In addition to being a private violin teacher, Alecia started writing music-related articles 3 years ago and has been enjoying this experience greatly. Loves quilting and scrapbooking in her free time.
Marcus has a vast experience in digital audio and sound design. Thanks to his knowledge, he actively helps musicians with technical problems, improving their audio quality and even promoting their tracks so that thousands of listeners could enjoy some really good music.
Last updated: May 31, 2023
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Of course, all DJs have a pro audio system but, anyone who has a powered speaker or two as part of their DJing arsenal knows better. You’re likely to get tons of uses from powered speakers as a DJ, and they hardly break down. First off, they are a perfect choice for live audio. You can use them for band practicing or gigs because they have excellent backstage monitor speakers. Additionally, they come in handy for compact gigs, small venues, and large house parties because they are highly flexible.
Before buying the best powered speaker for DJ, there is a lot to consider, especially with the multiple brands and models that overflow in the market. There are tons of options that picking one that suits you would be daunting. We came up with this guide to help you make the best decision easily. We considered 32 products for the review but ended up with detailed reviews for 10 products. Of all the products reviewed, the QSC K12.2 Active Loudspeaker emerged the best overall pick. Its high power, clever design, and superior features could not be matched.
You can trust the products we reviewed to be the best in the market, owing to all the efforts we put in conducting research regarding time and sources. Some of the features on which we based our choices and rankings include; weight, dimensions, rated SPL, size, maximum power, frequency range, and many others. They determine the quality and performance level of speakers. There are a table, detailed product reviews, and a buying guide in the end with all the ideal information you need to have before buying powered speakers.
This is the ultimate high-end powered speaker for the professional DJ or musician. Though a bit pricier, it offers outstanding value for money, versatility, and great power with its superior features.
The speaker comes in a clean, professional, and attractive design. It is solidly built with an impact-resistant ABS core and a front grille with cloth lining for extra protection. It is incredibly lightweight, and with the aluminum handles, you can easily carry them from one place to another.
Additionally, with its angular design, you can use this speaker as the main output or in a floor monitor position. The design makes it more flexible and easy to incorporate into your sound setup.
When it comes to sound quality, which btw is the main aspect to consider when buying a speaker, the K12.2 is a monster. It has mid and highs that are remarkably clear, and you can get an even distribution of sound in both small and large venues. Plus, unlike many speakers, it lacks ear fatigue, its sound quality will not irritate your ears.
With a 2000 watts class-D amplifier and a solid frequency response of 45 Hz – 20kHz, you will get the best coverage of frequencies. It also features a loud 126dB at 1 meter, which ensures that sound travels well even at a distance. This also means you wouldn’t have to push the speaker to full power to get a good sound.
What’s more, the speaker has a wide array of functional and useful tuning options for maximum enjoyment of its capabilities. There is an LCD screen that you can easily navigate using a specific dial and 2 buttons.
You will also appreciate the speaker’s ability to save scenes and, no one has to fiddle with your preset once you lock the settings.
Overall, this is one of the best dependable power speakers for a mobile DJ out there. You would make the best lifetime investment if you can part with what it costs.
Are you on the market for a premium upgrade of your standard speakers? Well, this should be your prime choice. Whether you are a DJ, live musician, or PA, you will highly benefit from the power and versatility that this multipurpose speaker system has to offer.
Put together with experience and expertise; the Eurolive B112D is a perfect lightweight, highly portable speaker that does not sacrifice power. It comes in a versatile trapezoidal design that allows you to mount on a pole or use it as a floor monitor. Despite its lightweight body, it is sturdily built to last long.
A big plus for this speaker is its wireless capability. This makes setting up pretty easy and hassle-free for you: no more messy wires and hanging receivers.
With a 1000 watt 2-way PA system, this is one of the best powered PA speakers for DJs and musicians. It delivers a phenomenal sound, and it is engineered to reduce distortion levels.
Furthermore, for an ultra-wide dispersion of sound, the speaker features a large-format exponential horn. You will also get the best bass sound for your events thanks to the 12-inch excursion driver that boosts the powerful sound from the speaker.
