Short answer: choose between the Yamaha DBR12 and RCF ART 712-A MK4 for the requirements of the venue and system, not from rank alone. In this size class, coverage, bass extension, output capability, DSP, cabinet construction, and service support often decide the better fit. The RCF ART 712-A MK4 is discontinued; its replacement is the RCF ART 712-A MK5.
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.
Why choose the RCF ART 712-A MK4. The 39.2 lbs (17.8 kg) cabinet combines 129dB claimed peak output, a broad horn and RCF’s FiRPHASE processing in a straightforward package. Its measured response extends to roughly 65Hz before the first major roll-off.
What to weigh before buying. 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 low-quality vendor measurement is truncated and cannot produce a reliable preference score.
Buy the Yamaha DBR12 when its stated coverage, output, processing, and deployment format best match the job.
Buy the RCF ART 712-A MK4 when its stated strengths are the better match for the room and the rest of the PA.
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 straightforward powered 12 inch PA speaker that is easy to carry, with loud output and a broad horn.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Yamaha DBR12 | RCF ART 712-A MK4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $459.99 | $509.00 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #40 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers | #65 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) | 50Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 58Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 65Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 90° x 60° | 90° x 60° |
| Maximum SPL | 131dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 129dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS combo, stereo RCA | XLR/TRS combo input and XLR link |
| DSP | Yes | Yes, FiRPHASE, EQ, limiting and protection |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Weight | 34.8 lbs (15.8 kg) | 39.2 lbs (17.8 kg) |
| Dimensions | 23.7”H x 14.8”W x 13.7”D (601 x 376 x 348 mm) | 25.1”H x 15.2”W x 14.3”D (637 x 387 x 363 mm) |
| Amplifier Power | 1000W dynamic / 465W continuous (800W LF + 200W HF dynamic) | 1,400W peak / 700W RMS (1,000W LF + 400W HF peak, manufacturer specified) |
| Cabinet Material | Plastic | Polypropylene composite |
| Rigging | 3 x M8 points; 35mm pole mount | Two M10 fly points; pole mount |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.32 | - |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 4.92 | - |
| XLR Input | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Input | Yes | 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 | - | 1.6kHz (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: Yamaha DBR12 (measured by the manufacturer) and RCF ART 712-A MK4 (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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