When choosing between PA Speakers, there are two choices that are often available: active and passive PA speakers.

The choice between the active and passive speaker often depends on the cabling requirements. Both of these speakers have different cabling needs, and therefore, it is crucial to understand them before choosing the right speakers.

In this blog post, we will provide a thorough overview of the speaker types and their cabling requirements. So stay until the very end!  

Active PA Speakers

The Active PA speakers have powered speakers with built-in amplifiers. These speakers have inbuilt mixers and amplifiers. The presence of inbuilt equipment helps simplify the setup and process.

The presence of the inbuilt components removes the need for external equipment, thus aiding your speaker requirements.   

The active speaker requires two cables: the audio signal cable and the AC power cable.

Advantages of Active PA Speaker Cables 

Here we have eight advantages of the active PA speaker cables   

Versatile

The active speakers are quite versatile in their usage. They have a wide range of usage and are not limited to certain events.

The active speakers can be used for small to large events or any form of concert. This versatility makes them ideal speakers that can be used everywhere.

Built-in System Protection 

The Active speakers have a built-in system for protection. These systems help prevent any damage to the speakers from overheating or any form of short circuit.

This aids in the safety of the crew members and the audience, as there is protection available from short circuiting and other hazards.

Inbuilt Matched Amplifier 

The Built-in Matched Amplifier feature ensures that the amplifier is already matched to the speaker, ensuring unmatched sound quality.

This also eliminates the need for any other external amplifier and ensures that the sound quality produced is optimal and as required.

Portable Design

The active speakers are designed to be portable. They have inbuilt equipment, like the speaker with amplifier and the mixer, which are all present inside a single unit. This way, as all the units are in the same thing, it becomes easy to carry and highly portable.

This also eases the transportation aspect of the speaker as well so you don't have to worry in case you want to transparent your speakers somewhere.

Wireless Connectivity

The active speakers often have this wireless connectivity option. The wireless connectivity of the speakers, such as Bluetooth, helps ensure seamless connectivity to the devices, thus making the process of connection smoother.

The wireless connectivity also removes the need for audio cables; thus, you face the money you would have spent on the cables.

Better Sound

The active speakers have everything needed for the audio setup in one. All the equipment is calibrated and compatible with each other, which helps in optimal sound production. 

Due to these features, they provide more appropriate sound production. 

Ease of Setup

The active speakers are easy to set up. Unlike the passive speakers, we don't have to set up different equipment, so the ease of use is enhanced to a greater extent with the active speakers.

• Cost Effective

The active speakers have all the equipment in one unit, so there is no need to buy specific equipment. This way, the cost of the speakers is widely reduced, thus making the active speaker more cost-effective.

Passive PA Speakers 

The passive PA speakers use external amplifiers to power the signal transportation. Unlike the active speaker, they use external equipment.

The passive speakers have only one external speaker. Compared to the active speakers, the passive speaker needs only one cable for the paper. Thus, it minimizes the need for a complex audio setup.

Advantages of Passive PA Speakers

Here we have seven advantages of the Passive PA Speakers.  

Power and Signal Distribution

The passive speakers have the advantage of not needing power cables to reach each super. They only have one speaker, and one cable is required. As the cables are reduced, there is a loss of sound waves as they pass through only one cable.

This not only makes the sound quality much better, but you also save on labor costs when you are running cables. This reduces the overall cabling needs, helping in a clutter-free environment. 

Processing Control

Passive speakers offer a level of control that is unmatched. By incorporating modern amplifiers, you can fine-tune the sound production to your exact specifications. This level of control empowers you to create the perfect audio environment.

The user has the option to use the presets given by the factory or to create new presets according to the requirements.So it gives a precise control over the equipment.

Cost-Effective

The passive speakers are considered a cheap alternative to the active speakers. The passive speakers don't have any in-built equipment like mixers or amplifiers, making them a more cost-effective option.

But you might have to purchase other equipment as well, so the additional costs will be added to your total price.

Lightweight

The passive speakers are light weight and easy to carry. As the passive speaker does not have the inbuilt setup sp, what happens is that they are more hollow from the inside. As they are hollow, they have less weight.

With this limited weight feature, the passive speakers are more portable and easier to carry.

It's important to note that the addition of other equipment to passive speakers can potentially reduce their portability. This is a factor to consider when evaluating their suitability for your needs.

Advanced DSP

The passive speakers have an advanced DSP feature. The advanced DSP shapes or molds the sound signature of the audio system according to the user's liking or preference.

