QSC K12 Reviews

David Chase
from St. Johns, MI
April 17, 2013Music Background:
Engineer, Singer, Guitarist, Bassist

QSC K-12

I KNEW Going into this,.. that QSC had the Competition Spanked! With the Addition of My Presonus 16:4:2 Board,.. My Life is GOOD! These Speakers are Clean, Clear, & L-O-U-D! Sound Quality Is Beyond Comprehension,.. I Can't say enought Good about them! Thanks To Kent Salliz , For the Great Advice & Help Making this a reality!

VShelly
from East Meadow, NY
March 25, 2013Music Background:
hobbyist

The best out there in its category

I am reviewing my K12s almost after 1- 2 years .
As usual Brendan from Sweetwater gave me the best deal.
there were only about 9-10 reveiws then(09-11) but almost
all them had given 5 stars for this speaker now today I
see 50 owners who have given 5 stars.That shows how good these little beasts are.
I have used it for small parties and mostly I use it at home,
unbeatable sound and clarity.
No doubt QSC has another masterpiece to its collection.

Waylon
from Iowa
January 7, 2013Music Background:
Rodeo Soundman

WOW!!!!!!!!

I just purchased 6 of these to replace my B-52 ACT1515's. I liked the sound of the B52's but was tired of the 148lb cabs. I got these and put 3x kw181's under them. WOW!!!! I used them all for the first time this weekend and was truely amazed! a 5000 arena and I had WAY more power than I needed. I'm on the QSC team for good. Not sure why anyone else still makes speakers. I called Christopher at Sweetwater today to appologize for not believing him when he said how great these speakers are.

Tony
from
November 15, 2012Music Background:
Hobbyist

K12!

Great product best customer service ever.

Chuck H
from Framingham, MA
September 8, 2012Music Background:
Weekend Warrior -- Semi Pro

The Dream Rig For Keyboard Players

I'm a weekend warrior keyboard player (piano, B3, rhodes, etc.) in various bands. For the last ten years, I've been trying different approaches to getting "that sound" from my amps. With my recent pair of K12s, I'm done -- there is no better.

Just so you know, I've been through a pair of expensive Roland KC-350s, a Motion Sound KBR-3D, a Bose L1 Model II, and a massive pair of self-powered JBL PRX525s. Each had their strengths and weaknesses, so I would switch around depending on the band, the venue, etc.

As long as we're listing equipment, my main boards are a Yamaha CP5 and a Nord Electro 3. I love their sound, but I always thought there was more to them that I wasn't hearing.

When I started using the K12s, all the sound I had paid for was there finally. Enough has been written here about the sound: it's clean, massive, rich and transparent. I have to use a small mixer to boost the line levels to get 100% out of the K12, but -- when it starts cranking -- everyone notices.

But even at more modest volumes, there's plenty of transient power in reserve for those sharp attacks, fortissimo passages, etc. You can tell it's a hugely powerful amp even when it's quiet. Oh, and the Hammond B3 sounds? You're in church, baby ... hallelujah!

One on a pole or stand is perfect for a moderate venue. One on a pole and one on the ground as a monitor makes sure you'll hear yourself in louder situations.

And two on poles? You -- as keyboard player -- have your own PA that often outclasses the house one. I fold back some of the monitor feed, mix it in, and I can hear everything I want to hear.

And, of course, everyone can hear me. Even the lead guitar player.

Love the compact size, outrageous power and clean sound. The flexible patching on the back is a winner too. 41 pounds is luggable, although I haven't quite figured out how best to carry two using a handtruck yet.

And, of course, I sometimes get the stink eye from the sound guy when I wheel in a better rig than his :)

Keith & Cheri Blom
from Trosky , Minnesota
August 31, 2012Music Background:
Thunder Music DJ Service, small area Ten years,

Huge Sound Little Box K12s

My wife and I ran 2 Peavey 18' subwoofers and 2 sp 15' speakers all together for nine years as a mobile DJ. We were very pleased with them, very good sound and quality until our amplifiers went down and the speakers were just getting to heavy for my pregnant wife and we are getting older and we wanted something lighter but with the same or better quality.
I've done about 2-3 months of research online and in department stores looking at the QSC K12 speakers. We were just concerned about the prices since we don't have a whole lot of money to invest in new speakers, but we've seen a lot of good reviews and heard them in person at a music store. So we decided to purchase just 2 of them, compared to the 4 speakers we were use to.
We've used them approx 10-12 times now in small and large rooms and we are SUPER surprised at how well they sound.
We are so impressed with quality and power that these speakers have. We didn't think we were going to get the amount of bass we were use to having with the 18' inch subs, but wow, just the two k12 speakers sound like, if not better, than the 4 we were use to. We tried to push the speakers past there limit by making them 'redline' and they never did and it was nice, crisp, and loud!!! :)
We were a little nervous about not purchasing the qsc subs to go with them, but we are thinking we are not going to need them.
We highly, HIGHLY recommend purchasing these speakers, it is worth the investment!!!!!

