Yamaha C112VA 2 Way Professional Loudspeaker

The Yamaha C112VA is a 12-inch, two-way passive loudspeaker that was part of Yamaha's Concert Club Series V (C Series) line, specifically designed for permanent installation applications. Unlike the "S" models (like the S112V) which were carpeted and had pole sockets and standard handles for portability, the "C" (Coated) models featured a spray-on finish and integrated rigging points.

While this model has been discontinued by Yamaha, it's still found in many installed sound systems and on the used market.

Here's a detailed look at its key features and specifications:

Design & Purpose:

• Installation-Oriented: The "VA" in C112VA (and C115VA) stands for "Vari-Angle" or "Versatile Array," highlighting its suitability for fixed installations where flying or bracket mounting is required. It lacks pole sockets and conventional handles, instead focusing on rigging flexibility.

• Durable Spray-On Finish: Features a tough, elastomeric spray coating (often black or white) that is durable and can be painted to blend into the decor of a venue. This is a key differentiator from the carpeted "S" models.

Transducers and Acoustics:

• LF Transducer: 12-inch cone woofer. The drivers for the Club V series were custom-made by Eminence Speaker Corporation to Yamaha's specifications, often featuring high-strength curvilinear cones and Kapton voice coil formers.

• HF Transducer: 2-inch voice coil compression driver with a pure titanium diaphragm. This larger-than-average compression driver (for a 12-inch box) allows for high output and low distortion. It's mated to a 90 x 40 custom-designed Constant Directivity (CD) horn for consistent coverage.

• Bass-Reflex Type Enclosure: Features ports for enhanced low-frequency response.

• Frequency Response (-10dB): 60Hz - 16kHz. Provides a full range for vocals and most instruments.

• Crossover Frequency: 2 kHz.

Power Handling and Performance:

• Power Handling:

  • Noise (RMS): 175 Watts (EIA rating)

  • Program: 350 Watts

  • Peak: 700 Watts

  • It's important to power this speaker with an amplifier that matches its program power (350W at 8 ohms) for optimal performance and speaker longevity.

• Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms, standard for passive loudspeakers.

• Sensitivity (1W, 1m): 97 dB SPL. A good efficiency rating, meaning it can produce decent volume with moderate power.

• Maximum SPL (Calculated Peak): 125 dB SPL. Indicates its ability to generate significant volume levels.

Connectivity and Mounting:

• Input Connectors: Unlike the portable models which used Speakon and 1/4" jacks, the C112VA primarily uses barrier strip terminals. This provides secure, permanent connections ideal for installed systems.

• Integral Fly Points: A key feature for installations, it has 12 integral fly points (3/8" threaded inserts) built into the cabinet on multiple sides (top, bottom, sides, and back). This allows for flexible vertical or horizontal suspension using eyebolts (typically 4 eyebolts are included with the speaker).

• Bracket Mount Attach Points: Also includes specific attachment points for Yamaha's optional speaker brackets, providing another secure installation method.

Construction and Durability:

• Cabinet Material: Sturdy particleboard (often southern yellow pine, chosen for durability). While not as lightweight as some modern materials, it provides good acoustic properties.

• Steel Grille: A heavy-gauge, foamed steel grille protects the drivers.

• Internal Components: Crossover networks are built with oversized coils, high-voltage capacitors, and power resistors for sound quality and reliability. Overload protection is also included to safeguard the components.

Applications:

• Permanent Installations: Ideal for clubs, bars, restaurants, houses of worship, lecture halls, meeting rooms, and other venues where speakers need to be flown or wall-mounted.

• Background and Foreground Music Systems: Capable of delivering clear music reproduction.

• Speech Reinforcement: Excellent for providing clear and articulate vocals.

The Yamaha C112VA was a robust and reliable passive speaker specifically tailored for installation applications. Its focus on versatile rigging, secure connections, and durable finish made it a popular choice for integrators and venues looking for a solid performer that could blend into the environment.