Best DJ Speakers Reviewed

Benefits of Using High-Quality DJ Speakers

DJs not only listen to the music they're playing in their headphones but in their speakers, as well. Depending on the venue and environment, there could be a sound delay between what you hear in your speakers and what you hear in your headphones, and you don't want the tracks to go unmatched.

You do have the option to listen to what your headphones are reproducing, but sometimes if the sound is too loud, it's challenging to do. This is why it's important to get quality speakers – they will reproduce sound accurately and clearly, so you can better beatmatch and mix between tracks.

DJ Speakers Compared

1. Yamaha STAGEPAS 600BT

2. QSC K12.2 Active

Next up is the QSC K12.2 Active 2-Way Powered Speaker, which comes with a whopping 2,000W peak output. Coming with a load of high-tech features that more advanced DJs or DJs wanting to take their skill level will love, it's an excellent investment. If you're searching for the best live sound performance with powered speakers, then don't skip this one. 

3. PRORECK Club 3000

4. Alto Professional Spectrum

We've learned well from clubs and other music venues that when paired with lights, the sound is just somehow more intriguing, meaningful, and impactful. While they're cool to use at home, if you're a DJ who performs at gigs, then your audience is that much more likely to have fond memories of your sets.

The Alto Professional Spectrum 200W Bi-Amplified Bluetooth PA System is a fully-featured setup that includes a 3-channel mixer, dual-LED arrays, and a generous five light modes. What more could you want? The Bluetooth powered DJ speakers are ideal if you're going to be playing for audiences up to 50 people, so they're not made for large crowds. Instead, think backyard gatherings, house parties, and small bars/venues with lower capacities.

Weighing just 11 pounds, the vast majority of people will have no issue carrying it in and out and packing it up once you're done. The built-in rear handle makes transportation even more straightforward, while the rubber feet and pole sockets for mounting facilitate setup that you'll actually look forward to the process.

The enclosure is relatively sturdy and made of plastics with a scuff-resistant black vinyl wrap and steel corners, though I would like it to have been a bit tougher overall. As previously mentioned, you do have the option to connect wirelessly through Bluetooth, with up to 2 linked units for added speakers and subs at a range of up to 80 feet. You can also choose to connect your setup with wires, so if you feel your device isn’t compatible with BT there’s no need to worry.

The included 3-channel mixer comes with XLR, RCA, ¼" and 1/8" connectors, letting you adjust the EQ bands with precision, so your mixing and tracks sound their best. Going back to the LEDs, you can choose between the following light modes: Mood, Meter, Mix, Pulse, and Party. You can also opt to control them manually, adjusting the mix of Red, Green, and Blue lighting to your preference. You also have full control over the brightness of the LEDs, including the option to turn them off completely.

5. JBL JRX215

6. Bose F1 Model 812

Bose is without-a-doubt one of the most innovative speaker companies out there, and their F1 Model 812 Flexible Array Loudspeaker is exemplary of that. The full-range speaker isn't your average model, coming with an adjustable array bank that can create four different shapes: Straight, C, J, or Reverse J. This lets you select the best possible vertical coverage pattern, depending on where you're performing.

The "Straight" array is ideal if you have the majority of your audience directly in front of you, while the "Reverse J" is similar to Straight but will also project some sound up to cover angled environments. You will most likely be using the Straight configuration the majority of the time. Still, it's nice to have options and essentially eliminate the need to position two or more speakers up to get the same effect.

The speaker comes with two input channels: one with a volume knob, signal/clip indicator, TRS/XLR connections along with a mic/line switch. The second input comes with a volume knob, signal/clip indicator, stereo RCA inputs for your DJ gear, and a ¼" connector for instruments. If you're planning on doing live DJ sets, this is also one of the best options for you.

Each speaker module (the Model 812 and the F1) delivers 1,000 watts of power, which can produce an incredibly powerful signal level. Aside from that, you can choose to lock the separate units together to create a beautiful, streamlined design that will look great in photos and let your audience know you're a professional. The bottom-mounted pole cup will also allow you to use almost any speaker stand out there for added versatility.