Hilst & Coffey
from Bend
August 17, 2012Music Background:
Pro Muscian

QSC K12

My partner and I use the QSC K12 in conjunction with our Bose system. So far they have been totally compatible. Running the master into the QSC has provided a more balanced sound. Especially out doors, and more than enough power. It is super easy to use and we love the three settings as opposed to an EQ, for our various situations. Bottom line it has great, clear, sound, low to high. Very happy!

Paul Drake
from Chicago and burbs
August 2, 2012Music Background:
DJ since 1960 Played 45's right up to todays technology!

DJ & Video President

I heard these playing at a gig and was blown away. I just had to have them! They are light enough to place anywhere, and the sound just speaks for itself. You do not need the subwoofer in smaller shows, but suggest getting one for those larger jobs. Wonderful system and I suggest getting the covers to preserve the "look" for a long time. Very pleased!!!

Patrick
from Monticello, KY usa
July 6, 2012Music Background:
Musician for 15 yrs

Awesome PA!!

Can't Beleive how well this sounds. Hits way above my expectations.

Paul Tereau
from Clarksville, TN
June 22, 2012Music Background:
25 years experience Pro Sound

QSC K12

Can't buy a better speaker, bang for buck wise. This makes about my 11th pair of QSC's. Enough Said....................................... Use for Mains, Monitors, Side Fills etc. Very, Very Loud, and Sound Quality incredible!
Lightweight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wayne
from Sand Springs, OK
May 14, 2012Music Background:
I like to hear it sounding real good!

beyond my expectations!

Corey lined me up with these, he asked what I was looking for. I said just some good speakers for the boat. Lots of people peeking in to see what I got. Easy to use, well built, don't need a sub on the boat. Not a 12 volt system around that can get over these. Use a pin connector to RCA jack, easier to control the volume. I still don't know what their limit is, that's never happened on the beach. Thanks again Corey and Sweetwater...

from Seattle, WA USA
April 30, 2012Music Background:
No rules, only noise.

QSC K12 vs. Mackie 450v2

I've recently owned a pair of Mackie 450v2 and replaced them with the QSC K12s. WOW! If you're on the fence, save the extra cash because these sound shockingly good. Even without a sub, turn the speakers on 'Deep' and the range these project is really, really above expectations.

Chris White
from Raleigh, N.C.
April 30, 2012Music Background:
D.J., Audio Production Teacher, Radio DJ

The Best EVER!

I sold my Mackie SRM 450 v2's and got these. I was pleased with the Mackies but wanted to try something different. What I thought was great sound REALLY became great sound when I got these. All the hype around these is actually true. The high end is so warm and rich and doesn't produce any ear fatigue. You can stand in front of these and not feel tortured by piercing high end. The low end has enough punch to elimiate the need for a sub for smaller rooms. These speakers sound GREAT! I am not normally impressed by "PA" sound, but these I would even use as my home stereo speakers if they were smaller. The K10's have a little tighter punch but these have a little extra down low. The greatest thing of all is that these speakers need very little volume to produce a nice "fat" room filling sound. I have these only on the 2nd notch and they will fill most any small to medium room with plenty of CLEAR and FULL sound. This is nothing like I have ever known. If you are considering getting any other speaker but these, please think again. Save a little more and get a lot more! My thanks to my sales rep Jim Swain!

Anthony Montoya
from Houston, TX
March 20, 2012Music Background:
Recording Engineer

K12's ROCK!

Lightweight, sound great, easy to use, quick hook-up, what more can we ask for!?

Wes 'Nipper' Nagy
from Martha's Vineyard, MA
March 7, 2012Music Background:
Keys, Composer, Producer

Nearly perfect

Having been in the biz over 40 years, and toured and tried about everything;with the exception of the Meyer powered 12's (which cost over $2500 each) these are the best I've used. For FOH or as monitors or as keyboard wedges, these are loud and clear. Did I mention loud! I have 4 K12's, 2 K subs, 2 K 10's and 2 K 8's. For large outdoor weddings, I use the whole system, for clubs, Just 2 K 12's and subs. For keys, one k12 (sometimes I add the sub if I'm doing left hand bass-bass players hate me 'cause my bass tone slays!) Really, (sorry, but) this kicks *** on Mackie, Yamaha, JBL and EV. I own every main keyboard amp (Roland, Hartke, Motion, Peavey, Traynor, Barbetta) and they sit in the basement. Thanks QSC [tho I'm waiting on the Line 6 "L3T's " to come out...)

Gene
from Houston, Texas
February 24, 2012Music Background:
Hobbyist and church praise & worship

QSC K12 big improvement over GSR12

I purchased a pair of QSC K12 to fix a reliability issue with the GSR12 units. So far the K12s have out performed the GSR12s and no reliability problems have developed. I did have to adjust the EQ just a little because the QSC K12 produce much more bass than the GSR12s did.

