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Pros
Pro Innovative EQ mobile app
The sound of the JBL PRX815 can be thoroughly edited via Wi-Fi on the free PRX connect mobile app, giving the user wireless control over volume levels, gain and 8 parametric EQ’s, letting the user boost a wide range of frequencies.
The app allows configuring speakers to have a delay of up to 50ms. This helps when managing different acoustic environments, or for achieving distributed delay in the case of a bigger speaker setup, so the back of the room has the same listening experience as the front.
The app also packs a "preset" feature, allowing users to save setups for specific environments or venues if the need to play in the same place arises.
Pro Portable
On top of the asymmetrical build (for possible stage monitor use), the speaker also features a handle on the side and 12 M10 suspension points, so it is possible to suspend the speakers from the ceiling or a stage proscenium.
Coming in at 47.5 lbs (21.6 kg), the speaker doesn’t quite excel in lightness, but it’s still on the lighter side when compared to other 15” speakers, and it’s also easier to grip because of the finish.
The speaker has a coverage pattern of 90 degrees x 50 degrees nominal, which is a common and widely used pattern in DJ speakers, but the PRX815 does particularly well with providing good frequencies off-axis thanks to the built-in wave guide, delivering consistent sound for the crowd. This also makes placing the speakers an easier job to do.
Pro Powerful and full sound
Being a 1500-watt class D amplifier, it packs more of a punch than the visual might suggest. The PRX815 covers almost the whole frequency range of human hearing and provides a flat frequency response in this spectrum. According to the frequency response graph, the peaks don’t vary past -4 dB in the hearing spectrum, meaning the speaker has clear, accurate sound even at high volumes.
In terms of sound quality, this speaker truly shines because of the strong bass – it packs two heat-dissipating voice coils for greater low-frequency extension and higher low-frequency output.
The speaker has a monitor mode, which means that it can be used as a stage monitor instead of a front of house (FOH) speaker. This is done by taking some of the bass out of the equation.
Pro Loud
Though it is not recommended to push this limit, it can reach a peak of 137 dB (in comparison, this is approximately as loud as a jet engine at take-off), so playing for larger crowds (200-300 people) won’t be an issue at all.
The PRX815 also has a built-in variable-speed fan that activates automatically at high volumes, letting you push the speaker a lot closer to its limits without fear of damaging it, because it activates only when the speaker is getting overheated, not only preserving it, but also letting music be played for a longer while. The signal light on the back of the speaker is a good indicator whether peak output has been reached.
Pro Durable
The speaker is made from a combination of 25 mm and 18 mm plywood and a dent-resistant 16-gauge steel grille. The wood is covered with fiberglass reinforced plastic, which is used in manufacturing body kits for cars, making the JBL PRX815 very rugged and tough – it can easily sustain scratches and hits without visible damage.
Cons
Con Might require extra purchases
The speakers themselves are not cheap, and what adds to the price is the possible need for a tripod or an adjustable M20 speaker pole to mount the speaker on.
Another important thing to note, although you don’t require a subwoofer, it can add a lot to the fullness of the sound and enhance the bass. It’s something to consider, especially if you’re going to be playing a lot of bass-heavy music for larger crowds. Adding to this, however, if you want to connect more than one speaker to your mobile app, you need a Wi-Fi router, though it doesn’t have to be connected to the internet.
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