Need some Active Speakers..

I am looking to make a lighter load for smaller gigs (under 200 people).I have never bought active speakers before..i know i'm old fashioned (lol). Looking for the best speakers under $1,000.00 each. I want something that will last, and has decent low end (so i don't always have to bring a sub). Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated..Ben feel free to chime in, i will be ordering from you i'm sure..lol...just can't quite afford the Dynacord system i want yet..darn it, but i need a smaller setup to be able to take out when my main setup isn't needed. My amp rack is getting HEAVY!! LOL.:sqlaugh:

http://www.jblpro.com/products/portablesound/prx/prx515.html
Under 1,000 from various vendors.

Ben might have a model to suggest for EV's. Cannot comment on those, but I'm pretty sure he could find you something by EV.

with a $2000 budget you have plenty of choices...

Personally, if your in an area where you can, go take a listen to a few sets of speakers, then call Ben over at NLFX...www.northernlightfx.com

I really like QSC powered speakers. I heard them at MBLV07 and was blown away. A personal friend of mine Ray Martinez swears by them. Mackie also makes some really good set of powered speakers. Ultimately its all in your ears brother...

Groovielou

Thanks so far fellas..i understand what you are saying about "it's all in my ears"..i have heard the QSC's..they are pretty good, i also have heard those JBL's and they are good as well (i run a JBL passive setup..i love the mid range and high range JBL stuff).. I just don't have any experience with EV or EAW , some of the other higher quality brands. Just trying to figure out the best bang for the buck with a full rich sound and plenty of low end. Unfortunately i don't have a good place to hear the higher end brands..i'm pretty much stuck with a guitar center. That's why i am seeking some of your advice. I have seen alot of people using the Mackie SRM450's and was wandering why so many use those speakers? I have heard a acoustic band using them and i thought they were actually decent, but of course they didn't really have bass in the music they were playing either. Give me some suggestions guys...what has worked for you or hasn't been a good investment? i am just trying to make an educated decision being that i don't have a good local Pro Sound store.

If you want decent low end tone, you're gonna have to load a sub cabinet. There ain't no getting around that. Even if you load 15s, you won't get the thump when they're up on stands.

Agreed. Give Ben a chance to work with you on this. He'll fix you up right. :)

I have always liked the Mackie 1530's they have GREAT tone, but they are over your budget. I have yet to get a sub because these guys hit hard in a medium sized room.

I've been lusting after these (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/B52-ACT1515X-Active-Dual-15-Inch-Two-Way-1000-Watts-Speaker?sku=606067), but I haven't heard them yet, I just thought they deserve a look based on the reviews. I sure would like to hear them...

Great suggestions guys! These would be my picks for you:

PRX515 (given your existing JBL, etc)

EV Sxa100+ (about half the weight of the PRX, 12" instead of 15", but under 200 ppl no problem... you will want a sub though). I'd suggest the Sba760 to go with these.

QSC HRP152i (no real benefit here over the PRX in terms of weight or performance IMHO. 6 year warranty though)

Or... the ultimate in lightweight, high performance systems (without a Dynacord label on it)... a pair of EV SB2A powered subs that also power a pair of ZX1 tops! PLENTY for 200 people, and each side (sub and top combined) only weighs 37 pounds!!! Only drawback... SB2A is not shipping for approximately 3 more weeks.

Ben

Maybe one Bose L1 b2 system?You are under 200 people so...

Wiz -

Let me know what you think after you hear them. My guess is that the lusting will go away pretty quick. LOL.

Ben

I've been lusting after these (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/B52-ACT1515X-Active-Dual-15-Inch-Two-Way-1000-Watts-Speaker?sku=606067), but I haven't heard them yet, I just thought they deserve a look based on the reviews. I sure would like to hear them...

I don't know if I ever will Ben. I don't think guitar Center stocks them so I'm not sure where I could go to hear them. I'm certainly not going to buy something that I haven't given a listen to. I'd be interested to know what powered dual 15" cabs you or others would recommend? Not interested in JBL or Mackie under any circumstances though.

