The Best Passive PA Speakers

The world of PA speaker systems, in our case today those which are passive and unpowered, can be quite large and overwhelming we try to shop for the “best”. For one, some may be looking for a portable PA speaker, while others stationary and permanent in a particular setting. Others have a specific budget and need to keep it under a certain number, while some really don’t care for how much they drop on their passive PA speakers and truly want the most powerful and capable of the bunch. In result our list below includes a little bit of everything, so let’s get into the best passive PA speakers today.

JBL JRX212

Up first, JBL’s JRX212 is ranked among the best passive PA speakers largely due to its heightened sensitivity which allows it to perform at higher levels than most contemporary models. With a power rating of 1000W at peak performance, an impedance rating of 8 ohms and pretty good frequency response rate, this system stands out from the crowd especially in terms of stage use for overall power. It can be mounted on a pole and offers a dual angle of 36mm. This way, any musician or speaker can rock the crowd from the comfort of their booth with groovy tunes and solid quality articulations.

In terms of design, the JXR212 features a sturdy construction. Most notably, it has a steel grille which not only protects the speaker from heavy impact while in transit but also makes it considerably portable. Also, the fair density fiberboard allows for enhanced low-frequency performance and longer-term build. On the flipside, the JBL JRX212 speaker cannot be connected to smart gadgets without an amplifier in place which goes a long way in limiting its versatility especially for on-stage use. Definitely the best passive PA speaker in the market in our opinion.

Behringer Eurolive B212XL

The best part about purchasing any of Behringer’s products is their budget-friendly models and inclusion of unique features that make your music experience all the more exciting. For the Eurolive B212XL, these features include an assortment of color options, transducers, and increased portability. When it comes to design, the B212XL is by far one of the best passive PA speakers for those not wanting to spend an arm and a leg on theirs.

What’s more, its transducers are also custom designed rather than utilize off-brand models as is the case with many modern speakers. Behringer’s team has built the woofers and tweeters from scratch in a bid to ensure that it offers the required performance. Versatility is another key trait of the B212XL as it features a number of professional inputs including a 35mm pole socket, 2 parallel inputs, and the main out from which the line is sent. Also, the speaker can serve as a stand-alone gadget allowing for immense versatility. However, most critics argue that Behringer focused more on the Behringer B212XL’s look and less on its performance given that it is best suited for small gatherings, preferably a group of 300 people of less. Still the best passive loudspeaker if you need a smaller option and want to save some cash.

Rockville RSG12

In addition to their favorable price point, Rockville products are also renowned for their good quality material. The RSG12 is no different as it comes in a favorably lightweight enclosure and offers a respectable frequency range. It comes fully equipped with ergonomic handles, that are slightly recessed, which make it easy for users to carry the speaker around during setups. This adds to its portability and convenience, as it also comes with a carrying case.

The frequency response rate is also relatively generous, that is, a range of 22-45 kHz coupled with an impedance rating of 8 ohms. Additionally, this speaker has a relatively higher sensitivity of 99 dB and an aluminum voice coil, 2 inches in size for some decent power as compared to others. The latter is designed to function in high temperatures, giving the speaker high tolerance to excessive frequency inputs. Lastly, it weighs 30 pounds which adds to its portability. As such, Rockville’s RSG12 ergonomic structure, generous ratings, and heightened portability make it one of the best passive PA speakers for the money.

Yamaha CBR15

For years, Yamaha has been revered for its ability to produce top notch music gadgets. One of their most recent products is the CBR15, a 15 inch passive PA speaker that is known for its crisp sound and solid performance. It boasts of a decent SPL sensitivity of 96dB and a power handling ability of 500W. It has an impedance rating of 8 ohms, 90 degrees horizontal coverage, is pole mountable, and weighs in at a meager 39 pounds.

What’s more, the CBR15 comes with a fairly compact design that makes it easy for users to move it around. Sound engineers specifically appreciate the speaker’s high frequency protection circuit which ensures that the speaker remains intact even when exposed to excess electric input. There is also the bonus issue of CBR15’s smart form factor which gives users the option of setting up this speaker as the floor monitor or as the primary speaker. Either way, Yamaha’s CBR15 is great for the price and arguably one of the best passive PA speakers in today’s highly dynamic music industry.

