Best Powered DJ Speakers: A Comprehensive Guide for DJs
As a DJ, your sound system is the lifeblood of your performance. You want a system that’s powerful, reliable, and easy to use. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. In this article, we’ll break down the best powered DJ speakers on the market and help you find the right one for your needs.
1. Introduction
As a DJ, you know that having a powerful and reliable sound system is essential to your performance. And when it comes to speakers, there are two main types: passive and powered. Passive speakers require an external amplifier to power them, while powered speakers have a built-in amplifier.
In this article, we’ll focus on powered DJ speakers, which are a popular choice among DJs due to their ease of use and convenience. We’ll break down the key factors to consider when choosing powered DJ speakers, highlight some of the top options on the market, and provide tips for setting up and using your speakers.
2. What are Powered DJ Speakers?
Powered DJ speakers, also known as active speakers, are speakers that have a built-in amplifier. This means that they can be plugged directly into your mixer without the need for an external amplifier. This makes them a popular choice among DJs who want a simple and easy-to-use sound system.
3. Why Choose Powered DJ Speakers?
There are several benefits to choosing powered DJ speakers over passive speakers:
- Convenience: With built-in amplifiers, powered speakers are easier to set up and use than passive speakers, which require an external amplifier.
- Space-saving: Because you don’t need an external amplifier, powered speakers take up less space than passive speakers and are easier to transport.
- Cost-effective: While powered speakers may be more expensive upfront than passive speakers, they can save you money in the long run by eliminating the need for an external amplifier.
4. Factors to Consider When Choosing Powered DJ Speakers
When choosing powered DJ speakers, there are several factors to consider:
Power Output
The power output of a speaker is measured in watts and determines how loud the speaker can get. A higher wattage means a louder sound, but it’s important to choose a speaker with the right amount of power for your needs. Consider the size of the venue you’ll be playing in and the type of music you’ll be playing when choosing a speaker.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a speaker measures the range of frequencies it can reproduce. A wider frequency response means that the speaker can reproduce a wider range of sounds, resulting in a more accurate and balanced sound.
SPL (Sound Pressure Level)
The SPL of a speaker measures how loud it can get without distortion. A higher SPL means a louder sound, but it’s important to choose a speaker with a level that won’t damage your hearing or the speaker itself.
Connectivity
Consider the connectivity options of the speaker, including inputs and outputs. Most powered DJ speakers will have XLR, RCA, and/or TRS inputs, which allow you to connect to a mixer or other audio source. Some speakers may also have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, which can be convenient for streaming music from a smartphone or other device.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the speaker are important factors to consider, especially if you plan on transporting your sound system to different venues. Look for a speaker that is portable and easy to carry, but still has enough power to fill the room.
Durability
Durability is also an important factor, especially if you plan on using your speakers for gigs and events. Look for speakers that are made from high-quality materials and have a sturdy construction that can withstand regular use and transportation.
5. Top Powered DJ Speakers on the Market
Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing powered DJ speakers, let’s take a look at some of the top options on the market:
JBL EON615
The JBL EON615 is a powerful and versatile speaker that is perfect for DJs. It has a peak power output of 1000 watts and a frequency response range of 39 Hz to 20 kHz. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, which makes it easy to stream music from a smartphone or other device. The JBL EON615 is also lightweight and easy to transport, making it a great choice for mobile DJs.
QSC K12.2
The QSC K12.2 is another powerful and versatile speaker that is popular among DJs. It has a peak power output of 2000 watts and a frequency response range of 45 Hz to 20 kHz. It also features a built-in DSP (digital signal processor) that provides advanced EQ and crossover settings for optimal sound quality. The QSC K12.2 is also durable and well-built, making it a great choice for DJs who need a reliable speaker.
Mackie Thump15A
The Mackie Thump15A is a budget-friendly option that still delivers great sound quality. It has a peak power output of 1300 watts and a frequency response range of 32 Hz to 23 kHz. It also features Mackie’s signature “Built-Like-A-Tank” construction, which makes it durable and able to withstand regular use and transportation.
Electro-Voice ZLX-12BT
The Electro-Voice ZLX-12BT is a compact and lightweight speaker that delivers great sound quality. It has a peak power output of 1000 watts and a frequency response range of 50 Hz to 20 kHz. It also features Bluetooth connectivity and an easy-to-use control panel, which makes it a great choice for DJs who want a simple and convenient speaker.
Behringer Eurolive B112D
The Behringer Eurolive B112D is another budget-friendly option that still delivers great sound quality. It has a peak power output of 1000 watts and a frequency response range of 50 Hz to 20 kHz. It also features Behringer’s proprietary “Class-D” amplifier technology, which provides high efficiency and low distortion.
6. How to Set Up and Use Powered DJ Speakers
Now that you’ve chosen the right powered DJ speakers for your needs, it’s important to set them up properly and use them effectively. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your speakers:
Positioning Your Speakers
When positioning your speakers, it’s important to consider the acoustics of the room. Ideally, you want to position your speakers at ear level and in a way that maximizes their coverage of the room. Avoid placing them in corners or against walls, as this can affect the sound quality.
Connecting Your Speakers
When connecting your speakers, make sure to use the appropriate cables and connect them to the correct inputs/outputs. If you’re using a mixer, connect the mixer to the speakers using XLR, RCA, or TRS cables.
Adjusting the EQ Settings
To get the best sound quality from your speakers, it’s important to adjust the EQ settings. Most powered DJ speakers will have built-in EQ settings that allow you to adjust the bass, treble, and other frequencies. Experiment with these settings to find the optimal sound for your venue and music.
Using Your Speakers with Subwoofers
If you want to add extra bass to your sound system, consider using subwoofers in addition to your powered DJ speakers. Make sure to connect the subwoofers to the correct outputs on your mixer and adjust the EQ settings accordingly.
Protecting Your Speakers
To ensure the longevity of your powered DJ speakers, it’s important to protect them from damage. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, humidity, or moisture. Use protective cases when transporting them, and avoid dropping or mishandling them.
Conclusion
Choosing the best powered DJ speakers for your needs requires careful consideration of several factors, including power output, sound quality, connectivity, size and weight, and durability. By taking the time to research and compare different options, you can find the right speakers that will deliver the optimal sound for your gigs and events.
FAQs
- What is a powered DJ speaker? A powered DJ speaker is a type of speaker that has a built-in amplifier and does not require an external power source.
- Can I use powered DJ speakers for other purposes besides DJing? Yes, powered DJ speakers can be used for a variety of purposes, including live performances, parties, and events.
- What is the difference between active and passive speakers? Active speakers, also known as powered speakers, have a built-in amplifier, while passive speakers require an external amplifier to power them.
- How do I know if a speaker is durable? Look for speakers that are made from high-quality materials, have a sturdy construction, and are designed to withstand regular use and transportation.
- Do I need to use subwoofers with my powered DJ speakers? While subwoofers are not necessary, they can help enhance the bass and overall sound quality of your system.