In the past, even a minimal PA system could fill the better part of a band’s van, was a mega kluge of wires and hardware, and possibly featured questionable reliability. EV’s new ZLX system provides a small, great-sounding sound system for the 21st Century.
Size-wise, they’re not over-the-top, and they’re easy to handle; the molded plastic casing feels ultra-sturdy. The design works either as a regular PA system or in a monitor configuration. Oh yes, and these are powered speakers, meaning no having to lug a power amp like in the old days. Pumping out 126dB, they’re essentially as loud as a small aircraft.
With standard XLR for mic input and a combination 1/4” TRS or XLR output, connections are easy. A 1/8” Aux In jack is also available to connect an MP3 player. Even one of these on its own would work in most band situations, and using two as a front-of-house solution can pretty much cover what most touring bands would ever need.
Here’s where they differ from other powered speaker systems: each unit contains a DSP system that can really dial in the specifics, such as what is the system being used for, the location of the speakers, EQ, and subwoofer crossover. It’s no harder to make these adjustments than it is scrolling through a playlist on an iPod, and it really does make a difference. Kuds to EV for making this a breeze to adjust.
For any band looking for a great sounding, simple-to-operate, that won’t break the bank set of loudspeakers (or monitors), the ZLX-12Ps are a no-brainer.
- PROS: Simple, portable, great sound.
- CONS: None.
- PRICE: $399 (each)
FEATURES
- Display: LCD
- Control: Single-knob DSP control w/ presets
- Power: Custom-built 1000-W Class-D amplifier
- Woofer: 12″
- Tweeter: 1.5″ high-frequency titanium compression driver
- Weight: 34 lb. (15.6 kg)