Polk Real Time Array Model 12 - These are classic, large, floor-standing speaker from 1979 known for Polks innovative design featuring dual 5.25-inch laminated polymer mid/bass drivers and a 12-inch passive radiator for deep bass, and 1" dome tweeter high end , often praised as excellent sound capability without breaking the bank. These represent the first Model 12 (A) in a series of Three (later B and C Versions) RTA speakers . The original RTA 12 models are often described as having a warmer overall response with a prominent low end , and "in your face"midrange vocals" , which was improved by DALAUDIO crossover rebuild.
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Recent Service by DALAUDIO - The crossovers have been completely rebuilt, with high quality Dayton Audio DMPC Capacitors with far better tolerances than the original. All 6 capacitors in each crossover were removed, matched and replaced. DALAUDIO rebuilt the top cloth structure which is usually destroyed or not available on Model A speakers. Please see photos. The speakers then were fully tested with a RTA (Real TIme Speaker Analyzer) and the difference was amazing. The speakers are in VGC condition with very minor blemishes for their age. A wonderful listening experience. They do require power, and I would recommend a minimum of 100 WPC even though they can be drive with less.
Specifications:
- Type: Floorstanding, Passive Radiator
- Drivers: Two 5.5-inch (5-1/2") Laminated Polymer Cone Drivers (Bass/Midrange)
- Tweeters: 1-inch Dome Tweeter
- Passive Radiator: 12-inch flat diaphragm
- Frequency Response: Around 50 Hz - 20,000 Hz (±3 dB)
- Nominal Impedance: 4-6 Ohms (varies slightly by source)
- Sensitivity: Approximately 87 dB
- Power Handling: Recommended 10-500 watts per channel (variable)
- Crossover: Complex, acoustic crossover for the radiators at 60 Hz and electronic crossover for the tweeter around 2,000 Hz.
- Dimensions (Approx.): 34" H x 16" W x 12" D
- Weight (Approx.): 55 lbs each
Key Characteristics:
Freq Response: very broad response, achieving flat response within ±3dB from 50Hz-20kHz.
Sound Profile: Known for good performance, but most listeners found stock versions benefited significantly from capacitor upgrades (re-capping) and dampening to improve midrange clarity and reduce "shoutiness", which has been done by DALAUDIO.
Power Handling: Generally demanding, with some users finding more powerful amplifiers brought out their best overall performances.
Finish: Rosewood vinyl version
Size & Weight: A substantial speaker, around 37 inches tall and weighing about 75 pounds, requiring significant space.
Why People Love Them (Vintage Appeal):
- Performance: Considered high-fidelity speakers for their era, offering excellent sound quality for the price.
- Classic Look: Their large, classic wooden cabinets appeal to vintage audio collectors.
What Users Say:
Vintage Value: A popular choice for affordable, high-performance vintage audio.
Modification Potential: Highly modifiable; re-capping crossovers greatly improved sound
Bass: The passive radiator design provided strong bass, though sometimes described as boomy if not properly treated or amplified.
In essence, the Polk RTA 12 series offered great value and performance for its era, becoming a favorite for DIY upgrades to achieve even better sound quality.
