven, broadly distributed workhorse with a flexible three-channel input section and 134dB claimed maximum output. Medium-quality vendor Spinorama data and 61Hz measured extension provide more evidence than many PA competitors, while Yamaha’s FIR-X processing and D-CONTOUR presets simplify setup. Measured bass extension of 61Hz (-3dB).

Cons: The 5.49 ideal-subwoofer preference score is only mid-pack, with meaningful response/directivity irregularity in the supplied data. It lacks app control and Bluetooth audio, and newer competitors offer more user-adjustable DSP. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha DXR12mkII review and specifications →

Released	May 2022 (4 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	61Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Matte-finish ABS
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60°
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	23.7”H x 14.3”W x 13.8”D (601 x 362 x 350 mm)
Drivers	12” woofer, 1.75” compression driver
Frequency Response	52Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	2 x XLR/TRS combo, stereo RCA
Maximum SPL	134dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	Yes
Rigging	3 x M10 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount
Spinorama Preference Score	2.78
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.49
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	41 lbs (18.6 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs Axiom ED120A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs EAW MKD1200
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs HK Audio LINEAR 9 112 XA
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs FBT Mitus 112A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs HK Audio LINEAR 7 112 XA
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs RCF NX 912-A
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs Yamaha DXR12mkIII
  • Yamaha DXR12mkII vs RCF ART 912-A
  • See all 23 comparisons

15-Inch PA Speakers

Ranked #20 of 62 in 15-Inch PA Speakers - Yamaha DXR15mkII: $798.00 Discontinued Amazon $798.00 Lowest B&H Photo Video $972.00 Guitar Center $899.99 eBay

Newer model: the Yamaha DXR15mkIII, ranked higher, rated 3.8/5, released Jul 2026. It adds Bluetooth, but drops the RCA input. See every Yamaha DXR and CXR generation.

Same family: the Yamaha DXR8mkII (smaller model, rated 4/5), the Yamaha DXR10mkII (smaller model, rated 3.8/5) and the Yamaha DXR12mkII (smaller model, rated 4/5).

Pros: A proven, broadly distributed workhorse: medium-quality vendor data shows a 4.98 ideal-subwoofer preference score with 61Hz measured extension, and Yamaha’s FIR-X processing and D-CONTOUR presets simplify setup. Measured bass extension of 67Hz (-3dB).

Cons: The preference score sits mid-pack for this ranking, and it lacks app control or Bluetooth audio found on some newer competitors. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha DXR15mkII review and specifications →

Released	Aug 2019 (7 years ago)
AES Input	No
Amplifier Power	1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic)
Aux Input	No
Bass Extension (-3dB)	67Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data)
Bluetooth	No
Cabinet Material	Matte-finish ABS
Coaxial Input	No
Configuration	Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker
Coverage	90° x 60° (constant directivity horn)
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	27.6”H x 17.5”W x 15”D (700 x 445 x 380 mm)
Drivers	15” woofer, 1.75” compression driver
Frequency Response	49Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified)
Guitar Input	No
HDMI Input	No
Inputs	XLR, dual 1/4-inch, stereo RCA; XLR thru and link outputs
Maximum SPL	134dB peak (manufacturer specified)
Microphone Input	No
Optical Input	No
Passive	No
RCA Input	Yes
Rigging	3 x M10 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount
Spinorama Preference Score	2.28
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	4.98
TRS Input	Yes
USB Input	No
Weight	48.1 lbs (21.8 kg)
XLR Input	Yes

• Links
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII Product Information
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Spinorama Measurements
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs FBT Mitus 115A
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs Turbosound NuQ152
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs Electro-Voice MFX-15MC
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs RCF ART 715-A MK5
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs Yamaha DXR15mkIII
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs RCF NX 915-A
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs RCF ART 935-A
  • Yamaha DXR15mkII vs RCF ART 745-A MK5
  • See all 22 comparisons

Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers

Ranked #148 of 168 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha NS-A638 Discontinued eBay

Pros: A budget two-way bookshelf from Yamaha. Yamaha’s measurements show a preference score of 1.77 that reaches 5.06 with an ideal subwoofer, with 0.68 listening window deviation.

Cons: Bass is limited and the on-axis response is uneven (1.15 average deviation). The data comes from Yamaha and its quality is unknown. Yamaha no longer sells it. Bass reaches 195.8Hz (-3dB) and about 56Hz (-10dB). That data is of unknown quality. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha NS-A638 review and specifications →

Bass Extension (-10dB)	about 55.9Hz (measured, manufacturer data via spinorama.org)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	195.8Hz (measured, manufacturer data via spinorama.org)
DIY Kit	No
Drivers	woofer, tweeter
Spinorama Preference Score	1.77
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.06

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Manufacturer Measurements (spinorama.org)

Large Size Bookshelf Speakers

Ranked #210 of 216 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha NS-10: $499 per pair Discontinued eBay

Pros: Legendary studio reference monitor with a well-documented history; Yamaha’s original spec sheet included genuine measured data (frequency response, distortion, impedance, polar response) rather than just marketing numbers, unusually transparent for the era. Distortion, compression, and multitone performance all measured better than the reviewer expected for a decades-old design: in some respects competitive with newer speakers he’s tested. Vertical dispersion holds up reasonably well for a speaker of this vintage. The redesigned “Studio” cabinet is more robust than the original, with crossover tweaks and nicer binding-post terminals. Sealed cabinet design allows placement close to a wall without added boominess, though at the cost of overall bass extension. Measured bass extension of 126Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 90.2dB.

