ZLX-15 15" 2-Way 1000W Full Range Passive Loudspeaker

The passive EV ZLX15 sounds very flat and neutral without any equalization, like a studio monitor but not as accurate since it's woofer, like those of all 15" two way speakers, do not reproduce upper midrange frequencies faithfully (from a high fidelity standpoint). That's why you don't see many 15" based studio monitors for critical listening. Being an EV product though, it does so as well as is possible with current technology. However, for use as a portable full range speaker capable of significant bass output without a subwoofer, such as for DJ applications, it is a good compromise. No doubt the powered version applies some response tailoring in the bass region to give it the punch that is expected while preventing over excursion of the woofer resulting in mechanical damage to it. As such, you must apply similar EQ to get the passive version sounding the same safely, this calls for a 31 band (or so) graphic equalizer. Why go through all the trouble and expense of a rack for the amplifier and equalizer when you can get the powered version you say? One reason is eliminating long power and signal cords, another is reliability and the ability to swap amplifiers if need be, also, without the internal electronics acting as a governor to prevent overdriving the speaker under any conditions, you get a more open and dynamic sound, and don't forget they cost less. Myself, I use both powered and passive speakers depending on the application and output required. In closing, I have two gripes about the ZLX series that prevent me from giving them 5 stars, one is the thinness of the front lip of the plastic cabinet above and below the grille, the other is the lack of a second side handle. Those were not deal breakers for me though because having the EV sound and reliability at such a reasonable cost is much more important.

I postponed buying this for a long time because it's a bit pricey for someone who just wanted to run voice and piano through it in the privacy of their small music room. But now I wish I'd bought it years ago. It pumps out more and tighter bass than does my music quality subwoofer equipped surround sound system. I don't even mind listening in mono (since I only have one). And while I can't tell you if my setup would fill a small hall with music I can tell you I've never turned my amp past 25% - and I like it loud. Also, while they recommend 200+ watts to drive this passive version of the speaker I'm doing it with a Crown amp rated at 100 watts/channel. I bi-amped it to get 200 and it works great. A Behringher (sp?) mixer completes the 3 piece setup. Lastly, I bought the passive version because I already had the Crown and I liked the idea of being able to replace it should I decide to use it differently or if it failed. That would not be possible with the powered version of the speaker. My surround system's subwoofer came with a separate amp for that reason as well.

Excelente sonido Para un escenario .. claridad en sonido

Electro-Voice ZLX-15 15" 2-Way Passive LoudspeakerI could not find a review on these passive speakers only on the powered ones. This was an upgrade to my peavey pr15 which I loved, but it was time to move on with a more streamline speakers and power.So based on the people I spoke to from different places and reviewing the specs, I chose this pair and it is loud, worth the money and almost as powerful as my yamaha clubs, in my opinion just need to eq them correctly to enjoy it more.(my mixer is kind of old)did a wedding with these and it was great.Love the handles and how easy and light to carry.

Awesome sound out of this speaker. Used it to replace some Eliminators I had...not disappointed.