The Mackie SRM450 PA speakers are a good workhorse, but consider a subwoofer and definitely budget for stands too.
Forum reader Ginger writes: “I’m new into the DJ world and I need to get a DJ PA system. I’ve asked around and everyone is saying something different. I’ve done hours of research and now I’m just confused and don’t know what to get.
“If I go to a store to listen to or buy the speakers, I don’t really trust the salesman, because I’m afraid he’s going to get me to buy something that doesn’t suit my needs.
“The gigs I’m doing are small i.e. college parties, 100 to 400 people, but I want to eventually do big stuff. My budget is: US$1,200. What should I get?”
Digital DJ Tips says:
We haven’t reviewed any PA systems so can’t give you a list of choices, but our experience (and apparently backed up by some members of our forum where you asked this question) is that Mackie SRM450s
There’s a big difference between 100 and 400 people though, and for bigger parties you’ll need a sub-woofer too (a bass speaker to sit on the floor), and it’s also imperative you buy a pair of stands for the speakers so you can position them correctly for maximum impact. This will take you over your budget so you may have to shop around.
Our own PA is really rubbish, a second-hand $200-out-of-the-newspaper system…
For the record, our own PA is really rubbish, a second-hand $200-out-of-the-newspaper system that we take to parties where we don’t expect to get it back! How we’ve managed to keep it so long I don’t know, but it still seems to keep working. But if someone was hiring me to do a serious/paying gig I’d definitely use something better.
As a non-mobile DJ, I always use the gear wherever I play, which is why I can’t give you much first-hand advice – other than possibly to consider hiring systems to see what works for you before buying.
So, over to you: Do you have a good sub-US$1200 recommendation for Ginger? Should he buy a subwoofer too? How important are stands? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
Now go to:
Over To You: Should I Buy A Sub-Woofer With My New PA System?
Small PA Vs Monitor Speakers For DJing
How To Choose A Small DJ PA System
Want to escape the bedroom and play in public - fast?
Our 1000s-selling How To Digital DJ Fast video course shows you how.
Learn to DJ Free - email course plus bonus PDF book
Sign up for our weekly email course for beginners now...
Trouble choosing a controller? Visit the web's #1 guide!
DJ Controllers: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide 2013.
Tags: beginner digital dj tips, pa systems
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.
JBL actives, on stands if your budget will stretch that far. Hit it
[ link ]I’ve been looking for this PA package for quite sometime, maybe you guys can give some thoughts on this one.
[ link ]http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/behringer-behringer-xenyx-x2442usb–harbinger-aps15-pa-package
Harbinger are really low end speakers. I Heard them live Vs. these: http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/B212D.aspx each Behringer is like $230us and they CRANK! so obv. i went with them. I’ve done indoor parties with 400people and they worked fine. Also they carry really well outside, I used them for a few corporate events.
[ link ]Okay thanks bro!
[ link ]I cannot reccomend The Behringer B212D, as I had very negative experiences with the B215D’s. The pair I bought worked fine for about 12 hours, then one of them started randomly powering off. About a day later, the Horn on the second speaker stopped functioning. One failure I could understand, both failing in different manners was a sign – I returned them, and replaced them with some cheap Mackie TH-12As, while they dont have the impact a 15″ PA had, they have been very reliable, and much more mobile (about half the weight).
[ link ]All I can say is that for $2050 you can get 2 of these:
http://www.amazon.com/JBL-Lightweight-Powered-Speaker-mixer/dp/B004MEB4AK/ref=sr_1_10?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1341748041&sr=1-10
and one of these:
http://www.amazon.com/JBL-Self-Powered-Subwoofer-Crossover-Loopthrough/dp/B001HKSWK2/ref=pd_sim_MI_3
I don’t own them but I’ve heard them. They sound incredible.
