DJ Speakers

DJ speakers, otherwise known as PA speakers, are an integral part of a DJ's sound system. The speakers have specifically been designed to provide an event, party, or club with quality audio for any setting in which a live DJ is playing music to entertain the audience. The main characteristics and features that come out of DJ speakers are: 

1. Active vs. Passive Speakers:

• Active Speakers: These speakers have built-in amplifiers; therefore, one does not need to use an external amplifier. They are often much more convenient for DJs since they only need a power source and a signal input. 
• Passive Speakers: These are speakers that require an external amplifier to power them. While offering flexibility in choosing amplifiers, they add to the components and setup required. 

2. Two-Way or Three-Way Design:

• Two-Way Speakers: Have a woofer and a tweeter. They suit all purposes and can be found in most DJ rigs.
• Three-Way Speakers: Have a woofer, mid-range driver, and tweeter. They give better sound reproduction with more detail but are used in larger and more advanced audio systems.

3. Woofer size:

• Generally, the larger the woofer, the lower the frequencies—which translates to bass. Common sizes for DJ speakers can range from 8" to 15". The decision again falls on the size of the place and the extent required for the bass response. This is given in inches.

4. Power Handling:

• This means the measure of the amount of power that the speaker is able to handle without distortion. Therefore, what a DJ would want is to move sufficient air in a room; thus, they require enough power in the speakers to be able to achieve this. Power handling is given in watts.

5. Frequency Response:

• The range of frequencies that a speaker can reproduce. DJ speakers typically cover the whole wide frequency response to represent deep bass through crisp highs.

6. Sensitivity:

• Expressed in decibels, it denotes how efficiently a speaker converts power into sound. The higher a speaker's sensitivity, the less power will be required to achieve the exact same volume in relation to a lower-sensitivity speaker.

7. Durability and Portability:

• DJ speakers should be built to survive all types of abuses from constant transportation and everyday use. Robust enclosures, handles, and protective grilles are features that add to the life expectancy. 

8. Connection Options:

•  The input options available in the case of a DJ speaker are multiple; these include XLR, 1/4", and the RCA connectors. Some speakers also have built-in mixers or more than one input for multiple audio sources. 

9. Mounting Options:

• Some DJ speakers offer mounting options, hence can be on stands or mounted on walls for added versatility across a multitude of setups.

10. Brand and Model Considerations:

• Among these, the most sought-after models for DJ speakers are JBL, QSC, Electro-Voice, Yamaha, and Behringer. The choice usually depends on the purposes, preferences, and pocket of the DJ.

One selects DJ speakers based on the size of the venue, the quality of sound desired, and the type of events a DJ does regularly. Many DJs will combine main speakers with subwoofers to provide them with a full and dynamic sound system.