Best Powered Speakers for Live Band of 2022: Complete Reviews With Comparisons

The best powered speakers for live bands allow you to bring your music with you everywhere.

You’ll have massive sound paired with the convenience of not needing a complete audio setup.

These powered speakers are great for musicians, whether jamming with friends in your garage or playing at a local bar.

Best Powered Speakers for Live Band: A Review

1. Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speaker

The Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speaker is an excellent addition to your gear, bringing a wide range of benefits for continuous power and louder audio.

Traveling musicians will love having an easy-to-pack active speaker to share their tunes as a portable speaker.

These speaker systems also come with multiple connectivity types, speaking to their versatility.

Review

Let’s explore the benefits of using the Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speaker.

• Acoustic Power With Deep Bass

The first feature you’ll love with the Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speaker is its acoustic power and deeper bass, perfect for larger venues.

It boasts a power output of 300 watts at peak, 150 watts program, and 75 watts RMS.

You’ll also find the integrated long-throw eight-inch woofer and 1.5″ KSV voice coil iconic for enhanced sound clarity.

• Frequency Response

For a speaker within this price range, the frequency response of the Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speaker is impressive.

You’ll have between 20Hz and 20KHz paired with a 95dB peak and 92dB continuous loudness.

• Connectivity Options

When looking at the sound output, it’s essential to consider the connectivity options of your portable speaker.

The Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speaker can connect via Bluetooth, RCA, auxiliary, and USB.

Your Bluetooth response will be up to 32 feet in range, offering plenty of versatility.

• Remote Control

These larger speakers come with versatile remote control, allowing you to manage your music from everywhere.

You can also use the remote to adjust the many MP3 player functions, such as changing special effects and input audio signals.

• Onboard Controls

If you’re not the type to like remote controls, these premium speakers also feature onboard controls via an LCD.

You’ll find functions like Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable channel inputs, and volume controls.

• XLR Output

If you want to improve your large venues’ output power significantly, the XLR output on the Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speaker is ideal.

You can connect additional powered speakers, perfect for outdoor and indoor venues.

With the two-way pro sound reinforcement, your live sound will have plenty of power.

• Integrated Equalizer

New and experienced live musicians will love how you can customize the deep stereo sound with this speaker.

It features a two-band equalizer, so you have complete control over your low and high frequencies independently.

Even at the highest SPL, your audio will sound distortion-free, perfect for heavier bass frequencies.

Pros:

• Produces big sound
• Easy-to-use master volume controls
• Loud enough for larger events
• Produces deep bass at high volumes

Cons:

• Heavier than expected
• Very short power cord

2. Rockville RSG12 Passive PA Speakers

If you’ve been searching for two speakers at affordable prices, the Rockville RSG12 Passive PA Speakers is a great option.

This audio system features 1000 watts of power with 8 Ohm passive audio, ideal for live concerts in larger venues.

If you want a distortion-free and accurate response for your audio, these are two speakers to keep in mind.

Review

Let’s explore some of the best features of the Rockville RSG12 Passive PA Speakers.

• Full Sound Range

This set of speakers is ideal for all musical genres, thanks to its full range of sound.

You’ll have three high-efficiency piezo bullet tweeters and a high-efficiency piezo compression horn tweeter.

Combined, your sound range will significantly upgrade your existing live music setup.

• Power

There’s no doubt the Rockville RSG12 Passive PA Speakers are excellent speakers with plenty of power.

You’ll have 1000 watts at peak, while the program power sits at 750.

On the lower end, RMS power is at 500 watts, which is still incredible for budget-friendly intelligent speaker systems.

• High-Quality Design

Aside from amplification power, your sound source’s design is another important thing to consider.

Each Rockville RSG12 Passive PA speakers features high-density, thick materials in the cabinets.

You’ll find they’re rigid and heavy-duty without being too heavy, making setup easier than you’d think.

Ergonomic handles are also built into the cabinets, allowing you to carry your Rockville RSG12 Passive PA Speakers without hassle.

With the added custom-molded steel grill, your drivers are protected with corner protectors.

Also, you’ll find individually mounted isolating feet at the bottom to help your cabinet withstand wear and tear.

• Musical Transparency

If you’re ready to bring huge sound into your setup, the coverage range of these speakers is something to write home about.

Their tapered trapezoidal shape is perfect for a more immersive listening environment.

You’ll also have plenty of volume without compromising accuracy and musical transparency.

• Installation Flexibility

You’ll want speakers designed to handle any job when looking for premium sound.