[ link ]generally with pa for a real good system is one that *2 / *3 bass to your top end, this allows you to have your top ends not screaming out
but when separate speakers are joined together the speakers in question have been designed to work as standalone
this then tend to require to get the best out of the system is then use a crossover to control the frequency going out to the tops and the subs.. allowing more bottom end which gives a warmer and louder feel to the system.
i have two skytec 15′s as tops which give an all right sound, they are punchy but the top end can be a bit piercing, i also got a small active 10″ bass cab from an LD systems, the sub is too small, but gives the system a warmth, i know that i would want to get a 2 active subs, whether for gigs i take one or two
if you do mix and match it can be worth getting a equaliser if a non-active system to help control the tonal value of the speakers especially if mixing and matching from different systems
there are predefined systems which you can buy which comprised of matched subs and tops which tend to be active generally the crossovers and speakers have been matched for a full sound
again with active you dont have the issue of amps, they are semi limited, with basic eq (top/mid/bass) on the speaker and the amps have been designed to compliment the speaker itself
as prices have come down, some of the production has been outsourced to china and there is a loss of quality, a friend has a mackie system the original design manufactured in the usa are far superior to the mk ii coming from china
quality amplifiers are identifiable by better components and sound a lot warmer and the true test is how they sound with they clip
but in a perfect word you would buy amps rated a 1/3 higher power output and run them at 75% (ie not on full or 10 on output) for better sound and also they not straining all the time and dont tend to go pop from over driving )
so what the end conclusion to my ramblings, if money is no object looks for an active speaker system, make sure it has some basic eq on the top speakers or its a complete active system where the amps are in the bass cabs and the tops slave off the amplifier in them.
if you want really dirty low down bass then 18″ or 21″ bass cabs are the way to go for more house / commercial dance / pop then you will be all right with 15″ which will be good at a punch and less rumble
i know there is a lot of info but this is what i would do, i been involved in djing, selling dj equipment and also working with club and bar sound systems
ask the manufactures to help you recommend a system then try and go and see one in your local store where you do have a bit of information then giving you hopefully the edge when you feel a salesman is pushing you the wrong.
i always sold on honesty, and cheap is cheap and is not quality but will do the job, i try and go for mid range stuff straight away, beringher, wharfdale pro, or if you got the cash, mackie, electro voice, jbl, are all safe bets … (but on final tip is .. a high quality manufacture doesn’t make good products all the time, i know that sometimes certain manufactures will sell on their name and a particular product may be a duff one but still sold !!!
here end the lecture
[ link ]I auditioned the new Yamaha DXR/DXS active series last week. Was so impressed I’ve ordered 2 x DXR12 (full range) and 2 x DXS15 (subs).
They are without doubt the best “mid-priced” actives I’ve heard.
http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/global/en/products/speakers/dxr/lineup.jsp
http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/global/en/products/speakers/dxs/lineup.jsp
Steve.
[ link ]I got a pair of the JBL EON 515 XT powered cabinets. I swear by them. Having bought cheaper self powered cabs before, (Peavey PR15 D) I’d say spend the money on a good pair!! I’ve done gigs of 100-400 range and I agree with Phil on needing the sub to fill the space. Good luck!
[ link ]I’ve run a mobile Dj company for the past 15 years doing parties every weekend for 100 – 600 people, and for the last 8 have been running on mackie SRM 450′s. I have many different set ups as I also do rentals and you cannot beat the mackies. They are 10 x what other speaker companies were doing at the time the come out and now the other manufactures have upped their game to compete (noticeably QSC, HK audio, and JBL) but I have owned all these makes and always gone back to the mackies as they are absolutely bombproof. QSC’s are nice but overpriced I was renting a set out every weekend for 2 years to a drum and bass night that rinsed the mixer into the red every night and the speakers never stopped punching. They are the best and most reliable kit I have ever owned and that includes technics 1210 pioneer etc.
The only downside I would say is they lack a little bottom end but then any crowds over 100 I use 1 or 2 15inch mackie subs to beef it up a bit. I purchased 2 HD1521′s last year and was impressed with their sound (better that the srm450′s) but the weight is really an issue so I always ended taking out the 450′s still so I’ve sold the HD1521′s
[ link ]I have a PA setup with “no-name” speakers, that is relatively cheap, lasted 6 years without a glitch, and always gets compliments from pro audio people when they hear it. PA head Gigrac 1000st (Stereo) (USD 450.00), passive 12″ 525 watt 8 ohm 2way speakers from Vidsonix (USD 239.00 per pair), and a Vidsonix 15″ powered subwoofer (USD 199.00) For around 1K USD that system will Stand toe to toe with any you can find for 3 times the cost. This is not cheaply made junk either We’re talking well made stuff here. Take some cash from your 1st gig and put it towards a 2nd pair of 12″ Speakers., (the gigrac can handle 2 pairs) – I wanted more bang for the buck, and I am a very happy DJ
[ link ]The B52 Matrix 1000 is an option if you don’t want to piece together your own system. For $1000 you get a subwoofer and 2 speakers- you won’t find many other subs in this price range.
