The New QSC K Series Power Speakers

[ProfessionalVibez]

i ended up buying the xt.. imo the k12 didnt push enough lows for me, n not loud or clear at all compared to the 515xt. i was satisfied when it was added with a ksub, but wasnt convinced. the xt alone sounded phenominal, i didnt even need to request the employee to put the 500 sub in order to realize the xt was what i was looking for.. small-medium event, two 515xt, large event, include the 500 subs, phenomenal

[ProfessionalVibez]

QSC k12 or jbl eon 515xt?



[mandingo1]

I bought the EON 515's and the first time I used it one of them fused while I was on stage... It went straight back to the shop on the Monday morning. I got my money back. I went to hear the K12's yesterday and I was impressed. You'll be blown away if you add the Ksubs.

[MetalSlab]

Is it okay to switch my QSC KW122's on and off all the time from the mains power switch, rather than the unit's own onboard switch?

[AAABeatbox]

What do you they mean when they say the speaker is going to "Clip" when turning up the volume?

[crinkle0053]

@scottmckennamusic - I did buy the K10's and KSub. I am so happy with the sound and it's loud as I want it to be. Sounds crisp and clear. Love them.

[maninahole]

These sound lovely. Are they any good?

[theHackerOfMayhem]

@3musicmakers thats right!

[PhilMul]

The speakers sound pretty good from the video. I wish there was a dealer near the Ronaoke, VA area so I could here them first hand. Please don't insult our intelligence by saying that these speakers product 1,000watts of power. When you add 500watts on top and 500watts on the bottom, you get 500watts, not 1,000 watts! This is the law of physics.

[soureysen]

@PhilMul the speakers themselves do not require 1000w of power(at most the k12 requires 400-550w) , but all of them comes equipped with a 1000w amplifier on board which means that the amplifiers is way more powerful than what the speakers demand and therefore the speakers are very hard to overheat and can be played on and on at max volume. therefore, these are not 1000w speaker, but the build quality is excellent.

[lowh20rd]

I've been contemplating the KSub for some time... after hearing them I am sad to say that I wasn't impressed. I own a pair of K10s and love them. Crisp and clean. The KSubs were mushys. Maybe it's the bandpass design. QCS has other active ported subs that I intend to check out. I've checked out the new mackie active sub 15" sub and it was unimpressive as well. The best sounding active sub to date was a Cerwin Vega CVA-15. Haven't tested the JBLs yet.

[loudawgs]

No doubt they sound good, but will they sound just as good near the end of your 6 hour gig? Will they maintain that same sound quality all night long?

[FrodeFlodhest]

Sounds pretty good. =)

I see you have a couple of speakers from DB back there too? Are they any good? =)

[mike31jmb]

Finally a nice demo of these speakers! Thanks man.

[satanstorms]

I just bought a pair of K10s and I was just wondering how you use the high frequency option, I read in the manual that it is not recommended to use the Vocal Boost option when playing full range music, however I like how the speakers sound with this option. Do you think using this option when playing full range music will damage the speaker or there is no problem? Do you use Vocal Boost or Flat when you DJ?

[MakeItFunkyProds]

I listened to this system at GC. The tops sounded very nice. No problem with them, however, I was not impressed with the low end of the KSub. It didn't have that fat bottom end I am used to with my 18" sub. Actually, the KSub sounded exactly like what I expected it to sound like from the way it looks. Small sub, small sound. I suppose for someone this would be okay though. Just not me.

[mistewacko]

What's a better value, the K8, K10, or K12? If they all have 1000watts wouldn't the K8's provide the same sound quality as the K12's? Can the average person tell the difference between each model?

[mcfann1013]

Getting ready to go to DC tomorrow to hear the k-series. I am reading everythinig I can get my hands on about it and they sound like people are impressed with them. Can't wait! Do retailers actually let you try them out at your venues? I know Bose did with the L1 system. I had 45 days with it, but it was fantastic so I kept it.

[Zman87gt]

My local shop has let me use them at a few shows to demo them. I think you will be impressed with the system. I really like the sound quality and output. Also I have used a set of 12's as main for a metal band I mix last weekend. Turn on the vocal boost on the tops and they work great as mains for bands.

