Best Powered Speaker Cabinets in 2022

Last update: January 10, 2023

Are guitar speaker cabinets powered?

Guitar speaker cabinets are typically not powered, meaning they don't have their own built-in amplifiers. This means that they need to be connected to an external amplifier in order to work. The good news is that there are many great amplifier options out there that can provide the power you need to get great sound from your guitar speaker cabinet.

Can a speaker cabinet be too big?

A speaker cabinet can be too big if it's not the right size for the space it's in. If the cabinet is too big, it can overpower the room and make it sound small.

Can I leave my powered speakers on all the time?

It's not recommended to leave your powered speakers on all the time because it can shorten their lifespan. When you're not using them, it's best to unplug them or turn them off so they're not using up power unnecessarily.

Can you plug a guitar into a powered speaker?

Yes, you can plug a guitar into a powered speaker. This can be done by using a speaker cable that has a 1/4" male jack on one end and a Speakon connector on the other end. The Speakon connector will plug into the powered speaker, and the 1/4" male jack will plug into the guitar.


Grindhouse Speakers - GH212L-Pair - Pair of Passive Dual 12 Inch 2-Way PA/DJ Loudspeaker Cabinets - 1250 Watt each Full Range PA/DJ Band Live Sound Speaker Review:


GRINDHOUSE SPEAKERS ARE THE BEST SPEAKERS I'VE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE. I'm 53 years old and have an 8-piece clear and chrome set of crush drums "10"12"14"16"18"RACK TOMS, MOUNTED ON A RACK SYSTEM, OVER 2 22"BASS DRUMS, WITH 6"8"10"ZILDJIAN SPLASH CYMBALS, 12"14",16",18"MEDIUM CRASH CYMBALS, AND 20" RIDE, AND 28"MEGA RIDE CYMBAL, GIBRALTAR THRONE, 13"PICCOLO SNARE, DDRUM TRIGGERS WERE ALSO PURCHASED, AND I CAN'T WAIT TO PURCHASE 4 MORE GRINDHOUSE 2 15 "I have a Behringer KM 750 AMP powering the speaker sets, and I've never had a sound system of this high caliber in my whole life. THANK YOU, BEHRINGER, GRINDHOUSE COMPANIES, AMAZON 5***** SORRY IT TOOK ME SO LONG TO WRITE A GREAT REVIEW FOR YOU ALL, PLEASE BE SAFE!!!! STARS TO YOU ALL, Thank you very much for giving me hope in my music by providing such wonderful sound equipment. I "BMD" AM STILL MESSED UP FROM A VERY BAD BACK SURGERY 6 SCREWS, AND 3 PLATES.



Acousta-Stuf Polyfill Speaker Cabinet Sound Damping Material 1 lb. Bag Review:


This dampening substance is the only option if you're serious about accurate low-end reproduction, and I'm sure it costs less than half what some people would pay for a subwoofer. The results are always fantastic when I use a little less than 1 lb per cubic foot, especially in a sealed area. I recently installed a pair of sealed JL Audio 12w6v3s using this dampening material, and I couldn't be more pleased with the overall results.



Rockville BPA10 10" Professional Powered Active 400w DJ PA Speaker w Bluetooth Review:


Definitely an excellent speaker for the money. also loud. Along with the Bluetooth, I got it for my home's outdoor bar where I host jam sessions and karaoke parties. Because the jets on my hot tub make it difficult to hear ordinary TV, I use it to watch movies outside. This will definitely irritate the neighbors, I'm sure of it!I simultaneously plug in my microphone and acoustic guitar. It will enable two independent channels mixed together with Bluetooth audio, but to use this, you'll need an RCA to hosa breakout cable (rca male to 1/4" female for the guitar instrument cord in). It mixes well outside, but since the sound is all dry, you will need a small mixer to add any reverb to your vocals. Other than that, the only issue thus far is that when the power cord was first unpacked, the ground prong was severely bent. After some fiddling with it, everything appears to be in working order. Additionally useless is the remote control they provide you. That is the reason I deducted a star. Try it out anyhow; it seems to be a keeper.



Mackie Thump12A - 1300W 12" Powered Loudspeaker Review:


