The Wharfedale Typhon AX12 is a dynamic and versatile active loudspeaker which has been designed to deliver exceptional sound clarity and power for a wide range of professional audio applications.
The speaker features a robust 12-inch LF driver, paired with a 1.4-inch titanium HF compression driver, meaning that the Typhon AX12 ensures a balanced audio experience with wide frequency response, whether for live performances, DJ sets, or public speaking events. Its Class D amplifier provides a hefty 1,400 watts of peak power, enabling it to effortlessly handle high sound pressure levels while maintaining precise fidelity.
Engineered by English manufacturer Wharfdale with durability and portability in mind, the Typhon AX12 sports a rugged polypropylene enclosure that is lightweight whilst still being resilient to knocks, making it ideal for mobile setups or permanent installations.
The inclusion of an advanced DSP suite provided four EQ preset options: flat, monitor, bass and punch, allowing the user to tailor the sound output to suit various environments and audio needs.
Designed for versatility, it can be pole-mounted, used as a floor monitor, or integrated into multi-speaker arrays. The Wharfedale Typhon AX12 stands out as a reliable solution for those seeking professional-grade performance with user-friendly features at a competitive price.
Typhon AX12 Connectivity
Connectivity on the Typhon AX12 is highly flexible with its dual XLR/TRS combo inputs, XLR link output, and Bluetooth compatibility for wireless audio streaming. This means that you can plug directly into the speaker(s) using a balanced XLR or 1/4inch (6.35mm) jack cable to either input channel.
The Channel A connector offers switchable microphone (mic) or line level input. Channel B also provides a line level input, switchable with the Bluetooth connection, which is explained in more detail further down the page.
Pole-Mounting The Typhon AX12
The Typhon AX12 has a pole-mount receptacle underneath the bottom of the speaker, allowing the speaker to radiate over a further distance and maximising the observed sound fidelity.
- Assemble speaker poles, widening legs to maximum and tightening screws to ensure they are sturdy and stable.
- Lift the speaker above the pole and place onto the pole-mount receptacle.
- Whilst still supporting the speaker, tighten the lock screw to fix the speaker on the pole – no movement should be present.
- Locate the speakers in a location where they will not be a trip hazard
Typhon AX12 Connection Options
Connecting to the Wharfedale Typhon AX12 speaker can be achieved in a number of ways:
- XLR-connector cable – (Channel A/B) line-level input from DJ equipment, a mixer output or other connected line-level source
- Jack plug (1/4 inch) – (Channel A/B) 6.35mm) cable – as above, often used by bands/musicians
- Bluetooth connection – (Channel B) from your computer, tablet or smartphone (Android or Apple)
Microphones provide a very weak signal to the speaker, and as such need pre-amplification (extra boosting) than the signal coming from DJ/hifi equipment/a mixer output or other music sources. When using a microphone, make sure that Channel A is used and the “Mic” slide-switch on the back of the speaker is on.
Music sources are almost always at line level, a much stronger signal than a microphone, so no extra boosting is needed. When using a music source connected by a cable, use either Channel A with the “Mic” slide-switch on the back of the speaker TURNED OFF. Failing to do this can permanently damage the speaker. You can also connect a music source to Channel B, with the switch set to “Line”.
Full details of the connections for the Typhon AX12 are available in the manual.
Connecting Via XLR or Jack
Connecting to the speakers via XLR or via a jack lead is the same process; use high quality cables to connect directly to the speakers.
It’s possible that your XLR or 1/4 inch jack lead at the speaker end requires a different connector on the device end (such as an RCA or 3.5mm jack) to allow connection to your device. An adaptor may be needed.This is covered in more detail in the video.
- Ensure the speakers are turned off.
- Choose a free Channel input (either A or B, whichever is free).
- Switch the channel selector to the “Line” option (NOT “Mic”).
- Turn the volume level to about half way.
- Plug in the XLR / jack lead
- Plug in the other end of the lead to your device **
** It is unlikely that your smartphone, tablet or computer device has an XLR or 1/4 jack socket. As such you will need an adapter to convert to the appropriate connection (probably a 3.5mm jack plug). This is detailed in the video.
Connecting Via Bluetooth
A Bluetooth connection is the easiest method to connect to your speakers, whilst also super reliable. You can pair the speakers in stereo via Bluetooth and then connect your phone or other device. Using Bluetooth, the only cables required are mains power to each speaker, meaning they can be located up to 8 metres apart.
- Turn on the speakers.
- Turn the volume level to about half way.
Pair The Speakers:
- Press and hold the “PAIR” button on the rear of each speaker
- The “ST” LED will blink and then change to solid when linked.
Now Link Your Device
- Press and release the “PAIR” button on one of the speakers.
- Now select the “Wharfedale PRO BT” on your source device.
- The “BT” LED will change to solid when paired. The selected speaker will be the left stereo channel.
- If you wish to disconnect Bluetooth, press and hold the “PAIR” button for 5 secs.
Transmission distances: When using a single speaker, the range from the device to the speaker is up to 15 meters. When using two speakers in stereo link mode, the range between the device and speaker is reduced to 10m maximum. The stereo-linked speakers themselves can be 8 metres apart maximum.
Connecting Microphone(s)
Connecting a microphone to the speakers can be done using a wired or wireless microphone system. Either option is connected via Channel A (XLR or Jack plug).
- Ensure the speakers are turned off.
- Switch the “Mic” slide switch to on.
- Turn the volume level to about half way.
- Plug in your microphone – either a wireless receiver or wired lead.
- Wireless Mic – Turn on your microphone, link to the receiver, adjust the volume on the mic and test.
- Wired Mic – If present, turn on the mic on switch and test.
When not in use, it is best to turn the microphone off (if it has a switch) to avoid feedback when near to the speakers.