I've been lusting after these (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/B52-ACT1515X-Active-Dual-15-Inch-Two-Way-1000-Watts-Speaker?sku=606067), but I haven't heard them yet, I just thought they deserve a look based on the reviews. I sure would like to hear them...

140 lbs each !!!! Oh hernia !!!

How are you gonna get these up on anything, let alone sticks..:sqeek:

I'm certainly not going to buy something that I haven't given a listen to.

You know...where I live we have very limited (one store) resources where we can listen to gear. All my speakers choices (about 4k) have been sight/sound unseen; based solely on recommendations of dj's that you can trust.....

My vote goes for the QSCs, I've herd the 15" PRX, and it to me was very harsh, and not what I expected.

thatmusicguy, since the B-52s are dual 15s I wouldn't be putting them on stands. I could build a couple of plywood boxes maybe a foot or two tall to elevate them if it was necessary, but they would probably be fine on the floor. As far as buying speakers without hearing them, it can be done, but I'm reluctant. People who seem to know a lot about this stuff own Mackie and JBL speakers and I wouldn't consider either of them. I don't want to get into a discussion about either of those to brands so don't ask me why. Lets just say I don't like them. I'm also curious about the Peavey PR15P for only $399 each. I imagine I could hear them at Guitar Center. I could buy 4 of them for the price of (2) of the B-52s. That's something to think about. I already have a pair of subs, I was just thinking about beefier sounding powered mains down the road.

Or... the ultimate in lightweight, high performance systems (without a Dynacord label on it)... a pair of EV SB2A powered subs that also power a pair of ZX1 tops! PLENTY for 200 people, and each side (sub and top combined) only weighs 37 pounds!!! Only drawback... SB2A is not shipping for approximately 3 more weeks.


Thanks for the suggestions guys..
Ben,
Tell me how great those EVSB2A sound? are they the best sounding in your opinion compared to the others? And are they within my price point?...i still want those Dynacords though..lol..maybe after this purchase i can start saving for them..lol.:sqwink:

Flip Im just going to go for it in a month when I get my down payment together. IF you do like me and cut out cigarettes/ Frozen Starbucks drinks and the weekly allotment of Mars bars its amazing how quick a downpayment can be saved. Mine will be ready in time for an August order. Dynacord baby. My Mackies will be my second system. I might even be getting 2 additional VLS 262's and the passive sub addon by Christmas if I keep from the guilty pleasures that were bad for my health and focused on a healthy alternative. GO DYNACORD!!! Nothing Compares 2U.

Or... the ultimate in lightweight, high performance systems (without a Dynacord label on it)... a pair of EV SB2A powered subs that also power a pair of ZX1 tops! PLENTY for 200 people, and each side (sub and top combined) only weighs 37 pounds!!! Only drawback... SB2A is not shipping for approximately 3 more weeks.


Thanks for the suggestions guys..
Ben,
Tell me how great those EVSB2A sound? are they the best sounding in your opinion compared to the others? And are they within my price point?...i still want those Dynacords though..lol..maybe after this purchase i can start saving for them..lol.:sqwink:

Well, I'll tell you what... yes... the are probably the most smooth and accurate sounding out of the lot, that's for sure. However, they don't even hold a candle to the Dynacord. They each have their place. I guess that's the route I would go if I couldn't do the Dynacords. Of course... we do offer the financing. ;)

Ben

You want great sound, great quality, and decreased weight. I highly recommend EV ( whose speakers at any size can match the next size up of any mfr.) and, from what I hear, Ben at Northern Lights will not only give you a great price, but recommend the proper models with actual product knowledge!

Neverending post!:sqerr:

Anzyx ya lost me with that post????21 entries in the thread and its never ending perhaps I might introduce you to the annoying thread part 2.

