Electro-Voice ZLX vs ELX200 vs EKX

You really just need to do a cost benefit analysis. The EKX is superior, but is it worth the extra scratch?

Here are a few datapoints I would consider.

ZLX12P Max SPL 126dB with F3 at 65Hz
EKX12P Max SPL 132dB with F3 at 60Hz

6dB is a pretty significant difference, but do you need 132dB?

ELX200SP Max SPL 129dB with F3 at 49Hz and F10 at 41Hz (Edited for accuracy)
EKX15SP Max SPL 133dB with F3 at 45Hz and F10 at 40Hz


I attached the Datasheets for each product for your convenience.

 

Isn't the f3 of the elx200-12sp -3db at 49hz? I mean thats not impressive but, 4 of them could have real punch for a rock band, all going direct.

 

No matter which subs Ive used, Ive always preffered coupling mutiple cabs. At any volume they just sound better. More focused and punchy. Thats why Im considering going with 4 of the newer ev elx200-sp12's. I know they are looked down on because they roll off pretty high but, my favorite subs for rock bands were my mackie s410s subs. So tight, focused, quick. Im hoping to get a sinilar effect with some smaller cabs. Love my carvin trx3010a 2x10 sub, just wish I had 3 more.

 

Oops, you're correct. I must have got crossed up info while switching between the four data sheets. I edited my OP to make corrections and remove inaccurate advice generated by the mistake.

 

If a pair of ZLX12Ps are loud enough, but you only want one sub, you might consider upgrading the sub beyond the ELX200SP. IMHO the ZLX12P and ELX200SP should be matched 1 for 1.

If you want to stay within the same series:

ELX200-18SP Max SPL is 132dB with F3 at 47Hz and F10 at 40Hz. Data sheet attached.

You don't get a lot more low end extension, but you get 3 more dB of headroom.

Or you could mix series and use an EKX15SP with a pair of ZLX12Ps.

 

Download the user manuals for both and I believe you will see the DSP settings are compatible across both lines.

 

With the EV you definitely get what you pay for - I would spring for the higher-end ones

 

I currently own 2 QSC K12s and 2 KSubs. Pricey? Yes. Do I regret it? Not in the least. Buy the higher end stuff. It's worth it. Your audience will thank you.

 

I recently saw a band at a 300 people venue using two tiny Yamaha BXR12 + sub. Don’t know the actual specs but they definitely rocked the house. Was pretty much impressed. No affiliation with Yamaha, I actually run my bass through a ZLX 15P, but you might want to add these to your list.

 

I bought 2 -ZLX12Ps and a EKX 18SP on a budget and figured that worst case scenario I could migrate the 12ps to stage monitors if they were lacking. They sound fantastic and benefit from low end sub help as they will break up in full range at loud volumes. They are clear, warm and great sounding. I LOVE the EKX18 and the single sub will out perform both ZLXs... but that's A LOT of outdoor volume.

If you can afford more, get more. If money is tight the ZLXs are a nice sounding budget speaker, especially when you have sub support.

 

Either way, go with at least the EKX15! I have two ELX200-18S's, and the resonant peak at 80Hz is audible and obvious! Below the 5th fret on the E string, you can hear the output lowering as you walk down. It really is that obvious. The EKX are slightly flatter and have better low end extension. I am confident that even the EKX-15 will be better all around than either of the ELX200's.

 

One on each side is a bad idea. If you are going to have multiple subs, arraying them in one spot creates even coverage. Having them separated will create uneven summation and cancellation throughout the room. You'll have spots where you will hear no bass and spots where the bass is too loud.

 

Either of those setups should be good. The ZLX-12P is a great performer. Stepping up to the ELX should sound better. I believe the low end isn't as "peaky". They won't try to bring the boom. Going from ELX to EKX upgrades to a wood cabinet which ads 7 pounds and you get a little more potential output.

If it was me, I would decide if I want wood or not and pick the cabinet that fits.