5 Best Powered PA Speakers

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In social gatherings or events, one of the most common dilemmas of organizers is whether to increase the volume of the speakers. Such events are more successful when everyone can hear the person speaking.

Sometimes, just being able to adjust to a regulated volume so that the speech is still concise is enough. Distortions to the sound quality are almost always because of a low-quality speaker. 

You want something that can reach the entire frequency range to keep the audio clear despite increasing the volume and without using an external amplifier.

Only the best powered PA speakers will let you do that. Fortunately for you, we’ve already browsed all over the internet to show you which of them are worth your time.

Comparison Chart

41eQYc0BDAL. SL500
Behringer Eurolive B112D 1000W 12 Inches Powered Speaker
51rlCiEaZdL. SL500
Mackie THUMP Series 15-Inch 1300-Watt Loudspeaker
41DMsDVHolL. SL500
QSC CP12 12-Inch Compact Powered Loudspeaker
51K5yEeeiZL. SL500
QSC K10.2 Active 10″ Powered 2000 Watt Loudspeaker
51N6s21fflL. SL500
JBL Professional SRX835P Portable 3-Way Bass Reflex Self-Powered System Speaker

Best Powered PA Speakers Reviews

1. Behringer Eurolive B112D Powered Speaker

41eQYc0BDAL. SL500

The Behringer brand came from humble beginnings. It started as a very small company, relatively unknown, and later became one of the most successful audio equipment companies in the entire world.

When talking about speakers, Behringer has become a household name, almost synonymous with high-quality sound and premium build.

The good thing about a Behringer Eurolive product is that it offers great value for its seemingly affordable price.

One of their top-tier products is the Eurolive B112D Powered Speaker.

Review

The Eurolive B112D is 10.6 inches long, 13.5 inches wide, 22.4 inches tall, and weighs 27 pounds. It packs a 12-inch low-frequency driver and a 1.35-inch aluminum compression high-frequency driver.

  • High-Efficiency Class D Amp

One of the most notable things about it is that it uses a class D amplifier, which significantly boosts its performance.

The high-efficiency class D amplifier also makes the sound extremely clear and weighs less than class AB, A, or B amplifiers. You can easily move the speaker around and set it up in a new location.

  • Complete Integrations

This speaker has a peak power output of 1000W, a mic and line input, and one XLR output.  There are various knobs for controlling the inputs and modifying the high and low frequencies.

However, what sets it apart from the other products on this list is that it provides a wireless option for the integrated mixer.

This budget-friendly speaker has received countless positive reviews, making it one of the most popular powered PA speakers on the market. One of the reasons for this is that it’s the complete package. You get amazing audio quality, yet it’s more affordable than most PA speakers of the same tier.

  • Sturdy and Handy

The trapezoidal enclosure of this 12″ 2-way powered speaker is also durable, which is perfect if you bring your equipment to different locations and venues. The ergonomically designed and strategically positioned handles support this point further.

It also has a 35-mm pole socket at the bottom so you can mount it on a stand. Nonetheless, it stands upright on its own but can also be placed on its side if you want to use it as a floor monitor.

  • Great Value for the Price

The only problem with this unit is that it’s still a bit behind when it comes to the full-range sound performances of higher-tier speakers. While it does include bass and treble controls, it cannot accommodate custom DSP modes.

Nonetheless, we’d still say it’s an acceptable tradeoff for its price point. 

Pros:

  • Decent bass response
  • Class D amplifier provides clearer audio
  • Lightweight
  • One of the more affordable options
  • Multiple setup and mounting options

Cons:

  • Still a mid-range speaker
  • No custom DSP modes

 2. Mackie THUMP 15A Loudspeaker

51rlCiEaZdL. SL500

Mackie is a go-to brand if you’re looking for affordable speakers. The company started in 1989, and musicians began to take notice after one product release – a mixer. However, it was in 1991 that the release of CR-1604 really put Mackie on the map.

Three decades later, Mackie became a trusted brand for delivering consistent performance at a relatively low price. As proof of that, we have one of the products in their THUMP series, the 15A Loudspeaker. Here’s why this active speaker will blow you away.

Review

The THUMP 15A is 14 inches long, 17.4 inches wide, 27 inches tall, and weighs 34.8 pounds. It utilizes an enormous 15-inch ferrite magnet low-frequency driver and a 1.4-inch high-frequency compression driver.

  • Efficient Bi-Amplification

The woofer (LF driver) uses a class D amplifier, while the tweeter (HF driver) uses a class AB amplifier. The class D amplifier guarantees that you get clear sound and maximum efficiency, while the class AB amplifier eliminates cross-over distortion.

The power output peaks at 1300W, and the frequency response ranges from 32Hz to 23 kHz, which is about -10dB.

