• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Anyone using the Carvin PM15a speakers?

#21
dspellman said:
You need to be squinting a bit closer at the specs.

Carvin normally rates their products in RMS, Program and Peak. For example, a PM12a powered speaker has a 400W RMS amp built in. That would translate to 800W Program (in Yamaha-speak) and probably (conservatively) 1200+W Peak. It weighs 27 lbs (and these things have been drop tested to 8'). That's a $279 speaker and it's powered.

The Mackie Thump 12a powered speaker rates its amplifier at 400W *PEAK*. Likely half or less that number RMS wattage. Max output is 115 dB. It's underpowered and not even in the same league as the Carvin, but costs $269.

The Yamaha A12 is a *passive* speaker that rates at 150W RMS, 300 Program and 600W Peak. It weighs 34 lbs and is likely made of wood and covered with rug. That's a $229 *passive* speaker.

The Carvin equivalent passive speaker is rated at double the power, has 3 dB more sensitivity (this is like doubling your power), weighs just 24 lbs and costs $179.

Why does this seem like a no-brainer to me?
Click to expand...

Kinda gives “no brainer” a new meaning… :smug:

Cheap, horrible reviews, in the Carvin forum, no less... and we won’t even talk about resale value.

"Frequency Response: 50 Hz - 18 kHz (-10DB)
Maximum SPL: 124dB peak"

Not only didn’t I see any mention of “RMS” in the Carvin spec’s... but watts mean absolutely nothing in a powered cab, it’s about SPL and sound quality.

I’ve got some powered 12" RCFs that are rated at a measly 350 watts… I don’t think you’d want to “line 'em up”, so to speak.


:)
 
#24
Lync said:
I guess the difference is that I am going to use them with a powered Carvin sub (which I have used for 3 years with no issues and it thumps).

So, I am not asking as much of the speakers.
Click to expand...

Sorry… I wasn’t meaning to offend you, or even diss the value of the speaker, but hopefully the contrasting view gave you additional (hopefully more accurate) advice to consider.

If they suit your needs and budget, that’s great, but sound-wise, I seriously doubt the PMs are an upgrade from the Yorkies.


Best of luck. :)
 
#26
Marko5657 said:
Sorry… I wasn’t meaning to offend you, or even diss the value of the speaker, but hopefully the contrasting view gave you additional (hopefully more accurate) advice to consider.

If they suit your needs and budget, that’s great, but sound-wise, I seriously doubt the PMs are an upgrade from the Yorkies.


Best of luck. :)
Click to expand...

No offense taken...I am looking for opinions. Just narrowing it down as we go along. :D
 
#27
The one thing that threw me off from the Carvin forums was that many who bashed them didn't own them, or were suggesting I get a huge system, not realizing that I am just a bass player who runs sound from the stage out of necessity (and I am enjoying it too).
 
#29
I have been using the PM series for 3 years now. I own 2 PM 12's, 2 PM 15,s and 2 PM 15a's. All are the best I have had. Mostly solo and 3 piece but the sound comming out always gets me compliments. No muddy sound and in 2013 performed 97 gigs with my 15a's with no problems. The price is great and durability is woderful for me. I have heard some say they are crap but I begg to differ. One night a helper blasted the 12's with 3 seconds of the worst feedback ever. the 12's were saved by their protection circuit. My PV115 were not a lucky... Carvin for life here. I want to upgrade but they are like an old shoe that I just want to hang on to. I mostly use the passive stuff now for the headroom. the 15a's are only 400 watts...
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back