The greatness of a DJ’s music will largely depend on their skills. However, there are some other factors that you should consider if you’re trying to enhance your music.
One of these factors is the speaker you’re using. Of course, you want to ensure that your audience hears everything you do on your DJ turntable.
Of all the types of sound output equipment you can find, a set of powered speakers should top your list. That’s why we’ve gathered some of the best DJ powered speakers on the market to amplify your music-playing skills.
Comparison Chart
Best DJ Powered Speakers Reviews
1. QSC K12.2 Loudspeaker
QSC’s humble beginnings include having to assemble amplifiers by hand in the back of a van. It was way back in 1968 when the brand was still operating out of a small garage in California. After more than half a century, QSC is now one of the leading speakers and audio equipment providers for different industries.
With their expertise in the field, you can’t go wrong in buying their products. For this reason, we’ll start with the K12.2 Loudspeaker to give our list a sendoff. Here’s what you need to know about it.
Review
The K12.2 is an active speaker that’s 19 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 26 inches tall. It has a total weight of 39 pounds and a peak output power of 2000W, as with all the speakers in QSC’s K2 series.
The frequency range is from 45 Hz to 20 kHz and has a maximum rated sound pressure level (SPL) of 132 dB. QSC also provides a 6-year warranty on this product, no matter where you are in the world.
This high-quality amplifier borders more on the upper tiers. It has high-end features and offers excellent value for your money.
- Sturdy Construction and Portability
First, let’s talk about the exterior. Its enclosure is made with impact-resistant acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), allowing it to withstand bumps and rugged use.
It also comes with a steel grille with a cloth lining to prevent dust and other elements from getting into the speaker.
Despite these materials, the K12.2 is one of the lightest products we have on this list.
- Versatility
This speaker tilts at a 7.5-degree angle, allowing you to use it as a floor monitor. Nonetheless, the versatility of this product makes it just as great as a primary output speaker.
- Exceptional Sound Quality
The K12.2 is a beast. It produces crisp highs and mids, and the bass is decent. Because of this, its sound is not irritating to the ears. The frequencies make this a great piece of equipment for large and small venues.
One of the most notable things about this product is that it utilizes a class D amplifier with a 2000-watt power rating. The broad frequency response also allows it to cover a wide area without distortions or fluctuations.
The only problem you might encounter from this speaker is that the bass response is not the best you could get. Other more affordable options have more impressive bass levels.
Speaking of affordability, another concern we have with this speaker is that it’s quite expensive.
- Easy Operation
There are only two buttons and one dial. However, do not mistake this for limited controllability. These controls are for the LCD screen at the back of the speaker, allowing you to modify the sound settings.
The speaker also has preset-saving capabilities, which means you can create, save, and easily access any specific type of speaker setting.
Overall, the QSC K12.2 Active Speaker is a reliable and versatile piece of equipment. If you regularly perform in front of a live audience, this is one of the best powered speakers you could invest in as a DJ.
Pros:
- Digital display
- Versatile use
- Impressive sound quality
- Great power output
- Commendable sound dispersion
- Scene-saving capabilities
Cons:
- Expensive
- Falls short on the bottom-end frequencies
2. Bose F1 Model 812 Loudspeaker
Bose is one audio company that has stood the test of time. Founded in 1964, Bose never failed to deliver high-quality gear and groundbreaking speakers to the masses. Bose even went so far as to be hailed as a top-selling manufacturer of loudspeakers in the global market for various years.
This list will not be complete if we don’t include an innovative speaker from Bose’s arsenal. Since it is one of the most trusted audio brands in the world, we saw it fitting to present its F1 Model 812 Loudspeaker.
Review
This powerful speaker is 16 inches long, 17.6 inches wide, and 27 inches tall, with a total weight of 44.5 pounds. It has 1000 watts of peak power output, and a maximum created SPL of 132 dB.
The range of frequencies produced by this speaker is between 52 Hz to 16kHz. It accommodates up to two input channels, both of which have independent dials that allow you to adjust their volumes.
- Bluetooth Connectivity
One thing that separates the Bose F1 Model 812 from many other speakers on the same tier is that it offers Bluetooth connectivity. This Bluetooth connection can reach up to 30 feet, so you don’t have to worry about messy cables and even accidents on stage. This wireless feature makes the device one of the best DJ speakers.
- Bose Flexible Array Technology
Another reason why we have to include this speaker in our recommendations is its versatility. The F1 Model 812 boasts Bose’s Flexible Array technology.
Right at the center of the speaker cabinet is a 30 cm woofer, and in front of it are eight drivers that optimize your sound. Because of this, you can rely on producing clear vocals, powerful basses, detailed mids, and crisp highs, even at loud volumes.
