Recommended Latest Powered Speakers for 2022: Tried the JBL PA Speaker EON700 Series!

JBL has released a new PA speaker for the first time in a while, so I’d like to introduce it right away. The previous EON600 series was a very popular speaker, known for being lightweight and high-quality, so expectations are naturally high for this new successor!

To make things easier to understand, I’ve compared the EON612 and EON712 side by side. The size remains almost the same, and they are still light enough to carry easily with one hand.

The most noticeable difference is in the input/output panel on the back.

The EON612 had a simple layout with an EQ preset switch button and volume knobs for each channel and the master. However, the EON712 comes with a color LCD display! Some might think this makes it more complicated to use, but there’s no need to worry. You can still easily adjust the volume using the knobs for each channel and the master, just like before. What’s worth noting is that the EON712 offers even more advanced features beyond that.

What makes it so impressive?
Let’s dive in and take a look!

■ Ducking by Soundcraft

It has a feature that automatically lowers the BGM volume when you speak into the microphone. This is a great feature for lessons like dance classes. On the EON700, you can even fine-tune which microphone triggers the ducking and adjust the intensity of the effect to suit your needs.

■ AFS (Automatic Feedback Suppression) by dbx

This is amazing… The dbx AFS (Automatic Feedback Suppression) is like a savior for sound engineers! It’s one of those processors that gives peace of mind just by having it in the rack. And now it’s built into the speaker! I even tried intentionally causing feedback by placing a microphone and instruments right in front of the speaker, and as soon as the feedback started, it was instantly suppressed. After that, no more feedback occurred in that frequency range. This is super useful for live performances where unexpected feedback can happen as performers move around.

The best part is, all you need to do is turn the feature ON, and it handles everything automatically—definitely keep it on! By the way, the image on the right shows the interface of the dedicated app, "JBL PRO CONNECT."

■ OUTPUT EQ

The EON600 series already had preset EQ options, and the EON700 series, of course, includes them as well—now expanded to 8 different presets. This makes it easy for anyone, even those who aren’t comfortable with equalizing, to enjoy tailored sound quality for various uses. By the way, the detailed EQ graph shown on the screen can be checked through the app, so I took a look at it!

■ Pass Thru XLR

This is another feature that seems like it will be used often. With most powered speaker output terminals, you typically only get a full-range signal. However, the EON700 series allows you to not only send a full-range signal but also select a “Sub” mode that outputs only the low frequencies below 80Hz—perfect for connecting a subwoofer. In this mode, the full-range speaker plays frequencies above 80Hz, ensuring that both high and low frequencies are handled optimally. Even without a channel divider (crossover), you can achieve a cohesive and well-balanced sound.

■ Bluetooth Music Playback

Actually, the EON600 series didn’t support Bluetooth music playback, but with the EON700 series, it’s now possible. This greatly expands its versatility—you can, for example, run an event or lesson with just a microphone and background music, or even hold a live performance with a mic, guitar, and BGM for a singing while playing session. The possibilities are much broader now!

■ JBL PRO CONNECT

The EON700 series also comes with a wireless control app!

Pro Connect (iOS)

Pro Connect (Android)

The app is easy to use. Just launch the app, power on the speaker, and select “BT Control Pairing” from the screen shown above. The speaker’s display will then show a prompt—select “Yes.” Then, on the app screen, touch “Connect” next to the speaker, and you’re all set.

The app provides control over each channel’s level, through-out options, and master level control. Additionally, you can adjust the same settings as the speaker itself from a distance. This is a huge advantage because you can stand in the audience or on stage, listen to the sound in real-time, gather feedback from the performers, and make quick adjustments on the spot. It allows for efficient, real-time responses.

■ How Does the Sound Quality Differ?

This is a subjective topic, so please take my personal impressions as a reference.

In short, the EON700 series sounds like a step up. Not just in terms of volume, but it feels like there’s more detail and richness in the sound. The EON600 series already delivered great sound at an affordable price, but the EON700 series gives the impression of an overall upgrade. The mids and highs are clearer, almost as if a veil has been lifted, offering a crisper sound. When comparing the bass, the improvement is quite noticeable.

With many lightweight, plastic PA speakers, the bass tends to spread out after the initial attack, creating a somewhat "boomy" effect. However, the EON700 series delivers a tighter, more controlled low-end that you can really feel. It provides a satisfying sense of bass that resonates through your body. Soundhouse has comparison audio and videos available, so I highly recommend giving them a listen!

Comparing Popular Powered PA Speakers

A serious comparison: JBL EON700 series

The EON700 series is perfect for the following people:

• Users of entry-level powered speakers from various manufacturers who want to upgrade their PA system for better sound quality.
• Solo operators who need to manage events by themselves. The ability to control the sound wirelessly from your smartphone, while listening from the audience or stage, is a huge advantage.
• Those looking for a PA speaker that delivers great sound easily, without needing to deal with complicated settings.

As expected from the latest model, the JBL EON700 series is a feature-packed powered speaker. If you're unsure which speaker to choose, this is a reliable option that I can confidently recommend!