[ link ]Bought a pair of Red Fire Audio 500w actives + a 400w sub with all cables and stands for under £900. went to a shop and listened to everything within my budget including the srms and but nothing sounded as good or was cheap enough to include a sub aswell. they are based in America so you might find them chapter also.
[ link ]Hi, yeah the mackie’s are a good suggestion! Just a quick google shows they’re just within your budget
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/mackie-srm450-v2-pair
Anything over 150 people, or over 200 people if you don’t need it too loud, and you’ll need some subs or an extra pair for added volume and punch. But if you’re doing a bigger gig then you can charge the client for the hire of some extra speakers.
There are better speakers out there, but these will give you decent loud sound and are good value for money.
The JBL 515XTs that somebody else just mentioned are also meant to be good, but I haven’t heard them myself. You would have to save up a bit more for them because they’re a little over your budget, but they’re a 15 inch speaker instead of a 12 inch like the mackies, and they have a bit more power too, but you’d still want subwoofers for over 200 people, it’s just you’d get a little more volume and bass out of them for your extra $200 spend. Also, be wary of the cheaper JBL speakers. These ones have good reviews, but some other JBL models don’t get such good reviews in the sound quality department so if you’re going for these, make sure you get this exact model.
Hope that helps.
[ link ]I have the Behiringer B215 speakers and Behiringer B1800D sub. I got the speakers and stands used but the sub new once I started booking bigger gigs. They work perfect for me and Im not really looking to upgrade anytime soon. total cost with out stands is around 1K US. if 1200 is the budget you save $$$ or can get some lights too.
[ link ]whats the sound quality like and do the passive version of these speakers have the same sound quality?
[ link ]For a great bang for the buck a pair of Behringer EUROLIVE B215D Active speakers (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/behringer-eurolive-b215d-active-pa-speaker-system) with a Behringer EUROLIVE B1800D-PRO Active 18″ subwoofer (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/behringer-eurolive-b1800d-pro-active-18-subwoofer) and a pair of speaker stands (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/accessories/musicians-gear-speaker-stand-pair) for just under $1200.00. Then get some XLR cables from Monoprice.com to save even more money (http://www.monoprice.com/products/search.asp?keyword=xlr). These speakers are nice and clear with a nice punch at any volume.
[ link ]Mackie SRM450 are price/quality a winner. But as soon as you use them in bigger venues or for parties over 100-150 people (and I mean parties, not weddings) you need a sub.
[ link ]When you crack up the volume you will lose the lower frequencies, sound will be harsch.
I would suggest you go with quality tops and then supplement with subs later. Like Phil said, there is a huge difference between 100 people and 400 people. So lets stick to about 120 people which is a fair amount of people. For most people these days I would suggest that you go with an active speaker system (meaning the amplifier is built into the speaker)The Mackie SRM450s are decent speakers and within your budget but I think there are better speakers out there. I would look into the new Yamaha DXR line, they sound pretty nice. Also you might be able to get into some RCF systems. If you can expand your budget a little you can get into some QSC K12s and JBL PRX 12.
Then later when you have saved up more money, then add a sub. The easiest thing to do would be to add the matching sub for whatever speakers you decide to get.
[ link ]I use a pair of QSC K12s and a QSC KSUB, I love the fact the Sub has wheels to move it. The sound quality of these are amazing. Out of sixteen years of experience, these by far are my favorite.
[ link ]+1
[ link ]+1 on these also… I had the Mackie 450′s until I saw that they easily clipped, and were going out for minutes at a time when i was running them hard (not even when they started to clip)… Got the QSC’s and the sound quality is above the Mackies IMO… and they come with an internal fan, so less chance of overheating… I got the sub too… Awesome little system.
[ link ]Wy are everyone talking about new stuff?
Get used speakers instead and you´re budget will get you all the way!
You need subs! You won´t get away with Pitbull, Flo Rida or Lady Gaga even at a wedding w/u subs.
And with subs you´re mid/high speakers can be smaller and with the sub speakers on the floor you get 3dB more bass.
This because the floor will be a extention of the bass speaker (called “halfspace”).
This means that one woofer on the floor equals two of the same woofers in free air.