[mcfann1013]

Thanks Z.

[BornIntoMusic]

@mcfann1013 How is the comparison?? I'm seriously considering Dual L1's each with 2 bass modules, for my band. Otherwise everyone online is always saying buy QSC! I'm really trying to get a feel if a pair of L1's run in stereo (outputs from my audio interface which is run by a laptop and mixed in cubase), would be better for my band or a pair of these guys + all the other crap needed for a stage setup.

[scottmckennamusic]

@mcfann1013 I'll give you my honest opinion. I've had the Bose L1 for over 5 years (both the original one, and I bought the newest L1 Model II. I just sold all my gear, and bought the QSC K10 system with a KW181 Subwoofer. It absolutely blows away the Bose with no comparison at all. Even without the sub, the power that is delivered from the K series is just mind blowing. It's the clearest PA system you'll ever use, and it's foolish to buy anything else on the market. Sell the Bose, and buy the K

[scottmckennamusic]

@mcfann1013 I'll give you my honest opinion. I've had the Bose L1 for over 5 years (both the original one, and I bought the newest L1 Model II. I just sold all my gear, and bought the QSC K10 system with a KW181 Subwoofer. It absolutely blows away the Bose with no comparison at all. Even without the sub, the power that is delivered from the K series is just mind blowing. It's the clearest PA system you'll ever use, and it's foolish to buy anything else on the market. Sell the Bose, and buy QSC

[CeronHector]

Thanks for your time!!! My brother got the K12 and the sub and loves them and I got the three-way HPR. Great system...

[garciadj10]

hey brot i like to know if you test the k-sub allready im thinking about get one but i want you answer before thanks.

[misdjs]

lee el comentario de abajo.

[SOADHUMMER]

I just got two K12's and a Ksub had a chance to use it at an outdoor gig last night and man I am in love with these speakers. The sound quality is so clear and solid it is an absolute pleasure to listen to them at any volume. I am a mobile DJ and anyone who is thinking twice about buying these speakers, don't you will not regret it.

[dboldnj]

Nice Demo......maybe the idiots cursing in background could be dumped so my ADD isn't peaking!!

[peterwo2e]

im thinking of geting 2 k10, will they work good with my qsc hpr181i, 18 inch sub??

i really don't want to buy another sub, thanks.

[mysticradio]

OOPS..... ONE locking IEC was for Europe. But Im hearing things on my synthesizer I NEVER heard on the Bose L1 model 2 with T1 and 2 B1s........

[mysticradio]

QSC must really love its customers. I unboxed the K12s this morning... and to my surprise they gave me 2 locking IEC cables per box, plus a free 6 year warranty, not to mention amazing sounding speaks. They have a customer for LIFE. thank you QSC !!!!! KEEP ON ROCKIN (lol sorry)

[mysticradio]

I ORDERED my K12s today....cant wait to hear them. I sold my Bose L1 model 2 system with 2 B1s. I just wanted to go back to stereo. But I heard the K12 blow Bose out of the water. We shall see

[arjr422]

I heard these at guitar center believe me you would believe the clarity of just K8!! Bass tight, highs, mids all smooth. the best sounding powered speaker period!!!!! No joke or exaggeration you won't believe these speakers. Go to your nearest dealer and check it out for yourself. I'm going to replace my passive speakers with these.

[mysticradio]

I THINK the system for coverage would be 3 K10's per side...two K subs per side... this would do an outdoor event easily..

[Bojangledrummer]

Hey. Great video!

One question though.

Why did you say you wouldn't use these for live sound?

[Zman87gt]

The issue is the sub. It doesn't have the attack of the HPR 181. The tops are great and would make nice little mains. The subs are decent but they are tuned and that doesn't give the most accurate playback.

[Bojangledrummer]

alright man. thanks!!

[coolmjr]

Hey Zack, Great video watched it a few times already. I went out and heard the K12s and the KSub and Wow very impressive. Top is a no brainer now the sub is interesting. I listened to both the HPR 18 and the KSub and you are on point HPR 18 Kicks some Serious Ass and if size is not a problem the I agree that is the choice. But that being said I wasn't expecting much from the KSub and the sound is very impressive. Add the Size and I think that is my next Sub.