I am very pleased with the QSC K12 units and would recommend them. These are being used with a Mackie 802-VLZ3 for keyboard amps. This setup gets the job done and then some.

I have to credit Sweetwater for standing behind their products. This is a very good reason to stick with Sweetwater.

Thank you Carson.

Ken
from
February 9, 2012

Great product

So far, these are amazing. Compare the sound side-by-side to other speakers to notice the difference.

sam noth, Sherman Tx.
from Sherman Tx 75092
January 23, 2012Music Background:
pro musician sound man

Awsome speaker

I have 4 Of These the clarity And coverage is remarkable . I use them by thereself in small band venu. and they deliver and turn heads . in bigger venues i add some 18 subs and they kick a**!

Byron Haynie
from Dallas, Texas
December 12, 2011Music Background:
Professional Musician

Awesome Speaker

These speakers are outstanding! Warm, but very clear highs and thumping lows. Unheard of for 12's. Highly recommend!

carlos
from
December 2, 2011

awesome

AAAAA+++++++++

Jeff
from Fredericksburg, VA
October 5, 2011Music Background:
Lifetime musician (concert oboe; pro drummer and pro DJ)

Versatile and Ready to Roll...and Rock

I'm a professional DJ who has used a pair of these (coupled with a pair of QSC K-Subs) for over a year now. I've played at the Barnes at the Wolf Trap and other larger venues in Northern VA (such as 4 ball rooms joined together); along with a variety of different sized venues to include outside events during all four seasons. While playing for a large event with celebrities, a semi-famous country guitarist and singer showed up as a guest and easily plugged into my system and sang/played several songs. I immediately kicked right in with dancing music after he finished. I write this as a DJ, this demonstrates the versatility of these speakers (an I-Pod can easily be plugged directly into the RCA inputs to play during breaks, or as a separate speaker/system in a lobby, etc.). I've had many complements on the looks and the sound quality. My only recommendation is to pay the extra bucks and purchase the protective cases to keep these looking new (and enhance your overall professional appearance). The cases help me when having to pack in and out as one QSC K12 stacks easily on the K-Sub which has built in wheels....easy pezzy for load-in/out I can roll two at one time).

Tim
from MI
September 24, 2011Music Background:
Pro Musician

Killed At 800 Capacity Venue!!!

Sorry. I already wrote a review a while back but had to write one again to THE SHEER AWESOMENESS of these amazing speakers!! The 5-piece rock cover band I sing in performed an 800 capacity venue last night with only TWO of the K12s, top spectrum FOH sound, at half volume with "bass boost" enabled and the sound was insanely punchy, crystal clear and loud! It was actually too loud so I turned down the FOH volume a bit on the mixer. I knew at 1000watt per they'd be powerful but not THIS POWERFUL. The limit light never flickered once. I can't believe how incredible these speakers are. I can only imagine what two K12s would sound like with 2 KS181s!

`Dave
from evergreen co
September 20, 2011Music Background:
DJ

QSC K12 (12" 2-Way)

So nice to finally have a clean sounding POWERED speaker with real power! I have added my JBL EON 515's to the outs at about 50 to 100 ft away on these QSC's and they are finally worth plugging in to use as an extra punch/filer to the sound in a large room. But OH MY- the power and clarity of the QSC's completely blows away what I've been doing with the JBL's by themselves. If you are considering these vs JBL- GET THESE- Spend the extra money- It's a no-brainer once you've heard the power and clarity difference. Bottom line- I'm a Happy DJ!!!

Roger Hatfield
from Findlay, Ohio
September 7, 2011Music Background:
Grammy award winning producer, engineer, pro musician, performer.

QSC

Small club fronts convert to great monitors for concert stage. The greatest thing is they sound great at low volume and scale up to crankin' volume perfectly smooth. Surprised at the punch. Very versatile, I look forward to adding another cabinet.

Josh
from Texarkana, TX USA
August 30, 2011Music Background:
Marketing Manager/Music Lover

Happy Shopping Mall

We purchased two QSC K12 (12" 2-way) speakers to use in our shopping mall for events in the common area. We were concerned with how to deliver sound over such a large and open area, but the QSC's performed excellently. Easy to set up and use!

Tim
from MI
August 18, 2011Music Background:
Professional musician

Insanely Awesome Sound!!