Anzyx ya lost me with that post????21 entries in the thread and its never ending perhaps I might introduce you to the annoying thread part 2.

This thread will go forever, there is too many choices and everyone loves their own stuff.

I love at the moment my rcfs 310 a coupled with jbls eon g2, but who knows what will happen at my next gig?

I love your RCF and would likely have bought RCF exclusively until I heard the Dynacord system.

Yes I'm ready for your replay. I heard them as well. I'm on the top of the speaker game.
And they are top of the line...
If you can justife the cost than you are my hero...
For now I will stick to my stuff.

Perhaps you missed a thread called how much do you pay your speakers. Its justification enough for me. IF you dont get it after that I have more detail.

I did. I spend 2300.00 for my speakers. I'm very happy with my sound for up too 250 people.

Im fine with paying my powered speaker system 50 dollars per gig.

Like I said... you are my hero... and a lot of gigs!!!:sqmad:

Flipper get whats comfortable for you. Sorry myself and Anzyx went away from your intent. Anzyx pm your phone number would love to chat about the price of ice skates in Syria.

:sqerr:Flipper get whats comfortable for you. Sorry myself and Anzyx went away from your intent. Anzyx pm your phone number would love to chat about the price of ice skates in Syria.

I'm also curious about the Peavey PR15P for only $399 each. I imagine I could hear them at Guitar Center. I could buy 4 of them for the price of (2) of the B-52s. That's something to think about. I already have a pair of subs, I was just thinking about beefier sounding powered mains down the road.

I used the passive ones several times with several different amps and I can honestly say with a clear heart they were the worst sounding speakers I have ever used. I used them with and without subs and they were still bad. They also don't handle anywhere near their rated power I popped one with a 120/channel amp they are supposed to be good for 400 program 800 peak

If you wanted to stay in the lower price range I would go a model or two up in the Peavey line

Come on Jeff they sound wonderful in Guitar Center and Sam Ash showrooms.!!

RCF ART322A's the best powered speaker under $1000 check them out

JBL PRX 515 -

nice and light weight. done.

Those RCF 12" speakers are like $1,000 a piece! Yikes, that seems like an awful lot of money for one 12" powered speaker.

Wiz my boy $1000 is very reasonable for a very good powered speaker.

Hmm,
Alwais the same problem-money limit.Thats bad.I wish to all Djs that everyone can buy what he want!!!

Those RCF 12" speakers are like $1,000 a piece! Yikes, that seems like an awful lot of money for one 12" powered speaker.

Its the old story alot of times you get what you pay for

If you wanted to stay in the lower price range I would go a model or two up in the Peavey line

Jeff,

You are 100% right! The PR series are not Peavey Speakers! They never were.


When so many of the other manufacturers sent all their work to China, Peavey decided to jump on that band wagon as well, the PR and the new PV lines were the results. This is not Peavey gear it just has the Peavey LOGO on it.

Thanks so much everyone!!
ANZYXX,
What is your problem man? I have never bought powered speakers, and was simply asking for input..your response was really uncalled for..
I understand that speakers are a very subjective thing, but i was just asking for some simple help. If i had the knowledge of something to tell someone NOT to buy or something that would be an ASSET for someone to own, i would save them the trouble and offer up some advice. If you don't like the topic..please don't even bother replying, i am always looking to learn..not to be bombarded with a smart a&% reply.:sqmad:

flipper, there are weirdos wherever you go. Illegitemi non carborundum. Take the good info and ignore the ones who have nothing of substance or value to offer. You asked a legitimate question and should expect some decent recommendations, after all that's what this place is for, it's an information exchange and knowledge base. People share what they know. You no doubt will have some info that someone else can benefit from down the road.

I'm leaning towards powered speakers for my next pair when I get around to buying them, I really don't want to spend $2,000 though...

For a shade over 2K; 2 RCF 310A's and a 705AS sub. You'll have a very nice all round system. Add a second sub.....even nicer...