I performed thorough study on powered speakers before picking up a set of these Thump15's. I found a terribly inadequate amount of knowledge about the newest generation of Thumps that just came out this year, so I felt forced to get a solid review out there. I've owned these speakers for about a month now. In that time I have used them to DJ a wedding in a large gym, run band rehearsal in a basement, and do fully mic'ed live sound for 12 bands at a music festival. I think I've pushed them through their paces sufficiently to have some early opinions to offer.I am coming from a background of using pretty much purely passive mains and monitors to run live sound for bands. After enough times of dragging around an overly huge setup for something simple like hooking up a laptop for a wedding, and dealing with different flaws of the other setups that I've used, I decided that I wanted to invest in a portable but powerful powered system.The new Mackie Thump 15 is a 1300W speaker - that's peak, not program - Mackie doesn't disclose program/RMS ratings with us. That said, the built in limiters enable you really push these things, and I can tell you that in a shootout they outperformed a set of 700W program 2x15 passive mains that I put them up against. So there is one huge shift from the previous generation, rated at 1000W peak (Note that Amazon still has these listed as 1000W, it is in fact 1300W now) (Note that Amazon still has these listed as 1000W, it is in fact 1300W now.) You can absolutely run sound for a band with mic'ed drums and amps, or DJ a small-midsize wedding, with only two of these 15's set up as mains.Another, and essential to me, upgrade from the previous generation is the aesthetic. I personally feel like they are lot cleaner and professional appearing now with the flat grille, no form for the horn cut out or whatever. They look and feel substantially classier, in my opinion.The inputs and EQ settings have also been modified by Mackie in comparison to earlier iterations of the Thumps. Each main has two input channels that are dual 1/4" or XLR (combo jacks, which are small and have a very clean, straightforward appearance). They contain individual volume settings that can be mixed to taste, as well as a master control. Additionally, a pass through is available to daisy-chain your signal to the following speaker or a sub. There are just presets for live sound, recorded music, monitor, and hi-pass for use with a subwoofer; there are no EQ knobs. Be aware that a sub does not transform your Thump 15 into a sub; rather, it removes all the bass and leaves it for a sub to replace. Later, more on EQ.Anyone looking to purchase these objects should be aware of the following points:They are surprisingly light in weight and easily transportable thanks to the handles. It still amazes me how effortlessly I can move things around, especially when compared to passive mains in wooden boxes. I was able to buy these as a package deal with rolling Gator cases included, so it takes me essentially no effort to roll into a venue with both mains at once. Amazing. Because they are so light, I am a little worried that the plastic may fracture, but they appear really strong and haven't even developed any scratches after a month of fairly heavy use.These have power, which is why they are termed thumps. With just two Thump 15s and no sub, I was able to quickly fill a small gym without even noticing the limiter or peak lights blinking. The audio didn't become distorted or harsh in the slightest and remained utterly clear. I was extremely impressed by the bass response out of these things right out of the box. This was for a wedding where the requested music was primarily pop, rock, and country. If you're looking to do trap music, electronic stuff, or anything else, or plan to push your system hard for long hours, you'll obviously want a sub.That naturally leads to my following remark about EQ. In my opinion, this is a major negative. Bass enhancement is available in music mode. Mid/high boost and low roll off are features of live speaker mode. To lessen feedback, the monitor mode has a low roll off and a 2 kHz reduction. A very severe hi-pass that eliminates all of your low end is sub mode. The bass increase is also excessively strong, which is a drawback.



JBL Professional JBL PRX815W-15” Two-Way Full-Range Main System/Floor Monitor with Wi-Fi, Black, 15" speaker (PRX815W) Review:


Because I was sick of renting a subwoofer from Guitar Center, I bought these speakers. If you have steady business throughout the year, it adds up. I also wrote a few reviews of subscribers. Instead of purchasing one or two subwoofers, I chose these 835W. which was a wiser financial decision. Sharper, louder sound. Additionally, if you download the app, you may use it to operate the 15" sub in the 835W. I strongly advise installing the app. The drawback of transporting these is that they are not small, so make sure you have a sizable vehicle or trailer. Along with the QSC K12, I also use these speakers. Two speakers who work well together.



Powered Active PA Loudspeaker Bluetooth System - 10 Inch Bass Subwoofer Monitor Speaker and Built-in USB for MP3 Amplifier, DJ Party Portable Sound Equipment Stereo Amp Sub for Concert Audio or Band Music- Pyle PPHP1037UB Review:


I got this speaker to use by the pool. We tested a variety of Bluetooth speaker models, but none of them were actually loud enough, and the ones that were had terrible quality. I made the decision to take this route since this equipment is incredible, especially for the price. I was quite impressed. Everyone in attendance was allowed to pair their phone Bluetooth-style, and all genres of music sounded fantastic. The neighbors probably aren't all that impressed. LOL A great product that I'll most certainly repurchase.



Rockville BPA12 12" Professional Powered Active 600w DJ PA Speaker w Bluetooth Review:


Although they sound fine, they are very loud for 100 RMS 10" speakers. Mine smelled like burnt electronics and plastic for a little while at first, even without hitting the clipping sign, so the factory must not have burned them in. Box somewhat reverberates during mid-bass and vocals; you can feel this throughout the entire enclosure. If you need directionality, it wouldn't be the best choice because it also has a lot of rear projection wash sound. Of course, sub bass is lacking; I run mine with a 15-inch sub, but I wanted to try it on its own to see how it would perform. Knobs also appear a little flimsy. When powered up, there is very little self-noise, and I would be pleased to use it in my studio.After some EQ, it sounds good with a powerful 15" sub and throws much farther than I anticipated. The power cord is ridiculously brief. Although it seems like it would be able to keep up with a combined guitar amp and drum set, the sides are too curved to be used successfully as a floor wedge monitor. Running to clipping for a while, the plate doesn't get as hot as my car's trunk amplifier, also by Rockville, which has been subjected to abuse for a few years and is still functioning properly.Additionally, whoever tuned the bass ports on these did a terrific job since even when operating at maximum range without a highpass for a sub, the cone excursion is very well controlled.After a few months of overuse, the sound quality has not changed. Running it in the sweltering sun for a weekend party while continually pulsating the clipping meter, it has held up well and has even been thrown around. Although it hasn't started to distort too significantly yet, it is way too loud to approach with your ears open at maximum volume, even though I don't have an SPL meter. Additionally, I appreciate that, unlike my Samson monitor, this one does not automatically turn on Bluetooth when powered on.It benefits with a maximizer like the BBE Sonic Maximizer, which wonderfully clears up the sound at maximum level and requires minimal EQ in that regard.



