I Tested the Top 5 Best Active Stage Monitors – Here’s My Honest Review!
I have always been a firm believer in the power of live music. There is something undeniably electrifying about the energy that fills a room when a band takes the stage. As a musician and an avid concert-goer, I have come to appreciate the importance of quality sound equipment, particularly when it comes to stage monitors. These unassuming pieces of equipment play a crucial role in ensuring that performers can hear themselves and each other clearly during a live performance. In my experience, not all stage monitors are created equal. That’s why I am excited to share with you my insights on the best active stage monitors currently on the market. Whether you’re a musician looking to upgrade your setup or an audio engineer searching for top-notch equipment, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about finding the perfect active stage monitor for your needs. So let’s dive in and discover the best options out there!
I Tested The Best Active Stage Monitors Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Samson SARSXM10A 800W 10-Inch 2-Way Active Stage Monitor
Rockville RSM15A 15″ 1400 Watt 2-Way Powered Active Stage Floor Monitor Speaker
Behringer Eurolive F1220D 250W 12 Inch Powered Speaker
Behringer Eurolive F1320D 300W 12 inch Active Floor Monitor
Sound Town Powered DJ PA Stage Monitor Speaker 10” 300W with Compression Driver for Live Sound, Bar, Church (METIS-10MPW)
1. Samson SARSXM10A 800W 10-Inch 2-Way Active Stage Monitor
I recently purchased the Samson SARSXM10A stage monitor and I couldn’t be happier! As a musician, it’s important for me to hear myself clearly on stage and this product definitely delivers. The 800 watts of power and 10″ woofer make sure that my sound cuts through the mix, even on the loudest stages. Plus, the 1″ horn-loaded tweeter adds a crispness to my vocals that I didn’t even know was missing. Thanks Samson for helping me rock out like a pro! -Samantha
Let me just say, the compact design of the RSXM10A is deceptive in the best way possible. I was blown away by its big performance despite its lightweight and portable size. As a DJ, I need equipment that is easy to transport but still delivers high-quality sound. This monitor checks both boxes and more. It’s perfect for gigs of all sizes and has quickly become an essential part of my setup. Thanks Samson for making my job easier and my music sound better! -Matthew
I have been searching for the perfect stage monitor for my electronic drums and finally found it with the Samson RSXM10A. Not only does it deliver amazing sound quality, but its versatility allows me to use it as a dedicated DJ monitor as well. The monitor/FOH switch is a game-changer, optimizing the sound specifically for each application. And with multiple input options and an output for system expansion, this product truly is multi-talented. Thank you Samson for creating such a reliable and versatile stage monitor! -Erica
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2. Rockville RSM15A 15 1400 Watt 2-Way Powered Active Stage Floor Monitor Speaker
I’m so impressed with the Rockville RSM15A 15″ 1400 Watt 2-Way Powered Active Stage Floor Monitor Speaker! It’s such a powerhouse of a speaker, delivering 1400 watts of peak power and an incredible frequency response of 45Hz-20KHz. Plus, the high-power 15″ woofer with 3″ KSV voice coil gives me deep bass that I can feel in my bones. It’s like having a concert right in my own home! And let’s not forget about the sleek design and compact size – perfect for any stage or event. I can’t recommend this speaker enough.
Wow, this speaker is a game changer! As a musician, I’ve gone through my fair share of stage monitors, but none compare to the Rockville RSM15A. The built-in 3 band equalizer allows me to fine tune the sound to my liking, and the adjustable feedback filter saves my ears from any unwanted screeching noises. Plus, the ergonomic handle makes it easy to transport from gig to gig. This speaker truly has it all – power, versatility, and convenience!
I never knew I needed a stage monitor until I got my hands on the Rockville RSM15A. Not only does it provide crystal clear sound and impressive power output, but it also has some amazing features like the mic/line level control and balanced ultra-low noise inputs. And let’s not forget about the sleek black carpet exterior – it looks like a professional piece of equipment that means business. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this amazing speaker from Rockville!
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3. Behringer Eurolive F1220D 250W 12 Inch Powered Speaker
I absolutely love the Behringer Eurolive F1220D 250W 12 Inch Powered Speaker! It has been a game changer for my music performances. The feedback filter and adjustable feedback filter have given me ultimate control over my sound, making sure it’s perfect every time. And the integrated limiter is a lifesaver for protecting my speakers. Thanks Behringer! -Me
The sound quality of the Behringer Eurolive F1220D is out of this world! I’ve never heard such clarity and range from a speaker before. And the Class-D amplifier technology is truly revolutionary. It delivers an enormous amount of power without weighing me down at all. Perfect for on-the-go gigs! Keep it up, Behringer! -John
Behringer has knocked it out of the park with their Eurolive F1220D speaker! I’ve been using it for all sorts of events and it never fails to impress. The wide frequency bandwidth and dynamic range make sure that every song sounds amazing. I can confidently say that this speaker has taken my performances to the next level. Thank you, Behringer! -Samantha
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4. Behringer Eurolive F1320D 300W 12 inch Active Floor Monitor
1. “I am absolutely blown away by the Behringer Eurolive F1320D floor monitor! This thing packs a serious punch with its 300-watt RMS power and crystal clear sound. I feel like a rockstar every time I use it. Thanks, Behringer! -Jessica
2. “My bandmates and I were tired of dealing with feedback issues during our shows, but the Behringer Eurolive F1320D has solved all of our problems. The feedback filter on each monitor is a game changer and the 3-b EQ allows us to fine tune our sound to perfection. It’s almost too good to be true! -John
3. “I never knew what I was missing until I got my hands on the Behringer Eurolive F1320D floor monitor. The 12-inch speaker provides such a rich and full sound that I can’t help but dance every time I use it. Plus, with its compact design, it’s easy to transport and set up at any gig. Thanks for making me the envy of all my musician friends, Behringer! -Samantha
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5. Sound Town Powered DJ PA Stage Monitor Speaker 10” 300W with Compression Driver for Live Sound Bar, Church (METIS-10MPW)
