7 Best PA Speakers - 2024

The Best Powered PA Speakers

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PA System Guides

We have a range of guides related to PA systems which you will find helpful:

In the past, powered PA speakers were known to be bulky and difficult to transport due to their built-in amplification. However, with the advancements in technology, the best PA speakers are now designed to be more compact and efficient.

Thanks to these technological advancements, loud fans, and large heat sinks are no longer necessary, making today's powered PA speakers more reliable, easier to transport, and mount.

Additionally, powered PA speakers are highly versatile compared to passive setups. They can be used for various purposes such as Main FOH speaker, floor wedge, delayed speaker, or even as an instrument speaker for keyboards, synths and e-drums.

Guitarists who use effects with amp and pedal modeling also prefer using PA powered speakers as substitute speakers for amps. They can fully utilize the amp modeling from their multi-fx pedals without the need for a traditional amplifier.

Ready to choose which PA Speaker is the best for you? Read on.

Author & Contributors

Raphael PulgarRaphael Pulgar

I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.

Best Budget PA Speaker

Alto Professional TS408 2000W 8

92
GEARANK

92 out of 100. Incorporating 200+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$249
Alto Professional TS408 2000W 8" Powered PA Speaker

Cons

  • No adjustable tone controls that could manually adjust on the speaker
  • EQ profile could be a bit better, but for the price this is a really great speaker

Pros

  • Plenty of power and range for average size building
  • Durable and sturdy. Easy to pack, haul, hookup and position quickly
  • Used for about 6 hours total run time. No issues with overheating or degraded sound quality over time
  • Very good bass without a sub. Connecting to the speakers and pairing them was easy

The Alto Professional TS408 is a powered speaker with a 2,000-watt output, an 8-inch woofer, a 1-inch ceramic driver, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 3-channel mixer. It is part of the Truesonic 4 series, designed to provide modern features and technology for stage-ready performance.

The TS408 is an excellent choice for musicians, DJs, and sound engineers due to its many advantages. It offers a powerful and clear sound that can easily fill up a medium-sized venue, thanks to its frequency response of 50 Hz to 20 kHz and a maximum SPL of 128 dB12. Users appreciate the speaker's excellent clarity, punchy bass, and crisp vocals. Additionally, it has a lightweight and compact design that makes it easy to transport and set up, weighs only 23.6 lbs., and features ergonomic handles for carrying. The speaker is also durable and sturdy, with a rugged wood cabinet that protects it from damage during transport and use. It can be used vertically or horizontally as a main speaker, floor monitor, or side fill. Furthermore, it has a built-in fan that keeps it cool and prevents overheating, allowing it to handle long hours of use without any sound quality or performance issues.

The TS408 offers excellent bass without a subwoofer, thanks to its 15-inch woofer that produces deep and punchy bass tones that can handle a wide range of music genres and applications. Users say that the speaker has excellent bass without a subwoofer. Bluetooth connectivity allows users to control the speaker's settings via a dedicated app wirelessly, adjusting the EQ, delay, crossover, and other parameters from their tablet or smartphone. Additionally, it has True Wireless Bluetooth linking capabilities, which enable users to pair two speakers together for stereo sound.

However, the TS408 also has some cons that users should know. It does not have any knobs or buttons that allow users to manually adjust the tone of the speaker on the unit itself, and users have to use the app or the 3-channel mixer to tweak the sound. Some may find this inconvenient or limiting, especially if they cannot access the app or the mixer. The EQ profile could also be better, as it lacks some warmth and presence in the midrange. The speaker may sound harsh or tinny at high volumes.

Overall, the Alto Professional TS408 is a versatile and reliable speaker that offers many features and power for the money. It combines the legendary Alto sound quality with the latest technology and features to give users a great-sounding and easy-to-use speaker. It is ideal for musicians, DJs, and sound engineers who need a speaker that can handle any gig and impress any crowd. The TS408 is a speaker that users can trust and enjoy.

Specifications

  • LF Driver: 10" Cone, 2" Voice Coil Ferrite Magnet
  • HF Driver: 1" Throat Compression
  • Amplifier: Bi-amplified Class D
  • Output Power Peak: 700W (500W LF, 200W HF)
  • Output Power Continuous: 325W (260W LF, 65W HF)
  • Frequency Response: 55Hz-20kHz (-10dB)
  • Maximum Peak SPL: 129dB
  • Crossover Frequency: 2.1kHz
  • Enclosure: Plastic
  • Mounting: Pole, Floor, Wedge
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR/TRS Combo (Mic/Line) , 1 x XLR/TRS Combo (line only), 1 x Stereo
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR
  • Controls: Power Switch, 3 x Level Knobs, Mic/Line Switch, D-Contour (FOH, Off, Monitor), HPF Switch (120Hz, 100Hz, Off)
  • Dimensions: 19.4" x 12.1" x 11.4"
  • Weight: 23.2 lbs.

The Best Active PA Speakers under $500

Yamaha DBR10 - 10" - 700W

95
GEARANK

95 out of 100. Incorporating 350+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$400
Yamaha DBR10 10" 700 Watt Powered PA Speaker

Cons

  • A bit boomy
  • Carrying handle could be better

Pros

  • Lightweight speaker, yet very powerful
  • Versatile input/output options
  • Able to fill a medium-size room

For a powered speaker that weighs under 25 pounds, the Yamaha DBR10 is one loud PA speaker, putting out a massive 129 SPL with good clarity and at an agreeable price.