My smallest setup with 8″/1″ speakers on poles and 15″ subs outrank just about every fullrange speaker in any pricerange.
[ link ]I agree with Flyer. CRAIGSLIST CRAIGSLIST CRAIGSLIST! Buy local and make sure the person will let you test the stuff out. I picked up my first setup (which I’m still using) off of Craigslist:
QSC RMX2450 Amp (http://qscaudio.com/products/amps/rmx/rmx.htm) and a pair of Yamaha Club Series S115IV speakers (http://usa.yamaha.com/products/live_sound/speakers/passive_speakers/concert_club_v_series/s115v/?mode=model)
The guy threw in stands and a pair of 25′ 12GA cables too, all for $500! Brand new that all would’ve been at least $1300. I also bought a Behringer Ultrabass, which really helps make the 15″ woofers sound bigger and deeper without adding a sub. The one I have isn’t made anymore, but here’s Behringer’s current version: http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/SX3040.aspx
Honestly, even with rap and electronic dance music, I rarely feel like I’m desperately in need of a subwoofer with the Ultrabass added into the signal chain.
Now of course, the amp is 36lbs and the Yamaha’s are 65lbs each, so make sure your back can handle the lifting, especially if you work alone like me. For convenience and mobility, active speakers are more ideal, but I figure I’ll earn the lighter, more expensive equipment after I earn a few more dollars
[ link ]I would say, your choice of PA cabinets will be dictated by three considerations – what, where and for whom. As in, what kind of music you play (for the sake of example, hip hop is a lot less demanding to PA clarity than, say, drum&bass) at what locations (acoustic parameters of your venues) and how picky your crowd is.
[ link ]I play mostly techstep, neurofunk and dark experimental drum&bass and I swear by Mackie HD1521s (1531s are better, but just too heavy to handle alone) and 1801. If your music is bass-heavy like mine, I would not recommend getting anything less than 15″ cabinets.. and maybe one or two 18″ subs for low-end support in larger settings and open-airs.
Most cheaper cabinets have appaling response and THD in the 20-45Hz range, what I call the ‘liver bass’ range (which is below ‘chest bass’). At higher SPLs, the driver should resonate the entire abdomen witout distorting or muddying up and individual notes in the bassline should still be clear and recognizable.
Most importantly – Less Is More. If you don’t have the funds, get one good cabinet instead of two mediocre ones, and stay mono until you can afford a second one and, later, a sub. If not, you’ll have to sell that pair of cheapies soon anyway, and you’ll lose money.
I’ve been doing mobile gigs for the last 12 years non-stop. I’ve owned JBL, EV, Yorkville, QSC and I’ve worked with Mackie speakers. By far my favorite speakers are the QSC K series. They sound fantastic, are not too heavy and are very versatile. My opinion is that you need a sub. Period. I pair my QSCs with Yorkville powered subs but will be getting the QSC K181 in the near future. Qualilty sound does not come cheap, but it will set you apart. I would recommend using someone like zzounds or American musical supply. They allow you split your payments therefore allowing you more bang for your buck. Good luck in your search.
[ link ]I do agree, that K181 sounds fantastic. The JBL PRX618-XLR is also right up there with it. The JBL can supposedly get a little lower AND has caster wheels mounted to the back, like the K-sub.
[ link ]http://www.americanmusical.com/Item–i-PEV-PV115118D-LIST
[ link ]This is a good deal on powered speakers and sub, Peavey brand for $1030.
I have heard great things about the Alto TS112A’s. I plan to get 2 of these in the near future. Check them out.
[ link ]I swear by the wharfedale Titan series I own the 12s but heard the 15s and 8s each speaker provides a suprisung amount of bass, but what sold me was the mid range clarity. They definitely have a hi-fi quality in the mid-upper range and unlike alot of pa of heard did not pierce my ears at loud volume. A sub is a must. Forget 15s get 10 or 12s and a sub. 1 thing to look at when getting a sub is the weight and size and although the JBl Eon 518 may not be the deepest or clearest sub out there it weighs under 50lbs which I’m more than thankful for when breaking down and packing up (alone) after a 5 hour reception. Don’t think I could do that with some of those 150lb monstrosities.