Cons: A pronounced peak of about 7dB above the midrange average around 1.7kHz gives the sound a forward, bright, or “tinny” character: this is the real underlying issue, and it wasn’t actually fixed by the “Studio” revision. Comparing the Studio version’s measured response to the original NS-10M’s published data, the original arguably measures more linear: Yamaha’s fix (lowering tweeter level by 2-3dB) left the core midrange peak largely untouched, addressing the wrong problem. The famous “tissue paper over the tweeter” mixing-engineer trick doesn’t actually help: testing it directly showed it adds diffraction and comb filtering rather than correcting the real midrange peak. Poor horizontal directivity, especially in its designed on-console orientation: usable window is only about ±20° off the tweeter axis before tonal character shifts noticeably. Directivity mismatches between direct and reflected sound make this difficult to properly correct with EQ in a typical farfield listening setup with nearby wall reflections. Bass is quite limited (F3 around 100Hz in most rooms once corrected for the inflated on-axis sensitivity reading), typical of a small sealed monitor design. Correcting the main midrange peak with EQ likely requires two bands rather than a single simple filter, since the peak isn’t perfectly symmetrical. Possible age-related tweeter compression at very high output, potentially from degraded ferrofluid affecting heat dissipation in these decades-old drivers. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha NS-10 review and specifications →

Released	1978 (48 years ago)
Bass Extension (-10dB)	75Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	126Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner)
DIY Kit	No
Dimensions	15”H x 8.5”W x 7.8”D (382.0 x 215.0 x 198.0 mm)
Drivers	7.1” woofer, 1.4” soft dome tweeter
Impedance	8 ohms nominal, 5.4 ohms minimum (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner)
Sensitivity	90.2dB (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner)
Spinorama Preference Score	2.24 (spinorama.org)
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.63 (spinorama.org)
Weight	9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)
Woofer Cabinet	sealed

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Erin’s Audio Corner: Yamaha NS-10M: The Iconic Studio Monitor That Shaped Modern Music More from Erin’s Audio Corner →
  • Erin’s Audio Corner Website Yamaha NS-10
  • Erin’s Audio Corner Measurements (spinorama.org)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha NS-10 vs JBL 4319
  • Yamaha NS-10 vs Yamaha NS-6490
  • Yamaha NS-10 vs Triangle Borea BR03
  • Yamaha NS-10 vs Klipsch RP-600M
  • Yamaha NS-10 vs Revel Performa M22
  • Yamaha NS-10 vs ELAC Debut 3.0 DB63

Ranked #216 of 216 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - Yamaha NS-6490: $129.95 per pair Discontinued eBay

Pros: Attractive industrial design with a large 8-inch woofer for the price. Simple direct-driven woofer with capacitor-only mid/tweeter crossovers keeps the design straightforward. Measured bass extension of 54.4Hz (-10dB), with a measured sensitivity of 89.6dB.

Cons: Amir found the woofer runs essentially full-range with only a capacitor separating the mid and tweeter, letting all three drivers bleed into each other’s range and causing “rising amplitude” across the response. Extensive narrow peaking indicates numerous cabinet resonances: Amir noted, “we have more of them than I have ever seen.” Distortion is high across the measurement range, and directivity is highly variable, particularly vertically. With a 1.6 preference score, Amir concluded, “I just can’t recommend it,” noting that extensive EQ would not fix the underlying resonance issues. Discontinued and no longer sold new.

Full Yamaha NS-6490 review and specifications →

Bass Extension (-10dB)	54.4Hz (measured, Audio Science Review)
DIY Kit	No
Dimensions	16.2H x 10.5W x 13.2D in
Drivers	8” woofer, 4” midrange cone, 7/8” balanced dome tweeter (3-way, acoustic suspension)
Frequency Response	45Hz - 23kHz (Manufacturer specified)
Impedance	8 ohms
Power Handling	70W nominal, 140W max
Sensitivity	89.6dB (2.83V/1m, measured, Audio Science Review)
Spinorama Preference Score	2.17
Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub	5.05
Weight	13.2 lbs (6 kg) each

• Links
  • Official Yamaha NS-6490 Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Audio Science Review Measurements More from Audio Science Review →
  • Audio Science Review Measurements (spinorama.org)
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha NS-6490 vs Dayton Audio B652-AIR
  • Yamaha NS-6490 vs Yamaha NS-10
  • Yamaha NS-6490 vs JBL 4319
  • Yamaha NS-6490 vs ELAC Debut 3.0 DB63

Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs)

Ranked #28 of 73 in Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs) - Yamaha YST-SW215: $399 Discontinued eBay

Pros: Independent CEA-2010 testing records 74.5 dB at 20 Hz and 109.6 dB through 40-80 Hz. The ported, side enclosure with 8” (203mm) driver is best suited to upper-bass support in a modest room.