With a 10" main speaker, you might expect it would be a bit lacking in the bass department, but it performs reasonably well there, too, with a frequency range down to 55Hz. The combination of portability, power, and price makes this a compelling option, and is why it's been so popular and well-regarded since its release in 2014.

And it's very versatile. I have used the DBR10 as an 'FRFR' (Full Range Full Response) amp with guitar modeling, a PA / FOH powered speaker, and a stage monitor. It is one of the best powered speaker to pair with guitar processors.

Yamaha DBR10 with a PRS SE Custom Semihollow to give you an idea of the size
Yamaha DBR10 with a PRS SE Custom Semihollow to give you an idea of the size.
If you're interested in the FRFR aspect of the DBR10, we go into much more detail in this extended review.

This powered PA speaker has a mixer and two channels, each with an XLR/TRS combo input and volume controls, but keep in mind that only one of the channels can accept a mic-level input (switchable between Mic/Line).

The second channel also has stereo RCA phono connectors for adding program music. I can confirm that you can use these simultaneously as the line input. There are better ways to do it, but if you can balance the volumes of these inputs, you could call it a 3-channel mixer.

Yamaha DBR10 Rear Mixer Panel
Yamaha DBR10 Rear Mixer Panel

As standalone FOH speakers, they work well in smaller venues and medium-sized venues for styles that aren't loud or bass-heavy. Their sound is best described as clean, loud, and surprisingly full. They are viable concert speakers.

They provide reasonable bass for many styles, but if you want some real 'thump' or are in a larger venue, you'll want to pair them with the best PA subwoofer. The DBR10 has an excellent reputation for combining well with subwoofers, and the HPF switch works well for this purpose.

Although others say that this powered speaker is easy to scratch, I've only experienced a few minor ones. It's a good idea to at least get a 'Speaker Tote Bag' for a 10" speaker enclosure like this one made by Gator to keep those classy looks. That particular bag has worked well for me.

The Yamaha DBR series has been around since 2014 when they brought some of the DSP magic from their higher-priced DXR series to this more affordable range, and they've been quite popular and well-regarded ever since.

This fantastic, affordable, lightweight powered speaker sounds great and offers excellent versatility. It looks good and has been a reliable workhorse for many (including me), backed by Yamaha's 7 year warranty.

It's suitable for use everywhere from practice at home, on stage as a monitor or an instrument amp, as main powered speakers for smaller venues, or coupled with subwoofers in larger venues. I find it to be one of the best pa speakers when it comes to versatility and portability.

The power at such a light weight is the standout feature, making it suitable for a broader range of situations. There may be bigger, better, more expensive powered speakers out there, but at this weight, the DBR10 is in a class of its own.

This is one of the best PA speakers for those who need something portable.

Specifications

  • LF Driver: 10" Cone, 2" Voice Coil Ferrite Magnet
  • HF Driver: 1" Throat Compression
  • Amplifier: Bi-amplified Class D
  • Output Power Peak: 700W (500W LF, 200W HF)
  • Output Power Continuous: 325W (260W LF, 65W HF)
  • Frequency Response: 55Hz-20kHz (-10dB)
  • Maximum Peak SPL: 129dB
  • Crossover Frequency: 2.1kHz
  • Enclosure: Plastic
  • Mounting: Pole, Floor, Wedge
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR/TRS Combo (Mic/Line) , 1 x XLR/TRS Combo (line only), 1 x Stereo
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR
  • Controls: Power Switch, 3 x Level Knobs, Mic/Line Switch, D-Contour (FOH, Off, Monitor), HPF Switch (120Hz, 100Hz, Off)
  • Dimensions: 19.4" x 12.1" x 11.4"
  • Weight: 23.2 lbs.

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Gearank Daniel Barnett 98/100
Sound On Sound Paul White 98/100
YouTube Gear It First 96/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

QSC CP8 - 8" - 1000W

97
GEARANK

97 out of 100. Incorporating 250+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$500
QSC CP8 Powered PA Speaker
At publication time this was the Highest Rated Powered PA Speaker Under $500.

Cons

  • A bit lacking on the bottom end - see the CP12 for more bass

Pros

QSC is a brand known for premium sound and build quality. Their speakers are widely considered among the best powered speakers for PA systems.

The CP8 lets you experience its brand of quality in a compact and affordably priced package.

QSC's renowned DSP lets you pick between presets for various applications and venues for ease of use.

Despite its smaller 8" LF driver compared to most in this price range, the bass is present enough to have a full-range sound. The selectable contour with bass roll-off makes it ideal for use with subwoofers.

Note that there have been instances of it being erroneously listed at some retailers as having a 3-channel mixer. It has two inputs plus an AUX, with only one of the XLR inputs capable of being used for Mic-level signals.

Sound output is surprisingly loud for an 8" active speaker and it has a nice vibrant sound and crispy sparkle. But it does lack a little on the bottom end. But that's not a problem because it pairs nicely with sub-woofers, so for those occasions where you need to go deeper, you can. When properly implemented the CP8 gives you great sound quality and incredible clarity.