[Zman87gt]

Glad to hear that you like them. The other factor on the subs for me is a buddy of mine has 6 hor 181's. So if I ever need to add any more to a show I can borrow a couple from him to add more bass. Vs selling for the Ksub and then being stuck with what I bought.

[Coachmotivator]

Thanks for your timely response. One more thing, can the 18 power a passive sub also if daisy-chained?

[Zman87gt]

Nope they don't send power just a signal. You would need to go with a yorkville or something else to do that. Good Luck!

[Coachmotivator]

Zack, Great video. I am considering getting the QSC system and don't know which way would be the best way to go. I am doing a beginning set up and wanted to know which system would be your best recommendation for sound in terms of compatibility, power, and growth: Hpr122i with an Hpr18 sub?, the K12's with an Hpr18 sub?, or the K12's with the K12 sub?

[Zman87gt]

If size isn't a problem or price I would get k12's and hpr 18's. The 18's seem to be louder and go a little lower. However they weight 130lbs each. Still that is what I would get for sound quality.

[TheJefft63]

Hey Zack, I know this thread is from 9 months ago. Question: I'm ready to get (4) K12's they are great. But I'm undecided on the subs, I've heard the Yorkville UCS1 15" subs, whatcha think, Have you heard the yorkville subs yet, wow!

[motojeff]

Dang. Thats a small little package. I bet they would be great floor monitors.

[Koshy1]

thanks for the quick response.

[Koshy1]

Also, do you load and unload your 18's by your self? Do you use a trailer or something else ?

[Koshy1]

I am replacing my mackie srm450 / swa15 system. I would like just a bit more low end than the 500watt swa15 produces. I have narrowed it down between 122i/ 115i and the K12/ Ksub combo. It seems like the k12 top is a tad better than the 122i. How would you compare the bass output from the ksub to a 115i ? Which would you choose zack ? for weddings its doesn't really matter but i also do a weekly electronic show. the extra low end makes a big difference

[Zman87gt]

For the Tops I think sound quality order would be 152 - k12 - 122. Now I owned a pair of 152's and they sounded great but the 99 lbs weight was a pain in my back. I think the Ksub would have a little more low than the Hpr 151 sub. THe K12 has more Surface area by far and more power. For your other question, yup I load the 18's by myself. All of my stuff goes into a 98 tahoe. I need to get a trailer because now my global truss takes up so much space.

[itsj1train]

really nice, good video

[wildfins]

Thanks Zack,

Both the K12 or HPR122i (new) could be had for the same price, which one would be your rec. and preference in term of sound quality?

[Zman87gt]

If you are going to use them without a sub I think the k12 may have a little more low end than the 122i. If you are using them with a sub it is probably a toss up. The best thing would be listen to them at your shop side by side and see what you like better.

[moretoys2love]

Also, A 2x12 subwoofer is going to give you 24" of speaker area - 33% more than a single 18". The 18 may give somewhat deeper overall LF extension but those 2x12's are going to kick serious butt in this configuration. Can't wait to hear your report about using them on a gig. BTW - What's the difference between using them "live" and using them in a dj rig at a live event? I didn't understand that comment.

[Zman87gt]

The specs and numbers are always cool to see but really you need to hear these to see what I mean. I was hoping for more lowend volume with a 1000watt 212 setup. Also since this is a bandpass cabinet it would give as equal of an output if you were to sweep it through low freq's. Also as you walk around the room there are far more dead spots than there are with the front loaded HPRs. This would work for live, however I wouldn't choose it over the current HPR series for that application.

[moretoys2love]

Good video. Hard to judge sound quality though through the computer. Now that these are available and specs on the QSC website, may I offer a couple of corrections/clarifications? Only the K10 and K12 can be used as floor wedges. The dispersion pattern of the K12 is 75 degrees (not 70). The suspension points are on the top (vertically oriented). Patrick points to the sides. Those are for yolk mounts.

