Best DJ Speakers

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 26, 2023
What is the best way for your music or speech to be heard? When regular speakers are just not enough there are DJ speakers that are ...Read more
PROS

The design of this one includes a special active cooling system that prevents the device from overheating. No matter how intense your tracks are, the cooler fan will work quietly no matter what.

CONS

The carrying handle is a tad inconvenient.

OUR VERDICT

This active acoustic system can provide an output sound level of up to 2000 W, which will be highly convenient for a variety of big venues and dance parties. Additionally, the DMT design makes this model suitable for clubs both small and big.

detailed parameters
Kit Contents

Powered loudspeaker

Components

2-Way: 12" cone woofer, 1.4" compression driver

Peak Output Power

2000 W

Frequency range (minus 10dB)

45 Hz - 20 kHz

Control

Monochrome LCD screen, Rotary encoder, 2 x selection buttons, 3 x gain knobs

Interfaces

2 x locking XLR/F 1/4” combo (Mic/Line Input and Hi-Z/Line Input, 1 x 3.5 mm TRS (Stereo Input), 2 x XLR/M (Loop-thru Output), 1 x XLR/M (Mix Output)

Extras

Intrinsic Correction™ tuning and loudspeaker management, DMT™ (Directivity Matched Transition) design, Dual pole cup mounts, Carrying handle

Dimensions

14" x 13.8" x 23.7"

39 lbs

Warranty

6 years (Product registration required)

PROS

The construction of this speaker has a 15" cone woofer with a 2" voice coil, which is designed specifically for the playback of the vocal tracks.

CONS

Bluetooth pairing is quite a time-consuming task.

OUR VERDICT

JBL has produced a real gem of a DJ speaker. Suitable for sound engineers, professional DJs and musicians, the EON615 is capable of delivering a true, professional sound without too much of a hassle. On top of that, the Bluetooth support makes it easier to operate the device even for inexperienced users.

detailed parameters
Kit Contents

Powered loudspeaker

Components

2-Way: 15" cone woofer with 2” voice coil, 1" compression driver

Peak Output Power

1000 W

Frequency range (minus 10dB)

39 Hz - 20 kHz

Control

Bluetooth control (3 Parametric EQs + Hi & Lo Shelf, Gain and Delay, Save and Recall settings), 4 application presets (Main, Monitor, Speech, Subwoofer), 2 x gain knobs

Interfaces

2 x balanced XLR-1/4” combination inputs, 1 x male XLR loop-thru out

Extras

JBL waveguide technology, Pole cup mount, Carrying handle

Dimensions

17.3" x 14.4" x 27.8"

39 lbs

Warranty

5 years

PROS

On top of a full set of speakers, the package includes a Behringer XM18005 microphone that will come in handy for people that like to interact with their audience.

CONS

Fitting the microphone and cables inside the integrated storage compartment is tiresome.

OUR VERDICT

Despite the modest size of the speakers they can produce a lot of high-quality sounds while maintaining a high volume level. Moreover, the built-in FX processor has 100 presets that will definitely add a lot of variety to your performances.

detailed parameters
Kit Contents

Amplifier, 2 x loudspeakers

Components

2-Way: 8" cone woofer with 2” voice coil, 1.35" compression driver

Peak Output Power

500 W

Frequency range (minus 10dB)

50 Hz - 22 kHz

Control

Bluetooth control, 24-bit KLARK TEKNIK FX processor with 100 presets, 5-band graphic equalizer

Interfaces

2 x 1/4" line inputs, 2 x XLR 1/4" inputs, 2 х RCA inputs, 1 x AUX-in (1/4"), 1 x 3.5 mm TRS (Mono Input), USB

Extras

FBQ Feedback Detection system, BEHRINGER XM1800S microphone, Mic clip and 20' cables, Integrated storage compartment for microphone, Cables, Accessories, Built-in carrying handles

Dimensions

26.5" x 12" x 20.5"

44.8 lbs

Warranty

3 years

PROS

This loudspeaker can be used as both a monitor and a DJ speaker. Likewise, it can be positioned vertically and horizontally, which makes it a good choice for a line speaker.

CONS

The frequency range is somewhat limited.

