Short answer: the Martin Audio XP12 for the better overall measured result and onboard mixer; the LD Systems Stinger 12 A G3 if you specifically want the deepest bass reach in this pair. These rank #49 and #50 out of 83 12-inch powered PA speakers.
The XP12 measures better overall despite the Stinger’s deeper bass. The XP12’s vendor data gives it a 5.70 ideal-subwoofer preference score with 56Hz extension, though its own review flags that the Spinorama source has unknown quality, limiting confidence. The Stinger 12 A G3 reaches an unusually deep 42Hz measured extension for this size class, but medium-quality vendor data gives it only a 4.97 preference score because the broader response and directivity behavior is uneven.
The XP12 adds a built-in three-channel mixer. With channel EQ and voicing presets, plus an 80 degree x 50 degree rotatable horn, it is unusually versatile for a single box, though its own review notes the 128dB claimed peak is modest for this category and Bluetooth needs an optional module rather than being standard. The Stinger has a simpler two-channel input section and a dual-tilt pole socket, built for repeated live work in a rugged birch-plywood cabinet.
Weight is close. The Stinger is 45 lbs (20.4 kg) and the XP12 is 39.7 lbs (18 kg), both on the heavier side for a 12-inch box; the Stinger’s own review calls it heavier than several molded-cabinet alternatives.
Buy the Martin Audio XP12 for the better all-round measured result and the built-in mixer with channel EQ.
Buy the LD Systems Stinger 12 A G3 if the unusually deep 42Hz bass extension matters more to you than overall tonal balance.
Still deciding? The full PA & Live Sound rankings cover every ranked option.
A rugged powered 12 inch PA speaker in birch plywood with two inputs and unusually deep bass for its size, built for regular gigs.
A versatile powered 12 inch PA speaker with a three channel mixer, channel EQ, rotatable horn and fairly deep bass.
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Specifications Side By Side
| LD Systems Stinger 12 A G3 | Martin Audio XP12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $585.91 | $1,366.80 |
| Ranked | #49 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers | #50 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers |
| Passive | No | No |
| Configuration | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker |
| Drivers | 12” woofer, compression driver | 12” woofer, 1” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 58Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) | 62Hz - 20kHz (±3dB, manufacturer specified); 50Hz (-10dB) |
| Dimensions | 24.7”H x 15.4”W x 14.8”D (627 x 390 x 377 mm) | 22.6”H x 14.1”W x 12.5”D (574 x 358 x 318 mm) |
| Amplifier Power | 1000W peak / 500W RMS | 1,300W peak (1,000W LF + 300W HF, manufacturer specified) |
| Cabinet Material | 15mm plywood with polyurea coating | Multi-angle birch/poplar plywood |
| Rigging | M10 suspension points; 36mm Dual-Tilt pole mount | 17 M8 inserts; pole-mount socket |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 42Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 61.5Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 90° x 50° | 80° x 50°, rotatable |
| Maximum SPL | 131dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 128dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS combo | 2 x XLR/TRS combo plus mix output |
| DSP | Yes | Yes, 3-channel mixer, channel EQ and voicing presets |
| Bluetooth | No | Optional control and audio module |
| Weight | 45 lbs (20.4 kg) | 39.7 lbs (18 kg) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.96 | 3.17 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 4.97 | 5.70 |
| XLR Input | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Input | No | No |
| TRS Input | Yes | 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 |
| Crossover Frequency | - | 2.3kHz active (24dB/octave) |
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: LD Systems Stinger 12 A G3 (measured by the manufacturer) and Martin Audio XP12 (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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