Short answer: choose between the Yamaha DXR15mkIII and Yamaha DXR15mkII 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 case for the Yamaha DXR15mkIII. The third-generation DXR15 raises claimed output to 134dB with 2000W amplification, app-based control and Yamaha’s newest onboard DSP, while its 90° x 60° pattern matches the well-regarded DXR12mkIII.
The case for the Yamaha DXR15mkII. A proven, broadly distributed workhorse: medium-quality vendor data shows a 4.98 ideal-subwoofer preference score with 61Hz measured extension, and Yamaha’s FIR-X processing and D-CONTOUR presets simplify setup.
Important trade-offs. The low-quality local data is truncated and cannot produce a preference score, so its tonal advantage over the proven DXR15mkII is unconfirmed. Wireless connectivity is for remote control, not audio streaming. The preference score sits mid-pack for this ranking, and it lacks app control or Bluetooth audio found on some newer competitors.
Buy the Yamaha DXR15mkIII when its stated format, coverage, and system features fit the job better.
Buy the Yamaha DXR15mkII when its stated output, control, and deployment strengths better match the system.
Want more options? Browse the full PA & Live Sound rankings.
A powered 15 inch PA speaker with loud output, app control and Yamaha’s latest onboard DSP.
A proven, widely available powered 15 inch PA speaker with presets that make setup simple.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Yamaha DXR15mkIII | Yamaha DXR15mkII | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,099.99 | $798.00 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #20 of 76 in 15-Inch PA Speakers | #26 of 76 in 15-Inch PA Speakers |
| Passive | No | No |
| Configuration | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker | Active 2-way bass-reflex PA speaker |
| Drivers | 15” woofer, 1” throat/1.75” diaphragm compression driver | 15” woofer, 1.75” compression driver |
| Frequency Response | 46Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified) | 49Hz - 20kHz (-10dB, manufacturer specified) |
| Dimensions | 27.5”H x 17.6”W x 15”D (699 x 447 x 380 mm) | 27.6”H x 17.5”W x 15”D (700 x 445 x 380 mm) |
| Coverage | 90° x 60° | 90° x 60° (constant directivity horn) |
| Maximum SPL | 134dB peak (manufacturer specified) | 134dB peak (manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR/TRS combo; XLR thru and DSP outputs | XLR, dual 1/4-inch, stereo RCA; XLR thru and link outputs |
| Amplifier Power | 2000W peak / 1000W RMS (1700W LF + 300W HF peak) | 1100W dynamic / 700W continuous (950W LF + 150W HF dynamic) |
| Crossover Frequency | 1800Hz (FIR-X) | - |
| Cabinet Material | PP plastic | Matte-finish ABS |
| Rigging | 3 x M10 points plus U-bracket points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount | 3 x M10 points; 35mm dual-angle pole mount |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 54.5Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) | 67Hz (measured, vendor Spinorama data) |
| DSP | Yes, FIR-X tuning, Drive Motion Calibration and D-Remote | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | - |
| Weight | 46.3 lbs (21 kg) | 48.1 lbs (21.8 kg) |
| XLR Input | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Input | No | Yes |
| 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 |
| Spinorama Preference Score | - | 2.28 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | - | 4.98 |
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 DXR15mkIII (measured by the manufacturer) and Yamaha DXR15mkII (measured by the manufacturer), via spinorama.org.
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