Gemini AS Series Professional Audio 15-inch Portable Active PA Loudspeaker with Bluetooth Compatibility, Mic and Line XLR, 1/4", 1/8" & RCA inputs Review:


This speaker exceeded my expectations, which is AMAZING! Please note that if you're searching for DJ-grade gear, seek elsewhere. However, if you're looking for a portable, badass system, go no further.Sound: 9/10You must have a room that is big enough because the highs are piercingly loud! This speaker offers a very well-balanced EQ overall, neither too high nor too low. Although it is a little underwhelming, the bass is extremely respectable and does not rock the box or produce strange noises. Superbly balanced, crisp sound throughout.10/10 for packagingIts wheels, handles on the top and sides, and light weight of approximately 30 lbs. are all wonderful features. It is quite portable, and I've brought it everywhere.Qualities: 10/10By alone, this speaker is a party decoration! I'm delighted I chose this model over the one without lights at my father's insistence. The LED light strip that flashes with the subwoofer's vibration and moves to the beat is the true party component in my opinion. There are approximately a dozen little lights in the middle of the circle that are incredibly bright, colorful, and have changing patterns. The lights appear fantastic in a dark environment because they are all quite bright.Relationships: 10/10My favorite component, the reason I purchased the box, was Bluetooth compatibility. My phone and many other smartphones couple with no issues, and if your phone's Bluetooth is turned on, it includes an auto connect feature. Sound quality is on par with a cable connection. In comparison to other Bluetooth devices, range is respectable. There are many of ports, including two XLR connections in, one out, a 1/4 inch in and out, and a 3.5mm.I absolutely adore this speaker and would strongly suggest it to anyone. Because this speaker sounds even better up high, I would also advise investing in the tripod stand at the same time for about ($20–$30).



(2) Rockville RSG12 12 3-Way 1000 Watt 8-Ohm Passive DJ/Pro Audio PA Speaker Review:


For the vocals in my garage band, I primarily use 2 Rockville RSG12 with my 500W powered mixer. With that, they do a fantastic job. The band received compliments. I use them to play my MP3 music when they aren't being used for that, though. For this use, these speakers sound fairly well with crisp highs, acceptable bass (although I do use a sub-woofer), and everything in between. unlike the speakers they replaced, which were muddy. They don't smell horrible out of the box, unlike speakers from another brand (I won't say which one, but it starts with a G), and they appear to be nicely made and not too light. They left Rockville promptly and were carefully wrapped for transportation. I had a choice in cables thanks to the dual connections for speaker wires—nice touch. Overall, I'm happy with the product and would think about buying it again or another speaker from Rockville.



Rockville 15" Rechargable Powered 800W PA DJ Speaker, 2 Mics, Bluetooth (RAM15BT V2) Review:


Really, I switched the radio on and it lasted overnight and was still playing when I woke up in the morning! It has wheels and rolls like a suitcase with a battery that lasts forever. It has a radio, two wireless microphones, and space for a cable microphone. It also accepts Bluetooth, XLR, USB, and SD cards. Although the mics have a somewhat thin sound, you can adjust the EQ on the device. You just can't go wrong here for the price!


Can you plug guitar directly into speaker?

You can plug a guitar into a speaker, but depending on the speaker, it may not sound very good. The best way to get good sound from a guitar is to plug it into an amplifier.

Do speaker cabinets make a difference?

Speaker cabinets can make a difference in the sound of your music, but it is not the most important factor. The type of speaker, the size of the cabinet, and the quality of the materials used all play a role in the sound of the speaker. If you are looking for a particular sound, you may want to try different speaker cabinets to see what works best for you.

Do speakers sound better with more power?

No, not necessarily. It depends on the speaker. Some speakers are designed to work with a lot of power, while others don't need as much. It also depends on the room the speaker is in and how loud you want it to be.

Do speakers sound better without grill?

No, speakers do not sound better without grill. The grill protects the speaker from damage and keeps dust and other debris from getting inside the speaker.

Does a speaker cabinet need power?

Speaker cabinets are designed to amplify the sound of your speaker, so they don't need their own power source. However, if you're using an active speaker, you'll need to plug it into an AC outlet.

How long do RTA cabinets last?

RTA cabinets are a great option for those looking for a cost effective and high quality option for their home. While the average lifespan of RTA cabinets is around 10-15 years, with proper care and maintenance, they can last much longer. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your RTA cabinets: -Make sure to clean them regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as this can damage the finish. -Inspect the cabinets regularly for any loose hardware or damage. Tighten any