Review: Mark Woods
The original QSC K Series speakers caught the attention of many ears when they first arrived. Word of their excellent sound and robust build quality spread quickly. I bought a pair of K10s that are still in regular use 15 years later. The next-generation K.2 Series arrived around 2020 with new drivers, more power, and an LCD screen – the updates maintaining the K Series’ reputation as high-quality powered speakers, and QSC as an established brand.
Now it’s time for something new and exciting. Portable column systems have found a place in the low-to-medium volume space with their discreet looks, easy portability, and user-friendly operation. Suitable for DJs, smaller live shows, or corporate/educational settings, they typically use vertical arrays comprising many small mid/high drivers to produce SPL and control the column’s wedge-shaped dispersion. Results vary, but with all those different arrival times there’s inevitably some time smear – especially up close – and I’ve found the small drivers can lack energy in the low-mids when pushed. It’s also common for the drivers placed lower in the array to be blocked by audience members or dancers when the system is floor-standing.
The QSC KC12 is not one of these column systems.
A DIFFERENT BEAST
The QSC KC12 adopts the form of a portable column speaker but is, in reality, a 3000W active three-way speaker system with directional control. Instead of multiple small drivers in a vertical array, the KC12 mid/high enclosure features two high-excursion four-inch drivers and a one-inch compression driver. The two mid drivers are mounted vertically to deliver wide horizontal dispersion (145°) and narrow vertical dispersion (35°), while maintaining a coherent wavefront.
The KC12 mid/high enclosure weighs only 4kg – far lighter than any comparably powered mid/high speaker, active or otherwise. It mounts on the extension pole, which slots into the sub cabinet in the usual manner. At full height, the bottom of the enclosure sits just under 2m from the floor, with the top at 2.27m – well above audience height – and angled slightly down toward the listeners. If less height is required, such as on a stage, the mid/high unit can be mounted directly on the sub without the extension pole, lowering the total height to 1.34m.
The tweeter is housed in a QSC LEAF (Length Equalised Acoustic Flare) waveguide, borrowed from QSC’s larger L Class speakers. This clever tech sends the HF driver through eight tubes, all curved to equal lengths (for phase alignment), which then flare out through a 12° arc at the exit.
SUB, STACK
The KC12 sub is a ported design made from 12mm birch ply and is larger than average for this type of system, measuring 655 × 357 × 455mm. The smoothly moulded ABS top includes an integral handle and pole socket, and while it’s a little heavier than the norm at 22kg, the result is a stable, well-balanced system when fully assembled. Other systems I’ve tested have narrower subs with top-heavy columns, which always made me nervous around moshers or helicopter dancers.
NEED TO KNOW
QSC KC12
Active Column Speaker System
The sub cabinet houses the Class-D amplifiers and DSP. The 12-inch sub driver gets 2000W of amplification and reaches down to 40Hz (-6dB), while the mid/high section receives the remaining 1000W. Together, they deliver a quoted maximum SPL of 132dB.
The back panel of the KC12 features a flexible three-channel mixer. Channels 1 and 2 use XLR/¼-inch combo sockets, with Channel 1 switching between Mic/Line/Hi-Z, and Channel 2 switching between Line/Mic/Mic 48V. Channel 3 offers a ⅛-inch stereo aux input or Bluetooth. Outputs include two XLRs: one analogue loop-through for Channel 1 and one DSP mix output with assignable sources. A USB-C (5V, 3A) port is included for firmware updates and can also be used to charge a mobile device.
ON DISPLAY
The KC12’s LCD screen is compact and positioned on the rear of the sub – standard, but awkward unless you’re lying on the floor. At the time of writing, there’s no remote control app, and updates are only available via Windows. QSC is reportedly working on MacOS support, suggesting ongoing software development.
The DSP is fully featured: overall contour EQ presets, four-band parametric EQ on each input, and three flavours of reverb on Channels 1 and 2. The subwoofer has its own presets and level control, and can be operated as a standalone sub in ‘Sub-only’ mode. While there are no user-accessible dynamic controls, built-in limiting and a low-noise, variable-speed fan provide system protection and thermal management.
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The KC12 system is noticeably louder than other column systems and stays cleaner when pushed hard
AUDIO TESTS
As thorough as the physical design is, it’s the sound quality and power that make the KC12 a standout. It may look like a column system, but it’s a full-range, point-source system that kicks serious bottom. It’s a joy to crank up – crisp, clear, and powerful, with a night-club-ready bass response and audiophile detail.
The default frequency response has a gentle mid scoop with a lift above 3kHz, delivering usable output up to 18kHz. It is noticeably louder than competing column systems and remains clean when pushed. If low-frequency response feels boomy, switching from the default ‘Boost’ preset to ‘Balanced’, or applying a light EQ cut around 100Hz, can tighten things up. The mid/high section handles flat operation well and the system is surprisingly resistant to feedback, making it performer-friendly even when speakers are positioned forward on stage.
LOVE SHACK BABY
During the review period, I used the KC12 system at the nearby Love Shack bar, where it easily covered ~80 people. Guitarist Tim Heath performed with it at the Theatre Royal, and I fielded a call from the local horse racing club interested in using it for a presentation night. These are all typical applications for a column system, and the KC12 handled them with ease—barely breaking a sweat.
Unlike most column systems, I’d feel comfortable running a full band through a pair of these. QSC’s build quality endures—my original K10s still perform like new. Those came in durable carry bags that have aged but never failed. The KC12 system continues this tradition: the mid/high unit and extension pole travel in a high-quality carry case, while the KC12 sub gets a weatherproof padded Nylon/Cordura cover with thoughtful design touches like a covered top handle, a power lead pocket, and a rear strap that secures the cover from blowing off. Be aware: that strap can be a tripping hazard if left loose when moving the sub.
At 22kg, the sub is on the heavier side for one person, but QSC has wisely included two recessed handles underneath for easier two-person lifting. That said, at pack-down time, you’ll probably want to find a friendly bandmate or security guard for a hand.
PRIMO OFFERING
The QSC KC12 is a premium portable PA with a price tag to match. It suits everything from boardroom presentations to DJs and small bands. The power and fidelity far exceed that of similarly sized portable column systems, and it’s easier and lighter to set up than a conventional point-source top over a sub.
Available in black or white, the build quality is high, the design details are excellent, and it’s backed by a six-year extended warranty (upon registration). Like my trusty K10s, I expect the KC12 to enjoy a long, reliable working life.
Guitarist Tim Heath performing with the QSC KC12.
The post Review: QSC KC12 appeared first on AudioTechnology.
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