Which SPEAKERS are best for DJ's?
Which SPEAKERS are best for DJ's?
When it comes to what audio equipment you should be considering, the right type of speaker is one of the most important considerations.
Two common types of speaker are monitor speakers and PA (Public Address) speakers.
Monitor speakers are meant for accuracy and precision in a recording studio or other near-field listening setting while PA speakers are designed for loud, large spaces where volume and coverage are key (for example .. parties!)
While both are designed to produce sound their intended use, design and characteristics differ significantly. We’re here to break down some of the key differences between monitor speakers and PA speakers to help you decide which is right for you.
MONITOR SPEAKERS
Monitor speakers, also referred to as studio monitors, are designed to be used in small scale studios for music production, and are engineered to produce an accurate representation of sound without colour, enhancement or flavour. This means that the output accurately represents the input, and the frequency response so allows the listener to hear exactly what is being played or recorded in an accurate way. The idea is that the listener can hear any flaws in the recording, mix easily, and allow for greater precision when editing or mixing sound.
In general monitor speakers tend to be smaller, with cone sizes ranging from 5 to 8 inches, although they do come bigger. They are designed for “near-field listening … meaning that they should be placed relatively close to the listener and aren’t designed to produce high volumes of sound in large areas.
There’s no need to spend huge amounts of money on monitor speakers for DJing .. sure, the more you spend the higher quality you might achieve, but it’s worth considering what you’re using the speakers for and also worth remembering that your ears may become tired when listening to heavily detailed sound reproduction .. less clarity is often a better solution for DJ’s!
OUR PICKS …
Adam T5V
JBL LSR305
KRK Classic 5
P.A. SPEAKERS
PA speakers, on the other hand, are designed for live sound reinforcement in larger venues such as concert halls or outdoor events. They are built to project sound over a large area and to be heard from a distance, making them ideal for events like concerts, rallies, and sporting events.
PA speakers tend to be much larger than monitor speakers, with cone sizes ranging from 10 inches to 15 inches or more. They are engineered to produce a higher volume of sound with minimal distortion, often optimised for speech or musical performance. Unlike monitor speakers, which are designed for near-field listening, PA speakers are designed to be used in a far-field setting, meaning they need to be placed further away from the listener to achieve the desired effect.
Choosing the right speaker for your specific needs will depend on your intended use, your budget, and other factors such as room acoustics and the type of music you’ll be playing or recording. By understanding the differences between monitor and PA speakers, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing audio equipment.
OUR PICKS
Yamaha DBR Series
Evolve ZLX Series
