Speakers and Monitors (active vs. passive, coverage)
Friday, January 12, 2024
In live audio engineering, speakers and monitors are critical components of the sound reinforcement system, delivering the audio to the audience and performers. They come in two main types: active and passive. Additionally, coverage is an important aspect to consider when selecting and placing speakers.
Active Speakers:
- Active speakers, also known as powered speakers, have built-in amplifiers. This means they require a power source and an audio signal to operate.
- The built-in amplification is matched to the speaker's drivers, which can result in optimized performance and less guesswork during setup.
- They often include built-in signal processing, such as equalization, crossover filters, and limiters, which can simplify system configuration and improve sound quality.
- Active speakers are generally more portable and easier to set up, making them a popular choice for mobile DJs, small venues, and quick setups.
**Passive Speakers:**
- Passive speakers require an external amplifier to power them. This means you need to match the speaker's power handling and impedance with a suitable amplifier.
- They tend to be more customizable, as you can choose different amplifiers and signal processing to tailor the system to specific needs.
- Since they don't have built-in amplifiers, they can be lighter and easier to handle, but they require more equipment (external amps and processing gear), which can make transportation and setup more complex.
**Coverage:**
- Coverage refers to the area that the speakers can effectively deliver sound to within a venue. It's important to ensure even coverage so that all audience members can hear a clear and balanced mix.
- The coverage pattern of a speaker is determined by its design, particularly the shape and size of the horn or waveguide. Common coverage angles include 90x60 degrees, which means the speaker covers a 90-degree horizontal angle and a 60-degree vertical angle.
- In larger venues, multiple speakers may be used to provide full coverage, often arranged in arrays or clusters to ensure that sound is evenly distributed throughout the space.
- Monitors, also known as stage wedges, are used on stage to provide performers with a reference for their performance. These are typically aimed at the performers and have a more limited coverage area to avoid interference with the main PA system and to reduce the risk of feedback.
When designing a live sound system, it's crucial to consider the size and shape of the venue, the expected audience size, and the type of performance to determine the best speaker configuration. The goal is to provide a clear and impactful listening experience for both the audience and performers while maintaining control over the sound levels and quality throughout the event.