The QSC K Series represents the new standard in lightweight powered loudspeaker systems, offering legendary QSC amplifier power and reliability. Each model features an all-new, Pat Quilter-designed 1000-watt continuous QSC Class D power module. The series includes identical 1.75" HF devices and high-quality woofers across full-range models for consistent performance regardless of speaker size.
Key Features
- Lightweight portable powered speakers with legendary QSC amplifier power and reliability
- 1000 watt continuous Class D power modules in all models (2 x 500 W)
- Extensive DSP enhances system performance
- Attractive and professional appearance
- Rugged ABS enclosures (K8, K10 and K12)
- Tour-grade 18 gauge steel grilles
- Comfortable ergonomic handles
- 35 mm pole sockets with Tilt-Direct™ (full-range models)
- M10 rigging points for suspended installation (full-range models)
- K10 and K12 perform as main PA or stage monitors
Extensive DSP
Extensive Digital Signal Processing (DSP) is employed throughout, providing exceptional sonic clarity and total output that defies the system's size and weight. Key DSP features include:
- DMT™ (Directivity Matched Transition): Provides matched LF and HF coverage across the entire listening area, eliminating unnatural "dead" or "hot" frequency zones.
- Intrinsic Correction™: Maps spacially-averaged measurements to IIR and FIR filters that actively adjust time, frequency, and amplitude response for a maximally flat bandpass target, ensuring consistent performance across the entire sound field.
- DEEP™ and excursion limiting: Allow for extended low-frequency response by actively managing low-frequency transients without degradation of the underlying signal or adjacent frequencies.
- GuardRail™ protection: Protects both the amplifier module and performance from unnatural and destructive clipping.
On-board switches provide preset EQ settings. The HF setting can be set to VOCAL BOOST for additional presence or FLAT for accurate reproduction. The LF switch can be set to NORM, DEEP™ for additional bass extension, or EXT SUB for use with an external subwoofer. The rear panel LED switch can be set to POWER, OFF, or LIMIT to indicate clip limiter engagement.
Connectivity and Inputs
Premium-grade materials and advanced construction processes allow for a wide range of applications. Combo XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs accept both Mic and Line Level signals. RCA phono inputs (except KSub) allow connectivity to portable MP3 players, CD players, and line-level mixers. Up to three audio sources can be mixed internally and summed to a balanced output for "daisy-chaining" multiple units. Separate direct outputs are provided on each channel for additional flexibility.
Remote gain control capability is offered via an on-board Euroblock connector, allowing for total gain control from a single remote potentiometer when multiple K Series speakers are "daisy-chained". Auto-standby mode is engaged after 5 minutes of inactivity.
Model Specifications
The QSC K Series includes four models: K8, K10, K12 (full-range loudspeakers), and KSub (subwoofer).
| Specification | K8 | K10 | K12 | KSub |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Configuration | Trapezoidal 2-way | Multipurpose 2-way | Multipurpose 2-way | 4th Order Bandpass |
| Low-frequency Transducer | 8" cone transducer | 10" cone transducer | 12" cone transducer | 2 x 12" cone transducers |
| High-frequency Transducer | 1.75" diaphragm compression driver | 1.75" diaphragm compression driver | 1.75" diaphragm compression driver | - |
| Frequency Response (-6 dB) | 66 Hz – 18 kHz | 60 Hz - 18 kHz | 52 Hz - 18 kHz | 48 Hz - 134 Hz |
| Frequency Range (-10 dB) | 61 Hz - 20 kHz | 56 Hz - 20 kHz | 48 Hz - 20 kHz | 44 Hz - 148 Hz |
| Nominal Coverage (-6 dB) | 105° conical | 90° conical | 75° conical | - |
| Maximum SPL¹ | 127 dB peak | 129 dB peak | 131 dB peak | 130 dB peak |
| Amplifier Power Output² | 1000 W continuous Class D (500 W LF, 500 W HF), 2000 W peak | 1000 W continuous Class D (2 x 500 W), 2000 W peak | ||
| Input Impedance (Ω) | XLR/1/4": 40k balanced/20k unbalanced; XLR/1/4" MIC mode: 2260 balanced; RCA: 10k | |||
| Controls | Power • Gain A • Gain B • Mic/Line • LF Mode (Ext Sub/Norm/DEEP™) • HF Mode (Flat/Vocal Boost) • Front LED (On/Off/Limit) | Power • Gain • LF Mode (Normal/ DEEP™) • Polarity (Normal/Reverse) • Front LED (On/Off/Limit) | ||