So, how easy is the system to transport? Coming with carrying handles, they’re definitely not a challenge. However, the 812 weighs 44.5 pounds and the F1 57 pounds, which may still take its toll on your body if you’re carrying them up the stairs or long distances from your vehicle. As they’re both made with scratch-resistant polypropylene, you can expect them to last you through years of abuse.

Audio quality is some of the best in the world, delivering clear and concise elements throughout every frequency band. Vocals and mids are very clear, while the bottom is thick and thumping! You will have to pay more for these Bose DJ speakers, but it’s more than worth it if you’re serious about your career and your audience’s experience.

7. Behringer Eurolive B210D

If your main priority is cheap DJ speakers that work well, then this is the model for you. The active speakers are lightweight yet packed with everything you need for excellent sound reproduction. While not ideal for larger crowds, the 200-watt system is great for live performances for groups under 50 people.

If you don’t have a lot of upper body strength or just don’t want to wear yourself out each time, you’ll love how compact and light it is. Its small footprint also makes it ideal to use at home on smaller desks and tables.

The 10” driver offers surprisingly deep bass and acoustic power, while the unique 1.45” aluminum-diaphragm compression driver provides great high-frequency reproduction. In addition, you’ll have ultra-low noise Mic/Line input with volume control and clip LEDs to alert you to adjust your main volume or EQ levels. While it's not going to blow away audiences' minds, it gets the job done and should last you a reasonable amount of time. If you're starting out and don't want to invest a lot of money yet, then give this system a go.

8. Pioneer Pro DJ

Quite possibly the most reputable or at least well-known brand in the DJ world, it’s no surprise that Pioneer has turned out quality yet again.

You can expect maximum audio performance from these best DJ monitor speakers, which makes them ideal for use in the production studio or out playing for crowds of people. With increased bass output while simultaneously reducing unwanted resonance, each is made with MDF for the enclosure and bass reflex ducts. The woofers are comprised of aramid fiber cones, while the tweeters are covered in a magnetic fluid for incredible sound.

You may notice a porthole in the speaker, made to help direct the sound waves smoothly to create accurate reproduction and streamlined bass that will feel nice on the ears. You can choose to adjust the high-pass level output with the built-in EQ controls on the rear of the model so that you can change it according to your personal tastes. Here, you'll also find XLR, TRS, and RCA inputs to easily connect your DJ gear, laptops, and more. Finally, weighing less than 19 pounds, the speaker is incredibly portable and relatively compact to make travel a non-issue.

Essential DJ Speaker Accessories

To really maximize what your speakers have to offer, you should probably purchase some essential accessories if you don’t already have them. Believe me, when I say that these could be life savers!

DJ Speaker Stands

XLR Cables

If you're a wedding DJ or perhaps just an MC as well, then you're going to need XLR mic cables. These are very high-quality cables, coming with a protective metal housing and flexibly PVC jacket to keep them working correctly and reliably. All-copper conductors and inner copper spiral shielding make sure to protect against interference and unwanted noise, as well. Measuring 6 feet long, you won't feel constrained in your performance at all.

DJ Controllers

Powered Subwoofers

How to Set Up & Use DJ Speakers

Setting up DJ speakers is quite simple; the majority of the time. As most DJs out there currently use controllers, we'll speak mainly about the controller-to-speaker setup.

If you have Bluetooth speakers and are using a controller, you’ll probably find that the easiest way to do so is by connecting your laptop to the speakers. From here, you can simply tell your DJ software to output audio through the Bluetooth speakers. Just keep in mind that you may experience a bit of latency and may have to mix in your headphones, depending on the model and connection.

Common DJ Speaker Issues & Fixes

One of the biggest DJ speaker issues is speaker distortion. To solve this, first, check the connection chain. Make sure your controller is connected correctly to your laptop and that all settings in your DJ software and drivers for the controller you have are current. Make sure the master output from the controller is going into an amp and the amp into speakers. Check the signal path for 0dB throughout the chain.

If you’re still getting distortion, are you getting the distortion in your headphones when you’re cueing up a track as well?

If so, then check out the RCA cable on the amp when going from laptop to controller. If the sound is coming in clear in your headphones, then you'll know the sound from the laptop to your controller is okay. That would mean the hardware in the master output section of your controller is the issue. The master output volume may be too high, though you should have LEDs indicating this. It could also have to do with a faulty cable.

