- Table of Contents
- Meet the Contenders: C Class vs. K Class
- C Class: CP Series
- K Class: K.2 Series
- KC12 Column System
- QSC KS Series Subwoofers
- C Class vs K Class Side-by-Side Comparison
- C Class vs K Class – Which QSC PA System Should You Choose?
- Summary
If you’re on the hunt for a professional PA system, there’s a pretty strong chance that QSC Audio is already on your radar – and for very good reason. With their premium build quality, powerful sound, and expert engineering, QSC have certainly earned their reputation as an S-tier speaker manufacturer, delivering top-notch audio in venues, rehearsal spaces, and mobile rigs around the world. Once you’ve decided to follow the QSC path, there’s a whole new dilemma you’ll need to contend with: C Class or K Class? What’s the real difference, and which one is the right choice for you?
In this guide, we’re going to break it all down. We’ll take a closer look at both the CP Series (C Class) and K.2 Series (K Class) models to help you decide which QSC PA system is the best fit for your specific needs. We’ll cover all the key features and strengths, and we’ll also examine a few ideal use cases for each range. To wrap everything up nicely, we’ll also take a quick run through some related gear that could be just what you need to round out your PA rig, including the KC12 column system and KS Series subwoofers.
Table of Contents
- Meet the Contenders: C Class vs. K Class
- C Class: CP Series
- K Class: K.2 Series
- KC12 Column System
- QSC KS Series Subwoofers
- C Class vs K Class Side-by-Side Comparison
- C Class vs K Class – Which QSC PA System Should You Choose?
- Summary
Meet the Contenders: C Class vs. K Class
At first glance, the C Class and K Class ranges might look similar. After all, they’re both active loudspeakers with a smart design and a host of versatile applications. However, scratch beneath their rugged exteriors, and you’ll find a few key features that cater to different use cases.
Before we dive into the differences, let’s take a quick look at what they’ve got in common. Importantly, both speakers come loaded with QSC’s trademark attention to quality and reliability. And whether you go for the C Class or the K Class, you’re still going to get the same generous six-year warranty upon registration. That attention to detail and extended warranty mean you can rest easy knowing you’ve got a solid speaker unit that will serve your purposes beautifully. From here on, the two ranges start to go in different directions.
C Class: CP Series
The C Class is built around the CP8 and CP12, a pair of compact powered loudspeaker models that punch well above their price tag. If you need enough sound to fill out a small-to-medium-sized venue without blowing your whole budget, then these active PA speakers are more than worthy of a lofty position on your short list. As with any product that proudly bears the QSC logo, CP8 and CP12 loudspeakers offer a tried-and-tested build paired with high quality audio performance. Ultra compact in design, they still pack a serious punch, with a 1000-watt true peak class D amplifier tucked neatly away in their lightweight yet durable polypropylene cab.These loudspeakers might be QSC’s entry-level models, but make no mistake – they’re no slouch. Both the CP8 and CP12 offer incredible sound clarity and the all-important reliability that makes them a dependable choice for singer-songwriters, open mic venues, small corporate events, or even churches and other small hall gatherings. All while being compact enough to load into the back of a hatchback. Throw in a subwoofer, like one from the QSC KS Range, and your Class speakers will be good to go in medium-sized venues. In the unlikely event that anything does go wrong, you’ve got that piece of mind of a six-year warranty to fall back on.CP Series Compact Powered Loudspeakers from QSC
Key Features:
- 1000W Class D amplifier
- Lightweight & ultra-compact
- Polypropylene cabinet
- Versatile use
- Built-in digital signal processor
- 6-year warranty with registration
K Class: K.2 Series
Next up, the K.2 Series, which includes the K8.2, K10.2, and K12.2. These are pro-grade loudspeakers built to handle more demanding gigs and environments. If you’re regularly playing larger venues or need maximum versatility from your rig, these should be at the top of your list.Boasting an advanced digital signal processing system with an LCD interface and multiple I/O routing options, these premium active loudspeakers bring audio to life with unparalleled, next-level professional sound quality. When you’re filling larger venues, you need more than excellent clarity – you need a speaker that packs a real wallop. With the QSC K Class, this comes courtesy of the 2025-watt true peak class D amps driving the sound.Of course, any premium piece of gear needs to be paired with a solid, reliable construction, and there are no concerns on that front here. With a rugged ABS cabinet, you’re getting a heavy-duty, scratch-resistant speaker that can handle whatever you throw at it – which looks great too.Smart yet rugged, elegant and loud, the K.2 Series loudspeakers are the perfect modern loudspeaker solution for a whole host of environments. They’re equally at home in a DJ booth, live venue, corporate AV environment, or festival stage. And with clever features including setting presets, scene recall functions, and two different pole-mount angles, they pack an insane amount of versatility that means they might just be the only loudspeakers you need, no matter how many different event types you’re providing audio for.Tech Talk – K.2 Series Powered Loudspeakers – Back Panel Navigation
Key Features
- 2025W Class D amplifier
- Advanced DSP with LCD interface
- Multiple input/output routing options
- Integrated delay module
- Two pole-mount angles
- Rugged ABS housing
KC12 Column System
While the CP and K.2 models stick to traditional loudspeaker form factors, the KC12 Column System brings something entirely different to the table. Combining portability, performance, and smart design, this three-way speaker system is ideal for users who want a powerful yet discreet setup that’s as visually sleek as it is sonically capable.At the heart of the KC12 Column, is a 12″ subwoofer, complemented by dual 4″ midrange drivers and a high-frequency compression driver, all working together under QSC’s proprietary LEAF waveguide technology for uniform coverage and excellent projection. With a peak output of 3000 watts and a max SPL of 132 dB, it’s more than capable of handling everything from intimate live performances, to thumping mobile DJ sets.There’s a full suite of digital controls via the onboard display too, including essentials like EQ shaping, subwoofer gain, delay module, presets, and external subwoofer output, all giving you extensive DSP functionality right at your fingertips. Add to that low-latency Bluetooth streaming (with the ability to pair up to four systems), and you’ve got a seriously flexible system that can adapt to just about any live sound scenario.But despite all that power and tech, the KC12 remains a highly portable. The top speaker and pole pack neatly into the included tote bag, while the subwoofer (constructed from sturdy 12 mm birch ply) is rugged enough to take a beating but still light enough to be manageable. Utilising a mix of ABS, aluminium, and steel in its construction, this is a system that’s built for the road – and available in both black and white finishes, it looks every bit as good on stage as it sounds.
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