The d&b audiotechnik E12 is a 2-way passive point source loudspeaker from the d&b E-Series. A workhorse cabinet for AV installs, theatre fills, conferences and live music tops in small to mid-size venues. Pole-mountable, fly-rigged or ground-stacked, with d&b’s trademark coherent coverage. Dry hire from passive speakers at STLS.
Specs At A Glance
| Type | 2-way passive point source loudspeaker |
|---|---|
| Drivers | 12″ LF + 1.3″ HF compression driver |
| Dispersion | 90° x 50° (rotatable horn) |
| Frequency Response | 59 Hz – 18 kHz |
| Max SPL | 134 dB peak |
| Power Handling | 400W AES (10ms peak) |
| Recommended Amp | d&b D20, D40 or D80 amplifier with E12 preset |
| Weight | 19 kg |
What’s Included In Dry Hire
Each E12 hire comes with the cabinet, NL4 speakon cables and PAT certificate on request. Matched d&b D20, D40 or D80 amplifier with the correct E12 preset loaded available as a paired hire. Fly hardware and pole mounts on request.
Key Features
- 12 inch LF driver with 1.3 inch HF compression driver
- Rotatable 90° x 50° horn for FOH or monitor use
- Solid mid-range punch and natural high frequency response
- Pole-mountable on M20 fittings, fly-able or ground-stackable
- Pair with d&b D20, D40 or D80 amps with E12 preset
- 134 dB max SPL, plenty for theatre, conference and small live venues
- Touring-grade build with NL4 speakon connections
- Compact size makes it easy to fly or ground stack in tight rooms
Common Uses
Theatre fills, conference and AV tops, corporate launches, small to mid-size live music venues (under 500 cap), stage monitors (rotate the horn), broadcast monitoring and houses of worship. Use as a standalone pair or paired with d&b E-SUB / B22 for full-range work.
Similar Or Alternative Speakers
Need bigger output or different coverage? See our passive speaker range for d&b V-Series (V10P, V8, V12), Y-Series and KSL line array. Need active instead? See active speaker hire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amp do I need for the d&b E12?
Pair the E12 with a d&b D20, D40 or D80 amplifier with the E12 preset loaded. The amp is what gives the cabinet its tuning and limiter protection.
Can the E12 be used as a stage monitor?
Yes. The 90° x 50° horn is rotatable, so the cabinet works as a monitor wedge on its side, or upright as an FOH top.
What’s the dispersion of the E12?
90 degrees horizontal by 50 degrees vertical. The horn is field-rotatable to swap to 50 x 90 if you need taller coverage.
How many E12s do I need?
A pair covers most rooms up to 300-400 cap as standalone tops. For bigger venues, pair with E-SUB or B22 for low end, or step up to V-Series for higher SPL.
Is the E12 pole-mountable?
Yes. M20 pole socket fitted. Can also be fly-rigged with d&b fly-bar accessories or ground-stacked on E-SUBs.
What’s the difference between the E12 and the V10P?
The E12 is the E-Series workhorse for theatre and AV. The V10P is V-Series, smaller cabinet, tighter dispersion (80° x 40°) and higher SPL (138 dB). The V10P scales bigger; the E12 is broader and more cost-effective for general use.
Hire The d&b E12
Send us your dates, venue and intended use. We’ll spec the right amp pairing and quote. Collect from our Surrey depot or we’ll deliver UK-wide.
Get a quote or call us direct.