Moreover, this speaker allows you to modify the vertical coverage pattern. Whether you are playing loud music at house parties or in an open area, the sonic performance of this speaker will not fail you.
This speaker also has automatic EQ settings revoicing. At 1000 watts of power with 132 dB of SPL, the sound can reach long distances with clarity. All you really have to do is just set it up, and you’re good to go.
- Pairing with Other Bose Devices
If you’re playing bass-heavy music and want to enhance the lower frequency drivers, this speaker is compatible with another Bose product, the F1 Subwoofer. This subwoofer includes a mounting stand that fits perfectly with the F1 Model 812. Furthermore, you’ll like that the stand can hide the cables of both the speaker and the subwoofer.
Overall, if DJ-ing is your bread and butter, this product is an excellent investment. The only problem is that despite its compact design, it is pretty heavy, so moving it around is quite challenging.
Another concern we have is that it’s also rather expensive. Nevertheless, it delivers the best value for money.
Pros:
- Clarity over long distances
- Rugged design for heavy use
- Wide range of frequency
- Great power and sound
- Multiple drivers
- Simple controls
Cons:
- One of the more expensive options
- Relatively heavier than other speakers in the same tier
3. Electro-Voice ZLX-15P Speaker
Electro-Voice boasts more than 90 years of expertise in sound engineering and cutting-edge audio solutions. They specialize in powered and passive speakers (those that use external amplifiers), microphones, portable column systems, and anything related to sound amplification technology.
The best part is that they offer their high-quality sound equipment for affordable prices. If you believe this is what you’re looking for, you should check out the Electro-Voice ZLX-15P speaker.
Review
This unit is 15 inches long, 17 inches wide, and 27 inches tall. It has an overall weight of 38 pounds with maximum power output levels reaching 1000W. It has a maximum sound pressure levels rating of 127 dB. You can expect it to produce a powerful sound with a frequency range of 42 Hz to 20kHz.
It utilizes a built-in amplifier with a 15-inch woofer and a 1.5″ high-frequency titanium compression driver. With features like these, it’s easily one of the best 15-inch speakers for DJs on the market today.
- Reliable Bass Power
Because of the size of the low-frequency driver, this high-quality DJ speaker has more than enough bass power for your music. Nonetheless, the high-frequency sounds are also crisp, making this speaker capable of accommodating large audiences.
- Durable and Portable
The grille is made of steel with a black powder coat, making it resistant to scratches and keeping the speaker professional-looking.
Moreover, the enclosure is made of polypropylene material, which keeps it durable and lightweight. It also has a hi/lo grip, making it easier to mount the speaker on top of a pole stand.
Because of these features, the ZLX-15P is one of your best options for portable speakers.
- Split Baffle Design
This speaker also utilizes a split baffle design that optimizes the time alignment of the drivers. This feature allows the speaker to produce a more balanced sound.
If you’re looking for a studio monitor or a main output speaker, the evenly distributed sound of the ZLX-15P has got you covered.
- Digital Controls
This speaker sports digital technology. There’s a little LCD screen at the back panel that you can control with a knob.
These features are for DSP control, allowing you to adjust or modify the tiniest details of the sound. You can also use this to access the preset mode for a faster setup. Some of the options include a live, club, or music preset.
The integrated DSP lets you choose a frequency spectrum to accommodate the acoustics of your current venue.
- Plug-and-Play Operation
In most cases, all you have to do is to plug it in and adjust the volume levels. Its plug-and-play capabilities make it an excellent speaker for those always on the go.
- Budget-Friendly
Having said all of these, we believe this speaker is an excellent choice for those working on a tight budget.
However, it’s important to note that it does not have a built-in fan. This means that the speaker can heat up after using it for long periods of time.
Pros:
- One of the more affordable options
- Power with portability
- Advanced DSP controls
- Balanced sound outputs
- Durable build
- Impressive bass performance
Cons
- No built-in fan
- Can’t save specific sound presets
4. Electro-Voice ZLX-12P Speaker
For the fourth spot on our list, Electro-Voice yet again proves that they are experts in designing active loudspeakers and other pieces of sound equipment. Another one from their ZLX series, the ZLX-12P, is a full-range loudspeaker that accommodates all your needs.
Here’s why it’s an indispensable active speaker for DJs.
Review
The ZLX-12P speaker is 14 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 24 inches tall, with an overall weight of 34.3 pounds.
It allows up to 1000 watts of peak power with a maximum rated SPL of 126 dB. The frequency range is from 50 Hz to 20 kHz.
It utilizes a class D amplifier to maximize the efficiency of the 12-inch woofer and the 1.5-inch titanium compression tweeter.
More than the high-quality sound, the ZLX-12P is designed to accommodate crisp music playing.