[ link ]Agree with Versatile Beats on the Wharfedale Titan’s. I currently have a set of the 15A’s, and for the price they are fantastic speakers. Good clarity in the tops and mids, and being a 15″ cone they actually put out a decent amount of bass. I have played weddings and party’s up to about 150 people with just 2 of these speakers, and they sound great! I will definitely be picking up a sub at some point to pair with them. These speakers cost me £300 each with included speaker stands, so you should be able to pick up 2 tops and a sub for $1200 easy!
[ link ]For 1200 $ you can get a pair of JBL JRX 125 and a good amplifier without any problem.
[ link ]Well timed article! Lately I’ve been researching some PA options to invest in. After reading a A LOT of reviews I’m about to buy a pair of RCF Art 312As. I mostly play deephouse and some nu disco in small indoor parties (150 people tops). I will probably add a sub to these speakers, which is why I’m more concerned about the clarity of the mid frequencies and brightness in the highs when it comes to the RCFs. Unfortunately I’ve not had any personal experience with them since I don’t have a place near me where I can try them. My question to the masses would be: Do you recommend these speakers for my purpose? Cheers!
[ link ]I’ve been using them for weddings for years and they work very well however for more that 200 people you would need subs as well.
[ link ]I looked for a good deal on all my gear everywhere and have a really good setup built up. It may take a while for the components to all fall in place, but when they do, JUMP on them.
I run Behringer B215XL top speakers. These speakers are light, small and durable. They peak at 1000W each. I have these paired with Harbinger Hx118S 18″ subs. These can also handle 1600W peak. I run these with a behringer iNuke 6000DSP with A being the top speakers and B being the subs. I run these in Parallel to achieve 4 ohm load and drive peak 3000W per channel. I have yet to run this system past the half way point on the amp, and I’m doing events for 50-150 people.
As far as opportunities, always keep an eye on craigslist, bookoo, used sites (Guitar center, ebay, etc), and keep looking for sales. Around Thanksgiving time last year, a lot of places did a Name your price sale. Breaking out how much I paid, and where I got the components below:
Behringer B215XL – Musicians Friend – Had a sale for $30 off $199 or more. At the time, they were $199 each. Phoned in and knocked the price to $169
Harbinger Hx118S – Craigslist – Someone posted the subs as a pair for $250. Brand new, they were going for $249 each. Basically got one free. Were in good condition, needed a touch up here and there, but nothing that impacted performance.
Behringer iNuke 6000DSP – American Musical Supply – Had it on Dent and Scratch for $369.95. Brand New $499.99
Presonus StudioLive 16.0.2 – eBay – Was being sold by Unique Squared as a Make Offer deal. Made an offer and haggled price to $999. Brand New $1299.95
ProX Cases T-16MR – Audiosavings.com – Called in to see if they could do a discount, and took the price from $270 to $220.
ProX Cases T-LPSMR Laptop Shelf – 007deals.com – Paid full price…. $29.99
Full Price – $2,994.95
Discounted price – $2206.94
Savings of – $788.01 !!! Just by looking for deals and shopping around for the best prices on the gear I know I was looking for.
Good luck hunting!!!
[ link ]For a first set and on a budget, you could consider a couple options:
– for a powered sub: Seismic Audio offers a new 18″ including shipping for around $450
OR
– for around $600, a used JBL PRX618S (not the XLR, this is it’s little brother).
For your tops, again, consider going used, check eBay for various models – even older JBL EON Power15′s. I have been using a pair for smaller gigs and they can really push, especially with a sub supplementing the low end. You can find a used pair for approx $250-300 each.
For your stands, again, look at eBay. You’ll be right on budget with some decent sound.
[ link ]I see a lot about the QSC K series. Although they are some of the best sounding speakers out there, you won’t be able to even purchase them used and stay on your $1,200 budget. The smaller K8′s would run $500 each minimum, and a used K-sub would run $900 minimum. So, you’ll need minimally $2,000 for a used, small set of QSC K series.
[ link ]Ya can’t go wrong with the Mackie SRM-450s – I have 4 of these (2 x V1s and 2 x V2s) and have been using them for years with stands and have not had any problems with them. I find I don’t even need subs with 150 people or less but if I need a bit more bottom end I would bring my Mackie HD1521s………
[ link ]i use 2 proel flash 15A and a home made subwoofer (you can ask to a carpenter for the enclosure and buy the speaker on the web), for all i paid 1000 €
[ link ]Yo! I am running two Mackie Thump TH-15As (based on the Mackie SRM450) which I got for R3000 each (mayby about USD350). They are nice punchy on the low end and have an excellent mid-range that just screams to be turned up. I often use them on my balcony when I practice, as well as some pool parties and they are clear enough from a fair distance, especially the mid frequency. In/out doors, I really couldn’t ask for more a quality sounding system. I am now saving for a sub, and I am thinking of the Mackie TH-18s but I’ll see when the cash is there and I go take a listen.
