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Willie Greer - August 23, 2021
DJs need to fill the room with their music, and the sound quality had better be exceptional to get the party-goers dancing or your house parties and events will be a flop. PA speakers and DJ speakers are often interchangeable, which gives you even more options. Our audio experts are here to help narrow down your choices.
GD-L115BT
- Adjustable lighting
- Bass and treble controls
- Class D amp
- Ergonomic handles
ELX200-12P
- 1200W class D amplifier
- Signal Synchronized Transducers
- QuickSmart DSP
- Waveguide Technology
PA System
- Affordable price
- Portable option
- EQ control
- Bluetooth
Reviews of the Top Powered Speakers for DJs
Electro-Voice ELX200-12P
The Electro-Voice ELX200-12P is our audio team’s top choice for many reasons, one of which is the features. It has Waveguide Technology, QuickSmart DSP, and an efficient class D amplifier that will boost the sound quality without compromising energy efficiency.
The three-band EQ also boosts the audio quality of the DJ speaker. Even the hardware was considered as it is very sturdy with integrated pole mounts for your convenience.
The total power from the ELX200-12P is 1200 watts, while the speaker max SPL, or sound pressure level, is an impressive 130 dB.
What We Like
- Professional-grade hardware
- Class D powered speakers
- Best DJ speakers for technology
- 1200 watts
- EV QuickSmart
- Signal Synchronized Transducers
- 130 dB max SPL
- User presets
- Three-band EQ
- Amazing sound
What We Don’t Like
- Not a 3-way speaker
- Not a super portable speaker
Gemini Sound GD-L115BT
The Gemini Sound GD-L115BT is not the cheapest speaker compared to other DJ speakers, but the price gets you a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a PA speaker that comes with Bluetooth and a class D amplifier.
What really caught our experts’ eyes was the light-up illumination system. The powered PA speakers can not only produce balanced audio, but they also emit multicolor lights. Clear sound for your music plus wireless connectivity to stream music? The GD-L115BT has it all.
The self-powered speakers also allow users to mix and master bass and treble controls that make these excellent speakers for DJs.
What We Like
- Active class D amplified speaker
- Exceptional sound quality with bass and treble control
- Light-up speaker system
- Bluetooth connection
- Stereo RCA inputs
- Balanced XLR outputs
- Plug-and-play design
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t have a holder for your mobile device
- Can be a little bit heavy
LyxPro 12” PA System
The LyxPro 12″ PA system is a portable powered speaker with Bluetooth and an equalizer. If you are someone that doesn’t want to pay through the nose and are often on the move, you can purchase two of these powered speakers to boost your sound quality.
There are no cables needed to set up these active speakers and they are perfectly suited for mobile DJs, thanks to their small footprint and built-in carrying handles. These speakers have an awesome bass response and can play loud music to improve your house parties.
You can also choose to link multiple speakers at once for the ideal DJ setup and take full advantage of the SD card slot.
What We Like
- Affordable price
- EQ settings
- Portable option for many DJ gigs
- High-quality speaker
- More balanced sound compared to other models
- Bluetooth
- Lightweight with carrying handles
- Linkable design
What We Don’t Like
- Might not be the best for concerts
- Not as powerful as larger powered speakers
Sonart 15" Powered Speakers
Coming in at number 4 on our best powered speakers for DJs list are the Sonart 15-inch powered speakers. The sound quality from the small powered speaker is amazing and it looks great as well with the unique lighting.
The small footprint is enough to house a long-throw subwoofer for a deep bass sound you will appreciate. DJs can play bass-heavy music and take advantage of the solid frequency response.
As one of the best DJ speaker models, it also has Bluetooth for your convenience, equalizer effects and an even FM radio.
What We Like
- Comes with a tripod stand
- Easy mobility with carrying handles
- LCD display
- Decent sound quality
- FM radio, SD card, and USB input
- Equalizer effects
- Wireless remote control
What We Don’t Like
- Bluetooth won’t work beyond 30 feet
- The remote is basic
Behringer Eurolive B212D
Behringer is a brand that makes excellent DJ speakers, and the B212D is definitely one of them. These powered speakers have a high power output and are PA reinforced to push the sound into all corners of the venue.
It’s ultra compact and lightweight – perfect for the mobile DJ. The Behinger B212D active speaker features a class D amp for efficiency and it has an internal switch mode power supply to limit the background noise.
