When it comes to DJ and PA speakers, the point source cabinet has reigned supreme for decades. Point source loudspeakers – your traditional 2- or 3-way speakers with a tweeter and woofer – are a time-tested sound staple. However, over the past few years, the portable column array has gained more and more traction in the DJ community. Portable column arrays promise to offer clearer sound, wider dispersion, and better looks. Do they live up to the hype? And are they the best speaker for every job? In this article, we’ll talk about the best applications for each type of speaker and share a few great examples of both types.
LOOKING FOR A GREAT PORTABLE COLUMN ARRAY OR POINT SOURCE SYSTEM? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED
Point source speaker systems are found everywhere, from your gym and school to the nearest club. The technology has been tweaked and refined over years to create powerful, clear-sounding loudspeakers. For a long time, they were pretty much the only available option to the average DJ. Point source systems are potent, with a dynamic and more focused coverage pattern than a portable column array. They generally are made up of multiple components, with a “top” speaker handling the highs and mids and a subwoofer handling the lows. The sound of a point source system is generally more dynamic than a column array but with a narrower coverage. If passive point source speakers are used, separate amps are required for each component.
In general, point source systems are easier to scale for growing businesses. Need more bass? Simply add a few extra subwoofers to your system. This makes point source an attractive option for larger companies requiring more output.
When it comes to portable column arrays, you know one when you see it. When these speaker systems started to become popular 5 or 6 years ago, the first thing most people recognized about the setup was the shape. Instead of the large, boxy cabinet design of point source speakers, They feature a dedicated subwoofer base with a thin, slender column of midrange drivers and tweeters above. This design is attractive, especially to DJs and performers working in classier, more luxurious environments. Portable column arrays almost immediately became the standard wedding and corporate system when they were introduced.
The benefits of a column array are many. Due to the nature of the speaker arrangement, they have a wider sound dispersion to cover a larger horizontal area. They also reduce the sound transmitted to the floor and ceiling for increased efficiency. A column array also benefits from having a dedicated subwoofer for low-end frequencies. When compared to a single-point source speaker, the column array will generally have a deeper low end due to a coupling effect between the subwoofer and the floor. Portable column arrays have a bi-amp system, with multiple amplifiers within the subwoofer supplying power to all the drivers. Because of the way portable column arrays are configured, they are a bit more difficult to scale. For most people, a column array system is a “one and done” type of purchase – you can’t simply add a second pair of column arrays for increased volume.
Point source speakers are a great “all-in-one” system for general mobile DJ use. They sound great, cover a large area, have increased bass response, and look sleek and modern.
We’ve taken a look at a lot of portable column arrays and point source systems here at The DJs Guru. While there are many great options for every budget, here are a few of our favorite systems in each category.
Portable Column Arrays
The RCF EVOX 12 is a great all-around portable column array system. As one of the more premium options, it sports a 15″ subwoofer and has plenty of output for most mobile DJ gigs. It has a great 90×30 degree coverage pattern, 1400 watts of power, and of course that crisp, clear sound that RCF is known for.
If you’re looking for a more compact, more affordable portable column array then the RCF EVOX J8 is also worth considering. It uses a lighter plastic enclosure with a 12″ woofer but still delivers phenomenal sound and output.
Another option for a column array is the Maui 28. With a slightly different form factor, the Maui 28 packs in 2×8″ woofers, a massive 16 full-range drivers, and a pair of tweeters into its footprint. Available in a stunning white finish, its a great option for wedding, corporate, and other mobile DJs alike.
When you need a big-gun column array, turn to the Maui 44. A solid wood enclosure a chunk 15″ subwoofer and an amplifier with an impressive 1,500 watts RMS of power. This system can reach up to 132 dB, a super respectable number for a column array.
Point Source Systems
The ZLX line from Electro-Voice is a popular one among mobile DJs. Lightweight, easy to transport cabinets combined with the classic, warm EV sound is a winner even for DJs on a budget. The 15″ ZLX-15P model strikes a good balance between portability and increased low-end performance for DJs not looking to carry a subwoofer.
The new line of Thump XT speakers from Mackie include a whole host of great features. Feedback suppression, outdoor mode, and multiple EQ settings give a lot of flexibility to DJs needing adjustability. To top it all off, Mackie’s “built like a tank” construction is sure to hold up to the rigors of the road.
For DJs needing a LOT of output and crystal clear sound quality, the RCF ART932A is the solution. A massive 3″ compression driver and 132dB max SPL mean that the 932A can deliver for bigger, rowdier crowds. Premium RCF construction and finish makes for a speaker that will last for years.
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