If you want to avoid dealing with subs, consider getting the CP12 instead, which, although having identical amplifiers, is noticeably louder at the bottom end.

The polypropylene enclosure is solid; in fact, I expect them to be still working just fine years from now, and it seems QSC does, too, which is probably why they provide such a long-lasting warranty, but don't forget to register with QSC straight away so you get the extra 5 years added on.

The CP8 is a great entry point into QSC's premium pro audio sound reinforcement brand. If versatility and projection are your priorities at this price point, the QSC CP8 is tough to beat.

Specifications

  • LF Driver: 8"
  • HF Driver: 1.4" Compression Driver
  • Amplifier: Class-D
  • Output Power Peak: 1000W (800W LF + 200W HF)
  • Frequency Response: 56Hz-20kHz (-6dB)
  • Maximum Peak SPL: 124 dB SPL @ 1m
  • Enclosure: Polypropylene
  • Mounting: 35mm Pole Socket, M8 Threaded Insert, Floor Wedge
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line), 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (line only), 1 x 1/8" (aux)
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR (mix out)
  • Controls: Power, 2 x Gain, MIC BOOST Push Switch, 6-way Contour Selection Switch
  • Dimensions: 16.2" x 10.7" x 10.1"
  • Weight: 25.5 lbs.

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Sound On Sound Mike Crofts 94/100
Production Partner Anselm Goertz 97/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

The Best Active PA Speakers under $1000

QSC CP12 - 12" - 1000W

96
GEARANK

96 out of 100. Incorporating 300+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$600
QSC CP12 Powered PA Speaker - Front & Back

Cons

  • No locking nut to hold the speaker when they are on speaker stands
  • Few eq curve options at the back

Pros

  • Excellent clarity
  • Versatile - good for either FOH or stage monitors
  • Good durability
  • Portable
  • Surprisingly loud

The QSC CP12 is a compact powered loudspeaker designed with portability in mind. It has a peak wattage of 1000 W and a Max SPL of 126 dB, making it loud enough for small venues or medium-sized conference halls.

It also features a built-in 2-channel mixer for single-box operation. This makes it an equally capable floor monitor or keyboard amplifier, in fact many consider it as one of the best stage monitors available. Only one channel can run at mic level gain, and the aux channel gain is shared with line level at input 1.

Note that there have been instances of it being erroneously listed by some retailers as having a 3-channel mixer. It has two XLR/Line inputs, with only one being capable of being used as an input for Mic-level signals.

My experience with these 12 inch PA powered speakers is from a local venue I set up sound for. The speakers can handle a packed small venue with just two units. The versatility allowed the venue to use the same unit for their monitors. Calibration was a breeze, and the volume and clarity were good, even during rock gigs.

If you're looking for a compact but capable speaker with multiple uses like mains, monitors, or instrument amplification, the QSC CP12 is a good, versatile choice.

I recommend these for small to medium venues that need a clear-sounding speaker with good headroom and can handle more aggressive styles of vocals.

Specifications

  • LF Driver: 12"
  • HF Driver: 1.4"
  • Amplifier: Class D Amplifier
  • Output Power Peak: 1000 W peak, 800 W (LF), 200 W (HF)
  • Frequency Response: 47 - 20 kHz(-10dB)
  • Maximum Peak SPL: 126 dB
  • Enclosure: Polypropylene
  • Mounting: Wedge, Pole, Floor, Yoke Suspension
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line), 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (line only), 1 x 1/8" (aux)
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR (mix out)
  • Controls: Power, 2 x Gain, MIC BOOST Push Switch, 6-way Contour Selection Switch
  • Dimensions: 20.3" x 13.8" x 12.7"
  • Weight: 30.3 lb.

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Sound On Sound Mike Crofts 94/100
Music Connection Barry Rudolph 92/100
Church Production Loren Alldrin 95/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Electro-Voice EKX-15P - 15"

96
GEARANK

96 out of 100. Incorporating 275+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$999
Electro-Voice EKX-15P 2-way 15" Powered PA Speaker - 1500W

Cons

  • Fan can get noisy
  • Power cable a bit flimsy

Pros

  • Smooth, high-quality sound
  • Great sound and build quality
  • Can fill big venues with ease

The EKX-15p was designed to project low frequencies. Pairing a 15" woofer with a 1500W Class D Power amp, The EKX-15p can go loud and distortion-free.

This low frequency reproduction makes it great for DJs and musicians. It's clear enough for speech. It also does a great job of filling larger venues.

Electro Voice opted for a cleverly designed wood cabinet similar to classic speaker designs but with lighter materials to keep weight down.

You can choose between 3 presets: music, live, and club. You also have the option to save five user-programmable presets.

The variable speed fan keeps the speaker from overheating and potential burnouts. It can sense internal temperatures and automatically adjust the fan speed.

It's a simple speaker to set up and works well with different speaker stands and other mounting options.

The power cable may be fragile. This is reflected in other reports by owners but it can be easily replaced with a sturdier one. Another con is the fan. It gets loud at higher speeds.

It's a big speaker with big wattage and a great wooden baffle cabinet. At this price, it's among the best active speakers in terms of value. You can't go wrong with the brand and its reputation for sound AND build quality.