It has three input options: a mic, line, and a Hi-Z. For the output, it has one XLR with a built-in 2-channel mixer. The controls are somewhat limited, having only one gain for each channel and one central control knob for the mix-out.

  • Dynamic Bass Response

What’s impressive about this speaker is its dynamic bass response. With a class D amplifier and a 15-inch bass driver, this is, by far, the cheapest speaker you could get for deep bass. This means you’d have no problems if you want to connect a bass guitar to the speaker for live music performances.

If the bottom-end response bothers you, you can reduce it by switching to the other speaker modes. Nonetheless, it’s still a full-sounding speaker that you can use for all kinds of events and venues.

  • Durable Housing

Another notable advantage of this product is that its enclosure is made with polypropylene material. It is one of the most durable and lightest materials you could find on audio equipment.

Because of this, you can expect it to last for a long time despite rugged use. You can also set it up on a tripod or pole stand or place it on its side.

Pros:

  • Affordable price
  • Very deep bass
  • Class D bass amplifier
  • Durable construction
  • Has a built-in mixer

Cons:

  • Might be too bassy for some
  • Might be too big for some
  • Limited controls

3. QSC CP12 Compact Loudspeaker

41DMsDVHolL. SL500

QSC started in 1968 as a small and independent manufacturer building power amplifiers by hand in the back of a van. Fast forward to today, they are now one of the leading providers of powered PA speakers and audio equipment for marketing, sales, and other industries.

To show you their timeless expertise in the field, allow us to introduce you to the CP12 Compact Loudspeaker.

Review

The CP12 Compact Loudspeaker is only 12.7 inches long, 13.8 inches wide, 20.3 inches tall, and weighs 30 pounds. It has a 12-inch low-frequency driver and a 1.4-inch high-frequency driver.

It utilizes a class D built-in amplifier for both the woofer and the tweeter, ensuring you get highly detailed sounds.

The power output peaks at 1000W, with 800W for the low frequencies and 200W for the high frequencies. Despite its compact design, it still provides a frequency response of 47 Hz to 20 kHz or about -10 dB. This rating brings this speaker close to many larger speakers.

  • Versatile Performance

It has three input options; one for mic/line, another for the line only XLR, and an aux 1/8″ socket. Since it has only one XLR output, it packs a built-in 3-channel mixer.

Because of this, you can use the speaker as a stage monitor for your studio or even for live performances. It works exceptionally well, even when set on its side. However, note that it can only unleash its true potential in a small to medium-sized venue.

Because it can handle a wide range of frequencies, the CP12 is an all-in-one choice for those who perform in a small venue. Thanks to its wide variety of input options and versatile frequency range, you can use it as a floor wedge, main speaker, or instrument amplifier.

One of the few drawbacks is that even though it accommodates low to high frequencies, the sound quality is not on the same level as other expensive speakers.

  • Maximum Portability

One of the best things you’ll love about this product is its portable design. Being relatively small and of average weight, you can easily carry it on its sides or from the top.

However, the enclosure does not seem capable of withstanding heavy use, which is kind of a letdown since a portable speaker should also be durable.

Pros:

  • Compact design
  • Decent bass for its size
  • Versatile functionality
  • Three input options
  • Has a 3-channel mixer

Cons:

  • Average audio quality
  • Enclosure quality could be better

4. QSC K10.2 Powered Loudspeaker

51K5yEeeiZL. SL500

The fourth product on our list is another masterpiece from QSC. With more than 50 years of experience in engineering professional audio system solutions, you can’t go wrong with this brand, especially their K2 series.

Driven by the goal of setting the next standard in speakers, the K10.2 is one of the best products you could get from QSC. Here’s why.

Review

The K10.2 Loudspeaker is 11.8 inches long, 12.6 inches wide, 20.4 inches tall, and weighs 32 pounds. It includes a 10-inch low-frequency driver and a 1.4-inch titanium compression high-frequency driver.

  • Exceptional Power

Each driver utilizes a class D built-in amp for maximum clarity and power efficiency. Speaking of power, its peak output is an impressive 2000W, as with all the speakers in QSC’s K2 series. It provides up to 1800W of power to the low-frequency driver and about 225W to the high-frequency driver.

These features allow the unit to have a frequency response of 56Hz to 20kHz, which is about -6 dB on the bottom end.

The stereo inputs include one combo mic/line, one combo line/Hi-Z, and one 35mm aux jack for music players.

  • Durable Thermoplastic

Its enclosure is made with ABS thermoplastic, so you can trust that it’s durable enough for heavy use. It also includes an AWG steel grille to protect the speakers from dust and other external elements.