Electro-Voice ELX200-10

From its quick ‘SmartDSP’ to the ‘QuickSmartMobile‘ wireless control, SST waveguide and 4 presets, the ELX200-10 by Electro-Voice features several high-end features that go a long way in qualifying it as one of the best passive PA speakers if you want a more capable model than others. The ELX series is positioned in-between the EKX and ZLX series, and includes 15, 10, 12, inch 2-way models as well as 12 and 18 inch subwoofers. As opposed to other models, these systems are available in both passive and powered versions which make them all the more versatile. Released in 2017, this particular model features a 10 inch woofer neatly fitted into a wooden enclosure, 15 mm thick.

Although lightweight, the system has been structured for enhanced portability as the finishing is quite sturdy and robust. This allows for ease of use and boosts its structural integrity. Other notable features include the QuickSmartMobile wireless control which utilizes BTLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) to control a maximum of 6 powered PA speakers and its four presets: Club, Live, Music, and Speech. The Electro-Voice ELX200 surpasses industry norm with a playtime of 500 hrs. and its delivery of highly efficient SPLs in collaboration with any powered Class-D amps. However, although designed for professional use, most reviews recommend it for home theater use as well.

Mackie C300z

When it comes to value for money, the Mackie C300z is to a great extent one of the best passive PA speakers available in today’s market. It features a 12 inch speaker, has an electricity ability of 750W, and weighs in at only 46 pounds. Adding to its portability, the compartment is 17 inches wide, 16 inches high, and a diameter of 28 inches. This makes it ideal for DJs and music engineers who travel frequently. In terms of sound quality, it comes fully equipped with a 12 inch LF transducer and a 1.75 inch high frequency compressor that allows for a pretty good sound production. Moreover, its sound dispersion is structured to serve up to 90 degrees. Just another simpler model to keep into consideration as you shop/

Yamaha Club V Series S215V

“Twice the sonic assault”- Yamaha’s Club V Series S215V slogan is descriptive of the speakers reliable all-round performance which makes it ideal for use in places of worship, mobile DJ booths, concerts, or any other form of professional setup and one of the best passive PA speakers. Compared to the previous Club V Series versions by Yamaha, the S215V features a number of refinements that make it all the more exciting. It offers better low-frequency performance as a result of its bigger enclosure, firmer grilles, as well as the expertly designed crossovers. Also, it features enhanced drivers with the ability to handle high electoral input, 1/4 inch connectors, and dual 15 inch speaker. It’s two inch tweeter comes fully equipped with a titanium diaphragm gives it a more durable structure in addition to enhanced sound production.

Portability is another key trait of the S215V as its enclosure is 47 inches high, 20 inches wide, and has a diameter of 24 inches. Most people argue however that its cumbersome weight (101 pounds) beats its favorable dimensions as it makes it difficult to move around. On the flipside, it features a respectable sensitivity rating of 96 dB ad a frequency response range of between 16 and 42Hz. Notably, Yamaha went out of their way to ensure the Yamaha S215V stands out from the crowd also in terms of its power input ability with a handling power of up to 1000W and 2000W when at peak performance. The last passive PA loudspeaker we’ll recommend today.

Finding the Best Passive PA Speakers

Music systems are the sole heartbeat of any event. From parties to weddings and concerts, speakers always to set the tone. As such, the choice of speaker one uses plays a significant role in determining just how successful the occasion is, thus, the need for PA speakers. But, why PA speakers? The answer lies in the fact that they offer ample audibility as they are powered by external amplifiers as opposed to powered music systems. Getting this connection working might seem to be a tad bit chaotic but in actuality, it allows users a great deal of creativity with specific regards to music performance. PA speakers are designed to fit into a wide array of setups, thus, making them the best for public use.

The bottom line is that passive PA speakers are the most ideal choice for professional setups. No matter the occasion, no matter how groovy the vibes are or how entertaining the tunes are, you need A-grade speakers to get things goings. As such, above are the best passive PA speakers to help serious audiophiles with their setups.