Short answer: choose between the Yamaha DBR12 and HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 FA 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 HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 FA is discontinued; its replacement is the HK Audio Linear 5 MK2 112 FA. If you are buying new, get the HK Audio Linear 5 MK2 112 FA.
The case for 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.
The case for the HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 FA. High-quality vendor data yields a 5.07 ideal-subwoofer preference score, while the asymmetric horn can cover wider near-field seating without wasting as much energy upward. The 135dB claimed peak gives it substantial headroom.
Important trade-offs. 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. The 70Hz measured bass extension points toward subwoofer use, and the 52.7 lbs (23.9 kg) cabinet is relatively heavy. This original LINEAR 5 generation lacks the deeper networked DSP and current support advantages of the newer MK2, LINEAR 7 and LINEAR 9 models.
Buy the Yamaha DBR12 when its stated format, coverage, and system features fit the job better.
Buy the HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 FA when its stated output, control, and deployment strengths better match the system.
Still deciding? The full PA & Live Sound rankings cover every ranked option.
An affordable, light 12 inch powered PA speaker with a two channel mixer and simple main and monitor presets.
A powered 12 inch PA speaker with plenty of headroom and an asymmetric horn that spreads sound evenly over nearby seating.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Yamaha DBR12 | HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 FA | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $459.99 | $955 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #40 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers | #42 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, 1.4” compression driver | 12” woofer, 1” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 52Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) | 64Hz - 18kHz (±3dB, manufacturer specified); 57Hz - 20kHz (-10dB) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 58Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 73Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 90° x 60° | 60°-90° asymmetric x 55° |
| Maximum SPL | 131dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 135dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS combo, stereo RCA | 2 x XLR input, 2 x XLR thru, XLR mix output |
| DSP | Yes | Yes, crossover, EQ and limiting |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Weight | 34.8 lbs (15.8 kg) | 52.7 lbs (23.9 kg) |
| Dimensions | 23.7”H x 14.8”W x 13.7”D (601 x 376 x 348 mm) | 26.3”H x 14.6”W x 14.4”D (668 x 370 x 365 mm) |
| Amplifier Power | 1000W dynamic / 465W continuous (800W LF + 200W HF dynamic) | 1,000W peak (Class D bi-amped, manufacturer specified) |
| Cabinet Material | Plastic | Hybrid birch plywood construction |
| Rigging | 3 x M8 points; 35mm pole mount | Three M8 points; DuoTilt 3°/7° pole mount |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.32 | 2.10 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 4.92 | 5.07 |
| XLR Input | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Input | Yes | 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 |
| Crossover Frequency | - | 1.65kHz 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: Yamaha DBR12 (measured by the manufacturer) and HK Audio LINEAR 5 112 FA (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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