Yamaha DBR12 Speaker (Powered) - 1000 WATTS

The Yamaha DBR12 is a popular and well-regarded 12-inch active (powered) PA loudspeaker from Yamaha's DBR series. It sits in the middle of the DBR line (between the 10-inch DBR10 and 15-inch DBR15) and offers a great balance of power, sound quality, portability, and versatility. It's an excellent choice for a wide range of sound reinforcement needs, including live bands, mobile DJs, presentations, corporate events, and as stage monitors.

Compared to the DBR10, the DBR12 provides a noticeable step up in bass response and overall output, thanks to its larger woofer.

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

Core Design & Components:

• 2-Way Bi-amplified Design: Features separate, high-efficiency Class-D amplifiers for its low-frequency (LF) driver and high-frequency (HF) driver. This bi-amplification ensures that each speaker component receives optimized power, leading to clearer sound and improved efficiency across the frequency spectrum.

  • LF Driver: 12-inch cone woofer with a 2-inch voice coil and ferrite magnet. This larger woofer provides more low-end extension and punch than the DBR10.

  • HF Driver: 1.4-inch throat compression driver with a 1-inch diaphragm and ferrite magnet. This slightly larger compression driver (compared to the DBR10's 1-inch) can often handle more power and deliver a smoother high-frequency response.

• Class-D Amplification: Delivers a total dynamic output of 1000 Watts (800W for LF, 200W for HF), with a continuous output of 465 Watts (400W LF, 65W HF). This powerful amplification allows for significant volume output and headroom.

• Maximum SPL: Capable of a maximum peak SPL of 131 dB (at 1 meter, on axis), which is very loud for a speaker of its size and ensures it can fill medium-sized rooms with ease.

• Frequency Range: 52Hz - 20kHz (-10dB), offering a robust and extended low-frequency response suitable for most full-range music playback without necessarily needing a subwoofer for lighter applications.

• Nominal Coverage: 90 horizontal x 60 vertical, providing wide and consistent sound dispersion to cover an audience effectively.

• FIR-X Tuning: Yamaha's proprietary DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology. It uses linear phase FIR filters for the crossover, which precisely optimizes time alignment between the LF and HF drivers. This results in very smooth phase response and improved clarity, imaging, and natural sound reproduction, especially around the 2.1 kHz crossover point.

Performance & Practicality:

• Onboard 2-Channel Mixer: A highly convenient feature for simplified setups.

  • Input 1: Combo jack (XLR or 1/4" TRS) for Mic or Line level signals.

  • Input 2: Combo jack (XLR or 1/4" TRS) PLUS stereo RCA pin jacks (for connecting consumer-grade devices like CD players, media players, or laptops).

  • Output: An XLR thru output that can either pass the signal from CH1 only (CH1 THRU) or a mix of CH1 and CH2 (CH1+2 MIX). This allows for easy linking to other speakers or sending a mixed signal to a recording device.

• D-CONTOUR Processor: An intelligent multi-band dynamic processor that optimizes the sound based on output level and application. It has three settings:

  • FOH/MAIN: Ideal for front-of-house use, it intelligently boosts low frequencies to maintain a full sound, especially when the speaker is pole-mounted.

  • MONITOR: Optimizes the frequency response for use as a floor monitor, reducing excessive low-end buildup that can occur from floor reflections, providing better clarity for performers.

  • OFF: Disables the contour processing for a flat, uncolored response.

• Rugged, Highly Portable Cabinet: The DBR12 features a compact, lightweight, and extremely durable plastic (ABS) cabinet. Weighing approximately 15.8 kg (34.8 lbs), it offers a great balance of robust build quality and easy transportability. It has two side handles for comfortable carrying and setup.

• Versatile Enclosure Design:

  • Pole Mount: Features a standard 35mm pole socket for mounting on speaker stands.

  • Floor Monitoring: The cabinet has an optimized 50 wedge angle and a symmetrical design, allowing it to be used effectively and symmetrically as a stage monitor.

  • Rigging Points: Equipped with M8 rigging threads (two on the bottom, one on the rear) for permanent installation applications using optional eyebolts or speaker brackets.

• Protection Circuitry: Built-in DSP-controlled protection functions continuously monitor the status of the amplifier, transducers, and power supply, ensuring reliable operation and preventing damage, even under demanding conditions.

• Fan Cooling: Features 4-speed fan cooling to maintain optimal operating temperatures during extended use.

Advantages of a 12-inch active PA speaker like the DBR12:

• Better Bass Response than 10-inch: The larger 12-inch woofer provides a more extended and impactful low-end, making it suitable for music with more bass (e.g., electronic music, live drums) without always requiring a subwoofer for smaller gigs.

• More Output/Headroom: Generally, a 12-inch speaker can produce higher SPLs than a 10-inch, meaning it can play louder and handle more demanding material with less effort or distortion.

• Good Balance of Size & Power: It's more powerful than a 10-inch but still significantly more portable and lighter than a 15-inch speaker. This makes it easier to transport and set up for single users.

• Versatility: Excellent for FOH, monitors, and various instruments due to its robust sound and DSP modes.

The Yamaha DBR12 is a highly recommended powered loudspeaker for those seeking a reliable, great-sounding, and feature-rich PA solution that strikes an excellent balance between performance and portability, all at a competitive price point.<