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QSC KS212C K Cardioid Dual 12" Powered Subwoofer

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KS Series Active Subwoofers – Bass Your Way!

Tech Talk- Keeping Bass in its place: KS Series Cardioid Subwoofer Solutions

QSC KS212C K Cardioid Dual 12inch Powered Subwoofer

Description
The QSC KS212C cardioid subwoofer redefines low-frequency control by delivering a groundbreaking solution for bass management in both mobile and installed audio setups. As the world's first single-box powered cardioid subwoofer, it eliminates the common issue of wasted low-end energy radiating behind the speaker. At its core, a 3,600W Class-D amplifier powers dual 12" long-excursion drivers housed in a 6th-order band-pass enclosure, generating a remarkable 15dB more output in front than behind the unit. This design ensures the bass stays directed toward the audience, offering pristine low-end performance without interfering with stage sound or DJ setups.
Cardioid Design for Focused Low End
The KS212C's innovative cardioid design provides unprecedented control over low-frequency dispersion. Unlike traditional subwoofers that radiate sound in all directions, this model directs the majority of its bass energy forward while minimizing unwanted noise behind the unit. Professional-grade DSP technology enhances this effect, allowing the subwoofer to deliver a focused and impactful sound for audiences while keeping the stage or booth free of bass interference. This precision ensures improved clarity and more immersive audio experiences in live sound applications.
High-Powered Amplification for Deep Bass
Powering the KS212C is a robust 3,600W Class-D amplifier, driving two 12" long-excursion drivers with incredible efficiency. These drivers are arranged in a 6th order bandpass design, allowing the subwoofer to produce tight, chest-thumping bass that extends to the lowest frequencies. This advanced configuration ensures a dynamic low-end response that is both impactful and controlled, making it ideal for high-energy performances or bass-heavy playback. The amplifier's clean power output keeps distortion at bay, providing consistent performance at high volumes.
Professional DSP for Optimized Performance
Advanced DSP technology is at the heart of the KS212C, ensuring optimal performance in every scenario. The onboard processing intelligently manages system parameters such as phase alignment, crossover points and time delays for seamless integration with other speakers. This results in a perfectly balanced sound system with precise low-end reproduction. Additionally, the DSP system actively monitors the subwoofer's performance, protecting it from thermal or electrical overload to ensure reliable operation even during demanding gigs.
A Cardioid Subwoofer Built for Rigorous Use
Crafted with a robust wooden enclosure and a tour-grade painted finish, the KS212C is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. The heavy-duty construction ensures durability while maintaining acoustic integrity, even during frequent transport or high-output operation. Ergonomic aluminum handles and four low-noise casters make moving the 88-lb. enclosure a simple task, while dual M20 pole sockets enable flexible mounting options in both upright and horizontal orientations. This rugged design ensures the KS212C performs reliably in diverse environments, from live venues to permanent installations.
Precision Bass for Mobile and Installed Applications
The QSC KS212C cardioid subwoofer offers unparalleled low-end control in a portable format, making it an essential tool for mobile DJs, live sound engineers and venue operators. Its cardioid pattern keeps bass focused on the audience while minimizing unwanted stage interference, and its durable construction ensures it can handle the demands of professional use. Whether you need accurate low-frequency reinforcement for live performances or a permanent installation, the KS212C delivers exceptional results in a compact, transportable design.

