12L Active vs Bowers & Wilkins CM5
The CM5's impedance is 8Ω against the 12L Active's 6Ω and its woofer 6.5" against 6.69". Both share sensitivity (88 dB) and ways (2).
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The Quad 12L Active is a 2-way, 2-driver active loudspeaker system designed primarily for studio use and high-fidelity listening. It features a 170mm cone bass driver and a 25mm dome tweeter, with built-in amplifiers matched to the drivers for optimal performance and protection. The frequency response ranges from 45Hz to 28kHz at 3dB, with a sensitivity of 88dB SPL at 1 meter for 2.83V input. It is recommended to be driven by amplifiers or sources delivering 30 to 200 watts. The speakers include balanced inputs for noise immunity and level controls for output matching. The cabinet dimensions are approximately 340mm high, 205mm wide, and 253-355mm deep, with a polished black or silver finish. The design emphasizes neutral, detailed sound with good integration between drivers, suitable for near-wall placement or on stands. Protection circuitry is included to prevent damage at high output levels, indicated by a front LED. The 12L Active is regarded as a mature, well-built monitor speaker with a clear improvement over the smaller 11L Active model.
Driver and acoustic performance characteristics
Driver configuration and enclosure design
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The CM5's impedance is 8Ω against the 12L Active's 6Ω and its woofer 6.5" against 6.69". Both share sensitivity (88 dB) and ways (2).
The LB1's impedance is 4Ω against the 12L Active's 6Ω and its high-frequency extension 25 kHz against 28 kHz. Both share sensitivity (88 dB) and ways (2).
The Response ER-1's sensitivity is 87.5 dB against the 12L Active's 88 dB, its impedance 8Ω against 6Ω, and its high-frequency extension 30 kHz against 28 kHz. Both share ways (2).
The Dulcet's woofer is 6.5" against the 12L Active's 6.69". Both share sensitivity (88 dB), impedance (6Ω), and ways (2).
Audio Concepts, Inc. (ACI) Sapphire XL
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