I returned a pair of JBL EON515XTs (made in China) and was recommended the QSC K12's by Pat at SWEETWATER. The EON515XTs arrived defective (Thanks JBL quality control) and Sweetwater shipped my QSC K12 replacements crazy fast! After I mounted the QSC K12's on their stands I tested them with my Yamaha board and an iPod Nano with some Motley Crue. Honestly, I was just blown away at the mammoth sound pumping out of these speakers!! And, the bass boost switch wasn't even turned on yet. I turned that feature on and could feel air pushing out of the 12" speaker 10"
away. I've been in bands since 1988 and have played through all types giant cabinets. I had these turned half way up and my ears couldn't take anymore. We're talking 1000watt (500 per driver) at 131db here! The sound is SUPER clear and rich with deep lows. A rock band could easily use these for high-mid FOH Speakers in a 500 capacity venue. The vocal boost button is insane too. Careful with that feature as the boost is very dramatic to the point of feedback if you're not careful. These speakers DO NOT feel cheap. They're dense, somewhat heavy, and are extremely well made. You can feel the quality when handling them. The JBL's felt cheap compared to these. And they QSC's are made in the USA. I'm absolutely sold on QSC speakers and they're worth the extra $$. A pair of 18" subs are on my mind now. I'm glad Pat talked me into getting them. I'm super happy.

Jason Wilkerson
from Leesburg, VA
August 7, 2011Music Background:
Live Sound Engineer, Guitarist, DJ, Recording Engineer

Nothing compares to this

I use these speakers without the sub and they will absolutely rock your venue. I had these speakers about 1/4 power and had the dance floor jumping. The deep mode packs a punch. You can hook these to just about anything you own. These are my go to speakers for any situation.

Roman Gonzales
from Kansas City, MO
June 17, 2011Music Background:
Keyboardist, Recording, Live Sound.

QSC K12 - I'm Blown Away

I purchased these speakers to replace my Mackie 450's that had been damaged, and WOW, what a difference. I recently performed at an outdoor wedding in Loose Park (Kansas City), for those not familiar with this location, there is a large fountain in the middle of the courtyard that never turns off (at least not for the ceremony I played). These speakers filled the area and didn't even break a sweat. The bridal party had to enter from the opposite side of the courtyard (about a 2 minute walk) and all of them told me they had no problem hearing over the fountain. Sound was very pristine and I didn't even have to use full volume. These speakers will be my new go-to units for future events.

from Palestine, TX (USA)
June 6, 2011Music Background:
Live Sound enthusiast

Great Addition to my System

Bought a pair of K12's to use as monitors on stage. Keyboardist asked me to turn down the bass. That's the first time that's ever happened. Was looking to get 2 K10s for my other 2 monitors, but will get 2 more K12's.

Ikes Taylor
from Lansing MI
May 10, 2011Music Background:
Owner, Lochabar Sound

Outstanding!

Used 4 of these along with 2 K-subs to provide PA, including DJ and announcers, for a live sporting event (Roller Derby) with a crowd of approx 1200 in a 27,500 sf venue.

Polished concrete floors, block walls, and a 40' metal overhead are NOT the best acoustic conditions to work with. The being said, the sound from this system was exceptionally clear.

SPL? We don't sacrifice tone or clarity for volume and we were nowhere near peak. The officials still asked us to turn down a bit because they couldn't communicate once the announcers started in.

The skaters, DJ, announcers, and venue staff all commented on the sound and (long story short) Lochabar Sound is now the Official Sound Services Provider for the Lansing Derby Vixens.

Obviously there's more to a good production than just the speakers, but these speakers do justice to the rest of your work.

Mike Sinclair
from Traverse City, MI
January 27, 2011Music Background:
Professional Broadcaster and Mobile DJ/Karaoke

These babie's KICK!

I don't want to rip on Mackie SRM450 speakers because I owned both V1 and V2's for years. They WERE great for their time, but times have changed and the QSC K12's are AMAZING. I did a side-by-side comparison with the Mackie (set comparable level on both and panned left to right from Mackie to QSC). The QSC sounds better. Then I engaged the "deep bass" and "fuggettaboutit" Bass response BURIED the Mackie. Punchy, crisp, clean... WOW! Thanks to Kenny at Sweetwater for recommending them. I couldn't be happier with these speakers.

from Michigan
December 29, 2010Music Background:
Lead Vocalist/Guitarist

Fantastic PA

I knew as soon as I sent the signal into this PA that I was in for a treat. The sound quality when paired with some of my most detailed mics is simply pristine! Not to mention, the amount of raw power this thing pushes out is more than adequate for any venue that I have played at.

I'm extremely happy with my purchase! Great speaker!!

Sean
from Louisiana
August 30, 2010Music Background:
pro musician

WONDERFUL!!

I bought 2 of them--I use just one when I play keys in my band. I was using a mackie board with it but hear lately when i do smaller gigs, I use the k12 and just plug right into the speaker!! I use the left side for one board and the right for the other board. I LOVE the sound. I will NEVER go back to a keybard amp. p.s.: I use one board for key bass and it THUMPS!! Great clear distortion free sound. a little pricey but worth it! Actually, with the deal made at sweetwater, the price is pretty good after all! keyboard players rejoice!!