OUR VERDICT

This particular speaker model from Electro-Voice has all the standard line-in inputs that are compatible with the majority of mixing board models - an ideal choice for an entry-level DJ.

detailed parameters
Kit Contents

Powered loudspeaker

Components

2-Way: 12" cone woofer, 1.5" compression driver

Peak Output Power

1000 W

Frequency range (minus 10dB)

50 Hz - 20 kHz

Control

Monochrome LCD screen, Rotary encoder, 2 x gain knobs

Interfaces

2 x XLR/TRS Combo Jacks, 1 x 3.5 mm input, 1 x XLR link output

Extras

Patented split-baffle design, Pole cup mount, Carrying handle

Dimensions

14" x 14" x 24"

34.3 lbs

Warranty

3 years

PROS

The speaker can be controlled via a mobile app (compatible with Android and iOS devices), which simplifies the setup process of the sound board.

CONS

The front metal grill finish leaves something more to be desired.

OUR VERDICT

The overall sound output of the Thump12A can reach up to 1350W, which makes it a perfect budget model. Albeit its affordable price, it maintains a sound level that can be easily confused with some high-end models, especially when paired with a decent mixing board. 

detailed parameters
Kit Contents

Powered loudspeaker

Components

2-Way: 12" cone woofer, 1.4" compression driver

Peak Output Power

1350 W

Frequency range (minus 10dB)

50 Hz - 23 kHz

Control

Color LCD screen, Bluetooth control (Thump Connect™ app), 4 application presets (Music, Live, Monitor, Subwoofer), 2 x gain knobs

Interfaces

2 x balanced XLR-1/4” combination inputs, 1 x male XLR loop-thru output

Extras

Thump Boosted™ Technology, Vita™ preamps with Wide-Z™ technology, Pole cup mount, Carrying handle

Dimensions

14" x 14.1" x 24.2"

35.5 lbs

Warranty

1 year

Studio Monitors DJ Speakers

Convenient for Indoor and Outdoor Use

The QSC K12.2 speaker for DJs is designed to deliver a stellar sound that can be heard from a couple hundred feet. When used indoors though, the device can produce low pitch frequencies even without bass amplification or boosters. That being said, the K12.2 is more than a mere loudspeaker and it actually can deliver a professional level of sound quality.

First of all, one of the most amazing aspects of this particular speaker model is its peak output power that can climb up to 2000 W, delivering a stunning level of pure sound, which is surprisingly good for a 39-pound DJ kit. When used wisely, it can fill up small and large venues. That said, it doesn’t require a ton of DJ experience, to begin with, it only has to be connected to a sound mixer.

If paired with a decent mixer or tabletop, the QSC K.2 is capable of delivering much more than your regular DJ speaker set. The sound of the 2000 W speaker is truly stunning, it is crisp, clear and doesn’t have any additional distortion to it.

Although the device is well-built, using a premium ABS plastic that is resistant to scratches and bending, it is recommended to transport and handle the device with care. If you don’t have a special carry case or a bag for your speaker we strongly recommend purchasing it right away, since one unlucky drop of the speaker might leave its grill bent. With that in mind, the bent grill might distort the output sound so it is important to think about the safety of your speaker beforehand.

Easy to Use

Unlike previous Legacy K12 models, the K12.2 doesn’t feature a Deep Bass function, which is a bummer, to say the least. Despite that, the speakers still produce a decent amount of low frequencies for an untrained ear not to notice the lack of features in the bass department. It will take a real sound to notice any significant difference in sound compared to premium speakers so the lack of Deep Bass will not be that big of an issue.

This loudspeaker model is also equipped with an LCD screen for your convenience. The display is capable of showing more than just a volume level. All the equalizer presets, current output frequency, and settings are at your command with a simple turn of the knob or switch.

All in all, the K12.2 has all it needs to be one of the best DJ speakers available today - an excellent quality of build, high-quality output sound, and of course, ease of use that allows to set up your DJ sound system in a matter of minutes.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $1,699.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B06Y477LND

'Hear the Truth'

The EON615 from JBL is a 15" sound reinforcement set that is built to suffice the needs of your dance parties, regardless of location. The speaker itself consists of a 2-way cone woofer with a special 2" voice coil that makes the vocal tracks and even your voice sound much better, compared to other similar products.

Moving on, the JBL EON was designed following a patented Image Control Waveguide technology. The company has performed a number of different tests that also included the examination of high- and low-frequency drivers from 36 different points simultaneously. These tests allowed JBL to engineer a supreme waveguide design that is able to cover up to 110° in the front of the device.