You can connect the speaker with additional speaker systems to maximize your sound output thanks to its additional line output.
If you are a DJ that does a lot of mic preamps and provide low-noise sounds, this is an ideal pick for you. The speaker features a built-in mixing capability, volume control and, clip LEDs for convenience and versatility.
Unlike many speakers, this will run cool for hours as it features a switch-mode power supply technology that keeps heat sinks in check.
In conclusion, this speaker’s high-end features and superior functionality cannot be ignored, especially if you are a professional DJ. You also don’t have to dig deep into your pockets to get one.
Why are we impressed?
Lightweight and durable build
Excellent sound quality
Built-in mixing capability
Ergonomic design
Great power
Wireless capability
SMPS technology that keeps it cool for hours
Offers excellent value for money
What negatives must you be aware of?
Can develop harsher high-end sounds during input clippin
Bose is a renowned company, famous for their revolutionized live sound for solo artists and small ensembles with their innovative speakers. The F1 flexible Array is one of their thoughtful creations that optimizes portability, power, and ease of use. It is an ideal choice for mobile DJs that perform for large audiences.
The speaker comes in a versatile, stunning, and professional-looking design that allows you to transform it to fill 4 different audience patterns. It is not the best lightweight speaker out there, but it will fit in your Tesla Model 3 Sedan perfectly. It is also sturdily built with scratch-resistant polypropylene material and ergonomic handles that make it easier and more comfortable to carry around.
When it comes to sound quality, nothing comes close to the clean, clear, and dimensional sounds that a Bose speaker produces. With 1000watts power and an SPL of 132dB, the speaker’s vocals are as clear as a bell and, the sounds are evenly distributed in long distances. Plus, its system automatically re-voices the EQ spectrum to maximize the sound of the speaker, so you literally set up and forget.
The speaker features 2 inputs for convenience and versatility. Each input channel has independent volume controls and signal indicators. Also featured is a system section that has a power/fault indicator, an XLR output, a limiting indicator, and a switch that regulates its frequency range.
All considered, this is one of the most powerful speakers for DJing in the market. The only pain that comes with owning it is its price but, if you can afford it, it is a worthy price.
This is one of the best 15-inch powered speakers for DJs in the market. Whether you choose to use it with a sub or not, you will get crisp, clean highs and tight deep lows for your large audiences.
The speaker comes in a lightweight super-durable body with a hi/lo grip design that allows you to mount it up on a pole easily. You will also be able to carry it around easily. Additionally, its split baffle design allows for superior driver time alignment and improved sonic impact.
The design is nice and clean, and it blends well in various situations. The grill on the front, made with tough steel together with a little LED, complete the elegant look.
What’s more, the speaker is incredibly easy to use. It is a perfect plug and play that just needs you to crank up the volume.
With 1000 watts and an SPL of 127dB, the speaker is set out to deliver the best sound quality across every detail. You will get evenly distributed high-quality sounds even at a distance, and you wouldn’t have to blast the speaker up for the best sound.
It is perfect for use as a main or a floor monitor, and its frequency range is also pretty impressive.
One big plus for this speaker is that you will be able to play for over 100 hours, and it will not rattle or fail. It has an astounding sound quality consistency.
You will be impressed by the multiple built-in controls on both input channels. What stands out the most is the integrated DSP sound control that allows you to choose a frequency spectrum that suits your sound and the room you are using. The sonic types include live, Music, and club.
You also get a bass and treble boost, and you can cut to tune the EQ whenever you like.
All considered, this is what you ought to get if you are budget conscious, and you are on the look for an exceptional portable loudspeaker.
What stands out?
Great power
High-quality sound
Great design
Does not heat up
Built DSP sound control
Lightweight and sturdy build
Pocket-friendly price
What cons did we manage to find?
It does not feature a fan and therefore heats up with time
QSC K10s are famous for their upscale tone and sonic performance. For a speaker of its kind and size, it does balance crisp highs and incredibly impactful bass quite well. It packs multiple convenient and superior features that make it highly powerful and versatile.
The speaker has a robust construction that will easily shrug off a few accidental knocks or scratches with ease. Its physics-defying lightness cannot be ignored as it is made with high-tech super durable plastic and well-built drivers. Thanks to its compact size and weight, you can easily carry it around.
The QSC K10.2 is a full-range speaker owing to its 1000 Watts RMS and a 10-inch woofer combined with a 1.75 inch compression driver. These guarantee you high frequencies and make the speaker super-loud for its size.
Also included are some intelligent features like a built-in limiter that prevent it from getting damaged if you operate it at high volumes all the time. It has EQ settings for highs and lows and a very effective DEEP setting for enhancing bass depth. Btw! This DEEP setting is not your typical ‘bass boost,’ but it intelligently improves the bass response without over-emphasis or creating muddied tones.
As for connectivity, there are 2 XLRs and 2 jack inputs.
Another praiseworthy feature of this speaker is that it remains clear even when you push the volume. Unlike most speakers, you wouldn’t reveal any hidden mud in the low end or offsetting crackles in the high.
Overall, this is a speaker that is very difficult to beat with its innovative combination of precision audio, awesome power, and lightness. And, you get a 6-year warranty.
If you prefer passive speakers or you’re looking for high-quality loudspeakers you can use at home, here is your ultimate pick. Like other ZLX-12Ps, this one has been made with Music in mind and not just volume to give you the best sounds ever.
The speaker comes in a professional-looking design with a body that optimizes sonic performance. Its front grills have a pattern that gives it a serious industrial look, and their angled edges are an excellent deviation from the common flat-faced speakers. In case you won’t be mounting it, you can count on its stability thanks to its rubber feet on the bottom.
Furthermore, the speaker is remarkably lightweight, and it features carry handles that allow easy carrying from place to place.
When it comes to sound quality, this speaker is a solid performer. Its mids and highs are crisp and well balanced. Singers can make the most of it because of its non-muddy precise vocals and smooth mid-tones.
The speaker only fails with a poor low-end that results in a low-quality bass, but, there are tuning options that can save the situation to some extent. It can give good coverage for your small venues, though.
The speaker boasts of a 12-inch woofer and a 1.5-inch titanium compression driver, which offers higher frequencies. At 126dB, it is very loud, and it can easily rip up a small venue. For a medium-sized venue, you will need a subwoofer backup.
Moreover, the speaker features a wide range of tuning options. First off, it includes a pretty large LCD screen that won’t require you to squint to make changes. Also, it features a knob that doubles as a volume and on-board DSP control.
As if that’s enough, the speaker features 4 modes through which you can adjust it to the playing conditions. They include; Music, speech, live, and club. It also features 2 input channels that are both combo jacks and support TRS or XLR connections.
In conclusion, this might not be the cheapest speaker in the market, but it is pocket-friendly, and it offers so many options and features which are hard to find at this point.
If you are looking for a speaker that will give the best sound in live events, this is your best shot. It is durably built in a compact design and provides very clear audio and high output levels, which are favorable for live sound applications.
The speaker has a solid ultra-lightweight body built with ABS plastic. It comes in a bass-reflex design for improved bass performance, especially with reduced turbulence. You can choose to place this speaker on the floor, but there are numerous mounting options provided. They include; a pole socket that allows mounting on a subwoofer and a U-bracket for wall mounting.
Additionally, you can use the speaker as a main or stage monitor thanks to its D-contour processor.
The speaker’s 10-inch woofer and 1.4-inch compression tweeter offer high-resolution audio with wide frequency response.
With a bi-amplified design, the speaker provides a combined peak output power of 1100W. This guarantees you a strong performance with minimal distortion. Also featured are XLR and RCA inputs as well as XLR thru and output connectors for a wide compatibility with various devices and sound systems.
At a maximum SPL of 131dB, the sound will be evenly distributed with ample coverage in small to medium-sized venues.
Overall, this is one of the best compact speakers with great sound quality suited for live performances. Plus, Yamaha is a trusted brand so that you can count on its quality.