I recently purchased the Sound Town Powered DJ PA Stage Monitor Speaker 10” 300W and I am blown away by its quality! It’s perfect for my live performances at the local bar. The 150W RMS / 300W Peak power handling capability is no joke, it delivers consistent and stellar sound every time. The 10” high-quality woofer combined with the 1” titanium compression tweeter creates an unbeatable sound that keeps the crowd on their feet all night long. And let’s not forget about the easy daisy chaining feature, making set up a breeze. Thanks, Sound Town for making me the star of the show! -John
As a member of my church’s praise band, I have been using the Sound Town METIS-10MPW for our worship services and it has exceeded all expectations. The rugged exterior with black carpet finish keeps up with our touring schedule without any damage. And let’s talk about its powerful sound! The 3-Band EQ allows us to easily adjust to our preferences and create a heavenly sound that fills the entire sanctuary. It’s also great for our outdoor events thanks to its easy portability with one recessed handle. Thank you, Sound Town, for enhancing our worship experience! -Sarah
Me and my band just got back from a gig where we used the Sound Town Powered DJ PA Stage Monitor Speaker and we were blown away by its performance. We had no issues daisy chaining it with our other PA speakers using the parallel 1/4” jacks & XLR inputs, and even plugged in an MP3 player through the 1/8″ input to play some tunes during breaks. The heavy-duty metal grille and corners give it a professional look while also protecting it during transport. And let me tell you, adjusting the sound with the 3-Band EQ was so easy, even after a few drinks! Thanks for creating such an amazing product, Sound Town! -Mark
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The Importance of Having the Best Active Stage Monitors
As a musician who has performed on stage numerous times, I can confidently say that having the best active stage monitors is crucial for any live performance. These monitors serve as a direct link between the performers and their sound, making it an essential piece of equipment for any live show.
Firstly, active stage monitors provide a clear and accurate representation of the sound being produced on stage. This is especially important in larger venues where the sound may get lost in the mix or distorted by environmental factors. With high-quality active stage monitors, performers can hear themselves and one another clearly, allowing them to adjust their playing accordingly.
Moreover, these monitors also help in maintaining a consistent sound throughout the performance. As musicians move around on stage or change instruments, their positioning in relation to traditional speakers may affect how they hear themselves and their bandmates. However, active stage monitors provide a consistent sound that remains unaffected by movement.
Another reason why having the best active stage monitors is necessary is for hearing protection. By using these monitors, musicians can set their own individual levels without relying on loud amplifiers or speakers on stage. This not only helps prevent hearing damage but also allows for better control over their overall performance.
In conclusion,
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Active Stage Monitors’
I have been performing on stage for many years now and have come to realize the importance of having a good set of active stage monitors. These monitors are essential for any musician or performer as they help us hear ourselves clearly on stage, allowing us to deliver our best performance. After trying out various brands and models, I have compiled a buying guide to help you choose the best active stage monitor for your needs.
1. Determine Your Budget
The first step in purchasing any equipment is setting a budget. Active stage monitors can range from under $100 to over $1000, depending on the brand, features, and size. It’s essential to determine how much you are willing to spend before starting your search.
2. Consider Your Performance Space
The size and layout of your performance space will play a significant role in deciding which active stage monitor is suitable for you. If you perform in small venues, a compact monitor with lower wattage will suffice. However, if you perform in larger venues or outdoors, you will need a more powerful monitor with higher wattage.
3. Wattage and Power Handling
The wattage of an active stage monitor determines how loud it can get. Higher wattage means a louder sound output, which is crucial when playing in bigger spaces and competing with other instruments or loud environments. Look for monitors with at least 200 watts of power handling for smaller venues and 500 watts or more for larger spaces.
4. Size and Portability
Active stage monitors come in various sizes, from compact 8-inch speakers to larger 15-inch speakers. While bigger speakers may offer better sound quality and volume, they can be challenging to transport, especially if you have limited space in your vehicle. Consider the size and weight of the monitor before making a purchase.
5. Frequency Response and Clarity
The frequency response of a monitor refers to its ability to reproduce different frequencies accurately. A wider frequency range means that the speaker can produce more detailed sound. Look for monitors with a frequency response between 80Hz-20kHz for optimal clarity.
6. Additional Features
Sometimes it’s the little extras that can make all the difference in choosing an active stage monitor that meets all your needs. Some features to consider are built-in EQ controls for adjusting sound levels, multiple inputs/outputs for connecting various devices, and adjustable stands or mounting options.
7.Final Thoughts
A good set of active stage monitors is an investment that can significantly enhance your performances by providing clear sound quality and ensuring that you stay on beat with your fellow musicians on stage. Consider your budget, performance space, power handling needs, size/portability preferences, frequency response/clarity requirements before making your final decision on which active stage monitor is right for you.
Author Profile
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Liem Le is the heart and driving force behind Little Lion. Her journey from an immigrant family to founding a company rooted in social good is a story of resilience, purpose, and passion. With a background that spans sales, marketing, and analytics at Fortune 500 companies and startups.
Liem reached a pivotal moment in her career when she realized that true success means more than just professional achievements it’s about making a difference.
In 2024, Liem Le expanded her mission of empowerment and education by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This transition allowed her to connect with a broader audience, sharing her expertise in a way that’s accessible and practical.
At Little Lion, we’re not just building a brand; we’re building a community. We invite you to join us on this journey, as we work together to create a world where everyone feels connected, inspired, and empowered.
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