Unlike other speakers in a medium price range, the EON615 features a Bluetooth receiver and transmitter that allows using the speaker just like any wireless boombox, without the need to connect the turntable or a sound mixer stand. Additionally, the sound of the speaker can be customized and tinkered with by using a mobile app developed specifically for this line of JBL devices. With just a few taps of your phone (both iOS and Android devices are compatible), you will be able to change the equalizer settings, pitch, bass level, and much more. The app itself is comprehensible enough and quite easy to use, however, some devices will have a hard time staying connected to it due to a somewhat complicated pairing process. After the initial pairing was completed, the device will memorize your mobile gadget and it won’t be an issue anymore.

One of the Best Speakers in Its Class

As for the specifications of this DJ speaker model, it is capable of continuously sustaining 500 W with a peak output of 1000 W, which is quite decent as for a self-powered device.

The design features a 15" grill with a subwoofer in the back of the housing. On top of that, there are two carry handles located on the sides of the speaker for an easy transportation. While maintaining the same profile as a regular speaker, the JBL EON provides you with that much-needed convenience of use. This will prove to be handy if you tend to play at different venues and parties throughout the week. The speaker is small enough to fit into the trunk of a regular car, thanks to the dimensions of 26.5” x 12” x 20.5”, and leave enough room for other gear you might want to use.

In conclusion, if you seek a highly portable model the JBL EON615 is here for you and it's definitely one of the best DJ speakers in its class.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $525.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00J59LEBG

A Full Set for a True DJ

Being one of the few combo models in its price range that are available on the market today, the Behringer PPA500BT features a full set of different devices that will come in handy more than once during their service life.

First things first, let’s take a closer look at what’s actually included inside the package. The main part of the kit consists of two 8" speakers that can be connected to a fully-fledged mixing board that also acts as a control and connection unit. By utilizing the control unit you have an access to a variety of different bands, switches, and, of course an equalizer that will let you bring the frequencies to the max.

Speaking of frequencies, these DJ speakers from Behringer have a frequency range that goes from 50 Hz and up to 22 kHz, which should be more than enough for sustaining a decent sound level during performances in both low and high departments. To say that these little devices are loud would be an understatement, since both 500 W speakers with 2" voice coils are powerful enough to crank the volume just like a loudspeaker.

By playing the music loudly you won’t lose a single bit of quality. How is that possible, you may ask? And the answer is simple - the device is paired with a special 24-bit KLARK TEKNIK FX processor that not only allows the speakers to maintain a high quality of sound but also makes them loud enough even for big venues and parties. The FX processor itself has nearly 100 different sound presets for virtually any occasion or surrounding. On top of that, the 5-band equalizer enables quick access to all the frequencies for a lightning-fast sound mixing.

Highly Portable

As for the connectivity means, the speaker set has all it needs to be a versatile product. The onboard interfaces include 2 line inputs, 2 XLR inputs, a couple of RCA inputs, and, of course, mono and AUX-in ports for the microphone that is included in the package as well and can be used in both wired and wireless mode. Surprisingly enough, the latter can be used for both karaoke and vocals and that is unusual for a standard Bluetooth model of moderate quality.

Aside from connectivity and ease of use, this DJ set is also equipped with a suitcase that is made of durable ABS plastic. The whole set can be easily put together and packaged in just a couple of minutes. Nevertheless, trying to fit the cables along with the microphone can be a bit tiresome, since there is usually little space left for these peripherals.

Though it has some minor flaws, this Behringer set is one of the top picks around, thanks to its compact size, ease of use, and stunning sound quality. You simply won’t find a better bang for your buck, especially considering the small size of these speakers.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $499.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00OVAXR50

An Essential 2-Way Speaker

The DJ speaker from Electro-Voice is definitely a model worth looking into, especially if you are on a budget but still eager to get a high-end level of sound.

With the weight of nearly 35 pounds, the Electro-Voice ZLX-12P is one of the lightest 12" speakers available today. On top of that, the convenient handle on the side of the device makes it easier to transport the loudspeaker since they are designed to distribute the overall weight of the unit evenly. Thus, the transportation won’t be a problem even if you don’t lift weights on a regular basis.

Additionally, the ZLX-12P features the power and performance of a true high-end device, while being quite an affordable model by today’s standards. The average output of this monitor varies between 600-700 W while its peak output power can reach 1000 W with relative ease. This is achieved thanks to a built-in active amplifier that makes it extremely convenient for home use as well as for dancing parties as a loudspeaker. The device itself is a Class-D amplifier that can deliver a maximum sound pressure level of up to 126 dB. In order to control such a beast, the device is equipped with a monochrome LCD screen that will conveniently show the current SPL output level.