Oh, and a word of advice. Before you buy, make sure you are clear on the returns/refunds policy. You may need to use it…
[ link ]Well, on a budget I’d rather go for gear that will come in handy later on as my setup expands. I swear by behringer sound processors So I’ll go for a 2000Watt Amp (EP2000 – $299), an equalizer with a Mono Sub out (FBQ6200 – $196), 2 Top Speakers Behringer (EUROLIVE B215XL – $219×2)& a powered 18″ Sub-woofer (EUROLIVE VP1800S 1600W 18″ – $415).
[ link ]This brings the total to about $1350, just slightly over-budget but hey its try. And remember this is using all new components. You can try your local craigslist or ebay, some very juicy bargains exist from djs pulling out of the business, upgrading, e.t.c
Good Luck!
What about renting a PA before buying?
There a probably PA rental stores in your area that cater to Mobile DJs and rent systems on a one-night basis. I used to use these specialty shops occasionally – but this was almost 20 years ago. But I bet they’re still around.
[ link ]Have the EV ELX-115P tops ($699 each), and just added a matching ELX-118P sub ($799) for some added low end. Has been used for parties of 500 people indoors, and 300 people outdoors, and easily had enough punch to keep up. Will probably add another sub down the road. Previously owned the JBL EON 515 and Mackie SRM-450, and the EV’s put them to shame. One EV does the work of 2 of other cabinets.
[ link ]U must check out the B-52 Systems. I currently use the B-52 Matrix V2 which includes a powered 15 inch sub and 2 satellite 10inch speakers. I use this for all mobile gigs ive had (up to 300 so far). It packs a lot of punch with the monster sub.Its very mobile, the sub includes casters and the satellites are shaped to be stored on top of the sub and just be able to roll where ever u need to go.You can get this system for about 800.00 new. Now B-52 offers also a matrix 2000 which is a bigger system and it runs about 1,200.00. Now u can get Mackies,or other name brand speakers with your budget and yes they will sound good but you wont be able to afford the Sub untill you start making more money.With A Matrix system u will have a complete system that really sounds clear and thumps hard.And if you ever want to “upgrade” your system well buy another the same and you can daisy chain the systems for even more power.Ive used this system for about 2 years now and its held up Very well , and i bought it used. So with that said just check it out..and I guarantee you will be impressed with the sound quality!
[ link ]I like the Mackie Thumps with nice bass box to fill. You can do the hole package for under a $1000.00 or the speaker polls and cables for around $600 without the bass box.
[ link ]I do a lot of parties and corporate events, I have a pair of 15 inch JBL Ions and a pair of XLR cables to my mixer. They are light, loud and very efficient. I have never felt the need for a subwoofer and never had a problem with enough power.
[ link ]Don’t forget the stands. You have to have the tops above peoples heads or the sound will dissapear as soon as 10 ppl stand in front of them. Sub is important too, that way you can have people enjoying music even if they dont stand right infront of the speakers. Your top speakers will handle mids/highs and sub will take all below 80hz. Also good when using mixer to cut off bass, that way middle/high still sounds great from the top speakers. And have budget for cables too
[ link ]I use the 450s when needed, I’ve done tons of 200+ people mobile events with them & while they definitely need a decent sub they still cannot be beat for durability, sound, and throw (ie can do a large area & fill it with sound that does not appear to be too directional). They have played hundreds of gigs in the 6 or so years since I bought them, including doing a few weeks at Burning man and at least 20 other 24 hour parties in deserts & other weird out door environments. And I bought them used. They also work as an amazing monitor when you are running a full size system.
[ link ]One note: I have the “old” version of them, I have heard the new versions are not as durable. I think many “old” versions are available used, too!
How can I work a subwoofer into my PA system if I’m working right off of my Traktor S4?
[ link ]How could I work a subwoofer into a PA system of I’m using a Traktor S4???