Keith
from Providence RI
May 14, 2010Music Background:
musician/songwriter/producer

makes a great keyboard amp!

I bought the K12 out of frustration with many of the combo amps for keyboards currently on the market. Most of them color the sound, and suffer in the either the high end, or low end department. The K12 sounds AMAZING as a keyboard amp. I run through a tiny mixer, then into the K12. It's smaller and lighter weight than some of the combos, can be pole mounted, and is extremely powerful for it's size. I'll never go back to a traditional keyboard combo amp.

H LEWIS PEARSON AKA DOC LEW GUESS
from TEXARKANA, ARKANSAS
April 25, 2010Music Background:
SINGER, WRITER. AM JUST FINISHING MY FIRST ALBUM RECORDED IN NASHVILLE TENNESSEE TO BE RELEASED ON ITUNES. TITLED I'D RATHER HAVE JESUS

GOOD COMES FROM BAD

THE BAD THING IS MY MACKYIE 450'S WERE STOLEN. THE GOOD THING IS I GOT TO REPLACE THEM WITH THE QSC K12'S. I REALY MISS MY MACKIE 450'S. WHEN I BOUGHT THEM 10 YEARS AGO I USED THEM FOR SO MANY GIGS AND WEDDINGS AND OUT DOOR EVENTS. THEY WERE LIKE TANKS. SPILLED BEER, TEA AND MANY OTHER THINGS ON THEM IN THE LAST 10 YEARS. AND THE ALLWAYS SOUNDED SO SO SO GREAT. BUT THEY WERE STOLEN RECENTLY. SO I WENT TO GUITAR CENTER TO AB THE QSC K12 AGAINST THE NEW MACKIE 450. I WAS TOTALLY FLOORED. EITHER THE MACKIE'S HAVE GOTTEN WORSE SOUNDING OR THE QSC K 12'S ARE JUST SO AWSOME SOUNDING THAT THEY ECLIPS THE MACKIE 450. YES I MISS MY MACKIES. AND WAS HEART BROKEN WHEN THEY WERE STOLEN. BUT WHEN I DROVE HOME WITH TWO NEW K 12'S AND A NEW K SUB. MY HEART WAS HAPPY AGAIN. I SPENT A LOT OF TIME LISTENING TO THEM. THEY ARE CLEAN SOUNDING. NOT FAKE OR OVER SUBED. THEY ARE SIMPLY AWSOME.

Bernie A
from New Orleans, LA.
February 23, 2010Music Background:
professional singer, DJ

wow

I used two of these and one Ksub on a Mardi Gras parade this month. I had them facing to the sides. When I played the music through these speakers I watched how far ahead did they hear the music. Now be reminded, this is in an open outdoor area...down the streets parading....well, I looked ahead and I could see people dancing to the music about 300 feet ahead....I was surprised. I used these this past weekend in a small venue..I had to put almost down to nothing. So incredible....so much so, I just bought another Sub base to make my package complete...don't need anything anymore...
At first I thought that the sound overpowered my voice...but I was awestruck when I heard the sound coming out.....SECOND to NONE......do they really make anything better than this....I sing lounge type music...where my vocals are the main focus...and I was blown away....the clarity was perfect....I have a friend who sings and he's nasal....these speakers made him sound incredible....one last thing...I sing some powerful songs from Tom Jones and I was amazed these speakers helped me hits those high notes....even without straining....these are so cool.....light weight.....now I can't wait until my other sub comes in...

John
from East Coast, primarily NYC/NJ/Philly/DC
February 18, 2010Music Background:
Live sound engineer/Audio Design

"Best Bang for the Buck" - hands down. End of story

the most UNBELIEVABLE speakers for their cost. I know some complain about the price compared to the Mackies, but for what they produce, their overall construction, the quality of audio, the power, the durability, etc etc etc (I can go on all day) they are most certainly worthy of best in class. I have played with everything from Mackies to Peaveys to JBL to PRG. While PRG stuff is the arguably one of the kingpins of the pro audio, I have to hand it to QSC for designing an amazing speaker.

It disgusts me to see the first reviewer bash the K12 for the SRM450v2, there is no comparison. You can't go for "strictly power" - for these are 1000 watts distributed 2x500. The K12s make up for it in handeling, durability, size, sound, etc. and rape the Mackies. For $150-200, you get kick a-- sound, bass that sounds GOOD, and speakers that will last you years to come.

Also, the K12s are bullet proof. I have seen them used in every venue from Frats to DJs to Clubs to touring and you can't kill them. I have seen beer spilled and splashed on them, people drop and kick them, and they just keep holding and trucking on.

If your looking for a durable high quality yet cost effective solution to your audio needs, you can't go wrong with the K12s. I must admit I was very skeptical when they first came out, but you need only hear them once to be blown away.