[DJOmega80]

Looks like I found my next upgrade. Great review.

[tyytttyyyy]

your gonna need about 7 bills

[tyytttyyyy]

for 1

[BOBBYBLENDZ]

thanks for this vid. i was actually planning on buying an old generation12" jbl because they are blowing them out and have been since the new gen releases. i was bummed cuz i currently run 2 hpr-152is and 1 hpr-18i. i need a monitor, but something that can handle my ceremonial stuff too, to eliminate the need to have to charge my clients a second-set up fee. do u feel the k-series tens would suffice as a monitor and for cermonial stuff? 12s? let me know ur opinion. thnxRR

[Zman87gt]

Well I haven't heard the 10's in person. They have the same power amp as the rest (1000 watt class D). I think the 12's were only 50 bucks more than the 10's (don't quote me for sure on that). If the price is so close i would go with the 12's. On the other hand the 10's should work great for what you are looking for. I just think in the end the 12's will be a bit more versital

[chrisawaite]

great video

[jimg76]

I recently bought the qsc hpr151I subwoofer. I haven't done a video on it yet, but maybe I will eventually.

[djbigbenny]

Hey Zack any idea of the price on the 12's? Thanks Man!

Benny

[Zman87gt]

12's are 799.99 each with no rebate.  Cheaper MAP price than the hpr 12 and in my opinion, the K sounds a little better for the music playback.

[djbigbenny]

Thanks for the help Zack! I will let you know when I get my hands on them! Be well buddy! :)

DJ Benny NYC

[wildfins]

Great stuff Zack. Have viewed several of your dj speakers respectable reviews on utube and like the level of details you provide.

I am very interested in the new QSC K10 but I can also get the HPR122i at about the same price tag (with the current rebate).

So, before pulling the trigger, I would like to hear your opinion when comparing the K10 to the HPR122i in term of sound quality - especially for guitar acoustic and vocal applications (on a scale of 1..10)?

Thanks a bunch...

[Zman87gt]

Well I have never heard the k10 in person. I really wouldn't know what to tell you about the speaker. However if you mean the k12 then I guess its kind of a toos up. Either of them would be a great main cabinet for an acoustic solo thing. I think the k12 may be a better choice though because of the weight and selection of inputs on the back. If you can find a used 122i for a good price go for it but doing solo gigs and buying new I would opt for the k12.

[djvictorsalazar]

Great Job!

[RRollergod]

I <3 the K series.. I may get some... maybe.

[sleeperawaken36]

Excellent vid, they look really nice :)

[amdchiptrooper]

Thanks Zack, I have been looking at those speakers. Like you after viewing your vid I dont see how 12 inch subs can sound near as well as your HPR18's. So far out of all the speakers I looked through, the HPR series seems to be the best.

[odavila78]

Awesome vid, thanks for sharing with us.

[djbigron]

Zack if they pick anyone to demo QSC it should be you. You guys did a great job. Great Vid!!!

[Maxsdiscos]

Mike currently has the HPR Series, combining the standard woofer with 2 horns, giving a 3-way system.

[traxonwax]

Also, I only thought Canadian's were familiar with Robbie Robertson.

[traxonwax]

I heard about this line from a local dealer and he told me that one of the powered subs is half the weight of other subs that are the same power. I've thought about getting one but they are pricey. But I guess it comes down to getting what you paid for.

[JesusIsMyHomeDogg]

I have actually been considering a pair of the k12's but I would need them to handle big events like school dances. Do you think the K12 tops would work for big dances if I was running an 18 inch sub?

[jasperibe]

as long as you 18" sub is running at least 1500-2000 watts and position the k12's to cover the area...

[gotladdertrucks]

Watts should not be how you base your decision. You need to look at construction. For example a 800 folded horn sub will produce the same amount of sound as a 2000 front loaded sub. Look at the sensitivity and MAX SPL.

[Zman87gt]

Yup a folded horn sub would be better in that respect. However if you meant the QSC 18, thats front loaded. I think you would either need more than one qsc 18 or something with more power. As for the tops, I think they would work great for largher dances like that if you position them correctly like stated above.