An Excellently Designed Model

On top of the tremendous portability and compact size of 14” x 14” x 24” this full range powered speaker is made of durable plastic while the grill that protects the speakers themselves is completed using 18-gauge steel to prevent any potential damage to the main part of the DJ set. Additionally, the main electrical frame of the speaker is securely enclosed in a polypropylene coating. Although the device can be used for outdoor dancing parties or venues, we recommend purchasing a special case that will prevent the electric circuits inside the monitor from moisture exposure.

Even though the device is quite easy to tune, the frequency range of just 50 Hz - 20 kHz makes the overall sound quality sound a little bit noisy from time to time. That being said, the loudspeaker is actually quite capable of achieving the level of sound that is indistinguishable from a professional loudspeaker. Thus, we recommend using this speaker set with a decent sound mixer or a simple DJ controller in order to achieve a level of sound that you deserve.

In the end, the DJ setup from Electro-Voice is one of the few budget-friendly models that are both affordable and that can be installed at a club or used for the home sound system.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $318.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00CE0VLXO

Easy to Control

The Mackie Thump12A is a powered loudspeaker that was designed for a number of applications. The self-powered speaker can act as both a monitor and as an element of a fully-fledged PA system, thanks to its powerful driver and frequency range that goes from 50 Hz up to 23 kHz. Quite an achievement as for an affordable mid-range model.

Although the manufacturer states that the peak output power of this speaker set can reach up to 1300 W, in reality, it can reach up to 1350 W without too much of a problem. Definitely a good trait for a decent PA system that needs to be loud, especially if used for large parties and venues outdoors. It will not be suitable for home use though, not at full power at least. Besides, when used at full power it might not be the most energy-efficient speaker out there.

Speaking of adjusting the power and volume levels, this DJ speaker is equipped with a number of knobs and switches on the back of the housing that makes it easier to control the gain and main volume levels.

All You Could Possibly Need

As for the ease of use, the monitor is equipped with not only one but three carry handles that allow for effortless transportation as well as for using a number of identical devices in one line, which will come in handy during live music shows.

The only real issue of this model is the finish quality that wears off pretty fast even if the speakers are not utilized at its full potential. Other than that, there are not many flaws that are worth looking into since they are not affecting the sound level and the looks of the monitor.

On top of the regular features, the device has a colored LCD screen that is capable of showing more than just the volume level alone. The colorful display will show all the frequencies and gain levels and will also help you with navigating through a mixing menu. Yes, you heard it right, Thump12A features its own mixing board that allows you to mix the output sound without a DJ controller. It is good but only to a certain extent. That being said, without a high-quality DJ controller this speaker is best used at medium volume levels.

If you are a fan of true hip-hop, dance, rock, and other kinds of beats this Thump loudspeaker is one of the best DJ speakers for you. The 1.4" compression driver that is paired with a 2-way 12" cone woofer will make the bass and beats sound like never before. Although not quite a high-end device, the DJ speaker from Mackie holds up to the professional standards of sound with a relative ease even without a built-in amplifier onboard.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $427.02
Stock In stock
ASIN B073V7MKQZ

What Are DJ Speakers?

When you can’t imagine your weekend pastime without partying and loud electronic music there is no better way to reproduce that club sound than a DJ speaker.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you imagine a loud dance music party? That is right - the turntable with a DJ behind it. But what makes the sound so distinct, loud, and crystal clear after all? The right answer to this question would be a set of DJ speakers.

Designed to be light yet powerful, they are easy to transport and can be used for a number of different venues both indoors and outdoors. Alternatively, they can act as monitors at live music shows, which adds to their versatility as sound reproducing devices.

In order to achieve a natural sound full of full-range frequencies, you can choose between small and big speaker models. Depending on your needs you will need to assess the overall speaker sound output as well. In the end, this device will definitely make your day brighter so why don't we make the process of choosing the right one worthwhile?

Additionally, you can take a closer look at the best floor speakers in order to spice up an existing home sound system. Besides, a good pair of studio headphones might come in handy, especially when you need to hear a little change in sound without annoying the others while you're improving your DJ skills.

What Features to Compare

Speaker System Configuration

According to the number of audio devices you want to connect to the speaker, you want to be absolutely sure what features the DJ speaker or a monitor has. Whether it's a simple equalizer or a fully-fledged mixing board it has to be of top-notch quality. With a vast number of different models available on the market today one can have a hard time wrapping his head around all the possible options. So let’s take a closer look at what features actually make a good DJ speaker.

