M&K Sound X8 X10 X12 Subwoofers Preview

M&K Sound rolled out the three new subwoofers today under the "X Series" lineup, the X8, X10, and X12. Featuring dual active drivers in a push-pull design, THX certification, and XLR passthrough, they deserve a little closer look.

Starting with the big dog of the group, the X12 sports dual 12" drivers mounted in opposite phase with aluminum shorting rings and pole spacers, cast baskets, 2" overhung voice coils, and coated, pulp cones. The driver is reported to be long-throw but xmax is not specified. One of the drivers is front facing, while the other is mounted on the bottom of the enclosure facing up, into the sealed enclosure that houses the front firing driver. The back of the bottom mounted driver is in open air, and plainly visible through the large slotted port on the front of the cabinet. Of course, it can be covered by utilizing the grill. The amp is 400w RMS, 700w peak. M&K Sound rates the X12 at 20 - 200Hz +/- 3db, in fact all three subwoofers in the lineup offer the same frequency response; however, no SPL is listed. The X12 is no lightweight at 79.3lbs, and isn't small either at 17.3"W x 26"H x 18.1"D. The cabinet is made of 22mm thick MDF.

MK Sound X12 Port

On the rear of the unit are adjustments for variable phase (0-180), low pass filter, and gain (with a THX fixed/variable switch). Inputs are generous with stereo balanced and RCA passthough.

Moving down one level to the X10, the only changes are in driver size, amplifier power, and weight and size of the unit. As you might be able to guess, the drivers are dual 10" instead of dual 12". The amplifier drops to 350w RMS, 650w peak. Weight drops by 17.6lbs to 61.7lbs and overall dimensions to 14.9"W x 22"H x 16.5"D.

Finally, stepping down to the X8 you are left with dual 8" drivers, a 300w RMS, 600w peak amp and a respectable 48.5lbs of heft. Dimensions are 12.2" x 18.5" x 16.5".

 M&K Sound X12 Rear Panel

If you want to step up to M&K Sound Subwoofers, it's gonna cost a bit of coin:

• X8 -   $1,900.00
• X10 - $2,600.00
• X12 - $3,200.00
  

MK Sound isn't known for cheap, and dual active drivers, THX certification and XLR inputs aren't common features to find on "budget" units.  We have high expectations that these products will deliver and live up to the heritage of the M&K Sound reputation forged so many years ago.  Stay tuned for our formal reviews.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.