To reset your speakers, try holding the Volume and Source knobs at the same time for 10 seconds. This will clear all custom settings, presets, and Bluetooth pairings from your speaker, which can make it easier to address and fix the issue. To get the best sound possible, you’ll need to correctly configure the speakers for the space you’re playing in. For example, you’ll want to have a 2:1 ratio between tops and subs for mid-sized venues and probably add in a sub if you’re playing heavier styles of music.

Positioning your speakers is crucial to the experience, and they should be placed at the level of your audience's heads on each side of the booth, slightly angled into the crowd. If you have EQ controls on your speakers, that’s even better as you have complete control over each frequency band to give you the perfect finishing touch.

People also Ask (FAQs)

How do you match AMPs and speakers together for the best audio?

First, take a look at your speaker’s impedance. Amps typically operate their best between 4 to 16 ohms, so make sure you’re connecting a speaker that is also rated between 4 and 16. Always go for equal or lower impedance than your speaker! You’ll need to consider the wattage you need, depending on the power your speakers offer. Active pairs are already internally matched as far as wattage goes, but this isn’t the case for passive models. 

Look at the suggested amp wattage of your speaker, then make sure the amp you have in mind also produces wattage within that range. Avoid at all costs mismatching your speakers to an amp that's too powerful for them as this will almost always end up with blown drivers in your speakers. You can also get an amp that's too weak for your speakers, which involves the amp clipping and struggling to give them the wattage they need to work properly. If you keep pushing them, they're eventually going to pop or "boom."

What is the difference between active and passive speakers?

Passive models need an external amp to operate and are connected to the amp with speaker wire. They're often seen in pro audio for PA systems and monitors, due to the flexibility you have as well as improved audio quality in many cases. Passive speakers are nice as you don’t have to fuss with extra wires, while actives need to be plugged into a power source so you’re a bit limited on where you can place them unless you want to deal with extension cords which could end up being a safety hazard for you or your audience.

With passive speakers, if you want more power, you can simply go out and purchase a new amp and hook it up to them. With actives, this is more challenging and at times, impossible as your kind of set with the amp that it comes with.  Passive speakers are also typically lighter and more compact than actives as they don’t come with a built-in amp.

How do monitor speakers compare with PA speakers for a DJ?

Monitor speakers are made to have a flat response and are almost always less powerful than PA systems as you are the only one who needs to hear the sound they’re reproducing. PA systems need to deliver clear, accurate, boosted sound to an entire audience.

What sound difference can you expect from wired vs. wireless/Bluetooth speakers?

Wired speakers are almost always going to deliver better sound quality, as latency won't be an issue. As a DJ, this is crucial as you will be able to mix in-between tracks without any delays in sound more accurately. You'll also never have to worry about your devices unpairing or having a weak connection.

Where is the best location to place these DJ speakers?

You should place them at the level of your audience's heads and have them angled slightly inward, pointing towards the crowd. This can most effectively be done by using speaker stands, which will also ensure the sound isn't being transmitted into the DJ booth, which can be confusing and deliver more mediocre sound quality.

Are speaker stands worth buying for DJ speakers?

Absolutely, for the reason I just mentioned. Sound quality is much better when placed at ear level. Aside from that, speakers placed on the table/booth you have your equipment on will cause extra vibrations, which we don't want.

Are there DJ speakers worth renting? Where should I look for DJ speaker rentals?

You could, but your best bet is to purchase your own pair, so you always know what kind of sound to expect from them. However, if you do decide to rent a pair, Guitar Center is an amazing place to do so. They provide quality products and really know what they're talking about so they can help you select the best model for your environment and type of music.

Conclusion

Now that you've had the chance to read everything you could ever want to know about the best DJ speakers, which model will you be using at your future gigs? No matter which one you get, you can rest easy knowing that they're one of the best DJ speaker setups available today.

I can't recommend the Yamaha STAGEPAS enough, as it comes with everything you could ever need to get started DJing at weddings or at just about any event. However, what's most important is that you select the perfect product for you. I hope that this guide has helped you do exactly that. Thanks for tuning in and happy spinning!