Short answer: choose between the RCF ART 708-A MK5 and Yamaha DBR12 by matching the speaker to the deployment rather than treating their ranking positions as a universal verdict. Coverage, cabinet format, bass extension, output capability, DSP, and service support all matter in a PA system.
Why choose the RCF ART 708-A MK5. A compact, affordable RCF with a 1.4-inch compression driver, 128dB claimed output and FiRPHASE processing, well suited to buyers who plan to cross to a subwoofer and do not need app control. At 22.9 lbs (10.4 kg) it is easy to carry.
Why choose the Yamaha DBR12. 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.
What to weigh before buying. The local low-quality manufacturer data has no computed preference score, making its measured tonal position uncertain. 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.
Buy the RCF ART 708-A MK5 when its stated coverage, output, processing, and installation format fit the job better.
Buy the Yamaha DBR12 when its stated strengths better suit the venue and the rest of the system.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete PA & Live Sound rankings.
A compact, affordable powered 8 inch PA speaker that is easy to carry and pairs well with a subwoofer.
An affordable, light 12 inch powered PA speaker with a two channel mixer and simple main and monitor presets.
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Specifications Side By Side
| RCF ART 708-A MK5 | Yamaha DBR12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449.00 | $459.99 |
| Ranked | #28 of 47 in 8-Inch PA Speakers | #40 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 | 8” woofer, 1.4” compression driver | 12” woofer, 1.4” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 60Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) | 52Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) |
| Dimensions | 18.9”H x 11.5”W x 10.9”D (480 x 291 x 276 mm) | 23.7”H x 14.8”W x 13.7”D (601 x 376 x 348 mm) |
| Coverage | 90° x 70° | 90° x 60° |
| Maximum SPL | 128dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 131dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | XLR and 1/4-inch jack input; XLR output | 2 x XLR/TRS combo, stereo RCA |
| Amplifier Power | 1400W peak (1000W LF + 400W HF) | 1000W dynamic / 465W continuous (800W LF + 200W HF dynamic) |
| Crossover Frequency | 1600Hz | - |
| Cabinet Material | PP composite | Plastic |
| Rigging | 2 x M10 inserts; 35mm pole mount | 3 x M8 points; 35mm pole mount |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 75Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 58Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| DSP | Yes, FiRPHASE, EQ, limiting and protection | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Weight | 22.9 lbs (10.4 kg) | 34.8 lbs (15.8 kg) |
| 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 | No | No |
| Microphone Input | No | No |
| Guitar Input | No | No |
| Spinorama Preference Score | - | 2.32 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | - | 4.92 |
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: RCF ART 708-A MK5 (measured by the manufacturer) and Yamaha DBR12 (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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