With this feature, individuals can make precise adjustments and save time when adjusting the sound. Thus leading to an overall optimal sound production.  

Flexibility

The passive speakers are used for the utmost flexibility. They can be easily customized and upgraded, so they are more flexible than their counterparts.

You can easily choose the power and amplifier that is suitable for your personal preference.

Centralized Control

The Passive speakers have a centralized control system. The commercial power rack is used, and the centralized control system provides a central point to control the speaker.

This makes controlling the sound much easier. So, if you manage larger setups, it comes in handy.

Here we have a detailed youtube video on the difference between Active and passive speakers for you in case you wanna learn more:

Factors to Look at For Cabling Considerations for Both Types

 

Active Speakers

We have four factors to consider before finding the right cable for the active speakers

Power Cords

Power cords are one factor to consider before choosing the right cable for active speakers.

Each active speaker requires a power cord, so it becomes increasingly important to check for compatibility of the speakers with the cable.

Apart from the compatibility you will need more cables than the passive speakers. You would need extra cables for the power cords alongside the signal cables. So you must count the number of cables before actually buying them.

Daisy Chaining

Daisy chaining is a method where wires are linked together to cover longer distances. This offers increased flexibility, making it easier to set up cables for events and other setups. 

This method of daisy chaining is mostly used in the car show and parade routes, so if you are doing such an event, consider daisy chaining before buying the cables.

Power Distributions

The power distribution factor must be considered before choosing the cables. In the case of active speakers, the cables can run at a low current, so you must opt for cables that can function at lower currents.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is one of the important factors to consider when choosing a cable. The active speakers mostly require high-quality cables. The active speakers provide optimal sound that is highly calibrated due to the integral inbuilt equipment.

The sound can be distorted with low-end quality cables, so the purpose of using an active speaker is destroyed.

 

Passive Speakers

For passive speakers the following are the three main factors to have a look before choosing the right cable. 

Signal and Power Distribution

The signal and power distribution are the main factors to consider when choosing a cable for passive speakers.

The passive speakers require only a signal cable, so the need for the cables for power distribution is easily sorted out.

Processing Control

The passive speaker's cables must be chosen by considering the processing control factor.

With the advent of modern amplifiers equipped with loudspeaker controllers, managing to produce optimal sound has become a convenient task, putting you in control of your audio output.

To ensure precise sound transmission without any distortion, it's crucial to opt for high-quality cables, just as you would with active speakers. This choice guarantees the quality of your sound production.

Wiring Complexity

Similar to the active speaker, daisy chaining must be considered. You must make sure that the cables are compatible with the daisy chaining and that you can easily use them for the daisy chaining.

Tips for Proper Cabling Connection 

 

Active Speakers

Here are some tips for proper cable connection of active speakers

• For proper and optimal connection during live performances or such events, you must always look at the overloads and check them periodically.
• To check the overloads, monitor the active speaker's power cable. Look for signs of overheating. In case of overheating, lower the speaker's volume, and in a more severe case, disconnect the power source so that the speaker is not damaged.
• Another important tip is to ensure the port cable is securely connected to the grounded power outlet. This is often overlooked, but it's a crucial step to prevent hazards and potential damage. Take the time to double-check this connection. 

 

Passive Speakers

Here are some tips for passive speakers connections

• Checking the impedance is an important tip for a secure cable connection. You must make sure that the impedance of the passive speaker matches the impedance of the output amplifier. This helps eliminate the risk of overloading or damaging the speaker.
• Creating a secure connection is not just a step; it's a key to unlocking the highest quality sound provision. The amplifier speaker terminals must be securely connected to the passive speaker input terminals. This simple action empowers you to eliminate any phase cancellation, ensuring a pristine audio output.
• The last tip is to choose the cable compatible with your speaker. Most of the time, the sound quality is distributed, and the reason is not known. In those cases, the culprit is the connection with the packers. So, a cable that perfectly fits with your speakers and is connected securely must be chosen.

 

Overview of Best Speaker Cables by GeekStands  

Here is a list of best Speaker Cables by GeekStands 

Speakon Cable Pack

                                               Image sourced from Reddit

The Speakon cable pack offers two 25 ft high-quality Speakon to Speakon cables. This cable pack is the best pack for the speakers as most speakers are used in pairs, so it can easily cater to that need.

Both cables have low resistance, which helps in better-quality sound transmissions.

