9 Recommended Passive Speakers!!! How to choose PA speakers!!!

It is no exaggeration to say that these are the most important equipment used at music events. "PA speakers" This time, I will introduce the recommended "passive speaker" models that are used with an external power amplifier, and how to select them.

■ How to choose a speaker

1.　The size of the speaker unit.

Simply, the larger the range of the frequency response, the wider the range that can be played, and the wider the low frequency side. Also, the louder the volume and higher the sound pressure, the better it tends to be. Since it is difficult to compare before purchasing, you can compare a wide range of speakers, their volumes and sound pressure that can be output with the maximum output sound pressure level by the values of the frequency characteristics in the specs.

Examples:
CSP8
■ Frequency characteristics: 65Hz-18kHz (-3dB)
■Maximum output sound pressure level: 110dB + 3dB
CSP12
■Frequency characteristics: 50Hz-18kHz (-3dB)
■Maximum output sound pressure level: 120dB + 3dB

Loudness and power of sound that can be produced
6”＜8”＜10”＜12”＜15”x1＜15”ｘ2

2.　Wooden enclosures and plastic enclosures

This is based on my personal experience "Wooden enclosures = heavy = powerful bass" "Plastic enclosures = light = easy to hear mid-high range" These are my images of wooden & plastic enclosures. Please be assured that this does not mean that wooden enclosures are not clear, or that plastic enclosures have lower frequencies. For event PAs that are transported a lot, I think that light plastic may be more suitable, and for permanent PA systems such as live houses, I would recommend solid wooden enclosures.

3.　Installation method

There are various installation methods depending on the venue. Make sure the speakers you want are compatible.

● 35 mm speaker stand

This is the most frequently used stand, and it can be used if there is a 35mm pole socket on the bottom of the speaker. * For small-diameter models, there may be no socket on the bottom and a separate mount adapter may be required.

● On the floor

Many models have a slope on the side of the enclosure and can be used as floor monitors.

● Wall mounting

Requires optional accessories for each model

● Ceiling surface mounting

Requires optional accessories for each model

● Hanging

Requires dedicated eyebolts and so on for each model

4.　Allowable input and impedance　

I think the scariest thing about PA events is that they can have sudden loud noises that blow the speakers. There is no single combination that always blows a speaker, but to reduce the risk of blowing yours, choose a power amplifier that has the allowable input of the speaker you’re using and an output that matches the impedance.

Here is the basic idea
"Speaker allowable input (PGM: program)> Power amplifier rated output (RMS: effective value)"

Please check the special page below for information on how to select speakers and power amplifiers.
How to choose speakers and power amplifiers

Passive speakers recommended by the guy in charge of the PA speaker category.

1. CLASSIC PRO / CSP12

The super long-selling Sound House "CLASSIC PRO" original brand. The "CSP series", which is very often used in music events all over Japan, is equipped with a carefully selected driver unit and a high-quality network in a lightweight plastic enclosure that provides excellent portability and durability, with a transparent, relaxed sound. The sound quality is an attractive feature! Recommended for those who are looking for a speaker with good sound, regardless of the event genre, while staying within budget!!!

2. JBL / JRX212

The entry model "JRX200 series" from the world's top speaker brand, "JBL". It is a large but portable PA speaker that provides that JBL sound and excellent cost performance. A high-grade unit that reproduces clear high frequencies and powerful low frequencies mounted in a robust 19mm MDF wooden enclosure. The horn uses a unique Progressive Transition wave guide to provide a smooth sound throughout the coverage area. Well-balanced and easy-to-listen to sound characteristics are recommended for various scenes such as live performances, dance music, and speeches.

3. JBL / SRX812

The top series of JBL portable speakers, the "SRX800 series". The overwhelming amount of information that you can hear will make you understand the difference. If you want to build a high-end PA system, this series is recommended. JBL custom-made transducers in a robust wooden enclosure with a shock-resistant DuraFlex finish. The powerful sound and high reproduction quality is also perfect for large-scale events such as live houses, concerts, and clubs. In addition, when combined with a CROWN power amplifier or DBX processor, the best performance can be achieved.

4. QSC / E112

QSC, a top-class comprehensive audio system manufacturer from the United States. The "E series" are passive speakers that incorporate the know-how of the K series of powered speakers, which was a huge hit worldwide. The wave guide from the original DMT design technology makes the immersive sound smooth over a wide area. By using QSC's standard "GXD" and "PLD" series power amplifiers and "TouchMix" digital mixers together with the speakers, you can easily build an acoustic system that makes full use of the latest DSP technology using presets. There are plenty of options such as wall brackets, yoke brackets for ceiling suspension, and eyebolts that can be suspended using wires. Recommended for various purposes such as live performances, DJ events, dance music, and karaoke. By the way, the power amplifier comparison sound source on SOUNDCLOUD uses this speaker.

5. Electro-Voice / SX300E

No explanation needed!!! A major player in the passive speaker world that you’re sure to have seen at some PA event somewhere. Thought of in terms of microphones, it is a big classic among the big classics like the SHURE SM58. The sound, which is lightweight yet has powerful low frequencies and clear mid-high frequencies with good clarity, can handle anything from speaking events to live events with band performances. It's also a well-known secret that they have a wealth of accessories including floor-stands, wall-mounts, ceiling-mounts, and suspended installations. Which one will never let you down? The answer is the SX300E for the time being !!

6. BEHRINGER / VS1220

7. BEHRINGER / VP1220

8. BEHRINGER / PK112

9. BEHRINGER / B212XL

What did you think? At Sound House, we handle a wide range of products, from long-sellers with excellent cost performance to high-end models for large stages. If you are unsure about which speaker to choose, please see the special pages here.
How to choose speakers and power amplifiers

■ Comparison of standard PA speakers (passive)

■ Comparison of popular power amplifiers