Kyle Burchell - Majestic Entertainment
from Sydeny Novs Scotia Canada
January 26, 2010Music Background:
Disc Jockey and doing some band sound for 20+ years

A Small Wonder in the world of powered speakers

Wow, I find it hard to believe that some people in the business only go by the wattage rating on every speaker out there, go by what it sounds like and compare to what you are currently using; look at things is by the db output. I have used alot of yorkville, crown, mackie gear over the years, but I must admit, I am impressed with the K series from QSC. I have traded in my 4 LS800p Bins, Mackie 1521's and NX750's and switched my system over to this K Series. I took a set of k12's & ksubs to a Junior High Dance (300 people), and I was very impressed with them, as I stacked them beside my other current system. Now, don't get me wrong, one can not compare an 18" 1500 watt powered sub to a dual 1000 watt 12, but I was impressed with them none the less. The Ksub's doesn't hit as hard as the LS800p's, but it is some close. You have to keep in mind, I just went from having a 900 lb system to a 465 lb system as well, and half the size! The price on these cabinets are great too when you really think of it. Just think, when the mackie 450's came out, what 10 years ago? Everyone was like, there is no way that speaker is better than my old ones, it's too small and light. Well guess what folks, the future is here and big n' heavy is by the wayside. The 450's (Original) were the greatest thing around for years. The Mackie 450's, which I used and ran with the 18" Mackie subs worked well, but the 450's do not compare to the k12's at all. Especially the new V2 version of the mackies, sure they go for 600-650 (Canadian), but for the extra 300 each for the k12's, it is so worth the money. The 450V2 I can see having problems with them because they may seem to be loud, but it gets distorted and when pushed hard, the limit light won't come on easily like the original series, but just keep on compressing I guess, which may burn a part of the board from over heating. The K12's are a high quality sounding cabinet, that don't screech out when you push them. Two of these will actually keep up with my 4 LS800p bins, no problem. That's impressive. The only thing that I am not happy with is the cost of the speaker bags / covers. However, they are of top quality and I like my gear to look good after years of service. I have had some cabinets for 8+ years and they still look like new, whereas some other copanies don't get the covers and the gear looks old after a couple of months. QSC Has done a spectacular job with these cabinets. I am curious however if they are going to be designing a dual 15" or single 18" cabinet in the future. Keep in mind, that the Ksub sounds increadibly well and sounds better when you get it in a larger room, I personally find the band bass style bass bins sound better as you get them in a larger facilty. On a closing note, in a smaller room , the k12's & Ksub sound really good with the deep function turned on, together or the k12's as a stand alone, but in a larger room, I find they both sound better in normal mode. Oh yes, and the vocal boost on the tops are quite impressive as well, if you need some more desired vocals in the room; it's a lot faster then changing your equalizer. By the way, I find a good quality system can sound good without much done to the EQ, and this series, you could pretty well run the EQ flat. Finally, this K Series system looks amazing.

David Prince
from Athens, Georgia
December 24, 2009Music Background:
Fifty two years of entertaining, studio owner, pro musician, and five years owning a sound company.

QSC K-12

I am a 60 year old singer and run sound for several bands. I use Mackie 1230's, Mackie 2801's and 450's for monitors. I ordered one of these K'12's. Now don't get me wrong, the Mackie's have never let me down, sound better than anything that I have heard, but I have desired a smoother sound when I sing. Something more than the 450's wen I use them for smaller gigs. This is it. They are a step above the 450's. Listen, it's there :>) Now if they hold up like the Mackies have which is three years of every weekend work. I just might have to listen to QSC's larger line now. The Mackie's sound great but I have never been impressed with the Chinese workmanship. I am really surprised that they have held up like they have. The QSC's are much more impressive. Now don't tell me that they are made in China :>)

Mark McDowell
from Central FL
December 22, 2009Music Background:
Pro Musician

"Best in Class", to use car jargon

Amazing. Everything they're supposed to be and more. We have 2 of these and 2 of the K-subs. A 4000 watt PA system that fits into a medium size car! Truly state of the art sound. The highs are clear, transparent and travel well. The lows are warm, big, and easily controlled. Full of options, yet simple enough that anybody can use them. Will be great for ANY sound application. Can I please have 4 more to use as monitors?

Cliff DeMonte
from New Jersey, USA
October 14, 2009Music Background:
30+ years as a professional musician and entertainer

Every bit as good as advertised

Honestly, I don't know how another reviewer here came to his conclusions. (The fact that he also posted a review on another store's sight might be telling. He bought these from two different stores??) I own these and couldn't be happier. Absolutely the best sounding, most versatile powered speakers I have ever owned. I'm hearing subtleties in the music that were never there before with either my Brand M or Brand J. I can tell you though that if you're using low fidelity MP3's as your material, these speakers won't make them sound better. I discovered that right away. But, now I'm motivated to upgrade many of my files to higher quality. CD's sound outstanding and when I speak over the top of music, my voice is loud and clear. I would suggest you buy the totes to keep them nice-looking. I scuffed mine up and now I'm sorry I didn't get them sooner.

