The right equipment for professional artists like a guitarist, keyboardist, and pianist matters a lot. Otherwise, they won’t be able to make an impact on the audience. Their melody, their technique, all will go to waste if they do not look for the best quality and under-budget equipment. So, here we present you with the 5 Best Powered Speakers for Keyboards. After acknowledging the details that we’ve provided below, you will not doubt the best equipment for your sound gear, especially for professionals.
There are some necessary considerations that a user should make before purchasing Powered Speakers
- No. of Channels
- Size and Portability
- Equalizer and Mixer
- Sound Profile
- The Budget
Wait a minute! Here, a question arises: why powered speakers? Why not Unpowered Speakers? What’s the difference between them? I’ll answer this. Powered Speakers (Active) are easier to set up because they have built-in amplifiers. All you have to do is just put sound input from your instruments, like a keyboard. They are super easy to control and operate, but are still not recommended for larger venues
Unpowered Speakers (Passive) are operated through external amplifiers and they can be powered by a powered speaker. They have greater sound amplification and work well in very large venues. Just keep in mind that you have to carry and drag the heavier equipment with a couple of instruments
5 Best Powered Speakers For Keyboards At A Glance
- QSC K12.2-Best Active Powered Loudspeaker
- Yamaha DBR15- Best Powered Cabinet Speaker
- Mackie THUMP 12BST-Advanced Powered Loudspeaker
- Behringer-K900FX-Best of Behringer Ultratone Series
- Alto Professional TS310- Best Budget PA Speaker System
QSC K12.2-Best Active Powered Loudspeaker
- SIZE (W/H/D): 26″ x 19″ x 19″
- WEIGHT: 39 lb (17.7 KG)
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 50 Hz – 20 kHz (-6dB)
- FREQUENCY RANGE: 45 Hz – 20 kHz (-10dB)
- TWEETER: 1.4″
- INPUTs: 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line), 1 x 1/8″ (aux stereo in),
- WOOFER SIZE: 12”
- RATED POWER: 2,000 W
QSC K12.2 is our first pick for the best powered speakers for keyboards list. This new generation speaker has a wide range of flexible tuning options with impressive features.
Fabulous Flexible Built
QSC K12.2 is ideal for those who like to fine-tune the parameters of their PA speakers, without having an external mixing board. QSC K12.2 is a monster when it comes to sound quality. The mids and highs are clear and cover a 75 ° axisymmetric field, which means that you get an even distribution of sound that can fill small and medium-sized venues.
Ideal for Digital Pianos
It is the best match for your keyboard, synthesizer, and digital pianos, professionally or just for fun, whatever you like. It is also suitable for DJ purposes, so you may benefit from this speaker system in 2 ways.
Spectacular Sound with Majestic Bass
I don’t DJ now as much as I did over the past few years, so usually, I rent keyboard speakers from the local music store. I’ve used EVs, JBLs (of which I’ve owned before), and even the QSC K12s. I had an event at work a couple of weeks ago and used that as a chance to do a test run. This event was outdoors because of COVID, so let me tell you, all I heard was compliments over the sound of those speakers.
I left everything set at default. I didn’t even turn them up past 50%. I just saw people stand right next to them and were just impressed by the audio quality that came out of them. These things didn’t disappoint, to say the least.
A Product Worth Complimenting
I have NEVER ever had anyone compliment my keyboard speakers before. These things are rock solid, definitely worth the money, and set a high standard, which is why such a large number of mobile DJs use them. If you have got the budget, put these on your list of speaker options if you are in the market. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Pros
- Excellent Sound Quality
- Easy to Use Tuning Options
- Versatile Applications
- 6 Years Warranty
- Portable and Flexible
Cons
- A Bit Expensive
- Deep Bass Function Removed
Why did we pick out QSC K12.2? Most other PA speakers in the universe cannot boast 2000W of power, making the QSC brand a competitive producer of some best powered speakers for keyboards and best DJ speakers. Also, it stands up well in comparison with similarly priced competition.
Yamaha DBR15—Best Powered Cabinet Speaker
- SIZE (W/H/D): 18.66” x 21.73” x 31.14”
- WEIGHT: 52.9 lbs (23.99KG)
- FREQUENCY RANGE: 50 Hz–20 kHz (-10dB)
- CROSSOVER: 2.1 kHz, FIR-X Tuning
- INPUT: CH1 (XLR/TRS), CH2 (XLR/TRS/RCA)
- SPEAKER SIZE: 15”
- RATED POWER: 1,000 W
Portable Cabinet
An artist’s utmost desire is to have excellent sound quality with portability and reliability. Yamaha’s Powered Speakers offer all these in 3 affordable models of the DBR Series. We’ll be discussing DBR15 only as we wish to clear your mind filled with doubts with the best possible review. Yamaha DBR15 assures you of a long life with great acoustic sound.