Cons: Deep-bass output is limited relative to its midbass result, so it is not the right choice for the lowest movie effects. The 360.2H x 290.3W x 322.1D mm cabinet and 11.5 kg mass still need deliberate placement and calibration. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha YST-SW215 review and specifications →

CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz)	109.6 dB
Country	Japan
Dimensions	14.2”H x 11.4”W x 12.7”D (360.2 x 290.3 x 322.1 mm)
Drivers	8” (203mm) driver
Enclosure	ported, side
Measurement Source	Brent Butterworth
Output SPL at 20 Hz	74.5 dB
Output SPL at 25 Hz	85.7 dB
Output SPL at 31.5 Hz	92.6 dB
Output SPL at 40 Hz	99.7 dB
Output SPL at 50 Hz	106.8 dB
Output SPL at 63 Hz	113.5 dB
Output SPL at 80 Hz	118.5 dB
Warranty	2
Weight	25.4 lbs (11.5 kg)

• Links
  • Yamaha YST-SW215 Website
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Independently measured by Brent Butterworth; the published figures above come from this ASR subwoofer measurement thread.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha YST-SW215 vs Focal Sub Air

Ranked #38 of 73 in Small Home Subwoofers (Under 30 lbs) - Yamaha YST-SW012: $299 Discontinued eBay

Pros: Independent CEA-2010 testing records 62.0 dB at 20 Hz and 107.6 dB through 40-80 Hz. The ported, side enclosure with 8” (203mm) driver is best suited to upper-bass support in a modest room.

Cons: Deep-bass output is limited relative to its midbass result, so it is not the right choice for the lowest movie effects. The 288.8H x 288.8W x 326.9D mm cabinet and 8.5 kg mass still need deliberate placement and calibration. Discontinued.

Full Yamaha YST-SW012 review and specifications →

CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz)	107.6 dB
Country	Japan
Dimensions	11.4”H x 11.4”W x 12.9”D (288.8 x 288.8 x 326.9 mm)
Drivers	8” (203mm) driver
Enclosure	ported, side
Measurement Source	Brent Butterworth
Output SPL at 20 Hz	62.0 dB
Output SPL at 25 Hz	80.0 dB
Output SPL at 31.5 Hz	91.5 dB
Output SPL at 40 Hz	98.7 dB
Output SPL at 50 Hz	105.5 dB
Output SPL at 63 Hz	109.9 dB
Output SPL at 80 Hz	116.2 dB
Warranty	2
Weight	18.7 lbs (8.5 kg)

• Links
  • Yamaha YST-SW012 Website
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Independently measured by Brent Butterworth; the published figures above come from this ASR subwoofer measurement thread.
• Head-to-Head Comparisons
  • Yamaha YST-SW012 vs Q Acoustics 3060S

Medium Home Subwoofers (30-75 lbs)

Ranked #52 of 212 in Medium Home Subwoofers (30-75 lbs) - Yamaha YST-SW1500: $699 Discontinued eBay

Pros: 12-inch ported with 1000W RMS. Extra-long stroke driver for outstanding power and low distortion. Heavy-duty construction with robust output capability. Compact yet powerful performance. Award recognition from multiple reviewers.

Cons: Discontinued.

Full Yamaha YST-SW1500 review and specifications →

Amplifier Power	1000W RMS
CEA-2010-A Average (40-80Hz)	115.8 dB
Cabinet Color	black
Country	Japan
Dimensions	20.1”H x 16.6”W x 17.6”D (511.0 x 420.6 x 447.5 mm)
Drivers	12” (305mm) driver
Enclosure	ported, front
Frequency Response	16-160Hz, -10dB
Measurement Source	Ilkka Rissanen
Output SPL at 20 Hz	81.5 dB
Output SPL at 25 Hz	96.1 dB
Output SPL at 31.5 Hz	107.8 dB
Output SPL at 40 Hz	111.7 dB
Output SPL at 50 Hz	114.7 dB
Output SPL at 63 Hz	118.0 dB
Output SPL at 80 Hz	118.8 dB
Warranty	2?
Weight	63.9 lbs (29.0 kg)

• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Independently measured by Ilkka Rissanen; the published figures above come from this ASR subwoofer measurement thread.

Product Line History

How these product lines changed from one generation to the next.

• Yamaha DXR and CXR generations (2): DXR10mkII → DXR10mkIII