Jeff
from North Carolina
October 4, 2009Music Background:
Gigging musician

Impressive!

I bought these speakers because we were looking to change our PA to a powered speaker set-up. We were running PV SP2's on the top (pushing 1000 watts to each), and SP118's on the bottom. I have to admit that after pulling them out of the box, I was a little worried I had made a bad call. Very small and very light. I thought there was no way they could compare to the SP2's. I was wrong. They are every bit as loud as the SP2's, with better sound quality. The horns are fantastic.
I read the earlier review that said the SRM450's are louder...I could not disagree more. I have used 450's in the past and the K12's absolutely blow them away....now, having said that, I am not plugging a microphone directly into the speaker.
Our best sound has been running a crossover at 100 Hz to the subs, and put the K12's in DEEP mode. I am very impressed. You need to check these out!

brandon Perrault
from silver city, nm
July 29, 2009Music Background:
pro

Great Speakers

These Rock.. Get them and you won't be disappointed.. I use them solo, with a duo and with a band and they always come through.... I love the compactness... The quality is number 1.. and is what I've come to expect from QSC..
Everyonelse has to catch up, QSC has raised the Bar once again!
brandon Perrault
Silver City, NM

Jonas
from Aspen, USA
July 7, 2009Music Background:
DJ, mobile/club/private events. Phat Thai Fridays

Amazing studio quality sound! Rich deep bass

I bought a pair of these to replace my JBL Eon G2's and boy did I get an upgrade. I now feel like I have been cheating my audiences from superior sound all these years! I orginally was looking at the PRX 515's but my rep turnmed me on to the K12. It looks a lot nicer at home than in the pics. I also hooked up my apogee duet rca out to the speaker and was blown away by the richness and clarity. These work great without a sub and if you think that a 12" speaker can't do the job, these will prove you wrong. I'm so happy I went with these speakers. They are also very compact and lightweight which is an added bonus. The 1000W is very real.

Steve Fassler
from Utah
November 10, 2012Music Background:
Musician

Customer Service

The customer service at Sweetwater is second to none. Great folks...

Randy
from Greensboro Bend, VT
January 27, 2012Music Background:
Professional career, recording musician, production

Great sound, clear and powerful

These speakers are great, they are however more directional than other speakers I have used so I would advise always using a pair.

bryan russell
from Dayton, OH
October 20, 2011Music Background:
Pro Musician, Recording Engineer

Great little powered speaker

Got a pair of these to replace a Bose system that somebody paid way too much for, and it absolutely blows previous (also new) system away. Mine is a permanent install so I can't comment on coverage. I love the input options and convenience of being powered. It isn't as clean and flat as my friends Apogee system (comparable cost), but sounds a million times better than the Bose system, or some other Peavey and JBL systems I've used (also comparable cost). I would imagine that with a sub things would really sound sweet.

The construction and design is great--very functional and appealing, but sturdy and durable.

Doug Jonas
from Valparaiso, IN
August 23, 2011Music Background:
Long time club musician

Amazing technology

Having been in bands for many years with the old separate amp and speaker setups I was not convinced that such compact equipment could ever deliver the same sound. All I can say is hearing is believing. At our first sound check I was really struck by how clear and distinct the vocals were. Paired with subwoofers this is far better sound than we've ever had in the past and setup is a breeze.

Dan Boyd
from Columbus, Ohio USA
July 4, 2011Music Background:
Recording Studio owner, Professional drummer

Very happy with the K12

I purchased the K12 to use with my TD20 Vdrums for my personal monitor. Very clean high end and surprising lows. No mud and plenty of power. The K12 does what I need... Recreate all of the frequencies that are used in the vdrum brain.. Very happy with my purchase!

the professor
from NYC area
June 4, 2011Music Background:
Pro Musician

the most recommended

I was looking for a new keyboard amp setup and these were highly recommended by everyone I spoke to. No one had any complaints and after trying them, I can tell you I see why.
You can't go wrong with them for keys. Keyboards amps can't even come close. It's a matter of preference, but it came down to one of these and the JBLPRX612M. In the end, I liked the tighter bass of the JBL and the sound of my Yamaha pianos thru it. This speaker has one of the best warranties in the business. Enjoy !!!

Roger from New England
from RI
January 26, 2010Music Background:
Weekend gigging musician

QSC K12 for keyboards

I play in a blues and classic rock band, gigging 2-4 times per month. I use a Nord Stage 88 and a Juno G for gigging. Just recently I purchased my second QSC K12 for use with the above keyboards. Before I purchased my first one, I tried it against a Motion Sound KP200S, Yamaha S115 IV speakers powered by a Crown 802 amp and a Mackie mixer, a Behringer B215A powered 15" monitor, a 1969 all tube Fender Bassman with the original 15" speakers in the separate cabinet, a Roland KC550, and a Traynor K4 keyboard amp.
Ranking in order preference, best listed first: 1) QSC K12 (with LF set to deep and HF set to vocal boost), then the 2) Motion Sound, the 3) Traynor, the 4) PA with the Yamaha speakers, 5) the Fender Bassman, 6) the Roland KC 550, and finally 7) the Behringer.