Impress the Outdoor Audience
This speaker is an ideal recommendation for outdoor venues and the home as well. You will enjoy monstrous bass as well as mid-range and high frequencies with minimum distortion. It is ideal for floor monitoring and floor-standing purposes because it’s built with a 50 ° wedge angle.
Strong Built Design
Its cabinet is strong and rigid. This system is built using a tough plastic that is mingled with a steel grille, ensuring the speaker system’s internal and external components are safe from damage.
Best Value Speaker System for Beginners
This is my first speaker. So, for anyone in my situation, read on! This is one of Yamaha’s low-budget speaker systems, but they are among the best budget powered speakers, considering their reviews and quality. If you are a guitarist, or using a keyboard, just turn the bass knob up and enjoy the speaker’s amazing rumble. Not ear-tearing but very smooth and deep. A nice keyboard would be fantastic as it would be able to overpower the drummer.
Yamaha DBR15 is reliable all over the world and is loved by musicians, karaoke lovers, and sound engineers, etc.
Pros
- High Sound Profile
- Versatile Applications
- Strong and Stiff Cabinet Structure
- 7 years Warranty
Cons
- No Complaints Reported so far, other than being a little bit Sturdy and Heavy
Why did we pick out the Yamaha DBR15? Because features that are found in the more expensive DXR series are also available in the DBR series, with less power consumption. Also, the DBR15 features Yamaha’s DSP-based crossover tuning– FOR-X
Mackie THUMP 12BST – Advanced Powered Loudspeaker
- SIZE (W/H/D): 14” x 14.1” x 24.2”
- WEIGHT: 29.3 lbs (13.3 KG)
- FREQUENCY RANGE: 50 Hz–23 kHz (-10dB)
- WOOFER SIZE: 12” Class-D
- TWEETER SIZE: 1.4” Titanium
- INPUT: 2 x Combo XLR/TRS/TS
- RATED POWER: 1,300 W
At Number 3, we have THUMP Series by Mackie, continuing with their legacy of ultra-affordable, class-leading performance and reliability by incorporating all-new designs and technology that reframe chest-thumping low-end, durability, and flexibility. So, Mackie Thump 12BST comes at number 3 spot of the best powered speakers or keyboards.
Features
Thump 12BST-1300W Powered Loudspeaker is equipped with impressive features like,
- Application-Specific Speaker Modes
- High Performance 1300 W Amplifiers
- Built-in Mixers
- Power Factor Correction
Versatility
Use them in a number of applications like clubs, DJ gigs, weddings and events, bands and rehearsals, and even for outdoor or backyard theatre.
Super Flexibility
You can even connect multiple Thump Boosted loudspeakers through Bluetooth to create a simple, high-output wireless music playback solution. You can also control everything with the Thump Connect app. Thump Boosted, redesigned from the ground up, provides class-leading performance, flexibility, and convenience to help you perform better.
Different Speaker Modes
Four to six different speaker modes allow quick configuration and the mixing session to start. I did a lot of research on powered speakers before purchasing a pair of these THUMP 12BST. I discovered a woefully inadequate amount of information on the newest generation of Thumps, which was released this year, so I felt obligated to provide a thorough review. These speakers have been with me for 2 months. I’ve used them to DJ a wedding in a large gym and to run band rehearsals in a basement during that time, as well as full mic live sound for 12 bands at a music festival.
I believe I’ve put them through enough trials to have some initial thoughts to share. I’ve come to the point that these deliver exactly what you’d expect in terms of quality
Pros
- Built-in 3-Channel Mixer
- Portable Design
- Easy Setup and Transport
- Effective System Protection/Thermal Limiting
Cons
- No Complaints so far
Why did we pick out Mackie THUMP 12 BST? It has ‘Wide-Z’ technology, which allows it to handle a variety of sound sources, including microphones, instruments, and line-level signals. It’s also worth noting that it has 4 different speaker modes for different applications.
Behringer-K900FX-Best of Behringer Ultratone Series
- SIZE (W/H/D): 19.37” x 11.77” x 16.89”
- WEIGHT: 39.9 lbs (18 KG)
- WOOFER SIZE: 12”
- TWEETER SIZE: 1”
- INPUTs: Total 3 Channels x Volume & FX SEND, CH1 x XLR
- OUTPUT POWER: 90 Watt, 150 Watt (Rated Wattage)
The Ultratone K900FX excels at producing clear, powerful sound. Your keyboards will sound their best gig after gig by having this 90-watt powerful monster in your gear. It is one of the best budget-powered speakers for keyboards.
The Need of Artists
K900FX is a 3-Channel PA Speaker System fulfilling the needs of skilled artisans. The system’s integrated 24-bit digital FX processor with 100 presets, including reverb, chorus, flanger, delay, and others, allows you to add more variety to your music. Its main impressive features are:
- Multiple Presets
- Feedback Detection
- Subwoofer Output and CD Input
Default Presets and Multiple Connectivity
A very well-designed speaker system that includes a high-quality processor and some fantastic sound presets. It also has 3 channels to which you can connect up to 3 different instruments at a time, as well as a 5-band integrated graphic equalizer.