Thanks for more replies guys. I will have to check out some RCF's, i have never actually heard any before. Thanks for the suggestion.:sqbiggrin:

Thanks so much everyone!!
ANZYXX,
What is your problem man? I have never bought powered speakers, and was simply asking for input..your response was really uncalled for..
I understand that speakers are a very subjective thing, but i was just asking for some simple help. If i had the knowledge of something to tell someone NOT to buy or something that would be an ASSET for someone to own, i would save them the trouble and offer up some advice. If you don't like the topic..please don't even bother replying, i am always looking to learn..not to be bombarded with a smart a&% reply.:sqmad:

No problem here...
If you are looking for your first powered speakers here is my suggestion:

https://www.carvinguitars.com/products/single.php?product=LM15A-2

I'm seriously considering those Carvins.

I'm seriously considering those Carvins.
Don't forget to ask for the bag instead of the cable!

I'm seriously considering those Carvins.
I seriously wish I could post a recommendation, my friend. Unfortunately I have not worked with 'em nor read any reviews lately.

The passive cabs I can suggest. The actives, well I can't suggest 'em because I haven't worked with 'em.

I try to avoid recommending any equipment unless I've worked with it myself or someone I know has had positive experiences. If I've read good reviews, I'll say I've read good reviews. :)

hmm lets see Wiz your really liking the Carvin's, you love the price of the wanna Beaveys and your dream system B52's. Check out the RCF and you will never look back unless of course you actually hear the Dynacord systems.
Another suggestion for future DJs who are looking for those powered or non powered speakers for their first ever DJ gig. listening to them in a tiny specially designed sound room is likely the least favorable way to get a take on how a system will end up sounding in a Sheraton Banquet room. Hell my computer Sub and Altec desktop speakers will sound good in a Sam Ash or Guitar Center. Just another sound tip from DJ Marshall Tuck.

While I would love to say something great about powered speakers I simply can't.

I can't say anything great about the Peavey Impulse powered units, Own them and while one has worked great for years the other one has been a complete lemon.

Owned a pair of Mackies and didn't waste anytime getting rid of those!

Owned the Bose PAS for a short period of time didn't find anything to celebrate there either.

Multiple passive speakers, multiple power amps, and you never have to worry!

Passive speakers are going to be lighter which translates into easier to carry and easier to lift to stands (if you lift) Multiple power amps give you redundancy in case of a failure.

Although I think I am going to try one more powered system before long!:sqwink:

Great little speaker I use the LM12A's on my 3rd system

I'll look for a pic

While I would love to say something great about powered speakers I simply can't.

I can't say anything great about the Peavey Impulse powered units, Own them and while one has worked great for years the other one has been a complete lemon.

Owned a pair of Mackies and didn't waste anytime getting rid of those!

Owned the Bose PAS for a short period of time didn't find anything to celebrate there either.

Multiple passive speakers, multiple power amps, and you never have to worry!

Passive speakers are going to be lighter which translates into easier to carry and easier to lift to stands (if you lift) Multiple power amps give you redundancy in case of a failure.

Although I think I am going to try one more powered system before long!:sqwink:

Thunder my friend the problem is so many guys today have NO CLUE on how to match speakers and amps that powered speakers are idiot proof in that way. I totally understand what you are saying but RCF, Dynacord, KV2, and Meyer make powered speakers that are some of the best sounding speakers ever. Also who wants to carry an amp rack ??

Mackie SRM450's here with Yorkville 700p sub.

So far so good. Thinking of Bose L1 .... someday .... but for over 4K ..... not sure if I'm getting as much bang for buck.

...Also who wants to carry an amp rack ??
I do, my friend. That heavy amp rack carries more than physical weight. :)

Sincere apologies for going so far astray of the topic at hand, folks. I just wanted to address this one.

We've been rattling the rafters with a passive rig for years with no issues whatsoever. No matter the ambient temp, no matter the volume level it has always delivered from start to finish. Yup, I can heat my sammich in front of the sub amp fan exhaust when we're pushing the curtains out the windows. But it never stops.

