Floorstanding loudspeakers — PMC QB1-A

The QB1-A is a large active floorstanding loudspeaker from PMC, built with a distinctive footprint proportion among the brand's active flagship models. This model stands out within PMC's active range specifically for its unusual cabinet proportions, favouring width over height compared with the brand's more conventionally tower-shaped flagship designs.

Position in line

It sits below the BB6 XBD-A in PMC's active hierarchy, sharing the same internal amplification budget in a differently proportioned cabinet. This shared amplification specification with the considerably taller BB6 XBD-A confirms the QB1-A represents an alternative cabinet geometry solution rather than a lower-tier amplification package within PMC's flagship active range.

Key specs that matter

Rated response is 20 Hz to 25 kHz. Internal amplification totals 275 + 550 + 2400 W across three bands, matching the BB6 XBD-A exactly. At 82.0 x 109.2 x 52.3 cm and 150 kg it is the heaviest model in this comparison, with an unusually wide rather than tall footprint, likely reflecting a different internal transmission-line folding approach than PMC's taller tower designs use.

Sound and use context

Expect the same highly controlled, full-range presentation as PMC's other large active models, delivered from a differently shaped enclosure that may suit different room geometries - a useful alternative for a room where a wide, lower-profile cabinet fits better than a tall, narrow tower.

Pairing

As an active design, no external power amplifier is used - a line-level source feeds the internal amplification directly.

Alternatives

The BB6 XBD-A shares the same amplification budget in a taller, narrower cabinet shape, worth comparing directly on room fit before choosing between these two closely matched but differently proportioned flagship options. The unusual wide-format cabinet here may also suit a room where a conventional tall tower would look visually awkward or where ceiling height is constrained, worth discussing directly with a PMC dealer given how specialised this particular cabinet geometry is. Structural floor loading deserves careful assessment given the exceptional 150 kg weight this model represents. Overall this remains a specialist choice best discussed directly with a PMC dealer before committing. A qualified installer familiar with PMC transmission-line designs is worth engaging for setup.