Following in the footsteps of the award-winning R10, the R12 extends the reach of the Reference Series to even higher power applications. Suited to any performance environment requiring ultra-high quality sound reinforcement in a versatile, low profile package, the R12 is an extremely muscular 3-way passive system that brings the detail, accuracy and transparency of the R10 to a larger output platform.

The slim, discreet enclosure contains a pair of state-of-the-art 3.5” (88mm) voice coil 12” (305mm) neodymium LF drivers, and the same 4-inch (100mm)/2.5-inch (64mm) coaxial MF/HF compression drive unit as used in the R10 – meaning a completely consistent voicing across models in the Series. As with the R10, this coaxial compression drive unit feeds one of two alternate waveguides, which are direct dervations of the ground-breaking work undertaken on the R10. The result is that these waveguides possess not only an incredibly natural tonal character, but unparalleled consistency of response both on and off-axis.

Following the same example set by the R10, the R12 is supplied as standard with both waveguide options; a wide dispersion 110° x 50° for shorter throw applications and a narrower dispersion 80° x 50° option for controlled coverage over longer distances. Minutes of physical work and a simple change of preset in the DQ Series amplifier and the R12 can transform from a wide dispersion to a narrow and vice versa – offering excellent flexibility for rental users and installation customers alike. Which waveguide is installed – and crucially which orientation that waveguide is in – is easily identifiable without removing the front grille.

An entirely unique approach to crossover design marries the components together. The highly advanced crossover, in conjunction with the FIR processing functions of the DQ Series advanced system amplifiers, allows each drive unit to be used to the optimum extent. The combination of drive units, bespoke waveguide design and FIR processing yields flat frequency and phase responses and a consistency of sonic character across demand which is unrivalled by any loudspeaker in this class.

The elegant and compact enclosure draws its bracing technology from the HALO series, providing a tough and incredibly rigid yet lightweight package. Assembled from multi-laminate Birch plywood, the enclosure is coated with an impact and weather-resistant polyurethane finish which will enable the R12 to stand up to the most adverse conditions. This finish is available in black or white as standard, however custom RAL colour matching options and permanent outdoor enhancements are also available.

The front grille is manufactured from stainless steel for enhanced lifespan and this is backed by an acoustically transparent fabric to complete the discreet appearance. Intelligent handle placement combined with multiple threaded rigging points and a quick-release keyhole flying plate system ensure the R12 is easy and simple to handle and install both permanently and whilst on the road.

The architecture and construction of the R12 combined with EM Acoustics’ state-of-the-art FIR processing liberates each component to achieve levels of sonic performance never yet attained by a loudspeaker of this size and form factor.