Short answer: choose between the Yamaha DXR12mkII 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 The Yamaha DXR12mkII has been replaced by the Yamaha DXR12mkIII. The RCF ART 712-A MK4 has been replaced by the RCF ART 712-A MK5. If you are buying new, get the Yamaha DXR12mkIII.
Why choose the Yamaha DXR12mkII. A proven, broadly distributed workhorse with a flexible three-channel input section and 134dB claimed maximum output. Medium-quality vendor Spinorama data and 61Hz measured extension provide more evidence than many PA competitors, while Yamaha’s FIR-X processing and D-CONTOUR presets simplify setup.
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. The 5.49 ideal-subwoofer preference score is only mid-pack, with meaningful response/directivity irregularity in the supplied data. It lacks app control and Bluetooth audio, and newer competitors offer more user-adjustable DSP. The low-quality vendor measurement is truncated and cannot produce a reliable preference score.
Buy the Yamaha DXR12mkII 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.
Want more options? Browse the full PA & Live Sound rankings.
A proven 12 inch PA workhorse with good sound, loud output, three input channels and easy processing 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 DXR12mkII | RCF ART 712-A MK4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $864.99 Discontinued | $509.00 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #17 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, 1.75” compression driver | 12” woofer, 1” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 52Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) | 50Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) |
| Dimensions | 23.7”H x 14.3”W x 13.8”D (601 x 362 x 350 mm) | 25.1”H x 15.2”W x 14.3”D (637 x 387 x 363 mm) |
| Amplifier Power | 1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic) | 1,400W peak / 700W RMS (1,000W LF + 400W HF peak, manufacturer specified) |
| Cabinet Material | Matte-finish ABS | Polypropylene composite |
| Rigging | 3 x M10 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount | Two M10 fly points; pole mount |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 61Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 65Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 90° x 60° | 90° x 60° |
| Maximum SPL | 134dB 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 | 41 lbs (18.6 kg) | 39.2 lbs (17.8 kg) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.78 | - |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.49 | - |
| 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 DXR12mkII (measured by the manufacturer) and RCF ART 712-A MK4 (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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