The Rockville RSG12 Passive PA Speakers features two input connectors and a 1/4″ IN/OUT connector.

You’ll find it can be adapted to existing amplification systems.

Additionally, it has a built-in 35mm pole socket mount on the underside to elevate these speakers off the ground.

Pros:

• Fantastic sound quality
• Crisp and clean sound
• Loud enough for live concerts
• Sleek and professional design

Cons:

• Lack of essential features of powered speakers
• Low-quality pole mounts

3. Mackie THUMP Boosted Series

The Mackie THUMP Boosted Series is a fantastic solution for musicians looking for a Bluetooth loudspeaker.

You’ll have integrated high-performance amplifiers, an onboard mixer, and other great features.

Its sleek and professional styling makes it the ideal powered mixer-speaker combo for your setup.

Review

Let’s explore the top features of the Mackie THUMP Boosted Series to see how it stands out among its competitors.

• Different Speaker Modes

When working in different-sized venues, it’s important to have easy-to-use controls to customize your sound.

This speaker has six modes, allowing you to optimize your sound system for any event instantly.

This feature is essential for beginners, as you won’t have to fine-tune your frequency spectrum, select the setting you need, and begin playing.

• Power Factor Correction

Power is essential for any passive speaker, and unstable AC power comes with unstable performance.

The Mackie THUMP Boosted Series is designed specifically for live venues to keep your power flowing perfectly.

With the built-in power factor correction, the universal internal power supply ensures your audio never flows in and out.

• 1300W Amplifiers

The built-in amplifiers in this unit are certainly something to write home about.

Whether you use an acoustic guitar or are a DJ, the amps are bound to impress.

Within its compact design, the Mackie THUMP Boosted Series features 1300W of total power.

The ultra-efficient built-in amplifier offers a dynamic bass response paired with fast transient and bass-heavy responses.

You’ll love how you can get the speaker to max volume without compromising the integrity of your low and high frequencies.

• Built-in Mixers

Another massive benefit of these power amplifiers or speakers is their digital mixer.

You’ll find two-channel mixers designed with Wide-Z technology and two Vita preamps.

Together, these components deal with instrument and mic signals simultaneously.

Not only does it help to simplify mixing your audio, but it also means everything you need is already included.

Additionally, there’s a Bluetooth channel available if you want to stream prerecorded music to your audience.

• Wireless Control

When it comes to having a speaker for traveling live musicians, the Mackie THUMP Boosted Series is one of the most popular budget-friendly options.

You can also have complete remote control over your audio setup by downloading the Thump Connect app on your smart device.

The app has many adjustable features, allowing you to customize the quality of your audio for small and medium venues.

Pros:

• Portable yet powerful
• Excellent aesthetics
• Loud and thumping bass
• Easy-to-use connectivity options

Cons:

• The mixer lacks performance
• Unimpressive durability

4. PRORECK Freedom Portable Wireless Speaker System

The PRORECK Freedom Portable Wireless Speaker System is a lightweight speaker cabinet with an assortment of great features.

It also comes in a kit, giving you a couple of extra essentials you may need for your next live gig.

With 500W of power, it’s a reasonably sized speaker for small indoor venues and could be helpful for midsize indoor venues.

Review

Let’s jump into the best features of the PRORECK Freedom Portable Wireless Speaker System to see what you can expect from this model.

• Versatility

When you’re investing in a passive speaker, you want to ensure it’s equipped for an assortment of jobs.

This unit uniquely combines the benefit of a music player and an active speaker.

You can use it for playing live tunes or connect your smartphone to play prerecorded music at a party.

• Connectivity

Bluetooth connectivity is a must-have for passive speakers, and this unit doesn’t disappoint.

This tech can wirelessly connect microphones without signal lags and delays.

It also allows you to connect your devices wirelessly for remote control over your audio.

Along with Bluetooth, you’ll find an XLR and 1/4″ mic inputs if you prefer to use wired components.

It’s also essential for both balanced and unbalanced microphones.

In addition, you’ll have an RCA line output and input to put to good use.

• Portable Design

As a live performer, a speaker designed to be portable is essential.

The PRORECK Freedom Portable Wireless Speaker System features a telescopic handle for easy carrying.

You’ll also have dual transport wheels on the underside so you can roll your speaker anywhere with little effort.

• Rechargeable Battery

Aside from the overall beautiful design of this speaker, it also has a unique rechargeable battery.

As expected, you can choose to plug it in for constant power, and for outdoor venues, the rechargeable battery can be helpful.

You’ll have total versatility when setting up your audio gear anywhere, even for busking.

