Passive Speakers vs Active Speakers: Which one should you choose when hiring a PA system? This is a common question most people have. However, most people who are involved in the sound hiring industry know the difference. In this article, we will discuss what passive and active speakers are, their advantages and disadvantages, and when it is best to use each type of speaker.

Learn more about passive and active speakers

At Star Sounds, we use all active speakers like QSC KW181 subwoofers, QSC K12.2 speakers, RCF J8, RCF Jmix, RCF 8006 subwoofers, and RCF HDL 6 line array speakers. All these speakers and subwoofers have inbuilt digital amplifiers. So we do not need to carry external amplifiers or cables that are too large. However, each passive and active speaker system has pros and cons.

What are passive speaker?

Passive speaker enclosures come with only speakers or with some midrange and high-frequency drivers. These speaker boxes don't have built-in amplifiers to drive them. Instead, you need to connect external amplifiers to drive them.

What are active speakers?

AActive speakers, commonly known as powered speakers, come with built-in amplifiers. These speakers are designed for plug-and-play. They only need an input device to provide with the signal, such as a laptop, mobile phone or sound mixer.

Differences between passive and active speakers

1. Portability

Passive: You must carry external power amplifiers and related cables for passive speakers.

Active: You only need to plug into the power and provide the signal from your input device or a mixer.

2. Time consumption

Passive: Passive speaker systems need external amplifiers to drive speakers. So, you need to connect all your amplifiers to speakers, considering impedance properly. This takes longer than active speakers.

Active: Active speakers take less time than passive speakers as you do not have to worry about impedance imbalance or matching external amplifiers.

3. Amplification

Passive: Active speakers require external power amplifiers to drive. Along with that, you need relevant cables and connectors.

Active: Passive speakers come with inbuilt matching amplifiers. Simple and easy to setup.

4. Audio quality

Passive: Passive speakers need external amplifiers. These amplifiers should be matched well to get excellent audio quality. Therefore, when selecting amplifiers, you must carefully review each passive speaker's power rating and parameter to match suitable amplifiers. If the amplifier is too powerful compared to the speaker ratings, then you may damage your speakers.

Active: Passive speakers come with built-in amplifiers. These amplifiers are matched to the drivers' power ratings and parameters. Therefore, you do not need to worry about the sound quality.

5. Cost

Passive: Compared to active speakers, passive speakers are affordable. However, the cost of suitable amplifiers and related cables and sockets need to be considered.

Active: Active speakers are expensive compared to passive. However, it can save you a lot of money on the other hand. Matching power ratings, easy warranty claims, saving setup time, portability, and less space are some of the benefits.

Why Hire a PA System from Star Sounds?

As mentioned, we only use active speakers and subwoofers at Star Sounds. So you do not have to worry about audio quality. We do periodic service to all our PA systems. So, we assure you that you will get the maximum benefit from the money you spend.

We provide free delivery, setup, and collection across Auckland. So you do not need to spend extra time or money on delivery and return. Our friendly staff will care for them, ensuring on-time delivery and proper setup.

Our PA hire prices are less affordable compared to others. All our PA equipment is professional and branded. We only hire reputed brands like RCF, QSC, and PreSonus.

We have normal speakers as well as line array speakers. So our wide range of speaker systems allows you to choose the best PA system according to your event requirements.

How to contact us to book passive or active speakers?

Our contact method is simple and easy. You do not have to fill out pages; instead, message us through our Contact Us page or email us. Please do not hesitate to ring us at 021-09178190 for urgent matters.

Email - [email protected]

Phone - 021 29178190