Best Budget Buy
The bottom line is that for the price, it’s well worth it. I also purchased it for my wife’s keyboard. It provides her with all of the sound and capability she could ever require. If desired, it can be used as a simple PA. I’ve used this with electric and acoustic guitars, as well as bass. Everything sounds fantastic.
Versatility is the Spice of Life
You’re wondering if it’s suitable for instruments other than the keyboard; the answer is yes. I use my acoustic and electric guitars, as well as my looper, on this, and it’s fantastic. The price is ridiculous; it’s worth much more, but don’t tell them I might want to have another one in the future, as I’m a seasoned musician with a set of amps. It’s also great for vocals, by the way, and low amp draw.
The Behringer Ultratone K900FX is ready to take the stage as a great keyboard AMP or compact PA.
Pros
- Rugged and stiff construction
- Integrated Equalizer
- Full Three-Channel Operation
- Integrated Digital FX Processor
- Budget Value
- The revolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection System that detects critical frequencies in real time.
Cons
- The Power Cord is short
Why did we pick the Behringer Ultratone K900FX? Because it comes with a super-grade quality processor and some acoustic sound presets. It is worth spending money.
Alto Professional TS310—Best Budget PA Speaker System
- SIZE (W/H/D): 20.6” x 11.8” x 12.6”
- WEIGHT: 26.4 lbs (11.9KG)
- WOOFER SIZE: 10”
- TWEETER SIZE: 1.4”
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 54 Hz–20 kHz (+/- 3 dB)
- FREQUENCY RANGE: 48 Hz– 22kHz (-10dB)
- INPUTs: 2 x XLR/TRS (1/4”) combo
- RATED POWER: 2000 Watt (Peak), 1,000 Watt (Continuous)
A Professional Loudspeaker
The new Alto Professional Truesonic-TS3 Series delivers everything you expect from a no-compromise professional Loudspeaker family. These speakers address every performance and installation issue you may have. They are high-performance in every way. Their new transducers and amplifiers allow them to play extremely loud and clear, with no compromises or limitations.
Robust Bass Drivers
One of the TS3 series, TS310, comes in number 5 spot on the list of best powered speakers for keyboards. It’s the best budget buy product. TS310 features all-new low-frequency drivers that are designed to play louder and handle more power than their wildly successful predecessors, the TS2 Series. They also have a new high-frequency horn-loaded driver.
Worth Noting Transducer
This impressive transducer features a brand-new heat sink design that provides exceptional heat dissipation for impressive power handling, even at all-night concert levels. Because these new drivers can safely handle the increased power, the TS3s take full advantage of the increased wattage and can play at higher SPLs with lower distortion.
Portability and Flexibility
Excellent value for money. It’s small but has a good weight to it, well built, and has much more bass than expected; I’ll be using these as monitors but will be looking to invest in 12″ main keyboard speakers. You won’t be disappointed.
These aren’t going to rock the boat. They won’t break your back carrying them, nor will they break the bank buying a pair. They look and sound great when paired with a small subwoofer. These are ideal for cocktail hour in a small space. I’ve used them for smaller events of about 50 people, two at a time on a QSC K-Sub, and they sounded clear and full.
Honesty is the Best Policy
The only drawback I can think of is the finish on the back. It is easily marked and appears dirty or dusty with fingerprints. However, it is not a deal breaker for me.
Pros
- Excellent value for money!
- It is very light, weighing only 11.9 kg (26.4 lbs)
- Effective bass reproduction
- Excellent monitor speaker
Cons
- This one is difficult; it’s hard to fault it for such a low price
Powered Speakers for Keyboards—Buyer’s Guide
Although the QSC K12.2 is more expensive than the other speakers on this list, the features that come with it make it one of the Best J Speakers for Home available. It only weighs 39 pounds, making it portable and suitable for use in both outdoor and indoor arenas.
The Behringer-K900FX is a great choice for first-time buyers because it is built with high-quality components and has an excellent sound output at a low price. Also note that it allows you to connect to 3 instruments at the same time.
If you’re ready to take your message or music to the masses, the Yamaha DBR15 offers a combination of power and portability that makes it ideal for any situation where a lot of sound is required in a portable, affordable package.
The Mackie THUMP 12 BST is a well-deserved contender for your top pick category, with a USB port for charging your device and Bluetooth technology for hassle-free streaming and up to many hours of continuous play time.
Conclusion
So, these are some of the Best Powered Speakers for Keyboards that you can buy for your music system. These models combine a speaker and an amplifier into a compact and effective unit that delivers the right touch of superior sound while remaining reasonably priced. These are some of the most well-known brands on the market, so you can rely on the overall quality.