Playing through PA with powered speakers

backplains · #1 10-11-2010, 02:36 PM

I'm presently playing through a powered mixer/passive
12" EV speakers...no subwoofers...Will I get more buttom end with 12" powered speakers...
Do you recommend 15" powered speakers?
thanks guys..

Marginal Tom · #2 10-11-2010, 02:46 PM

PA speakers (powered or unpowered) are engineered for vocals, not bass. Spend your money on a bass cab instead of the powered monitor. If you can afford it, buy a bass amp (combo or head+cab).

tekhedd · #3 10-11-2010, 02:51 PM

Or look for a cheap powered sub.

If I didn't have stacks of gear this is probably what I'd be doing, if only to freak people out.

newwavefrank · #4 10-11-2010, 05:28 PM

I would get a sub first. Then maybe upgrade the main speakers. I actually played for years straight through the PA with 2 18" subs and 12" tops

fokof · #5 10-11-2010, 06:06 PM

I only use PA powered speakers , can't play on bass amp anymore.
I have an active 10" and an active sub.
I use the 10" on smaller gigs and add the sub when needed.

My RCF 310a (10") has more low end than a Mackie 12" (SRM450). It has more to do with box design than speaker size.

Try them , there are many many choices out there from really bad to very good.
(just like the bass amp world)

Add a sub is a good advice ....