When 12-inch cabinets are arrayed, the mutual coupling of adjacent drivers increases efficiency in the low-mid frequencies. Because the cabinets are physically smaller than 15-inch systems, the center-to-center distance between drivers is reduced. This tighter spacing moves the first interference notch (comb filtering) to a higher frequency, ensuring a more coherent wavefront in the critical crossover region.
| Feature | Benefit | |---------|---------| | | Easier to truck pack & rig than 15″ boxes, but more low-end than 8″/10″ | | Good LF extension | Typically usable down to 55–70 Hz (with some models reaching 50 Hz) | | High SPL capability | ~130–140 dB peak per box (depending on brand/processing) | | Vertical control | 4–8 boxes per side can cover medium to large venues without subs for speech/jazz | | Cost-effective | Cheaper than dual 12″ or 15″ line arrays, more robust than small format | 12 inch line array speakers
Modern 12-inch units often feature advanced waveguides (e.g., the LEAF waveguide on the QSC LA112 ) to ensure uniform coverage and reduce interference between adjacent speakers in the stack. When 12-inch cabinets are arrayed, the mutual coupling