Behringer is also known for its innovative technology, which this model demonstrates. The powered speaker features an aluminum diaphragm compression driver and automatic EQ, among other things.
What We Like
- Multifunctional compared to other speakers
- Excellent DJ studio monitors
- Custom-designed transducers
- Intelligent design
- Automatic EQ
- High-power 2-way system
- Compact and lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- Not the best for regular home theaters
- May not include the power cord
Costzon Portable FWAM-01989
Catering to the mobile DJs out there, the Costzon FWAM-01989 is a great choice for those who are constantly on the move. After all, DJ equipment often needs to be portable to accommodate different venues.
The 2-way full-range loudspeaker comes with a woofer and tweeter to handle the low and high frequencies together. Most powered speakers rely on the two drivers to share the work for the mid-tones.
The speaker sensitivity is an impressive 98dB and the combined peak output power of both active speaker units comes in at 1600 watts.
What We Like
- Highly sensitive DJ speakers
- Great sound quality
- 2-way full-range system
- Portable
- Wide frequency response
- Built-in USB and SD reader
- Built-in Bluetooth
What We Don’t Like
- Not waterproof
- Works better with a mixer board
Behringer Eurolive B210D
Behringer has another option to grace our list of the best powered speakers for DJs, and that is the Behringer Eurolive B210D.
The 2-way PA speaker is reinforced to propel sound across a large space. Despite the power of these DJ speakers, the B210D is very lightweight and compact. The speaker can deliver clear sound even at extreme SPLs.
The efficiency also outclasses a lot of the other “best speakers” out there with class D amplifiers. The transient response also works for the efficiency of these best DJ speakers for even lower power consumption.
You can count on the long-excursion driver with ultra-wide dispersion to create encompassing audio.
What We Like
- Small and compact
- Powerful powered speaker
- Decent power output
- Wide frequency range
- Portable
- Exceptional dynamic range
- Superior transient response
- Works as a floor monitor
What We Don’t Like
- 3.5mm aux adapter may muffle the sound
- May pick up radio signals
Yamaha HS5
The beautiful and crisp white Yamaha HS5 is an excellent studio monitor. It comes as a single speaker but works well as a pair. The 2-way bi-amplified studio monitor has an excellent bass response and can handle the high frequencies well.
As for extra functions, the speaker features Room Control and high TRIM response controls. When you consider the newly developed transducers, you can expect extremely smooth audio and sonic transitions.
The low resonance enclosure plus the innovative noise reduction features will prove the worth of Yamaha products at an affordable cost.
What We Like
- Cutting-edge noise reduction technology
- Low resonance enclosure
- Room Control and Trim response controls
- New transducers
- Efficient amp
- Best speakers for aesthetics
What We Don’t Like
- Needs a subwoofer for better bass
- Heavier than advertised
Alto Professional TS310
The Alto Professional TS310 is a very in-demand active speaker with 2000 watts at max power. All the highs and lows in audio content are not a match for the TS310, especially with the high-temperature voice coil.
The DJ speaker is considered lightweight for its size and is very versatile. It’s pole mountable, easily transportable, or you can choose to install it using mounting brackets.
The speaker sounds great, and it pairs and features a ground lift switch and very clear controls whenever you need to adjust the portable speakers. This DJ speaker also features thermal and overdrive protection.
(For stable setup, we recommend getting one of the most excellent speaker stands we listed here)
What We Like
- 2000 watts of bi-amplified power rating
- Easy to control and set up
- Excellent frequency response
- Lightweight for the size
- Ground lift switch
- High-temperature voice coil
What We Don’t Like
- The finish could scuff
- Not a universal power supply
Powered Speaker for DJs Buyer’s Guide
To be considered a good DJ speaker, there are certain aspects that your speaker unit needs to check off the list, such as the frequency range, durable drivers. Should you get a model with a high-frequency titanium driver or with DSP? Our media team is here to help you sort through all the undesirable products to find the very best DJ speakers for you.
Size and Portability
If you are a DJ that frequents different venues for your gigs, then you will need to look into portable powered speakers. The best powered speaker for DJs that are on the move shouldn’t be heavy or cumbersome.
Take into account the rest of your setup. Your DJ controller, decks, and even turntables will add to the space and weight of all your equipment, so you don’t want to add heavy speakers into the mix.
Keep in mind that weight is only one aspect. Our audio experts say a lightweight speaker isn’t always the same as one with a small profile. To make sure you have the most mobile speakers, look for ones that are not only light, but compact as well.