- Accurate Driver Time Alignment
Like the ZLX-15P, it utilizes a split-baffle design to enhance its sonic impact and ensure an accurate driver time alignment.
When talking about sound quality, the frequency range of the ZLX-12P will not fail you. The highs are crisp, and the mids are detailed, producing a well-balanced sound.
It does fall short when it comes to its bass-reflex design. Nonetheless, the controls allow you to tune the drivers for a quick bass boost.
- Versatile Placement
This speaker has a hi/lo grip, making it extremely easy to mount on a pole. Nonetheless, its strong rubber feet, angled edges, and overall ergonomic design allow it to stand on its own or be placed on its side.
That means you can also use this product as a studio speaker.
- Convenient Controls
Another notable thing about this product is that it has an LCD screen. Ironically, the LCD screen is bigger than the one on the ZLX-15P, which is a larger speaker.
Besides the LCD screen is a knob that lets you control the volume. This volume knob also functions as the DSP control when you access the onboard DSP.
Furthermore, the DSP allows you to access the preset mode from which you can choose to set it as live, speech, club, or music.
- Versatile Input and Output
This speaker has two combo jacks and one 3.5mm for the input channels. These channels support TRS and mono XLR input connections.
It also utilizes an XLR output.
While it may not be the cheapest speaker for DJs, it packs numerous features that make it a suitable speaker for various applications. You’d certainly be getting the best bang for your buck.
However, it is important to remember that this is still a compact speaker, which means it might only be suitable for smaller venues. You might have to sacrifice an accurate sound if you want to accommodate a larger crowd by going for louder volumes.
Pros:
- Incredible power for its size
- Amazing sound quality
- Sturdy construction
- Equipped with DSP and an LCD screen
- Has four preset modes
- Allows tuning
- With Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:
- Not the best bass sound
- For smaller venues only
5. Yamaha DXR 10 Powered Speaker
Does this brand even need an introduction? It seems that whichever industry Yamaha chooses to participate in, they eventually become one of the greats. Having been founded in 1887, Yamaha is one of the leading brands in numerous enterprises, especially in the music instrument, sound equipment, and motorcycle industries.
If you want to know what greatness feels like, check out the Yamaha DXR 10 Powered Speaker.
Review
This unit is 15 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 25.3 inches tall. Its overall weight is an astounding 23 pounds, making it the lightest speaker on this list.
Despite its size and weight, the DXR 10 can reach up to 1,100 watts of peak power. This feature allows it to have a maximum rated SPL of 131 dB.
- Versatile Mounting
It boasts various mounting options. You can place it on top of a pole stand or use a pole to mount it on a subwoofer. You can also mount it on a wall using a wall bracket.
- Ultra-Lightweight Yet Durable
The ultra-lightweight body comprises mainly ABS plastic. This material makes it extremely easy to move from one place to another.
Don’t worry. While the material of the speaker cabinet is plastic, it’s still relatively durable and can withstand rugged and heavy use.
- Exceptional Sound
This speaker’s frequency range is from 56 Hz to 20 kHz, which is pretty impressive for its size. The built-in amplifier combined with the bass-reflex design of the speaker cabinet allows it to have an impressive bass sound.
It’s also the only speaker on our list that utilizes a bi-amplified design with class D amplification. This feature guarantees that you wouldn’t need an external amplifier. With a power output of 1,100W, you can expect a dynamic range and powerful performance with little distortion.
Even more impressive is that its maximum SPL is higher than larger speakers. At 131 dB, the sound quality remains the same because of the even distribution.
- Easy Controls
This speaker even has DSP controls to let you manage the maximum output and modify the sound. It offers an XLR and stereo RCA input. For the output, you have an XLR connection.
All things considered, the Yamaha DXR 10 Powered Speaker is a beast caged in a small speaker. You can rely on it for live DJ performances. Moreover, it’s Yamaha, meaning you can’t go wrong with it.
Remember that it is a compact, portable speaker, which may not be your best option for huge crowds.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Enhanced bass performance
- Exceptional power with portability
- Class D power rating
- With bi-amplification
Con:
- Not the best speaker for large crowds
Which Is the Best Powered Speaker for DJ-ing?
While we are impressed by the capabilities of the Yamaha DXR 10, we believe that it may not be the best option. Since this list is for the best DJ powered speakers, you’re looking for speakers that can accommodate huge crowds. Clearly, the Yamaha DXR 10 is too small for that.
After carefully considering all features, we’ve determined that the QSC K12.2 Active Loudspeaker wins by a small gap. It has a higher peak power output and decibel rating, which means it can accommodate both large and small audiences, which is essential for DJs.
On the other hand, if you’re working on a budget but don’t want to compromise sound quality, be sure to check out the JBL EON612. It’s among the most affordable but competent speakers on the market today.