By choosing the K10.2, you can guarantee that the overall workmanship that went into its production will make it last for a long time. This is a testament to the unmatched quality standards that QSC applies to their speakers, but it doesn’t end there.

  • Digital Sound Processing

What caught our attention is that the K10.2 Loudspeaker boasts digital sound processing or DSP. It allows you to heavily modify the speakers’ sound, making it a versatile piece of equipment for all sorts of functions and crowd sizes.

Another key feature of this unit is that it offers factory presets, allowing you to change the sound settings conveniently. It even allows you to save your sound settings to easily switch between presets and not have to remember the calibrations you used.

What’s even more impressive about this powered speaker is its multi-functional digital display. You can access the speaker’s frequency contour, crossover, delay, and EQ functions through this feature.

  • Multiple Mounting Options

Additionally, this unit offers multiple mounting options. Its 7.5-degree down-tilt allows placement on its side on the floor, but you can also mount it on a pole or have it flown.

  • Versatile Functionality

Because of all these excellent features, the K10.2 is popular for any type of function. The versatile sound customization options accommodate musicians, event organizers, DJs, and people from all walks of life.

The premium sound combined with the quality of its build also makes this speaker an excellent option for permanent or semi-permanent installations. These features are also why we considered the K10.2 on our list of the overall best powered speakers.

Pros:

  • Premium quality
  • Durable build
  • Equipped with DSP
  • Factory sound presets plus preset saving capabilities

Cons:

  • Quite expensive
  • Bass frequency range is not as deep as cheaper alternatives

5. JBL Professional SRX835P Speaker

51N6s21fflL. SL500

First started as Lansing Manufacturing Company and later became JBL, the brand has been around for a hundred years. For a company to survive in the ever-changing landscape of sound technology, it must be fiercely dedicated to the craft.

Well, the SRX835P Speaker will show you just how dedicated JBL is to providing the world with nothing but the best audio equipment.

Review

The SRX835P is 18.7 inches long, 21.4 inches wide, and 38.7 inches tall, weighing 85 pounds. If you’re looking for a lightweight speaker, this is not the one for you.

  • Tri-Amplification

Its tri-amplification is the first thing that sets this product apart from all the others on this list. It has a 15-inch driver for low frequencies, a 6.5-inch driver for mid frequencies, and a 3-inch driver for high frequencies.

Because of this, you can extensively mix the different frequencies to get a more balanced sound or a sound that you prefer.

  • Built-In DSP

To further let you customize the sounds, the JBL equips the SRX835P with DSP. This makes the unit a versatile piece of equipment to have for any crowd size or any type of social event.

It also has a 2000W peak power rating with a continuous output of 1500W. The frequency response ranges from 33 Hz to 21 kHz, about -10 dB.

  • Multiple Input and Output

The inputs include two XLR/TRS or mic/line combos, while you have three XLR options for the output. Each of the inputs has a control knob, and the last knob is the master control.

  • Rugged Construction

The enclosure is 18mm-thick wooden plywood, and the 14-gauge grille is sturdy steel. It’s also finished with the patented JBL DuraFlex, the most rugged and durable finish ever used on a speaker. This allows the speaker to withstand heavy use and even external impacts.

Overall, the JBL SRX835P is the only product on our list with three separate amplifiers for each driver. It also has the most durable enclosure on this list and probably in the entire PA speaker market.

  • High-End Premium Speaker

This product certainly gets an almost perfect score on all criteria.

The only downside of this product is that it’s significantly more expensive than most speakers on the market. In fact, its cost is four to five times the average price of the other four products on this list.

Another thing worth noting is that, even though incredibly durable, it’s not the ideal option if you’re looking for a portable speaker. At 85 pounds, this beast is significantly heavy. Moving it around and setting it up on a pole will be very challenging. The SRX835P is more suitable for fixed or permanent installations.

Pros:

  • Three-way amplifier technology
  • Equipped with DSP
  • Multiple output options
  • Extremely durable build

Cons:

  • Significantly heavier than average speakers
  • On the more expensive side of the spectrum
  • Not so portable

Which Powered PA Speaker Is Best?

After carefully considering what each of these products offers, we’ve finally reached a verdict.

Among the best powered PA speakers on this list, the JBL SRX835P is the winner. It is a beast and the most jam-packed in terms of features and capabilities.

However, we can confidently say that the Behringer Eurolive B112D Powered Speaker is where you’d get the most bang for your buck.

If you don’t have the luxury of spending thousands of dollars for a premium speaker, the Eurolive B112D provides a high-quality sound output. Moreover, it packs the basic functionality for a reasonable price.

On the other hand, if you have the budget but are not satisfied with JBL SRX835P’s controls, check out QSC KW153 PA Loudspeaker. It’s packed with the features you’d want in a premium speaker but offers more versatile sound controls.

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