the forum rules you agreed to follow when you signed up. But its hard to beat the peace of mind an established brand offers. Both in sound and build quality. Buying from a reputable brand comes with several benefits. I just invested in some new Crown XLS series power amps, so I would like to finish up by getting some nice speakers to match with them. Matt_B_77. Its lack of volume does hurt its potential and concerns over its durability are also an issue. I bought all 3 to try from my local store. We do, however, use them pretty regularly. Reliable and reasonably priced the EV ZLX-15BT is an excellent 15-inch speaker. This is why you want to get maximum value for money. It may not display this or other websites correctly. A capable and reliable speaker that will serve you for years to come. When it comes to speakers, size matters. You may login with either your assigned username or your e-mail address. The Peavey DM115 is an excellent speaker for solo performers that dont want to bring two speakers to a gig. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The bass response is meaty and satisfying. I'm figuring out budget end FRFR solutions before I start looking at high-end solutions (Atomic, Xitone, etc.). Loud, clear, dependable, and flexible. The contents of this article are subject to worldwide copyright protection and reproduction in whole or part, whether mechanical or electronic, is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the Publishers. All rights reserved. I find them to be very loud and very clear. The Yamaha DBR15 is an impressive 15-inch powered speaker. Like any electronic device, there is the potential for the occasional dud unit to come off the production line. TIf you have a bit more to spend, the prosumer ETX lineup is worth exploring. I like to give every product a chance to prove itself on its own merits. The Thump215XT continues the series from Mackie that highlights a meaty low end. 4 weeks 58 min ago. Read our full PreSonus AIR15 review for more detailed information. The QSC KW153 offers an innovative approach to the classic loudspeaker. This premium loudspeaker has all the features a professional would need. I've always like EV products. Clarity is excellent but the balance is a little off. The Yamahas have been durable, but I'm just not real happy with the sound. Sound quality is the real highlight here. Speakers are not cheap so anything that makes you more comfortable is a big benefit. The Behringer Eurolive B115D is a budget-priced 15-inch powered speaker that performs well. A premium-sounding speaker with intelligent and well-executed design philosophies. A great choice for solo performers. Lets check out the top speakers in this category. If you hear distortion youll likely have the speaker up too loud. The low end is solid but does struggle at higher volumes. Do yourself a favor and sell all that crap for as much as you can get and buy a pair of Yamaha DSR15s. I have some Carvin 3-ways I bought about 20 years ago that still work. Legendary Guitarist changing for PRS guitar. Coverage is solid but the low end is a little disappointing. These brands have a long and established history in the audio space. I don't even think about upgrading to high end. Both need subs to run the kick and bass but for the small bar gigs either work well. Examples of Apple Silicon neural chip software ? I've been using a pair of ELX115P for the last 3 years when my band has to provide sound reinforcement. With a range of intuitive and useful features, the PreSonus Air15 is among the best 15-inch powered speakers available. Soundtoys Mixing Workflow | Podcast. JavaScript is disabled. If you consistently push a speaker to its limits you can damage the components. Re: Apogee Symphony Desktop vs MixPre 6 II. The Behringer is an appealing budget choice for the right artist. The EV ZLX's stayed clear and clean. Advanced DSP for easy tuning. With a large woofer, they are often the first choice for performers at larger venues. You must log in or register to reply here. A feature that is becoming increasingly more prevalent in modern speakers. Home DJ Studio focuses on teaching aspiring home DJs how to choose the right equipment and develop their DJing skills. Web site designed & maintained by PB Associates & SOS. But for excellent all-around performance, the Yamaha DBR15 does stand out. Both the Altos and the EV are in the same range (sub $500) and my gut swings me to the EVs but lots of folks like 'em both. But at this price point, it is hard to be too critical. I personally would avoid all the options at that price. Thanks for the replies so far. Learn More. The ETX 15P is the largest in the range and offers outstanding sonic performance. The PreSonus AIR15 is a solid 15-inch powered speaker. Just wondering if the ZLX would really be an upgrade over the Yamahas. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. No contest. I've had both. Poll: Who Supports Gibson or Refuse to Support a Company that Sues/Thwarts Competition to Keep Peddling Inferior/Sloppy Products at Inflated Prices. NO way will get any passive speaker to sound as good unless you spend some real money on a decent bi-ampable speaker and processing. Because they are junk. Very capable of handling a variety of gigs. This results in an expertly balanced output. There are plenty of outstanding contenders in the 15-inch powered speaker market. I have a pair of Yamaha C115V speakers I'm using for the mains of my band's p.a., and I'd like to upgrade them, because I don't think they sound all that great. The JBL SRX815P is a high-performance 15-inch speaker that delivers on several fronts. Expertly crafted it delivers premium sound quality that is rich and full. The main difference tends to come down to component quality, technology, and features. For over 20 years I've been involved in the world of DJing. Its an excellent speaker for a range of applications. Not on the merits of its marketing department. Im usually not a brand loyalist. The Console That Changed Mixing Forever. Yes. The EV stuff is at least as bulletproof as the Yamaha, just wondering about a side by side comparison soundwise. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Just wondering if the ZLX would really be an upgrade over the Yamahas. It may not display this or other websites correctly. An impressive speaker that offers a lot of features. I want to sell the Yamahas and get the EV's. The Yamahs DSR series is the pricier ( better ) ones , as are the DXR series. A speaker should be reasonably priced in comparison to the features it offers. JavaScript is disabled. When you consider how many speakers look similar it can be difficult to understand the differences in price points. The Gear Page is the leading online community and marketplace for guitars, amps, pedals, effects and associated gear. In fact, the EV ZLX speaker series are EV's top selling portable speaker world wide. Speakers can vary in price by quite a lot. DSP is simple to use and the Ethercon connection opens up full flexibility for larger setups. Most likely it won't do what you hope it would. I've used both the EV ZLX 12P speakers and the newer JBL EON615's. You are using an out of date browser. The Yamahas just don't sound very "full" - a little "boxy" in the low end and mids. Cheap and with decent sound quality. Some of the add-ons on this site are powered by. This premium loudspeaker has all the features a professional would need. 15-inch powered speakers are usually the biggest size available for PA or DJ speakers. Larger systems are especially good for mobile DJs that need serious output from a portable unit. At times we will pair them with some passive subs, mostly outdoors. I'm not considering the JBL as an option, given the volume of negative reviews. The price point is also reasonable considering the feature set. The JBL Eons were distorting badly, even at moderate volume with just vocals running through them. It sounds great straight out of the box and is easy to use. And I greatly prefer the EV's. But when it comes to speakers some brands have continued to consistently produce excellent products. You're probably referring to Yamaha's DBR15, which has a map of $600, whereas the EV ZLX15P sells for $500, and so does the JBL EON615. Alto TS315 349.00 EV ZLX 12P 399.00 Alto Bluetooth 59.00 Foxnovo 100.00Bang for your Buck. Bright and clear. Crisp and clear with plenty of volume up your sleeve. Investing in a 15-inch powered speaker is a big decision. Plus larger speakers will be heavier and dominate the space. Looking for opinions from those who have tried or owned the Alto TS210 (or 212) and the EV ZLX-12P. We use cookies on this site to optimize site functionality and give you the best possible experience. All the options in this list could be the ideal choice for you depending on your needs. Well defined with good projection. Great care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the preparation of this article but neither Sound On Sound Limited nor the publishers can be held responsible for its contents. 1 month 1 week ago. Plenty of connection options and dependable Yamaha quality. The Yamaha DBR series are fair, and probably on par with the EV's. You must log in or register to reply here. Good low end, warm mids, and crisp highs. Now I want to share my experience so that DJing is more accessible for anyone with a passion for music. If all of your buying and selling of guitars has taught you one thing, what is it? What Floyd said. LEWITT Audio | Podcast. Ideally suited for solo performers and smaller venues. Check out our guide on the best pa system for DJ to find out more. We aren't rough with them and don't push them too hard so I don't know if that is indicative of their reliability, but we've never had a problem. If epic bass is not a concern the iQ15 is one of the best 15-inch powered speakers currently available. I have the zlx12P's and they work great for what we use them for (rock band with, vocals, keyboard, and kick drum). You are using an out of date browser. Always get the most out your money.. Loud, clear, dependable, and flexible. But it does come down to your personal needs. The Mackie Thump215XT is an attractive speaker at a fantastic price that is perfect for bass lovers. Great sound, portable, and affordable. The Yamaha DBR series are fair, and probably on par with the EV's. The DBR's can get a touch louder, according to the specs put out by Yamaha and EV. If you need a budget yet powerhouse speaker the Alto TX315 is worth considering. A large woofer helps deliver better bass response. A reliable speaker is critical if you are a working performer. Overall the EVs sound more balanced and the carvins have a strong midrange that helps vocals cut through. The stand out feature is the Klark Teknik DSP. If you are you can usually go for smaller tops. Here are a few things worth considering before handing over your hard-earned money. These large speakers can offer you the flexibility to run them solo. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. Lightweight and ergonomic design adds to the appeal for mobile DJs or artists that gig in different locations. I have a pair of carvin PM15A's and a pair of EVZLX12P. A total of 3 drivers handle low, mid, and high frequencies. The bigger the woofer the more satisfying the low-end response will be. But not all speakers in this category are worth you spending your hard-earned money on. All contents copyright SOS Publications Group and/or its licensors, 1985-2023. Pro TipPA systems are a great alternative for DJs. Based on my comparison, the Ev's sound much better. The iQ15 is another excellent speaker from Turbosound. The flexible features like detailed tuning and various installation options like pole mount, bracket, and fly points. I think I've made my decision - I just wanted some comparative opinions. The exceptional sound coupled with the durable build quality is a true highlight. Theyll often back up their products with excellent warranties and after-sales support. An efficient speaker with lower wattage can produce better sound than a higher wattage speaker. It is expensive and unusually shaped compared to competitors. I am aware that they both handle about the same power RMS and peak. Read our full EV ZLX 15BT review for more detailed information. My choice in that price range would be the EV's. I'm also starting to consider the ZXA1s because they are so darn portable. QSC and the more expensive EV and Yamaha offerings are much better speakers. High noise floor and an input on one of the speakers arrived broken. It doesnt impact the quality of the sound. Im sure there are some good up-and-coming audio brands. Future Rave Serum Drops (David Guetta, Morten, Hardwell Style), 50% off Basement Freak sample packs + $25 bundles on now at Black Octopus, New Releases: EDM Chords Midi - Epic Emotional Vocals - Motivational Soccer Energy. Look for speakers that offer flexible inputs, tuning options, and durable components. Amazing clarity and tonal delivery. Looking at the JBL or EV possibly the Mackie srm stuff, but are these pretty decent for small spaces - say 100 people or less, mostly vox and some kick drum in the PA, in a rock band context? The bigger the speaker the bigger the woofer. The Yamaha cabinets are big, heavy and unwieldy. If you play small intimate venues a 15-inch speaker may be overkill. The DBR's can get a touch louder, according to the specs put out by Yamaha and EV. I do find the ZLX to be a bit scooped, but it is still one of the best sub $500 FRFR speakers you can find. Google JBL Eon. The broad coverage and clean sound lend it to guitarists and vocalists. Well constructed with a thoughtful list of included features. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. Having a good warranty and solid customer support can ease anxiety. The Alto TX315 is a solid entry-level speaker that packs plenty of punch. IDK about running a kick drum through them. An excellent sound profile with plenty of power. Rich tonality abounds with precise and clear audio delivery. You're probably referring to Yamaha's DBR15, which has a map of $600, whereas the EV ZLX15P sells for $500, and so does the JBL EON615. The JBL SRX815P is a high-performance 15-inch speaker that delivers on several fronts. Yamaha continues to deliver exceptional products and the DBR15 is another fine example. When I had ZLX12P they had some problems. A dependable speaker that is built to last and at a great price. I definitely think the EV's sound much better than the Yamaha's. Interestingly, they are both around the same price point purchased new. I have I have not tried the Altos, but I'm really happy with the EVs. I'm in the market for a lower-cost powered PA system. DSP is simple to use and the Ethercon connection opens up full flexibility for larger setups. I've had them for about a year and haven't had any problems with them. I have not tried the new Alto TS210, but I have the Alto TS110A, and prefer the ZLX. Large 15-inch powered speakers are ideal if you dont want to add a subwoofer to your setup yet. Re: HEDD 20 Mk2 - Are they worth the money ? They often have enough low-end to fill a medium-sized venue with a satisfying sound. I have Crown XLS 2005 powering, with a Rane 1/3 octave eq, and a Mackie mixing board. Got Questions or Comments?Join the discussion on: Facebook Instagram Twitter. Clean design and bonus AUX-in connection. The Yamaha DBR15 is one of the very best options when it comes to 15-inch powered speakers. It can often be the case that spending a little bit more results in much better results. Would the EV ZLX15 be a significant upgrade sound wise? Read our full EV ETX 15P review for more detailed information. OR better yet, DSR12s and a quality powered sub. The last thing you want is to end up spending more because you have to replace your below-average speaker. Build quality is also better than you would expect at this price level. What did you notice the biggest difference to be? 90% of what you will find is people bitching about them. In this guide, we check out the best 15-inch powered speakers currently available. It is expensive but if you are looking for a pro-level speaker the SRX815P is a fantastic choice. Absolutely no problems ever, been very satisfied. We have over 20 years experience in the industry and a pure passion for what we do. Looking for opinions from those who have tried or owned the Alto TS210 (or 212) and the EV ZLX-12P. Another factor to consider is if you will be incorporating a subwoofer into your setup. I recommend you stick to the trusted names for your first purchase or your next upgrade. I use the carvins as tops and EVs as monitors just because of the size of the EVs, but they're interchangeable. The sound quality is good but skewed towards a smiley face EQ curve. Easy to use and packed with features to adjust output. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the publishers. Usually, the number of watts will determine the volume level of the speaker. While a little expensive the ETX 15P is an excellent investment that will last you years. The revamped ZLX range now offers Bluetooth. Selecting the right 15-inch speaker can be difficult. Commissions may be earned from links on this page.