Short answer: choose between the Amate Audio X12CLA and RCF ART 712-A MK4 for the deployment, not from the automatic ranking alone. Their driver format, power requirements, coverage, bass reach, output capability, and control features determine which is the more practical PA for a particular room or system. The RCF ART 712-A MK4 has been replaced by the RCF ART 712-A MK5. If you are buying new, get the RCF ART 712-A MK5.
The case for the Amate Audio X12CLA. Its medium-quality vendor Spinorama data yields a 4.07 ideal-subwoofer preference score and 58Hz bass extension. The 100° x 15° constant-curvature pattern, 132dB claimed peak output and networked DSP suit tightly controlled flown clusters.
The case for the RCF ART 712-A MK4. The 39.2 lbs (17.8 kg) cabinet combines 129dB claimed peak output, a broad horn and RCF’s FiRPHASE processing in a straightforward package. Its measured response extends to roughly 65Hz before the first major roll-off.
Important trade-offs. The very narrow 15° vertical pattern is specialized rather than broadly useful as a single portable main, and the 69.4 lbs (31.5 kg) enclosure is the heaviest cabinet near this part of the ranking. It is discontinued and expensive, while the measured tonal score trails the stronger point-source options. The low-quality vendor measurement is truncated and cannot produce a reliable preference score.
Buy the Amate Audio X12CLA when its stated format, coverage, and system features fit the job better.
Buy the RCF ART 712-A MK4 when its stated output, control, and deployment strengths better match the system.
Want more options? Browse the full PA & Live Sound rankings.
A powered 12 inch PA speaker with networked DSP and a tightly controlled vertical pattern, designed for flown clusters.
A straightforward powered 12 inch PA speaker that is easy to carry, with loud output and a broad horn.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Amate Audio X12CLA | RCF ART 712-A MK4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $4,150 Discontinued | $509.00 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #60 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers | #65 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers |
| Passive | No | No |
| Configuration | Active 2-way constant-curvature PA speaker | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker |
| Drivers | 12” neodymium woofer, 2.5” compression driver | 12” woofer, 1” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 58Hz - 19kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified) | 50Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) |
| Dimensions | 13.9”H x 25.2”W x 19.1”D (352 x 640 x 485 mm) | 25.1”H x 15.2”W x 14.3”D (637 x 387 x 363 mm) |
| Amplifier Power | 1,500W program (1,000W LF + 500W HF, manufacturer specified) | 1,400W peak / 700W RMS (1,000W LF + 400W HF peak, manufacturer specified) |
| Cabinet Material | Multilayer birch plywood with weatherproof polyurea finish | Polypropylene composite |
| Network Control | EtherCON Ethernet connection/link | - |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 71Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 65Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 100° x 15° | 90° x 60° |
| Maximum SPL | 132dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 129dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | Balanced XLR input and link | XLR/TRS combo input and XLR link |
| DSP | Yes, with Ethernet/Wi-Fi control | Yes, FiRPHASE, EQ, limiting and protection |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Weight | 69.4 lbs (31.5 kg) | 39.2 lbs (17.8 kg) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 1.48 | - |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 4.07 | - |
| XLR Input | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Input | No | No |
| TRS Input | No | Yes |
| Optical Input | No | No |
| Coaxial Input | No | No |
| USB Input | No | No |
| HDMI Input | No | No |
| AES Input | No | No |
| Aux Input | No | No |
| Microphone Input | No | No |
| Guitar Input | No | No |
| Rigging | M8 flying points (multiple combinations for horizontal/vertical arrays via integrated rigging frame), plus optional pole-mount adaptor for tripod/sub-top use | Two M10 fly points; pole mount |
| Crossover Frequency | - | 1.6kHz (manufacturer specified) |
Frequency Response Compared
Both speakers’ spinorama measurements, overlaid. A flatter line is more neutral: peaks sound forward or harsh, dips sound recessed. Each curve is shifted so its average from 300 Hz to 3 kHz sits at 0 dB, so loudness differences between the two are removed and only the shape is compared.
Measurement data: Amate Audio X12CLA (measured by the manufacturer) and RCF ART 712-A MK4 (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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