Short answer: choose between the QSC K8.2 and Yamaha DXR8mkII 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 QSC K8.2. This is the standout measured result in this ranking: low-quality vendor data still returns a 7.74 ideal-subwoofer preference score, continuing the K.2 series’ strong showing at every driver size. Extensive onboard DSP, a titanium compression driver and QSC’s long market track record make it an unusually safe general-purpose 8-inch pick.
The case for the Yamaha DXR8mkII. 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.
Important trade-offs. The underlying Spinorama source is low quality, so its apparent measured lead deserves some caution. An 8-inch woofer means a subwoofer partner matters even more than with the larger K.2 models. 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.
Buy the QSC K8.2 when its stated format, coverage, and system features fit the job better.
Buy the Yamaha DXR8mkII when its stated output, control, and deployment strengths better match the system.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete PA & Live Sound rankings.
A superb 8 inch PA speaker, with excellent sound and flexible built in processing in a compact box.
A compact powered 8 inch PA speaker with clean, well balanced sound and several inputs, now discontinued but worth buying used.
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Specifications Side By Side
| QSC K8.2 | Yamaha DXR8mkII | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $749.99 | $769.99 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #1 of 47 in 8-Inch PA Speakers | #5 of 47 in 8-Inch PA Speakers |
| Passive | No | No |
| Configuration | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker |
| Drivers | 8” woofer, 1.4” titanium compression driver | 8” woofer, 1.75” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 59Hz - 20kHz (-6dB, manufacturer specified) | 57Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified) |
| Dimensions | 17.7”H x 11”W x 10.6”D (449 x 280 x 269 mm) | 18”H x 11”W x 11”D (458 x 280 x 280 mm) |
| Coverage | 105° conical | 90° x 60° |
| Maximum SPL | 128dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 130dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS combo, 3.5mm aux; 2 x XLR thru and XLR mix outputs | XLR, dual 1/4-inch, stereo RCA; XLR thru and link outputs |
| Amplifier Power | 2025W peak (1800W LF + 225W HF) | 1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic) |
| Cabinet Material | Impact-resistant ABS | Matte-finish ABS |
| Rigging | 2 x M10 inserts and pull-back point; 35mm pole mount | 3 x M8 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 58Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 69Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| DSP | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Weight | 26.9 lbs (12.2 kg) | 28.2 lbs (12.8 kg) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 5.26 | 3.08 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.74 | 5.89 |
| XLR Input | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Input | No | Yes |
| 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 | Yes | No |
| Microphone Input | No | No |
| Guitar Input | No | No |
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: QSC K8.2 (measured by the manufacturer) and Yamaha DXR8mkII (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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