Specifications

  • LF Driver: 15"
  • HF Driver: 1.5"
  • Amplifier: Bi-amplified Class D
  • Output Power Peak: 1500W
  • Output Power Continuous: Not Specified
  • Frequency Response: 55Hz - 18KHz (-3 DB) | 44Hz - 20kHz (-10 DB)
  • Maximum Peak SPL: 134 dB
  • Crossover Frequency: 1.7 kHz
  • Enclosure: 15 mm plywood with EVCoat
  • Mounting: Pole
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" combo, RCA Input
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR
  • Controls: Master Volume, Input 1, Input 2
  • Dimensions: 27" × 17" × 17"
  • Weight: 53.9 lbs.

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Sound On Sound Mike Crofts 85/100
Pro Sound Strother Bullins 94/100
*Displayed values are prior to adjustments made by the Gearank Algorithm when evaluating the source.

The Best Active PA Speakers under $2000

JBL Professional PRX815W

96
GEARANK

96 out of 100. Incorporating 175+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$1099
JBL Professional PRX815W Powered PA Speaker 15" - 1500W

Cons

  • Weighs heavy at close to 50lbs
  • App has a learning curve

Pros

  • Strong bass
  • Easy to set up and connect multiple speakers
  • Very loud with good headroom
  • Great for outdoor gigs

JBL is one of the most popular brands for sound reinforcement, and the speaker model PRX815W is an excellent example of why people love this brand.

This powered speaker offers many features at a reasonable price. It has a 15" woofer, a 1500W amp, and modern features like Wi-Fi compatibility.

With Wi-Fi compatibility, you can use a dedicated app from your tablet or smartphone to wirelessly control the speaker's settings. You can easily adjust the EQ, delay, crossover, and other parameters, giving you more flexibility in tuning your sound to suit your venue and audience.

The speaker also has a DBX limiter that protects the unit from high-volume damage. The limiter ensures that the speaker does not clip or distort even at high SPL levels, so you can turn up the volume without worrying about damaging your speaker or compromising the sound quality.

The JBL Professional PRX815W is a versatile and reliable speaker with powerful and clear sound, making it a great addition to any setup. It can handle a wide range of music genres and applications, whether you need a main speaker, a floor monitor, or a side fill. The speaker is also easy to transport and set up, thanks to its lightweight and durable wood cabinet and ergonomic handles. It also integrates well with the typical audio equipment setup.

Overall, the JBL PRX815W offers excellent value for the money. It combines JBL's legendary sound quality with the latest technology and features to give you a great sounding and easy-to-use speaker. If you are looking for a speaker that can handle any gig and impress any crowd, the JBL PRX815W is an excellent choice.

Specifications

  • LF Driver: 15"
  • HF Driver: 1.5" Neodymium Compression Driver
  • Amplifier:Class D Bi-Amped
  • Output Power Peak: 1500W (750W LF + 750W HF)
  • Output Power Continuous: Not specified
  • Frequency Response: kHz(-10dB)
  • Maximum Peak SPL: 50Hz-20khz (-10 dB) dB
  • Crossover Frequency: 2 kHz
  • Enclosure: Birch/Poplar
  • Mounting: Pole, Wedge, Fly
  • Inputs: 2 x XLR-1/4" Combo (Mic/Line), 2 x RCA (Stereo)
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR (Mix out)
  • Controls: 2 x Gain Knobs
  • Dimensions: 27.6" x 17.5" x 14.1
  • Weight: 47.5 lbs.

QSC KW153 3-way 15" - 2000W

97
GEARANK

97 out of 100. Incorporating 175+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$1900
QSC KW153 3-way 1000W 15" Powered PA Speaker
At publication time this was the Highest Rated Powered PA Speaker Under $2000.

Cons

  • Too big and heavy for typical band setups

Pros

  • Brilliantly suited to medium to large venue installation
  • Very good at all styles of music
  • Sounds great at all volumes.
  • Excellent sound reproduction/clarity

The KW153 is another of QSC's top rated PA powered speakers, enjoying perfect ratings at almost all major retailers.

This high-output PA powered speaker has a three-way speaker design that can generate serious volume, sporting a 15" LF driver, a 6.6" MF driver, and a 1.75" tweeter.

Unlike the JBL SRX835P this is only bi-amped; however, the crossovers do their job, and there isn't any lack of mid or high-end response; even at high volume, you still get a great deal of detail and nuance.

I'm happy using these 15-inch 3 way powered speakers for any style of music, and I've seen reports of other audio engineers using them for orchestra and classical-style music, which shows just how versatile they are. This is one of the reasons the QSC KW53 is considered the best PA system for outdoor events.

This powered speaker is highly recommended if you want premium quality 3-way 15" house speakers for permanent installation or large venues.

Specifications

  • LF Driver: 15" Cone
  • MF Driver: 6.5" Mid Range Cone
  • HF Driver: 1.75" Titanium Diaphragm Compression
  • Amplifier: Bi-amplified Class D
  • Output Power Peak: 2000W (1000W LF, 1000W HF)
  • Output Power Continuous: 1000W (500W LF, 500W MF/HF)
  • Frequency Response: 35 Hz – 18 kHz (-6dB) | 33 Hz – 20 kHz (-10dB)
  • Maximum Peak SPL: 134dB
  • Crossover Frequency: DSP Controlled
  • Enclosure: 15mm Painted Birch Plywood
  • Mounting: Pole, Fly
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR/TRS Combo (Mic/Line), 1 x XLR/TRS Combo (Line), 2 x RCA
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR (Line), 2 x XLR (Direct)
  • Controls: Power, Gain A & B, Input Gain (0 dB / 12 dB / 24 dB / 36 dB), LF Mode (Ext Sub /Norm/DEEP), HF Mode (Flat/ Vocal Boost), Front LED (On /Off/Limit)
  • Dimensions: 43.1" × 18.5" × 16.8"
  • Weight: 87 lbs.