| Indicators | Power • Signal A • Signal B • Standby • Limit • Mic | Power • Signal • Standby • Limit | ||
| Connectors | Balanced female XLR/1/4" line/mic level input; Balanced female XLR / 1/4" line level input; Dual Balanced male XLR full range line level out; Balanced male XLR "mix" out; Stereo RCA line level input; Remote gain control; Locking IEC power connector | Dual balanced female XLR/1/4" line level input; Dual Balanced male XLR full range line level out; Remote gain control; Locking IEC power connector | ||
| Cooling | On demand, 50 mm variable speed fan | |||
| Amplifier Protection | Thermal limiting • Output overcurrent • Overtemperature muting • GuardRail™ | |||
| Transducer Protection | Thermal limiting • Excursion limiting | |||
| AC Power Input | Universal power supply 100 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz | |||
| AC Power Consumption (1/8 Power) | 100 VAC, 2.3 A • 120 VAC, 2.01 A • 230 VAC, 1.13 A | |||
| Enclosure | Impact resistant ABS | Painted birch plywood | ||
| Finish | Black Paint | Black textured paint | ||
| Grille | Black powder coated 18 gauge steel | |||
| Dimensions (HWD) | 17.7" x 11" x 10.6" (450 mm x 280 mm x 269 mm) | 20.4" x 12.6" x 11.8" (519 mm x 320 mm x 300 mm) | 23.7" x 14" x 14" (603 mm x 356 mm x 356 mm) | 26" x 14" x 28.1" (including casters) (665 mm x 356 mm x 714 mm) |
| Weight (Net) | 27 lb (12.2 kg) | 32 lb (14.5 kg) | 41 lb (18.6 kg) | 74 lb (33.6 kg) |
| Available Accessories | K8 TOTE • K8 YOKE • K SERIES M10 KIT | K10 TOTE • K10 YOKE • K SERIES M10 KIT | K12 TOTE • K12 YOKE • K SERIES M10 KIT | KSub COVER |
¹ For comparison purposes and in accordance with common industry practice, maximum peak SPL specifications are theoretical calculations based upon transducer sensitivity and peak available amplifier power.
² Independent of limiters and driver protection circuits.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Applications and Visual Descriptions
The QSC K Series speakers are designed for versatile deployment, from portable PA systems to installed sound. The full-range models feature a professional appearance suitable for various environments.
Speaker Configurations and Mounting
- Tilt-Direct™ Pole Mount: Full-range models feature a 35 mm pole socket with a Tilt-Direct™ system. A simple turn of a dial engages a 7.5-degree downward tilt, directing sound towards the audience and minimizing reflections from ceilings or walls. This is ideal for applications where speakers are positioned high.
- Suspension: Full-range models are equipped with integrated M10 rigging points for suspended installations using appropriate hardware (e.g., K SERIES M10 KIT, sold separately).
- Stage Monitor: The K10 and K12 models can be used as main PA speakers or as stage monitors.
- Subwoofer Pole Mount: The KSub features a threaded pole receptacle for a secure connection to a speaker pole (included), allowing it to be used with full-range K Series speakers.
Application Examples (Visual Descriptions)
- Speaker on Stand: A K12 speaker is shown mounted on a standard speaker stand, with the Tilt-Direct™ system engaged for a downward angle.
- Suspended Speaker: A K12 speaker is depicted suspended from integrated M10 points, illustrating its suitability for flown installations.
- Floor Monitor Position: K10 and K12 speakers are shown positioned on their sides, demonstrating their use as floor monitors.
- Stacked System: A K8 speaker is shown mounted atop a KSub subwoofer, utilizing the speaker pole for a stable, elevated configuration.
- Rear Panel Connections (K8/K10/K12): The rear panel features input connectors (Combo XLR/1/4" for Mic/Line A and Line B, RCA for Line In), signal indicators, gain controls, mode switches (LF, HF, LED), and a locking IEC power connector.
- Rear Panel Connections (KSub): The KSub rear panel includes Line In B, Line Out (post-gain mix), signal indicators, gain control, mode switches (Power, Limit, Standby), and a locking IEC power connector.
Dimensions
Detailed dimensions are provided for each model:
- K8: Top: 11" (280 mm); Side: 10.6" (269 mm); Front Height: 17.7" (450 mm)
- K10: Top: 12.6" (320 mm); Side: 11.8" (300 mm); Front Height: 20.4" (519 mm)
- K12: Top: 14" (356 mm); Side: 14" (356 mm); Front Height: 23.7" (603 mm)
- KSub: Top: 14" (356 mm); Side: 26" (665 mm); Front Height: 28.1" (714 mm) (including casters)