While we're doing that, all I've read is BGMing (bitch, gripe and moan) about active cabinets. Complaints range from the damn things not working right out of the box to crap for tone to overheating and shutting down in indoor, air-conditioned venues.

When you're raking in nearly a grand to provide SR for a wedding, you'd better not have equipment issues. Not laptop music skipping, not poor tone, not dead cabinets, not mic feedback, nothing. For professional sound reinforcement business equipment, failure in the middle of a show is unsatisfactory, sorry.

But what do you expect when you pay somebody 50 cents per hour and a bowl of rice to build the things? ;)

Thunder my friend the problem is so many guys today have NO CLUE on how to match speakers and amps that powered speakers are idiot proof in that way. I totally understand what you are saying but RCF, Dynacord, KV2, and Meyer make powered speakers that are some of the best sounding speakers ever. Also who wants to carry an amp rack ??

Actually power speakers are by no means idiot proof!

One of the biggest problems I see with powered units is the fact that the manu uses amp systems that are only capable of putting out half or less the amount of power the speakers should be getting, this leads to the operator pushing the system harder trying to reach an acceptable DB level when the units power amps simply aren't capable of supplying that amount of power cleanly. The results an overdriven sound, distortion, overheating and unit failure.

Yes, too many don't know how to match speakers and amps and apparently neither do the manus. But then most are splitting the baby between weight and power and generally weight wins out. Myers pro powered cabinets are a different animal but then you also have to deal with lifting those beast too, they have amps in them that weigh more than most sub cabinets that DJ's use.

Hmm I think you will find things totally different than typical in your next powered experiment Steve.

Hmm I think you will find things totally different than typical in your next powered experiment Steve.

Actually I have been studying the specs on several different units and even though much better matched all the speakers in the particular unit i am interested in are under powered. If a speaker is peak rated for 800 watts I want to be able to give it a minimum of 600 watts but would much rather have 800 available for it. If it is peak rated for 1200 I want have 1200 available for it to hit if it needs too.

But then that is also why I ended up with almost exclusively Peavey gear when their specs say 1400 watts peak it can handle 1400 watts peak where many others I have tried just couldn't hold up.

cant tell 100% until you put the Steve Miller stamp or not on them in the end after testing

Thunder I use to be just like you until I found RCF these speakers are amazing try the ART322 or 325A's or if you are really bold try the 4-Pro series you will not believe the thump :)

Not laptop music skipping, not poor tone, not dead cabinets, not mic feedback, nothing. For professional sound reinforcement business equipment, failure in the middle of a show is unsatisfactory, sorry.

But what do you expect when you pay somebody 50 cents per hour and a bowl of rice to build the things? ;)

Or cd's skipping or cd decks failing......

You're saying there are no passive speaker boxes or amps made in China?

My boxes were made in Italy- I think they make more than 50 cents an hour...

WAIT! I HAVE THE ANSWER!


Fingerhut carries 450W dual 12" bass MTX speakers! You can buy them, blow them, and pay 7.95 a month until you are dead!

I am wise beyond my ears, Grasshopper....:sqcool::sqlaugh::sqerr:

Or cd's skipping or cd decks failing......

You're saying there are no passive speaker boxes or amps made in China?

My boxes were made in Italy- I think they make more than 50 cents an hour...
No, Sir. All I'm saying is, our business equipment was made here in the USA. We have worked it like a rented mule and it's never given us a moment's trouble. Call me sentimental but I prefer to support American workers whenever possible. :)

Last year my budget for a new pair of active mains were 2 grand. I went with the QSC 153i. I'm very happy with them. I think they are the best bang for the buck on the maket. If you want something smaller the RCF ART 322a are an awesome choice as well. For the money QSC and RCF are the way to go. Good luck finding the right speaker to fit your needs.

Did I mention JBL PRX? Look at the sound and weight.