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
Audiofanzine stompboxjon 100/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Things To Consider Before Buying Powered PA Speakers

What is the ideal LF Driver / Speaker Cone Size?

The speaker cone size refers to the size of the LF (Low Frequency) Driver - AKA Woofer. Generally, smaller woofers tend to emphasize the mids, while bigger ones offer more bass response. Compact 8" loudspeakers work particularly well with sound sources that are not bass-heavy, like a simple vocal with acoustic guitar setup.

You'll need bigger speaker sizes for deep bass, especially if you're plugging in bass-heavy instruments into the signal chain, like keyboards, bass guitars, and drums. 10" to 12" PA speakers should be enough for most small group/band settings. The 12-inch powered speaker is the go-to size for most live performance venues.

On the other hand, DJs and Electronic Music enthusiasts prefer bigger 15" speakers for the extra low-end they provide. If you want more low-end, consider getting a PA subwoofer.

What Output Power Rating and Max SPL do I need?

Since powered PA speakers have built-in amplifiers, you don't have to worry about properly matching the speaker to the amp like you would if you opted for passive speakers. This is an important distinction when deciding between powered vs passive speakers. Still, the best passive pa speakers have their own advantages, like the ability to mix and match drivers with amps.

The focus is on output power, a numerical representation of the headroom and projection capabilities of the built-in amplifier and speaker combination.

Manufacturers and retailers commonly list two types of power output ratings: Continuous (RMS) and Peak (Dynamic).

Continuous (sometimes interchanged with RMS) is a better representation of how powerful a speaker is because it specifies the wattage in which it can operate safely for long periods.

Peak (sometimes interchanged with Dynamic) refers to short volume/power bursts that speakers can handle. It points to the upper limit of what speakers can do and, as such, is not a good standard to use. 200 to 500 Watts of Continuous power should be enough for most small venues, while upwards of 500W are meant for medium to large venues.

Max SPL ((Sound Pressure Level) is also essential when matching speakers with venue size. The general rule is that the higher the max SPL rating, the more space the speaker covers. With these information, you can implement multiple speakers strategically to cover larger venues.

What about portability?

The integrated power amplifier inside powered speakers adds weight and some bulk; as such, they are generally heavier than passive speakers.. So it's important to consider weight and portability features, especially when you change venues regularly. Important speaker features like handle location and size should be considered; you want to avoid buying a great sounding speaker that you can't carry around, or you can't fit inside your vehicle.

While self-powered speakers are heavy, your overall rig will be lighter because you don't have standalone amplifiers. Considering the cables and Speaker Connector Types that you need is also important when using portable powered PA speakers, especially when connecting to additional speaker systems.

What is DSP and do I need it?

Many powered speakers have built-in DSP (Digital Signal Processing), providing various advantages, including smart limiters to protect the speaker from overload/clipping. Some even use DSP to tweak the sound to match the acoustics of rooms, for the best sound quality and versatile placements. While it's better to do EQ adjustments on the mixing console, making adjustments at the speakers can be handy in certain situations and venues. Note that cheap powered speakers won't have this type of feature. Other features that are good to have include wireless audio streaming (convenient bluetooth audio streaming compatibility), deep bass and more. Some of the best portable PA system options and outboard also come with DSP functionality.

Do I need a built-in mixer?

Some powered speakers can handle two or more inputs and have dedicated gain/volume controls, much like a Mixing Board. These speakers can double as a basic PA System for solo performers and singer-songwriters who play in smaller venues. While many of these mixers include two XLR/Line combo-sized inputs, one is usually only a line-level input, so check this carefully if you're looking to connect two microphones.

How do I know if a Powered PA Speaker is reliable?

The more components a device has, the risk of problems increases; in that sense, Passive Speakers are more durable. Still, modern build quality continues to improve, so much so that reliability is not much of a concern regarding powered speakers. Even Line Array Speakers are now excellent and reliable. Still, regardless of how solid the exterior is, there's no substitute for careful handling and transport. No matter how reliable your speakers are, don't use them above their specifications, this way you can prevent speaker damage and Crackling from Speakers.

Best PA Speaker Selection Methodology

The first edition was published in 2016, and the current edition was updated on Feb 8, 2024.

For this edition, we conducted a survey of major retailers in the USA and placed 88 active speakers on our short-list for closer examination - you can see them in the Music Gear Database. We only included models priced below $2,000.

Next, we gathered relevant store ratings, written reviews, video reviews, and forum discussions about each one - including the latest market feedback. We processed over 16,100 of these data sources using the Gearank Algorithm, which gave us the rating scores out of 100 that we used to rank the powered speakers appropriately. The highest rated of them are featured in this guide divided into three main categories: Sub $500, Sub $1000, and Sub $2000, along with a budget-friendly option. As always, we've included detailed descriptions and specifications for each powered speaker and their strengths and weaknesses as reported by users. For more information about our methods, see How Gearank Works.

For further discussions or to recommend your favorite powered PA speaker to other readers, scroll down to the comments section.

About the Author and Contributors

Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.

Lead Author & Researcher

Raphael PulgarRaphael Pulgar

I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.

Although I'm more of a studio engineer, I have years of technical and creative experience with live sound. I have setup and used some of the best PA speakers and systems, and I've also taught seminars on how to set them up for live performances.

Contributors

Daniel Barnett: Yamaha DBR10 Review.
Jerry Borillo: Research and illustration.
Jason Horton & Alexander Briones: Editing.

Media

Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using photographs of the Mackie Thump15A, QSC K12.2 Powered PA Speaker and Electro-Voice ZLX-15BT Powered PA Speaker.

The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers except for the additional Yamaha DBR10 photos which were taken by Daniel Barnett.

Comments

You should be advised to

You should be advised to include some of the concentric speaker enclosures out there, as powered speakers. Don't know if they'll fit in that range. RCF may be out of bounce, but there are others more affordable. I wished that Tannoy would release a full live PA powered speaker system. Germans DB may be price worthy though, you don't need super expensive T&W and the like.

Is there a gearrank

Is there a Gearank comparison of 3 way powered pa speakers? If there is not you guys should do one, thanks.

We don't have one yet, but we

We don't have one yet, but we are currently revising our publishing schedule and I'll add that to the list of topics to consider.

Here at Gearank.com we don't

Here at Gearank.com we don't do head-to-head comparisons, we primarily do guides to an overall category.

However, if anyone wants to provide their thoughts on Bose F1 vs EVOX 12 here in the comments, they are certainly welcome to.

What about the Yamaha DBR12

What about the Yamaha DBR12 under $500? Alto TX15? The alto is $200 to $250

The Alto Professional

The Alto Professional Speakers are the best. This list is wrong!

Hello Dynes,

Hello Dynes,

We've processed three powered speakers from Alto Professional's lineup and they're not yet rated high enough to be included, compared to the ones listed.

You can see the scores of the Alto Professional speakers on the link below:
https://www.gearank.com/gear...

Hi Alexander,

Hi Alexander,
Can you recommend to me the best powered speakers below $1000 for my MX61 Yamaha Keyboard. In terms of clarity of sounds specially the "bass" part of the keyboard. I came across this demo on youtube and I like the sound of the grand piano, I want to know what kind of speakers they are using. Thanks for your help.

Hi Jess,

Hi Jess,

All the powered speakers listed here should be able to give you the clarity that you're looking for, as long as you keep the volume to a reasonable level. Go for 12" or even 15" speakers if you want deeper bass sounds.

If you can post a link to the youtube video demo that you liked, maybe we can help in figuring out the gear used.

If you cant hear the

If you cant hear the difference between a QSC K10 and ANY new JBL go back to guitar center and buy whatever the guitar player working in the "pa" department tells you to buy.

Not sure what you mean but I

Not sure what you mean but I A/Bd my QCS153 and JBL PRX835 and traded in the QSC for the 835. The QSC was too harsh in the highs and loud volumes. The PRX is much warmer and more pleasing to the ear. Even my soundman, a huge QSC guy had to admit that at the end of the night he had less ear fatigue{ We have a Rock Band } and we get nothing but compliments on our sound. QSC was at the top for a long time. Not anymore.

Have you guys reviewed the

Have you guys reviewed the FBT range of active speakers? They seem to be getting some attention.

FBT weren't included when we

FBT weren't included when we produced this guide because they weren't widely available from major online music gear retailers in the USA. We'll check to see if that has changed when we next update this guide.

Great review here but, I

Great review here but, I question the thoughts on SPL levels for the EV ZLX series. While claiming the speakers are not loud, the experience with using these as mains, have totally left us speechless on how well the ZLX have performed. Plenty of sound, plenty of volume. Realizing they are not ELX or ETX, they still hold their own in this price range as the best affordable speaker.

I'm sure you've heard about

I'm sure you've heard about Carvin, in the San Diego area. What do you guys think of their loudspeakers, in terms of quality, performance, and value?

Thanks for your thoughts!

Thanks for bringing up Carvin

Thanks for bringing up Carvin. I have personal experience with some of their gear, including PA Speakers, and in my opinion, both the sound and build quality are really good.

However, Carvin speakers aren't widely available online (they're mostly only available through their own store) and don't have a lot of independent review sources, so even though I personally like their products there isn't sufficient data for us to provide a rating at this time.

Seriously, Bose?

Seriously, Bose?

While the guide was looking good, and having used many of the speakers here especially the QSC's with awesome results. The inclusion of Bose here destroyed your credibility. Most of us in pro audio know that Bose is a marketing company that makes lousy speakers, and decent headphones and clock radios.

This is another prime example of their bogus "Better sound through research" marketing. The point of line arrays is that they cut the inverse square law of signal decay as you move away from the speaker in half truly "Throwing farther". However the requirement for that to work is the length of the array. In an array that in this case is 26" long is going to have the 1/2 inverse square law decay rate from about 512Hz to 20KHz, but a full inverse square law decay rate from 512Hz down to the low cutoff of the woofer.

So what does that mean? If you EQ the speaker in one spot to sound good, but as you move closer everything from 512Hz and lower will increase at a rate of 1/2 inverse square. And inversely as you move farther away everything below 512Hz will decrease at 1/2 of the inverse square law. Now you have an arc where at one distance away from the speaker it sounds right. If you have two speakers, now there is only one place where it sounds good, and the only person that gets to enjoy it is the soundboard operator.

Why do you think "real" line arrays are so long? Even with that length, we still have that problem with our largest touring arrays.

Don't believe the hype.

Educate yourself about line arrays:
http://www.prosoundtraining.com/site/synaudcon-library/line-array-limitations/

http://meyersound.com/pdf/support/papers/meyer_line_array.pdf

http://www.danleysoundlabs.com/danley/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/line-array-paper.pdf

Thank you for your detailed

Thank you for your detailed comments on line arrays Ryan.

We don't see our role here at Gearank.com as being a participant in the debates over which technological approaches are superior to others, but we are happy for people like yourself to carry on that debate.

We do however try to make our guides as useful as possible by covering all the prominent technologies and brands that are currently in use.

The ratings we provide are a measure of user satisfaction, or to put it another way, they are a statistical analysis of market sentiment. The Bose F1 system continues to get very positive reviews from customers - in fact I just reprocessed their Gearank score and it went up from 92 to 94 as a result of the latest customer feedback.

For a better understanding of this process please read How Gearank Works.

Disclosure: Although Bose is not currently a sponsor Gearank.com they have been an advertiser and sponsor over the last decade of GuitarSite.com which is owned by Gearank.com's parent company Hitsquad Pty Ltd.

Hi EP - thanks for asking

Hi EP - thanks for asking about them because we did examine the DXR range and included the 15" version in the guide above, but it appears we forgot to add the rest of them to our public database.

I've just added them and updated their Gearank scores. The 8" version still isn't as popular or as highly rated as the others, but both the 10" and 12" versions have increased their Gearank scores to 95.

You can now see the full Yamaha DXR range here in our Music Gear Database.

Curious how the TurboSound I

Curious how the TurboSound I series stack up with the others. Any chance of including them in the ranking?

Sorry did a typo, it's the

Sorry did a typo, it's the TurboSound IQ8/IQ10/IQ12/IQ15 powered speakers that I'm interested in.

No problem - I wanted to

No problem - I wanted to process the Gearank scores for both the iQ and iX series so you got them both anyway!

Back when we published this

Back when we published this guide in January, and again in April when I re-checked, the Turbosound iX range didn't have enough rating/review sources for us to rate them - but the early reports were positive so I made them my Editor's Pick at that time.

I checked again today and there are now enough sources of information to produce a Gearank score for both the 12" and 15" iX versions, so as of this moment we have the following results...

Personally I'm surprised the iX series hasn't gained more attention because when you consider that most people who have used and rated them have been very positive, they look like fairly good value to me at their current $349 & $449 price points.

I've also processed the higher priced iQ range and here are those results...

There seems to be a limited amount of talk about the Turbosound iX/iQ series at the moment, but here's a few discussions that do provide some useful information:

Found your article/review

Found your article/review while searching for a compact PA system. The Turbosounds intrigued me greatly. I am now really considering the iP2000 Array system. Have any thoughts on that particular series? Thanks.

Hi Xela - we haven't rated

Hi Xela - we haven't rated the Turbosound iNSPIRE iP2000 yet but the category of compact PA systems is on the list of topics we're considering covering so thanks for letting us know about your interest.

This list is utter crap....

This list is utter crap.....no mention of EV ETX or EKX,QSC KW series....but Mackie Thump and Behringer Eurolive made it? Come on man,this is 2016....Do proper research before compiling a list such as this.....Thank god I don't have to depend on this I fo some one people on here!

I can understand why you feel

I don't agree with your assessment Gerard, but I can understand why you feel the way you do about this guide because back in January 2016 when we published it, less than 4 weeks after we opened the site to the public, we weren't yet publishing the Methodology section in our guides which points out the selection criteria we used (here's a recent guide with the Methodology section included).

At that time the EV ETX and QSC KW series didn't meet the pricing/availability criteria we were using.

The EV EKX-12P & EKX-15P did meet the criteria however they simply didn't score high enough to be included at the time - part of the reason was that those speakers were still relatively new and there were very few reliable rating sources available for them back then.

Now that more than 6 months have elapsed since this guide was published, many more customer reviews, forum discussions and expert reviews have become available, so today I processed both EKX powered speakers and made them available in our public database:
Electro-Voice EKX-12P
Electro-Voice EKX-15P

If we were to redo this guide today the EKX-12P still wouldn't have high enough ratings to be included, but it's possible the EKX-15P might make the list.

Here's a list of all the Powered PA Speakers currently in our public Music Gear Database.

For a better understanding of Gearank please see How Gearank Works.

Wow please do your research

Wow please do your research dude. Used to be a EV and JBL fan many years ago but QSC beats EV, jbl and cerwin vega. Used to use vega when I used to DJ back in the day but now I don't even consider them!

Neither QSC, nor has any

No one, including QSC, has paid us either to write a guide on a particular topic or to be included in any of our gear guides.

At the time of writing Sweetwater is sponsoring this guide - this gives them exposure including their logo and links to their website but they do not determine which products are included as you can see from the fact that not all of the products mentioned are sold by them.

Each of the products listed above, apart from the Editor's Pick section, has one of the top 5 Gearank scores in their category of all the powered PA speakers in our database.

If you believe there is a powered speaker that should be added to our database then please let us know.

For now, there aren't enough

For now, there aren't enough reviews of this speaker to make a proper recommendation.

Hi, forgot to mention in my

Hi, forgot to mention in my previous question that the setup will be used for a light jazz trio consisting of double bass keyboards and drums. Thanks

Hi, really appreciate the

Hi, really appreciate the review. Wondering which stereo set up/2 powered speakers you would recommend for the truest representation of the source, with special emphasis on best ratio between clean (mud/cloudy free) bottom end and portability(light weight, no more than 30lbs each), for smallish venues of say around 50-80 people capacity. Price is not an issue.TIA

Having good bottom end and

Having good bottom end and portability is a rare combination. I'd recommend the QSC K8 as it falls within your weight limit at 27lbs, but it may not have enough low end. The QSC K12 gives you more bottom end but is almost twice as heavy. The QSC K10 is a good in between, and should have enough low end for a jazz trio.

I would like to recommend the

I would like to recommend the Cerwin Vega P-Series.

I have 16 subs, 6 x 15'' tops & 4 x 10'' tops.

I also have for Yamaha DXR 8's which is why I am writing this comment.

The best thing about the Cerwin Vega's other than the sound is the front light limiter fo me. The sound is incredible, much better that the electro voice and Yamaha's.

Yamaha's cannot be used without the high pass filter switch set in the middle setting and when it is turned off it doesn't sound good at all.

The PX1000 wipes the floor with yamaha for sound quality.

The subs I have never yet had a problem with them for the 3 years I baught them other than fans breaking and changing them.

I have had problems with 2 15" tops and no problems with the 10" tops but they are just 1 year old. The tops woofer didn't work on 2 occasions and needed to be sent in for service. Not sure what the problem was as I just send them to the shop for repair and they came back working again.

Only bad thing about the subs is the handles are awkward on the wrist when lifting with 2 people.

I haven't heard the Bose or QSC but I've never been a fan of Bose speakers.

I know that the P-Series is much much better than some of the speakers you have chose as your top 10.

We appreciate your personal

We appreciate your personal recommendation on the P1000. I've read good things about it as well, but unfortunately there aren't enough reviews to include it in this list. This may not indicate poor quality, but it does indicate low market performance - or at the very least, users were too busy to commend the product.

Hey ur reviews are great! I'm

Hey ur reviews are great! I'm a one man band (a wedding singer) & perform at medium size venues for approx. 100-400 people. I've shortlisted a few brands. Would really appreciate if u could please provide an honest feedback on what would work best for my usage:
Order of my preference
1. QSC K12 12" Powered PA Speaker 1000W
2. JBL EON615 - 1000W 15" 2-Way Powered Speaker
3. RCF EVOX 8 or 12 (if I get a good price)

How would u compare/rate the Bose L1S with B2 bass unit, I know they r expensive but are they as powerful as the above listed brands?

I also hear of the Fender Passport Venue Speakers. Any feedback?

Would appreciate ur advise, as I'm thoroughly confused. cheers!

The QSC K12 is highly

The QSC K12 is highly recommended, with its proven acoustic and vocal friendly sound. Based on ratings, the QSC K12 trumps the JBL EON615, so that's an easy pick right there, especially in your case where the speaker needs to be of high quality and easier to carry around.

I've read good things about RCF EVOX speakers as well as the Bose L1S, but not enough to make recommendations, for now. Maybe in the future when we've researched Portable PA systems some more. [NB: We published a comprehensive guide to Portable PA systems on Dec. 23, 2016. - Ed.]

The Fender Passport Venue is definitely worth considering, given its portability and built-in mixer features, in case the father of the bride (or the entire family) wants to sing with you. The only downside is that it may not be enough for bigger open space venues.

Hey im looking for a speaker

Hey im looking for a speaker to play my music in my room. I'm looking for one speaker I will buy a second one once I save up.

I just want the best clear nice bass audio really debating on getting the DRb10 or a Behringer B112w which is the Bluetooth version of the B112d or even the turbo that your sound editor picked.

I don't know if should get the Behringer or loose the Bluetooth for the Yamaha. Do you think the sound on the Yamaha is better in clearness and deep bass or should I just get the bigger 12 in Behringer for louder sound and deeper bass.

And again this is going in my room will the 12 in be too much for my room? If it is there's no point in getting another 12 inch to make it a pair so I don't know if i should get 2 10 or one 12 or maybe even just one 10 which would be the Yamaha.

I will be playing music and movies, video games and I could just lower the volume but I don't wanna loose too much sound quality so bottom line bigger speaker or smaller speaker? Remember I won't be playing them too loud.

Please and advise or help on what too choose I been debating for a while now and your post really helped give me an idea. You guys are awesome thanks so much.

Given that you're just going

Given that you're just going to be using this in your room I'd suggest the Behringer B112w would be just fine - it also has a built in 2 channel mixer.

Don't forget that if you want stereo then you'll need 2 speakers.

I hope this helps.

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