You may wonder if a small body will give you less power, but our resident DJs reassure you that it isn’t always the case and you can more than likely find small-ish units that pack a punch.
Power Rating
Speaking of power, our experts will now dive into the power rating to look for in the best powered speakers for DJs. The power for DJ speakers is measured in watts.
Some users may find it confusing because there are two power ratings for speakers – the RMS and the peak power. The peak power, or max power, is the rating at which the speakers can blast at the highest level for a short period.
The RMS is the opposite of the peak output. It is the rating at which DJs can play their music without the risk of damaging the speakers. You will notice that the max power is significantly higher than the RMS, but our experts caution you to not be fooled.
Because it looks as though the peak power is more impressive, and it definitely is, if you blast your speakers at that wattage for a long time you will blow them out.
Manufacturers also tend to advertise the peak power because it is more enticing. Our tip is to always look at the RMS and to consider it first.
How much power is enough? It depends on how many people you plan on entertaining. For DJs who play private events, you may not need much more than 200-500 watts. However, for those who frequent large venues and concerts, you will definitely need 1000 watts or more.
Frequency Range
The frequency range in speakers is much more important than subs because speakers need to handle the entire audio spectrum. There are 2-way and 3-way speakers, and our experts recommend going for 2-way options at the very least. 2-way speakers have a subwoofer and tweeter to handle the highs and lows and they work together to produce the mid-range.
A 3-way speaker has one extra channel, so there are drivers to handle each individual section of the sonic scale. In general, the wider the frequency range the better. A wider range means the speakers can produce more notes. The human audible frequency range is between 20Hz to 20kHz.
While it’s true that you may not be able to hear notes that exceed this range, they can definitely help to round out the parts that we can hear. Our sound engineers recommend using the human audible range as a guide. Make sure that the speakers you choose will definitely hit that range and more if possible.
SPL
The SPL, or sound pressure level, pertains to how evenly spread the audio from your speakers will be and how far it can go. Look for the max SPL rating, which is measured in decibels. This is another category in which the higher the number the better. Of course, you also want the sound pressure level to reflect the venue. You won’t need SPL over 100 in small spaces.
Our team members recommend 84 to 90dB as the average, and anything above 90 is considered amazing.
Sound Quality and DSP
Other than the type of speaker and frequency range embedded in the best powered speakers, there are other factors that impact the sound quality as well. For example, the technology, total harmonic distortion (THD), the DSP (digital signal processor), impedance, sensitivity, and EQ controls all have a hand in it.
There is a lot of ground to cover, so our team opted to dissect the most important points. Let’s start with technology. Depending on the brand, manufacturers could equip their speakers with various technologies that can help the speakers outperform their competitors. For example, a bass reflex design speaker will be much more efficient at handling bass frequencies than one that isn’t.
The total harmonic distortion will impact how clear the sound is at any volume level. You may have noticed some subpar units will start to crackle and produce static at certain volumes. This is not an ideal trait to have in a good pair of speakers, so the THD is a good indicator.
Your team says to not settle for THD that exceeds 1%. There are plenty of designs that have a THD of only 0.04-0.05%, which is around the range of what you should expect.
The DSP, or digital signal processor, is the component within your DJ speakers that converts unprocessed audio into digitized audio. A speaker with a better DSP will automatically produce better sound.
The impedance and sensitivity of speakers are two very important categories that pertain to many audio tools. The impedance is the resistance the speaker has to the electrical current, and this figure is measured in ohms. The lower the ohm, the less impedance it has and the more efficient your speakers are.
Common impedance ratings are 2, 4, 6, and 8. For DJ speakers, we would recommend at least 4. Average speakers give an 8 ohm impedance.
The sensitivity rating has a direct effect on how loud your speakers are. It is a rating that is also measured in dB [1], so don’t get it confused with the SPL. For speaker sensitivity, our expert audiophiles suggest 88 to 90 as the average, but anything above that is excellent.
Lastly, we have the EQ controls, which allow users to customize the bass and treble among other things to produce the best sound.
Above are some of the vital components that will affect sound quality in your speakers. It’s not only about the price and the build, but what’s under the hood as well that makes a pair of speakers exceptional.
Helpful topics:
Connectivity
The connections offered on your DJ speakers are crucial. Our team cautions readers not to purchase a product based on specs and reviews alone.