Features
- 3,600W Class-D amplifier delivers powerful bass for any venue
- Cardioid design minimizes unwanted low-frequency energy on stage
- Two 12" long-excursion drivers provide chest-thumping bass output
- 6th-order band-pass chambers enhance front-facing sound projection
- Produces 15dB more bass output in front than behind
- Low-noise heavy-duty casters make transportation smooth and effortless
- Dual M20 sockets allow flexible speaker pole mounting options
Specs
- Active/passive: Active
- Type: Subwoofer
- LF driver: 2 x 12"
- MF driver: Not applicable
- HF driver: Not applicable
- Amplifier class: D
- Wattage: 3,600W (peak)
- Mixer/preamp: N
- Frequency response: 44Hz–104Hz
- Coverage pattern: Cardioid
- Max SPL: 132dB
- XLR: 2 combo
- TRS: Not applicable
- TS: Not applicable
- RCA: Not applicable
- speakON: Not applicable
- XLR: 2 combo
- TRS: Not applicable
- TS: Not applicable
- RCA: Not applicable
- speakON: Not applicable
- Cabinet material: Wood
- Width: 15"
- Height: 24"
- Depth: 33"
- Weight: 88 lb.
Featured Articles
Reviews
4.43
14 Reviews
82%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend
Most Liked Positive Review
Could not belive the power
I WANTED to hate this sub, I wanted it to be sub par, I wanted it to fail and sound like every other dual 12 out there. But holy mother of god this thing exceeded all of my expectations. When they said "3600 W" I thought they meant 900 rms, 3600 peak. I actually took the amplifier out of the sub and hooked it up to an amp dyno. Power to each of the cones (to 1% THD) is a solid 1200w with dynamic peaks up to 1800w per cone. So in reality the program power is about 2400w which is a LOT of power. The cardioid pattern is NO JOKE either, all of the bass energy is reflected forward. I had this sub set up at a gig (a rave in a 200 person room) under a table cloth paired with two qsc k12.2 tops (which I would also recommend) and one of my friends asked me what I was running, I told him to guess, he guessed I had my three turbosound IQ15b subs under the table. When I showed him the one qsc his jaw just about hit the floor. I then had him step into the booth and he became further amazed at the lack of bass energy on stage. We could have a conversation without raising out voices at all. Cannot stress how good this sub is.
Most Liked Negative Review
Disappointed with sub
I bought one of this sub in 11/18 while playing It for about an hour it smells like a burnt iron and the limit light will trip on. I also had the gain at 12 0: clock my set up are as follows pioneer SZ2 and QSCk10.2 tops with one KS212c sub I also have 2 QSC KW181 and the limit light never trip on. I called QSC about the problem and they told me probably I am over driving the sub which I am not. I tried another Dj controller and the same thing happened I have to turn the gain on the back of the sub to 10:o clock for the sub not to limit
- Pro Audio / DJ / Mixing10
- Performances4
- Outdoor Events / Games3
- Home Studio1
- Professional Recording1
- Pricey / Poor Value3
- Bulky/Heavy1
- Limited Functions1
- Unreliable1
- Experienced7
- Professional Musician3
- Novice1
- Good Audio9
- Easy To Use8
- Durable5
- Versatile5
- Compact4
Reviewed by 14 customers
Yes
submitted4 years ago
byTotalniceness
fromFlorida
Following up on my post from 2 years ago, had my unit repaired by Jayden electronics in Orlando they had to replace my amp. This sub is a killer, in my opinion it sound better than my kw181 but not as good as my Ks118. I sold my 2 kw 181
Nice smooth bass
submitted5 years ago
byDjgru
fromVa
I had two, they are smooth and provide a great sound...just not what I wanted as a DJ. Brought them back and got two kw181s. Much deeper hard hitting sound but now lots of bass comes to the rear. The 181 are great but bass drops off at maybe 50'? I've got my eye on the new 3600 watt 18s. I see they are hitting hard with bass. Two of the
Disappointed with sub
submitted5 years ago
byDj Totalnicness
fromFlorida
I bought one of this sub in 11/18 while playing It for about an hour it smells like a burnt iron and the limit light will trip on. I also had the gain at 12 0: clock my set up are as follows pioneer SZ2 and QSCk10.2 tops with one KS212c sub I also have 2 QSC KW181 and the limit light never trip on. I called QSC about the problem and they told me probably I am over driving the sub which I am not. I tried another Dj controller and the same thing happened I have to turn the gain on the back of the sub to 10:o clock for the sub not to limit
Low, tight bass.
submitted6 years ago
byJake
fromWI
Very powerful. Maybe the 18" has a lower frequency than 2 -12" speakers but this baby moves air. Pretty heavy but the wheels take the sting out of moving it. Used one sub with 4 K12.2s and it was huge.
I extremely recommend
Verified Buyer
submitted6 years ago
byROBERTO
fromUndisclosed
A High Quality Subwoofer Price should never be a issue
This Sub is the truth! I would reccomend this to anyone.
submitted6 years ago
byBig Sed
fromTexas
I use it for mobile DJing and it's a crowd mover. Music sound really well with the low bass this sub delivers.
Q&A
Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.
submitted3 years ago
asked byThat Guy From Brooklyn
fromBrooklyn, NY
Does this Subwoofer come with a loudspeaker extension pole?
It does not.