What makes it stand out?
Lightweight and durable build
Compact bass-reflex design for great bass performance
Do you want a really good thump? Well, here is your best bet. The Mackie thump lives up to its name by firing a super-thick bass tone that will undoubtedly get your floor thumping. Its price is also pretty slim for its power and superior features.
This speaker, like all other Mackie thumps, can survive a bump or two pretty well thanks to its solid body made with impact-resistant tempered plastic. It is not the best lightweight speaker in the market, but it won’t break your back. Since it is made to be a rough-and-tough DJ speaker, it is one of the best you can get for the road.
When it comes to sound quality, nothing packs bass like the 12-inch woofer of this speaker. You can tune the frequencies up or down with the EQ featured to achieve a more balanced sound. It is built for low-end with a well-rounded enclosure that is warm and punchy. This makes it more suitable for parties and small venues.
All its connections, including a 3-band EQ and XLR or 1/4-inch combo, are simple and meant for normal DJ use.
Overall, this is one of the best speakers that will undoubtedly get your dance-floor thumping at such an affordable price and size.
Are you a musician or DJ always on the road? Well, this is one of the best dependable powered speakers for mobile DJs. It is incredibly lightweight and built with an ergonomic design that not only makes it highly portable but also great for various musical performances.
The speaker is designed to work in various configurations, including; as a floor monitor on its side or vertically, suspended from above, mounted on a pole, tripod stand, or subwoofer or stacked on each other with their molded feet.
Thanks to the speaker’s innovative combination of 1000W peak and a 12-inch woofer, which delivers a frequency range of 48Hz to 20kHz and an SPL output of 126dB, it produces a high-quality and clear sound which is evenly distributed even at a distance.
What sets it apart the most is its built-in DSP processor with a Bluetooth v.4 control. You can use your Android or iPhone to fine-tune the speaker in different acoustic environments. It also allows you to control the speaker’s 5-band EQ, adjust the master volume as well as save and recall presets.
Moreover, with a single button on the speaker, you can switch between the 4 different sound modes it offers. There is also a button for engaging the EQ, putting off the LED light, and changing the Bluetooth control.
All considered, this speaker delivers an excellent value for its price with its high-quality sounds and its sturdy body built for the rigors of transportation.
This is the ultimate pick if you want a big thump for your bucks. The speaker is a favorite for many because of its superior features, power, and exceptional accessories offered at a very pocket-friendly price.
The speaker has a rugged body made from high-impact ABS material. It features handles with an ergonomic design for easy carrying and setup.
With a high power 15-inch woofer and a 2-inch aluminum voice call, you are guaranteed of awesome bass response and clear sound reproduction. Additionally, you will get clear highs thanks to the 25mm Piezo Compression Horn featured.
The speaker also features built-in Bluetooth, an SD Digital music player, and a built-in FM radio.
A built-in equalizer, wireless remote control, and a ¼-inch cable for speaker to speaker connection will help you get the most out of the speaker.
When it comes to accessory, nothing comes close to the Pair Rockville RPG15 1Active DJ PA Speakers. It comes with 2 rugged tripod stands and a wired microphone.
All in all, this is the best speaker you can get in the market if you value the convenience of a full-fledged package. It offers too much for its price thus, worth the buy.
What are our favorite features?
Very affordable
Great power
Great sounds
Bluetooth
FM radio
2 tripod stands and wired mic
What could be better?
Not the best for deep bass
Things to Consider
When it comes to delivering exhilarating music that gets people moving, every DJ knows that the quality of their sound equipment is critical. Powered speakers hold a central role among the essential items in a DJ’s kit. As you seek the best powered speakers for DJing, numerous considerations and options may confront you. This buying guide aims to make this task easier by explaining various aspects related to powered speakers, offering tips on choosing the best equipment for your needs, and providing advice on optimizing speaker performance.
Understanding Powered Speakers and Their Specifications
In the realm of sound equipment, speakers come in two main types: powered (or active) and passive. Powered speakers contain built-in amplifiers, making them an all-in-one, plug-and-play solution ideal for DJs. Understanding the specifications of powered speakers will help you make a more informed purchase.
