Short answer: these Yamaha DXR12mkIII and Yamaha DBR12 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.
Why choose the Yamaha DXR12mkIII. The third-generation DXR raises claimed output to 134dB and adds 2000W amplification, app-based control and more capable onboard DSP while staying light at 38.4 lbs (17.4 kg). Medium-quality vendor data shows measured extension around 60Hz.
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 truncated Spinorama data does not produce a preference score, so its tonal advantage over the proven DXR12mkII is not yet quantified. Wireless connectivity is for remote control, not a substitute for a wired production-audio input. 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 Yamaha DXR12mkIII when its stated coverage, output, processing, and deployment format best match the job.
Buy the Yamaha DBR12 when its stated strengths are the better match for the room and the rest of the PA.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete PA & Live Sound rankings.
A light, loud 12 inch powered PA speaker with strong amplification, app control and capable onboard DSP.
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
| Yamaha DXR12mkIII | Yamaha DBR12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $999.99 | $459.99 |
| Ranked | #13 of 83 in 12-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 | 12” woofer, 1” throat/1.75” diaphragm compression driver | 12” woofer, 1.4” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified) | 52Hz - 20kHz (manufacturer specified) |
| Dimensions | 23.6”H x 14.4”W x 13.8”D (600 x 366 x 350 mm) | 23.7”H x 14.8”W x 13.7”D (601 x 376 x 348 mm) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 60Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 58Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| Coverage | 90° x 60° | 90° x 60° |
| Maximum SPL | 134dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 131dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | Balanced mic/line inputs and link output | 2 x XLR/TRS combo, stereo RCA |
| Amplifier Power | 2000W peak / 1000W RMS (1700W LF + 300W HF peak) | 1000W dynamic / 465W continuous (800W LF + 200W HF dynamic) |
| Crossover Frequency | 1800Hz (FIR-X) | - |
| Cabinet Material | PP plastic | Plastic |
| Rigging | 3 x M10 points plus U-bracket points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount | 3 x M8 points; 35mm pole mount |
| DSP | Yes, FIR-X tuning, Drive Motion Calibration and D-Remote | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | - |
| Weight | 38.4 lbs (17.4 kg) | 34.8 lbs (15.8 kg) |
| XLR Input | No | Yes |
| RCA Input | No | Yes |
| TRS Input | No | 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 | Yes | 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: Yamaha DXR12mkIII (measured by the manufacturer) and Yamaha DBR12 (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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