Sound Power and Power Handling

Being one of the most important aspects of any PA (public address) or sound reinforcement system, the sound power defines how loud the speakers can potentially get. The sound power of around 500 W should be more than enough for home dancing parties, while 1000 W systems will be more suitable for outdoor venues.

Additionally, the higher this value is the more volume the speakers can handle without producing any audible distortion. If the impedance of the speaker is low the amplifier can ‘blow up’. In other words, when the maximum volume is exceeded it will overheat and can become damaged beyond repair. Likewise, make sure that other gear you connect your DJ speaker to is grounded, to avoid getting your gear burned.

If you are looking for a speaker that can maintain a high volume while delivering a good quality of sound, the bigger this aspect is the better. Alternatively, you can go for a moderately priced model that can produce more than enough volume for a school or church meeting.

Convenience Features

Some models are equipped with additional software or hardware. Depending on what kind of sound you want to achieve there are a few options you can go for. A built-in equalizer allows you to tinker with the output sound, the more frequency bands the better in this case. Alternatively, if you do not own a mixing board yet you can look into wireless models that enable your Bluetooth devices to act like one. With a few taps on your mobile gadget, you can get full control of the output sound, which is highly convenient if you want to change the pitch and the sound effects of your tracks in a matter of seconds.

Frequency Response

The frequency response is needed for delivering a high-quality sound. The more the actual range between the lower and the highest musical tone the speaker can reproduce the better. In general, the majority of the speaker models can deliver the sound in the range of 50 to 20000 Hz, while more sophisticated ones are capable of producing the tones in the range of up to 22-23 kHz.

Dimensions

Depending on your needs and the size of the venues you want to perform at the speaker size can be crucial. Small doesn’t always mean quiet and big doesn’t always mean loud. It is important to assess all the aspects and choose the best speaker that will suffice your needs in both portability and power level. Some small (no more than 8") speakers are capable of delivering a stunning level of sound, despite their modest size, while other, bigger speakers will just be too bulky to fit the trunk of your car.

Did you know?

How to Set up Your Own DJ Speaker System?

A DJ speaker system (that is also known as a ‘Mixing Console’ or a ‘Soundboard’) might seem a little bit tricky to set up at first glance. However, after you take this process and break it down into several steps it will appear much easier to perform. So, let’s take a look at how you actually connect all the dots in this sound puzzle, shall we?

Before we get into the details, it will be good to give you a little bit of insight on what the basic sections of a sound board actually are.

The section that is made of separate channels that you want to connect to your speakers is called the input section. It can consist of four and more channels. Each channel consists of a set of inputs that are located on the back of the device and when combined with a set of controls they create a channel strip.

The channel strip usually consists of a gain control which corresponds to the output volume of the first stage as the signal goes to your speaker and amplifier.

Moving on, some of the DJ speaker systems feature an Equalizer or simply EQ (some models can have FX control as well, which is basically the same thing). The equalizer controls the quality of tone and bass, as well as the treble of the output sound signal.

Components out of the way, let’s break down the setup process step by step once and for all:

  • First of all, you will need a set of speakers, a mixing board, and cables that actually connect all the components together. After you gather all your gear you will have to figure out and choose a location for your DJ speakers. This step is important, since volume may decrease as you move further away from the sound source. Additionally, you will need to consider the length of your cables and the accessibility of the power outlets inside the room (or cable extenders in case you plan to perform at the outdoor venue).
  • After that is out of the way, try placing all of your gear around the location you have chosen. Plug in the speakers, connect the output jacks of the cables to the power amplifier and the input jacks to your speaker system.
  • Plug in the self-powered power amplifiers by connecting the ‘Main Out’ jacks on the mixing board to the input cables to the power jacks on your powered speakers.
  • Alternatively, you can connect the monitors that are there for musicians and the DJs to hear themselves while they perform. You can make a list of all the inputs in order to memorize which device is connected to the stage gear and which one is connected to your mixing board.
  • If you are a beginner DJ it will also be helpful to label your sound board with painter’s tape. Stick the tape below the faders of the Equalizer in order to memorize all the cable connections. Once you familiarize yourself with the cables and gear it will become like a second nature to you and all you have to do ever since is double check.
  • Ground the DJ set. Make sure that all of your gear components are stable and all the buttons are pressed down. Check the sound and you are ready to go.

Hopefully, these easy steps will help you on your way to the ultimate glory of becoming a popular local DJ.

Other reviews