• Upgraded Sound

This all-in-one PA system boasts an upgraded sound for a speaker in this price range.

Internally, you’ll find an equalizer to adjust your audio for high-performance sound.

There are also five rotary knobs used to adjust the master volume and echo volume.

With the PRORECK Freedom Portable Wireless Speaker System, you’ll have 500W of power at peak while RMS power is at 100W.

Although it’s not the most powerful stereo pair, it offers long-lasting use for a casual musician.

• All-Inclusive Kit

The PRORECK Freedom Portable Wireless Speaker System has many great accessories to get you started.

You’ll have the powered speaker and a telescopic pole that can be attached to the underside for better horizontal and vertical coverage.

Two wireless microphones also come with the kit, ready to use anytime.

There’s also a detachable power cable, thanks to the built-in rechargeable battery.

Lastly, you have a remote control that allows you to fine-tune the settings on the unit wirelessly and without requiring an app.

Pros:

• Great for karaoke and small events
• Clear sound at higher volumes
• Very easy to use for travel
• The internal battery recharges quickly

Cons:

• Smaller than expected
• Wired mics work best

5. Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker

This model is great if you love the idea of a rechargeable speaker that you can bring anywhere with you.

It’s helpful for class teaching, live performances, and even listening to music in your backyard.

The Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker features impressive bass control and mid-range sound for any inspiring musician.

Review

Let’s review the top highlights of the Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker.

• Rechargeable Battery

By far, the most convenient feature of this speaker is that it comes with a rechargeable battery.

For power amps, this is particularly helpful as you won’t have to worry about finding a power source.

It’s fantastic for busking, playing in small venues, or listening to music outdoors.

That said, a power cable is also included with the unit that you can opt to use.

It could be a better alternative, depending on the length of your set, as the battery power varies depending on the speaker’s settings.

• Optional External Battery

The internal rechargeable battery and AC adapter are fantastic for getting power.

However, the Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker allows you to use an optional external battery for extended playing time.

• Bluetooth Connectivity

Aside from being able to connect your smartphone and other devices to the speaker, Bluetooth opens other opportunities.

You can easily link two speakers together wirelessly, helping to boost the power of your passive speaker systems.

You’ll also have a remote that connects to the unit, helping you adjust the controls as needed from a reasonable distance away.

• Power Ratings

When considering detailed sound and sound without distortion, always consult the power ratings of your speaker.

The Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker features 600W at peak with 300W for program power.

There’s also 150W RMS, which is useful for smaller events and venues.

• Multiple Inputs and Outputs

The connectivity options of the Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker are more impressive than you’d think.

You can use the USB 2.0 port to connect numerous devices.

SD, MMC, and MP3 inputs are also available for you to use.

Likewise, you can access regular radio from your new speakers with a built-in FM radio tuner.

• Built-in Equalizer

When customizing the quality of your audio by music genre, an equalizer is an essential tool.

The Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker has a five-band equalizer, allowing you to find the best settings for original music easily.

• Microphone Inputs

As a live musician, it’s important to consider how you can connect microphones to your active speaker.

With the Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker, wireless connectivity allows you to use wireless mics.

Alternatively, you can use the XLR or 1/4″ mic inputs for wired gear.

One of the more unique features of this kit is that it comes with two wireless mics that are ready to use.

All you have to do is connect the rest of your equipment, and you’re ready to play a live show.

• Easy Portability

Undoubtedly, the Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker is one of the most portable speakers on this list.

You’ll have a telescopic luggage handle and built-in wheels for easy transport.

Even though the speaker is relatively lightweight, these features make it even easier to bring to your venue.

• Other Sound Features

There are a couple of other notable components to consider with the Rockville RAM12BT Rechargeable Powered Speaker.

You’ll have an 8 Ohm titanium diaphragm tweeter and a 4 Ohm 1.5″ KSV high-power voice coil.

This speaker is a pretty remarkable solution when it comes to replicating the crispness of your original audio.

Pros:

• Sound quality impressive at this price
• The battery lasts longer than expected
• Fantastic for small outdoor venues
• Easy Bluetooth connectivity

Cons

• Needs an echo control knob
• No USB charging

What Are the Best Powered Speakers for Live Band of 2022?

The best powered speakers for live bands are the Rockville BPA8 Professional Powered Active Speakers.

You’ll love the intuitively designed features paired with crisp audio and thumping bass.

As a set of powered speakers designed specifically for live musicians, they come with all the essentials you need in a high-quality sound system.