Short answer: choose between the Martin Audio XP12 and Electro-Voice MFX-12MC 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 case for the Martin Audio XP12. The vendor Spinorama data gives it a 5.70 ideal-subwoofer preference score and 56Hz bass extension. A three-channel mixer, channel EQ, 80° x 50° rotatable horn and 39.7 lbs (18 kg) plywood cabinet make it unusually versatile.
The case for the Electro-Voice MFX-12MC. The coaxial 12-inch design provides compact 60° x 40° coverage and reaches a claimed 135dB peak with the recommended amplification. Medium-quality vendor data returns a 4.49 ideal-subwoofer preference score.
Important trade-offs. The Spinorama source has unknown quality, limiting confidence in the score. Its 128dB claimed peak output is modest for this category, and Bluetooth requires an optional control/streaming module rather than being standard. This is not self-powered: it requires an external amplifier and can be run passive or externally bi-amplified, so it is less convenient than every conventional powered cabinet here. Measured bass extension is about 75Hz and the narrow pattern is aimed primarily at stage-monitor and fill use.
Buy the Martin Audio XP12 when its stated format, coverage, and system features fit the job better.
Buy the Electro-Voice MFX-12MC when its stated output, control, and deployment strengths better match the system.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete PA & Live Sound rankings.
A versatile powered 12 inch PA speaker with a three channel mixer, channel EQ, rotatable horn and fairly deep bass.
A compact coaxial 12 inch stage monitor with high peak output and a tight coverage pattern for stage and fill use.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Martin Audio XP12 | Electro-Voice MFX-12MC | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,366.80 | $2,805.33 Passive |
| Ranked | #50 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers | #57 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers |
| Passive | No | Yes |
| Configuration | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker | Passive or externally bi-amplified 2-way coaxial PA monitor |
| Drivers | 12” woofer, 1” compression driver | 12” coaxial LF/MF driver, 3” HF compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 62Hz - 20kHz (±3dB, manufacturer specified); 50Hz (-10dB) | 62Hz - 18kHz (-3dB, manufacturer specified); 50Hz - 19kHz (-10dB) |
| Dimensions | 22.6”H x 14.1”W x 12.5”D (574 x 358 x 318 mm) | 19.7”H x 16.5”W x 11.7”D (500 x 420 x 298 mm) |
| Amplifier Power | 1,300W peak (1,000W LF + 300W HF, manufacturer specified) | Passive/bi-amp speaker; use external amplification within the 450W continuous / 3,000W peak handling rating |
| Crossover Frequency | 2.3kHz active (24dB/octave) | - |
| Cabinet Material | Multi-angle birch/poplar plywood | 12-18mm Baltic birch plywood with EVCoat finish |
| Rigging | 17 M8 inserts; pole-mount socket | Four M10 suspension points; integrated 35mm pole cup |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 61.5Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 82.5Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 80° x 50°, rotatable | 60° x 40°, rotatable |
| Maximum SPL | 128dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 135dB peak with recommended amplification |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS combo plus mix output | NL4 speakON input and link |
| DSP | Yes, 3-channel mixer, channel EQ and voicing presets | Requires external amplifier/DSP settings |
| Bluetooth | Optional control and audio module | No |
| Weight | 39.7 lbs (18 kg) | 41.9 lbs (19 kg) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 3.17 | - |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.70 | - |
| XLR Input | Yes | No |
| RCA Input | No | No |
| TRS Input | Yes | No |
| 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 |
| Power Handling | - | 450W continuous / 3,000W peak (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: Martin Audio XP12 (measured by the manufacturer) and Electro-Voice MFX-12MC (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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