ElectroVoice
EKX Range

When you move past entry-level gear and need serious, reliable performance, you enter the territory of professional workhorses. This is exactly where the Electro-Voice EKX series lives. As a long-time provider of speaker hiresolutions, we at Audio Hire have seen these speakers handle just about every event imaginable. They represent a significant step up in build, power, and audio fidelity. But are they the right choice for your next event?

Build Quality & Design

The first thing you'll notice about the EKX series (like the popular EKX-12P or EKX-15P) is the cabinet. Unlike the moulded plastic of many portable speakers, the EKX features a robust, internally-braced 15mm-thick wooden enclosure. This isn't just for looks or durability; the wood cabinet significantly reduces unwanted resonance, leading to a tighter, more accurate, and more "musical" sound.

They are finished in a tough EV-Coat, which handles the rigours of transport and event life well. The trade-off? They are heavier than their plastic counterparts, but that's the price you pay for professional build quality.

Performance & Sound Quality

This is where the EKX truly shines. With high-efficiency Class-D power amplifiers (packing 1500W) and high-quality EV-engineered drivers, these speakers get loud and stay crystal clear. The sound is more refined than entry-level boxes. The bass is tight and punchy, and the highs are crisp without being harsh, thanks to the DH-1M titanium compression driver.

For a DJ, this means basslines have definition, not just "boom." For a live band, vocals and instruments cut through the mix with clarity. When you choose a premium speaker hire package, this is the level of audio quality you are paying for.

Features (DSP & Tech)

While not as flashy as the new full-colour screens on some other models, the EKX series features a very powerful single-knob DSP (Digital Signal Processor). You can quickly dial in settings for:

• Application Mode: (Music, Live, Speech, Club)
• Location: (Tripod, Monitor, Wall, Suspend)
• Subwoofer Crossover: Easily match them with a subwoofer for a full system.
• 3-Band EQ: For fine-tuning to the room.

This DSP is simple, effective, and crucial for getting the best sound in different venues.

The EKX System (with Subs)

The EKX series really comes alive when paired with its matching subwoofers, like the EKX-15SP or EKX-18SP. These subs are designed to perfectly complement the main speakers, creating a seamless, powerful, and full-range system. For a corporate event, a pair of EKX-12P tops might be all you need for speeches, but for a 150-person wedding or a live band, a full system with subs is a must. This is why we at Audio Hire often recommend the full EKX package for events that demand serious impact.

Who Is This For?

So, when should you choose an EKX speaker hire over a more basic option?

• Live Bands: The wooden cabinets and clear drivers are perfect for handling the complexity of a live mix.
• Professional DJs: If you're playing for more than 100 people and need bass that hits hard and clean, the EKX system with subs is your best bet.
• Large Corporate Events: For clear, articulate speech that needs to cover a large room, the EKX provides the necessary power and throw.
• Weddings: This is the ideal system for a reception that needs to go from elegant background music to a full-on dance party.

This series is for the user who demands flawless, high-volume audio and is a significant step-up from a standard "party" speaker hire.

The Verdict

The Electro-Voice EKX range is a true professional workhorse. It bridges the gap between lightweight portability and concert-level performance. While it might be heavier than some, it delivers a tangible upgrade in sound quality, output, and durability. When our clients at Audio Hire have a critical event where the sound simply must be right, the EKX series is one of our top recommendations.