Wattage: The wattage of a speaker, expressed in watts (W), signifies its power rating. This measure essentially tells you how loud the speaker can potentially get. While higher wattage suggests louder sound output, the perceived volume also depends on the speaker’s efficiency and the listener’s distance from the speaker. The QSC K12.2 Active Loudspeaker, for instance, boasts a remarkable peak power of 2000 watts, making it ideal for large venues.
Frequency Response: This parameter indicates the range of sound frequencies a speaker can reproduce. It’s usually expressed as a range (for example, 50 Hz – 20,000 Hz), representing the lowest (bass) and highest (treble) sounds the speaker can output. A wider range implies a better ability to deliver both high and low notes, resulting in a fuller and richer sound. The Electro-Voice ZLX12P Full Range Loudspeaker shines in this regard with its wide frequency response.
Sensitivity: Speaker sensitivity measures the efficiency of a speaker in converting power (watts) into volume (decibels). A higher sensitivity rating means the speaker can produce a louder sound at a given power level. This efficiency becomes critical when you’re operating on limited power or wish to conserve energy.
Driver Size: The driver, or the speaker unit, generates the sound, and its size is especially important for producing bass frequencies. Large woofers are better at delivering powerful, punchy bass, essential for DJs playing bass-heavy genres.
Distinguishing Between Speaker Types
As a DJ, you’ll encounter mainly two types of powered speakers: PA speakers and monitor speakers. Each type serves a different purpose in a DJ setup.
PA Speakers: PA (Public Address) speakers are the workhorses of any live sound system. They’re engineered to project sound across large spaces, making them perfect for live music events, including DJ performances. These speakers come in various sizes and power levels, allowing you to choose based on the size of the venues you usually perform in. From compact models like the QSC K10.2 Active Loudspeaker to more robust options like the Pair Rockville RPG15 Active DJ PA Speakers, there’s a PA speaker for every DJ’s needs.
Monitor Speakers: While PA speakers ensure the audience hears your music, monitor speakers are there for you, the DJ. Positioned in the DJ booth, monitor speakers provide clear, immediate sound feedback, helping you mix tracks accurately. Good monitor speakers deliver accurate sound reproduction without coloration, allowing you to hear the music as it is.
Evaluating Speaker Design and Build Quality
Your speakers’ design and build quality can significantly impact their sound performance, durability, and ease of use.
Ruggedness and Durability: DJ speakers often face frequent transport, setup, and teardown, exposing them to possible physical damage. Therefore, a speaker’s build quality is paramount. Look for speakers with robust, road-ready construction, like the Mackie Thump12A Powered Loudspeaker, which features a solid, professional-grade design.
Portability: Depending on your gigs, you might need to move your speakers frequently. In such cases, features like lightweight construction, compact design, and carry handles become important. Some speakers, like the JBL EON612, even come with built-in wheels for easier transportation.
Design Aesthetics: While it’s less important than sound quality and durability, the aesthetic appeal of your speakers can impact the overall look and feel of your DJ booth. A sleek, modern design can add a touch of professionalism to your setup.
Ensuring Optimal Speaker Placement
Once you’ve selected and purchased your ideal powered speakers, knowing how to get the best performance out of them is crucial. Proper speaker placement can significantly enhance the quality of your sound output.
Vertical Alignment: Your speakers’ tweeters (high-frequency drivers) should be at the same height as your audience’s ears for optimal sound clarity. If the speakers are placed on the floor, consider using speaker stands to raise them.
Speaker Angling: Angling your speakers correctly can greatly improve sound distribution in your venue. Point your speakers towards the back of the room to ensure that your sound covers the entire space evenly.
Avoiding Wall Reflection: Place your speakers away from walls and corners to minimize sound reflections, which can cause muddiness and ruin the clarity of your music.
Subwoofer Placement: If your setup includes a subwoofer, it’s best to place it on the floor to take advantage of the natural amplification effect, also known as “bass coupling.”
