Short answer: these Yamaha DXR12mkII and Yamaha DZR12 alternatives share a brand and size class, but their coverage, driver architecture, cabinet format, processing, and output priorities can make them fit very different jobs. The Yamaha DXR12mkII is discontinued; its replacement is the Yamaha DXR12mkIII. 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 Yamaha DZR12. Premium cabinet construction, 139dB claimed output and deep onboard 96kHz DSP suit demanding live work. The local vendor data shows useful 48Hz measured extension, the deepest result among the scored Yamaha models here.
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. It is heavy at roughly 46.3 lbs (21 kg) and has no Bluetooth audio.
Buy the Yamaha DXR12mkII when its stated coverage, output, processing, and deployment format best match the job.
Buy the Yamaha DZR12 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 very loud 12 inch powered PA speaker with premium build, advanced onboard DSP and deep bass for demanding live work.
Prices on this page were last checked October 23, 2026 at 8:27 AM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Yamaha DXR12mkII | Yamaha DZR12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $864.99 Discontinued | $1,198.49 |
| Ranked | #17 of 83 in 12-Inch PA Speakers | #22 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, 2” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 52Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) | 39Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) |
| Dimensions | 23.7”H x 14.3”W x 13.8”D (601 x 362 x 350 mm) | 25.4”H x 16.1”W x 15.5”D (646 x 410 x 394 mm) |
| Amplifier Power | 1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic) | 2000W dynamic / 1100W burst / 950W continuous |
| Cabinet Material | Matte-finish ABS | Plywood with polyurea coating |
| Rigging | 3 x M10 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount | M10 points; dual 35mm pole mounts |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 61Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 48Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 90° x 60° | 90° x 60° |
| Maximum SPL | 134dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 139dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS combo, stereo RCA | 2 x XLR/TRS combo |
| DSP | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Weight | 41 lbs (18.6 kg) | 47.2 lbs (21.4 kg) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.78 | 2.64 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.49 | 4.91 |
| 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 | - | 1800Hz (FIR-X) |
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 Yamaha DZR12 (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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