[ link ]Just plug it in, subwoofers are wired with outputs to work with other speakers
[ link ]What is the deal with Technical Pro, dose anyone know they seem to be priced right? To complete the sound spectrum a sub bass is required, the bass will fill the sound spectrum weather a little or a lot you need a bass. I like the QSC first the Mackie second good luck
[ link ]I am new to djing. I mostly DJ at friends and family partys and recently started doing events like diners and meetings for my workplace (BANK). I started doing this as a hobby but now I am starting to like it and are considering buying some some powered speakers. With my budget (500-600) I am now between the Behringer B212D and Mackie Thump TH-12A. Which one do you think its a best speker to start up with? I alredy have 2 stands which I got during xmas and some lights that I purchsed at Guitar Center for a good price.
[ link ]I want something portable and durable since I will be carrying them all over the place. Any suggestions is greatly appreciated.
Save just a little more, and pick up a used pair of Mackie SRM-450′s. Should be able to find a pair for around 750 or 800.
[ link ]I have the EV ELX112Ps.
Pros:
- Light weight
- Wooden cabinet for better sound
- Relatively inexpensive for power speakers
Cons:
- Wooden cabinet gets scratched
These speakers hit extremely hard, part of it being due to the wooden cabinet.
I use the QSCK12s all the time and mine hit a lot harder on the low end. Also the new EON515XTs push a lot of bass as well but those are 15inch woofers compared to my 12s.
[ link ]using Mid/High speakers without a sub will generally result in running them too hard and causing damage. I know they say “full range” on these speakers, but the full range power output is less than half of the power you can get from them when used with a crossover & sub (bass uses a heap of power)
At a small gig in someones house where you will not be using them at full power will not generally need a sub… but at any decent party with more than 25 people you will be pushing it with just a pair of 15″ active speakers.
SPEND AS MUCH AS YOU CAN ON THE MID/HIGH SPEAKERS…. dont worry so much about the sub. You can always hire a sub.. or 2 subs for the big parties… Or you can buy a cheap sub bass system till you can afford better ones after a few gigs.
[ link ]Would echo what many others have said already, you can’t go wrong with the mackies! They are affordable, high quality speakers which are literally bomb proof. I got a pair of them with carry bags. Super easy to move around and have never had any issues with them.
[ link ]I find that if you play at bigger venues than 200ppl then there is typically already another PA system in place, if not you can just beef up by renting a sub and an extra pair of 450s for the night.
I’m probably the only opponent for Mackie SRM450′s for DJ work. They have a bump in the frequency response that makes it painful when you are cranking them. The older ones are reliable, but every time we used them people would be sticking the fingers in the ear because of the frequency curve. We used them for live band and DJ work. If you heard them next to JBL EON G2 15′s, EV ZXA1′s with Sub or even the Mackie Thumps TH15′s you would understand what I’m saying. I own all 4. Mackie SRM450′s are going! The Mackie Thumps have a nice EQ and are very light/cost effective for DJ’ing. We used them for small bar parties and they went over well. I bought a pair of JBL EON G2 15′s on Craigslist for $500. They sound great for the price. They crank and have good bottom for what they are. I was able to score 2 JBL EONSUB 15′s also for $400. What I moved towards was the EV ZXA1 system for smaller micro setups. The ZXA1 tops sound great. Almost like studio monitors. Crisp,clear, light@20lbs each. Coupled with the ZXA1 SUB they sound great and get a good volume for the smaller to mid sized parties. I’m extremely happy with them and it all fits in the back seat of a car. Granted the price is a bit more then $1200, but it’s so good, it may be worth it. Check out craigslist or eBay. Sometimes they have them available at a very cost effective price. I scored 2 tops, 2 subs, poles and covers for $1500. In summary, The mackie SRM450′s hurt peoples ears when loud. Good for vocals and announcement, not balanced well for music. JBL is a good choice. The JBL EON10′s are flat sounding, but the 15′s sound great with good volume. ZXA1′s are small, lightweight and have a clean, clear, quality sound.
[ link ]Hi, I have new room 5.5meter wide 7meter long 2.8 meter Height ,I need to buy PA Speakers Am a Dj house/techno, ITS NOT a Studio its like small club or Lounge .
[ link ]Am looking for something Has Clear , Sonic ,Punck,kick feeling.
Budget 2500$
Please head over to the Digital DJ Tips Forum (http://www.digitaldjtips.com/forum) to ask questions where the whole community can help you.
[ link ]