Specifications

• The cables contain high-quality copper wire with 12 AWG low resistance.
• The length of the cable is 25 ft.
• The cable has a thick outer covering of 8.5 mm.
• The cables are made up of professional grade.
• The cable is compatible.
• The cable connector type is speakon to speakon.

 

Pros

• High-quality cables help achieve better signal transfer and reliability.
• The durable, thick outer covering helps protect the signal from damage and provides a longer life span. 
• The cables are compatible with high-power systems.

Cons

• The cable length might be a bit longer for shorter setups.
• The cables are a bit expensive, so they have a higher initial investment.

 

Here is a testimonial from our client, Woodrow Mertz, about the product.

 Works great.

I purchase speaker cable cause having problems my old cables. I replaced it and everything solved. Great price and product.

Fat Toad Speakon to Jack Cables

                                             

                                              Image sourced from GeekStands

The fat toad, Speakon to jack cables, offers two Speakon to jack connector cables. Each cable has a 25 ft length, so it is ideal for short to medium-length setups as well, which is not as short or long.

Specification

• The length of each cable is 25 ft

• The connector type is speakon to jack cable
• High-quality copper conductors are used.
• The cable has a PVC durable jacket   

 

Pros

• The cable can connect speakon to the ¼ TRS male connector, so you can easily connect your older equipment to your new equipment.
• The length is not too short or too long, which is ideal for most setups.
• The high copper wire is used to help with better signal transfer.

Cons

• The cable is limited to only devices that have compatibility with the speaker or the ¼ TRS connector.
• It may require adapters for other equipment configurations.

 

Here is what our client Donnie Kuhn has to say about the product

Quality Well-Built Cables

I received the speaker cables promptly. I have found these cables to be very well constructed and of durable quality. Since I use these cables for live sound applications, durability is very important, and the 12-guage wire used for the speaker cables ensures that I have a clean and strong signal from my amplifier to the speakers when using long cable runs of 50 feet. I highly recommend this product.

Brand New KL 100 ft Speakon to 1/4 Speaker Cable

                       

                                                 Image sourced from Reddit 

The Brand New KL 100 ft Speakon to 1/4 Speaker Cable Cable cable provides high-definition sound to the listeners. It is a right-angle cable that provides the utmost durability because of its high-quality material.

Specifications

• It is a 15-gauge wire.
• The cable has PVC wrapping that shields the wire.
• The cable has a locking feature.
• The length is 25 ft for each cable.

 

Pros

• The locking feature helps secure the connection of the cable, thus providing seamless sound without any issues.
• The cable is durable due to the high-quality construction material used.
• The cable is compatible with different equipment, making it great for universal use.

Cons

• Not for you if you don't want a Speakon to ¼ connection
• The 25 ft cable might not be suited for every user.

 

PA Speaker Cables

    

                                           Image sourced from Reddit

The PA speaker cables pack is a comprehensive solution, offering two TS Male ¼ inch to TS Male ¼ inch speaker cables.

This set of 2 cables are 25 ft each and are made up of low-resistance wire.

Specification

• The length of the cables is 25 ft each
• The connector type is TS Male to TS Male.
• The cable comes with 8.5 mm thick rubber insulation.

 

Pros

• Two sets of cables are ideal for a speaker setup as two speaker sets are commonly used.
• The PVC jacket of 8.5mm helps in the durability of the cable so it can go on for a longer time period.

Cons

• The compatibility with the different devices might be an issue
• They may be costly

 

Here is a comparison table for the product

Product	Best For	Highlight Feature	Pros	Cons
Wall Mounted Guitar Rack	Wall Mount	The capacity of a wall mount is usually one but can vary as well	Alloys having soft neoprene rubber tubing for protection	Wall mounting
Fat Toad Speakon to Jack Cables	Mixers or amps with 1/4" inputs	Speakon to 1/4" connectors,	Flexible connectivity	Specific to 1/4" input needs
KL 100 FT Speakon to 1/4" Speaker Cable	Equipment needing Speakon to 1/4"	Unique Speakon to 1/4" configuration	Specific connection adaptation	Limited to one connection type
PA Speaker Cables	Customizable setups	TS Male to TS Male Connector	Customizable for various needs	Limited to some devices

Why Choose Geek Stands For Speaker Cable

The Geek stands are popular among the public because of our high quality products and that are quite durable.

The cables are 12 AWG low resistance ones aiding in the high quality of the sound. The products are made of high-quality material, which makes them highly durable. The high quality of the material used increases the lifespan of the speaker cables.

Overall, with all these features, we provide value  to our customers. So what are you waiting for? Go grab yours!