This is because a pair of speakers can look amazing on paper, but without the right connections or compatibility with your system, it will end up being a very expensive and large paperweight. If you can find one that can operate as a floor monitor as well, then you have yourself a very versatile device.
A stereo RCA input is an example of a common connection that is widely compatible with most devices. Some DJ speakers also have wireless connectivity in the form of Bluetooth. You may be able to find some Wi-Fi models, but Bluetooth is what we suggest for DJs on the move. Plus, it is the most omnipresent form of connection in electronic devices.
Bluetooth also makes it easy to access files on your phone. Since almost everyone has music streaming services on their phones, it’s easy to find songs and fulfill requests from your audience. Just make sure you keep within a 30-foot distance.
If for some reason you need to be far away from your device, then look for Bluetooth 5.0, the latest Bluetooth that can deliver a stable connection up to 50 feet away!
(For more connectivity options, you can check our review of Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 5 with 4.2 Bluetooth connectivity)
Accessories
Are the speakers alone not enough? There are plenty of options, including some of the ones our experts suggested above that come with multiple accessories. You can find ones with tripod stands, mounting kits, all the wires and cables necessary for setup, and even microphones.
Of course, it may not be necessary if you already have everything you need, but it never hurts to purchase a product that comes with all these extra accessories.
Powered (Active) vs Passive Speakers
Our audio team has put the focus of this part on active or powered speakers, but we also felt the need to differentiate the active ones from the passive models. A passive speaker is one that doesn’t have an amplifier built in. This means you will need to hook your speakers up with an external amp.
It will take more work and time on your part to find the right crossover, frequency, and wattage, but it also results in a much more customizable system. If you want to upgrade your speakers or switch out a single component, you won’t have to dispose of the amp as well.
A little bit more work to hook up your speakers may not seem like a huge drawback, and if you have some knowledge about audio equipment, you can go for this option. Our team also says that passive units tend to be smaller and lighter because they do not have an extra amp built in.
Active speakers, on the other hand, are ones that have an internal amplifier. You can have class A/B or D amps within speakers, but the extra component does make them larger and heavier. As opposed to the passive ones, active ones cannot be easily modified.
A huge benefit of active speakers is that users don’t need to spend time finding ones that are compatible with their speakers.
Which ones should you go for? Our team says to use active models if you don’t want extra work and don’t intend to make plenty of changes to your system. Choose passive speakers if customizability is ultimately what you want or if you already have an amp.
Advantages of Using Powered DJ Speakers
Now that you know the difference, let’s list out the benefits of using active DJ speakers so you can make sure your choice is the correct one.
Even though they have internal amps, DJ speakers, especially portable ones, are made to be lightweight and easily transportable. Since being a DJ can be a very mobile profession, having portable units is a primary consideration.
As we mentioned, powered DJ speakers are very easy to control and set up, which is a huge bonus. No one wants to spend copious amounts of time getting things hooked up, especially if you have a gig.
DJ speakers also tend to have presets to help diversify your sound and produce the best effects. Then there are the linkable options that allow you to daisy chain a bunch of units together for louder sound and more coverage depending on the size of the audience and venue.
FAQ
How many watts do you need for a powered DJ speaker?
The wattage DJs need for their speakers will depend on the size of the venue and the number of people. As a rule of thumb, count between 5-10 watts a head. Use 5 as the baseline in a smaller room and 10 for larger spaces. Remember to go for a higher wattage if you plan on playing outside.
What are the top brands for DJ speakers?
It’s hard to determine the very best brand, but there are a few top contenders our experts always fall back on. These brands include Electro-Voice, Behringer, Yamaha, LyxPro, and Gemini Sound to name a few. Remember that it’s more important to focus on the product rather than the brand.
How much would you need to buy a DJ speaker?
Surprisingly, DJ speakers are not very expensive. The average price of a decent unit ranges from 2 to 3 hundred with plenty of great units costing above or below that. The 300 mark is a good gauge, but it’s more important to look at the specs and not the price.
Our Top Pick For a Powered Speaker for DJs:
Electro-Voice ELX200-12P
It’s no surprise that the Electro-Voice ELX200-P takes the crown as the best powered speaker DJ speaker. It is compatible with the brand’s EV QuickSmart mobile app that allows you to control, configure and monitor your system. The speaker is highly efficient with a class D amp and professional-grade hardware that promises to bring high-quality audio.
For more options, you can also see this list below:
