The Behringer Eurolive B210D is an active speaker used in Front of House or as a floor monitor. It packs 200W of peak power split into 180W for the LF and 42W for the HF drivers. All while being under 20lbs per speaker.

It also has an integrated DSP that filters out lows progressively as you go louder to keep the signal clean. An internal limiter keeps the signal from overloading your drivers, extending their long-term reliability.

One thing the B201D powered speaker is known for is its good power-to-weight ratio. This might mean little for static setups, but traveling weight is essential for equipment rentals, touring musicians, and street performers.

Having a lighter speaker without compromising power is always welcome in these situations. It doesn't boast of having the best sound quality, but it sounds quite good.

A gripe I have with this powered pa speaker is that the front grille gets dented easily. This is commonly seen when it's used as a floor wedge. It doesn't technically affect performance, but it looks unsightly and reflects poorly on the venue's upkeep.

I've also encountered units that hiss, but when I checked, it has more to do with the venue's electrical system. This could be avoided with better internal component shielding, which would raise the price.

Fortunately, this issue is primarily cosmetic, and the venues I've performed and teched for reported that it took years before the powered speakers needed servicing.

The B210D isn't perfect, but it's still the best powered speaker in its price range, with good power output and decent features. Just hope that the overenthusiastic guitar players that perform at your venue don't step on it during their solos, and this powered pa speaker will last you a surprising amount of time.

Specifications

• LF Driver: 1 x 10"
• HF Driver: 1.35" Aluminum diaphragm compression driver
• Amplifier: Bi-amped
• Output Power Peak: 220W (180W LF, 42W HF)
• Frequency Response: 65Hz-20kHz
• Maximum Peak SPL: 113dB
• Crossover Frequency: 2.4kHz
• Enclosure: Molded Plastic
• Mounting: Pole Mount with 1.37" socket, Floor Wedge
• Inputs:1 x 1/4", 1 x XLR
• Outputs: 1 x XLR
• Controls: Power Switch, 1 x Level Knob, High EQ, Low EQ
• Dimensions: 18.3" x 11.5" x 9.6"
• Weight: 18.8 lbs.

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.

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

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 subwoofers. I have yet to do this, but they have 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.

QSC is the brand to beat when it comes to quality speakers, reflected by the almost perfect ratings many of their products are getting. The K8.2 is among their highest rated speakers, sporting an 8" speaker and a 2000W power amplifier with a built-in 3-channel mixer.

Compared to the CP series, The K series adds premium speakers, DSP, and cooling. QSC also adds more power to the LF driver, which means a bit more low-end emphasis, which helps its tiny 8" speaker to sound fuller. These all add up to a tight and clear sound and even help improve long-term reliability.

I am impressed by its detailed sound, especially in the midrange. It is easily one of the best active speakers for small ensemble setups like acoustic guitar with vocals - soloists and duos. Although the low end is limited due to the 8" woofer, it pairs well with subs. I don't do DJ work, but I've seen reports from DJs who like the sound when paired with a good sub.

If you're looking for an excellent speaker that sounds amazing - and viable for both FOH and as a stage monitor, then get the QSC K8.2. It shines brightest at acoustic performance venues where detail is favored over loudness.

Specifications

• LF Driver: 8" Cone
• HF Driver: 1.75" Titanium Compression
• Amplifier: Bi-amplified Class D
• Output Power Peak: 2000W (1800W LF, 225W HF)
• Output Power Continuous: 1000W (900W LF, 100W HF)
• Frequency Response: 59 Hz - 20 kHz (-6dB) | 55 Hz - 20 kHz (-10dB)
• Maximum Peak SPL: 128dB
• Crossover Frequency: User Adjustable
• Enclosure: ABS Thermoplastic with 18 AWG Steel Grille
• Mounting: Pole, Floor Wedge, Flown
• Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line), 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (line/Hi-Z), 1 x 1/8" (Aux Stereo-in)
• Outputs: 2 x XLR (Thru), 1 x XLR (Mix out)
• Controls: 3 x Gain Knobs, DSP Controls, Power Switch
• Dimensions: 17.7" × 11" × 10.6"
• Weight: 27 lbs.

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.