If you are a DJ, you probably know how important a proper audio system is for your job. And a set of high-quality DJ speakers is a must-have in your set. As a DJ, you need to be able to properly estimate the mix you create while your audience should be able to hear it in good quality and at a decent volume.
However, even the most high-quality speakers may not be suitable for the particular needs of a DJ. Except for the sound, you have to consider a lot of other factors: portability, number and types of connectors, etc.
Keep on reading to find out about what you should look for to choose speakers that will be suitable for DJ’s needs.
Speakers, monitors, and subwoofer
Using monitors is a great way for beginner DJs to hear their mixes clearly. While H-Fi speakers reproduce a high-quality sound in comparison with inexpensive audio equipment, they also boost certain frequencies which can make it difficult for beginners to hear how their mix actually sounds. Monitors are mostly used in studios and at big parties.
In any case, both the speakers and the monitors must be chosen in accordance with your skill level. You should also consider the place where you are going to perform. If you are just learning how to be a DJ and aren’t performing in front of an audience, you can just buy two speakers and a subwoofer. The subwoofer will make DJing easier and more rhythmic as you will hear the bass clearly. If you are not limited in budget, you can buy a large and powerful speaker system.
Power and sensitivity
Although these parameters are different, they work together to provide a high-quality sound, minimize distortion, and make the speakers sound louder.
The power indicator is also directly related to the reliability of the system. It should be chosen in accordance with the size of a place where you are going to perform or practice. For example, for an area of 215 square feet, the speakers that have 60 – 80 watts of power will be enough. It’s important to know that the total power of the speakers must be higher than the power of an amplifier, otherwise, your acoustic system will not last long.
Sensitivity is responsible for volume and measures in decibels. The higher the number is, the louder the speakers sound. They should have at least 75 dB of sensitivity for the most modest DJing needs.
Compatibility
It’s very important to check whether the speakers are compatible with your deck, controller, and amp in advance. This means that they must have all the relevant ports. Find out about speakers’ cord type/length and number/types of jacks before buying them for DJing purposes.
Active or passive speakers?
The DJ speakers require an amplifier in any case. The question is whether it should be integrated into the speaker or used separately. In the case with passive speakers, the amplifier is connected to the speakers separately. Active speakers have an amplifier integrated into the cabinet. These two options mainly differ in terms of sound quality and convenience.
In the case with active speakers, they can’t have a large amplifier inside due to their construction. Accordingly, it can’t be very powerful. As for passive speakers, you are not limited in the size and power level of an external amplifier. Such an amp also gives you more control over the power supply. Besides, it not only makes the sound more powerful but also more detailed and dynamic.
Active speakers are heavier than passive ones as the amplifier inside has quite a noticeable weight. However, in some inexpensive active speakers, the weight of an amplifier doesn’t exceed 2 pounds, so it doesn’t add much weight to the speaker.
Passive speakers have more cables and connections which isn’t very convenient. Active models require a separate power cord. However, among active speakers, you also can find battery-powered models.
So, as you can see, it’s up to you which type is better. They have their advantages and disadvantages and the choice should depend on your needs.