The combination of using two QSC K12’s gives true stereo separation to the keyboards, and when using the Leslie effect on the Nord, the whole room appears to be swirling. I recently changed to the QSC’s after learning about the weight (much less than anything else I have used). I have found that even when set to the maximum volume level, the QSC’s do not distort the sounds from my keyboards. The pianos never sounded as good from the Nord, and special effect sound, such as harmonica sound from the Roland G, is like having an actual person playing the harp when we perform ‘Texas Flood’.

While I still have a vintage Leslie that I use for special gigs, I only bring the 2 QSC’s now, and find that not only can I hold my own regarding volume with the vintage Marshall amp/cab that our guitar player uses, and the Ampeg cabinet/amp that our bass player uses, but when I take leads, the leads come across much cleaner and more distinct than ever. You should hear the “sweep” sound I use for Pink Floyd’s ‘Comfortably Numb’!

The only thing more a keyboard player could want is for the speakers to rotate as in a Leslie, but at 41 pounds apiece with conveniently placed carrying handles, there is no better!

Dan S.
from Seattle, WA
October 23, 2009Music Background:
Serious hobbyist - Playing for 25 years

Delicious sound from a light package

I've always been a fan of QSC products, but never owned them personally. I was very excited to see this product with much lighter weight cabinet.

I'm running a keyboard right through this and all I can say is WOW!!! This is what true stereo keyboards are supposed to sound like!

Deep bass, clean/crisp highs...I get to hear my keyboards in all their glory. I tried the "deep bass" switch, and it's great for running music, but for my keyboards I leave it off as there is plenty of bottom end and my keys cut through the mix of other lound band members easily.

It's a little more of a pain to carry two around and set them up on guitar stands, but they blow away other stereo keyboard amps I've tried including the Motion Sound KP500SN.

The only reason why I didn't give it a perfect 5 is that these really don't sound like "1000W" speakers. The feel more like 500w in total coming from each cabinet.

Other than that, I can't say enough good things about these speakers!

Sen Lewis
from San Francisco, CA
September 23, 2009Music Background:
Classic Rock, Blues

Nice sound Not 1000W

So I bought a pair of K12 (1000W) and to my disappointment they are not any louder than my SRM450v2 (300W) speakers. I bought them strictly for power.

They are nice looking clean sound and will work just fine for a solo musician in a small bar, as long as you have a nice preamp on your mixer.

If you think you will be able to connect your microphone directly to it and get potentially 1000W to power for large gig, you will be disappointed.

I tried contacting their support and it took them 12 days to respond to my e-mail and what they told me is that it’s not a 1000W amp, but rather two 500w amps for low and high end. So how do you bridge them to get 1000W? I actually don’t believe this things even do 500W, but lets give them a benefit of a doubt.

If you are a band and looking for floor monitors, this things will be fine, but I don’t know why would you want to pay $600-$700 more for these when you can get SRM450’s.

The speaker is nice, the sound is nice, but the lack of power for a large gig or an outdoor gig is very disappointing.

Sweetwater Advice

Customer Reviews

QSC K-12

The best out there in its category

WOW!!!!!!!!

K12!

The Dream Rig For Keyboard Players

Huge Sound Little Box K12s

QSC K12

DJ & Video President

Awesome PA!!

QSC K12

beyond my expectations!

QSC K12 vs. Mackie 450v2

The Best EVER!

K12's ROCK!

Nearly perfect

QSC K12 big improvement over GSR12

Great product

Awsome speaker

Awesome Speaker

awesome

Versatile and Ready to Roll...and Rock

Killed At 800 Capacity Venue!!!

QSC K12 (12" 2-Way)

QSC

Happy Shopping Mall

Insanely Awesome Sound!!

Nothing compares to this

QSC K12 - I'm Blown Away

Great Addition to my System

Outstanding!

These babie's KICK!

Fantastic PA

WONDERFUL!!

makes a great keyboard amp!

GOOD COMES FROM BAD

wow

"Best Bang for the Buck" - hands down. End of story

A Small Wonder in the world of powered speakers

QSC K-12

"Best in Class", to use car jargon

Every bit as good as advertised

Impressive!

Great Speakers

Amazing studio quality sound! Rich deep bass

Customer Service

Great sound, clear and powerful

Great little powered speaker

Amazing technology

Very happy with the K12

the most recommended

QSC K12 for keyboards

Delicious sound from a light package

Nice sound Not 1000W