Balancing Quality and Budget
When choosing powered speakers, balancing the quality of sound and features with your budget is essential. Consider what each speaker offers, and then compare these to its price. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront can save you money in the long run by avoiding the need for frequent replacements or upgrades.
Armed with this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to embark on your journey towards finding the best powered speakers for your DJ setup. Remember, while technical specifications and features matter, the best speaker for you ultimately meets your unique needs and sounds the best to your ears. Be it the Behringer EUROLIVE B112D, the Yamaha DXR 10, or any other model, rest assured that the right speaker is out there, waiting to be discovered by you.
As a DJ, you’ll generally need powered (also known as active) speakers. These speakers come with built-in amplifiers, simplifying your setup and eliminating the need for an external amplifier. The specific model you choose will depend on your specific needs and venues. For instance, the QSC K12.2 Active Loudspeaker is a powerful choice suitable for larger venues, while the QSC K10.2 Active Loudspeaker might be a better fit for smaller spaces or as a monitor.
Active speakers are typically more suitable for DJs due to their all-in-one nature. These speakers have the amplifier built into the unit, eliminating the need for a separate amplifier and reducing the complexity of the setup. This means fewer cables and less equipment to transport, making them ideal for the mobile DJ. They also have the advantage of being designed to work optimally with their built-in amplifiers, providing high-quality sound output.
The ideal wattage of your DJ speakers depends largely on the size of the venue you’re playing at. Speakers with 200-300 watts can suffice for smaller venues or private parties. For medium-sized venues, 500-700 watts per speaker should be enough. However, you might require speakers with power ratings of 1000 watts or more for larger venues or outdoor events, such as the Pair Rockville RPG15, which offer high power output and deep bass response.
Most professional DJs use active speakers because of their convenience and sound quality. Brands such as QSC, JBL, Bose, and Electro-Voice are commonly used due to their reliability and reputation for quality. Additionally, many DJs use subwoofers alongside their main speakers to enhance the bass output, which is crucial for certain genres of music. The specific model used can vary widely depending on personal preference, venue size, and budget. Always remember, the best speaker is the one that fits your specific needs and delivers sound that satisfies your ears.
Our Verdict
After meticulously examining a multitude of powered speakers suitable for DJing, three particular models stood out, each excelling in unique areas that make them a compelling choice for any serious DJ. The QSC K12.2, which we crowned as our Editor’s Choice, demonstrated formidable power and aural finesse, delivering sound that is not just loud but incredibly clear and nuanced, making it an excellent choice for venues of all sizes. This speaker provides a comprehensive package of durability, performance, and practicality.
Meanwhile, the Behringer EUROLIVE B112D provides excellent value for money, packing powerful sound projection and easy portability in a cost-effective package. This speaker system is a hard-to-beat proposition for DJs on a budget or those just starting their careers, balancing affordability with a commendable performance. The ability to deliver sound effectively across different venues makes it a practical choice for various gig scenarios.
Our third standout is the Bose F1 Model 812 Flexible Array, a unit that separates itself from the crowd through its innovative, flexible array design. The adjustable arrays allow DJs to customize their sound dispersion pattern to adapt to any space, be it an intimate room or a sprawling outdoor venue. This speaker’s versatility, adaptability, and renowned Bose sound quality make it an attractive option for DJs who perform in diverse environments.
Choosing the right powered speakers for DJing is a significant decision that will profoundly impact your performance. It’s about understanding and matching your requirements with the product that checks all the right boxes. Be it the raw power and fidelity of the QSC K12.2, the cost-to-performance ratio of the Behringer EUROLIVE B112D, or the groundbreaking design of the Bose F1 Model 812, these models represent the best-powered speakers for DJs available in the market today.
These speakers each offer reliability, top-notch performance, and unique features designed to enhance your DJing. In the end, it’s about choosing a speaker that will deliver the sound quality you need while withstanding the rigors of frequent use. This investment into the right speaker is an investment into your professional image and your audience’s enjoyment. The best powered speakers for DJs elevate your performance and ensure your sets leave a lasting impression.
