Amplified loudspeakers: two party speakers compared

Amplified loudspeakers: a comparison of Lenco and Pioneer

The category of amplified loudspeakers is really quite diverse. Within it you can find a little bit of everything, from professional alternatives for DJ sets to speakers designed to amplify speeches and lectures.

Among the many proposals, there are also those designed for parties. In this case, the essential features of an active speaker are accompanied by often imaginative and original functions. Here then are two specific models, proposed by Lenco e Pioneer, which can help to understand how to best choose these types of active speakers, and which give good audio results with an all in all moderate expense.

Let us briefly discover the typical features of active speakers born for parties, and then move on to a comparison of the two models under consideration.

What makes active and powered speakers "festive"?

Generally speaking, audio speakers born to enliven parties and get-togethers with friends have some rather similar characteristics among them. In fact, almost all models on the market include at least one of the following positive notes:

  • Comprehensive connectivity
  • Relatively powerful amplifier
  • Lights, light points or other interactive elements
  • Handles or other transportation systems
  • More than one power system

It is easy to see why the features just mentioned are present. Full connectivity comes in handy when it is necessary to connect different devices such as smartphones and MP3 players, but also devices such as microphones and musical instruments.

The presence of thebuilt-in amplifier is necessary for various reasons. Among many, it should be mentioned that we are talking about devices that you need to transport and place in places where it would be difficult to make connections with external amplifiers.

Lights, bright spots and other interactive elements give just that "party" feel that helps set these active speakers apart, while the handles and other transport systems allow for easier placement.

Finally, it is very common to observe more than one power system. In addition to a power outlet, in fact, very often these speakers with amplifiers are equipped with a rechargeable battery.

Once this brief summary has been made, it is possible to move on to an analysis of the two active loudspeakers Lenco and Pioneer, and a subsequent comparison.

Lenco PA-325: an active speaker born for parties

Lo speaker attivo Lenco PA-325

Lenco PA-325 is a portable audio speaker that sums up many of the qualities you need to find in amplified speakers for use at parties.

First, the built-in amplifier with a power output of 40 W. A figure, this, which might turn the nose up at many, and yet according to the manufacturer itself represents an ideal compromise. On the official website Lenco, in fact, it says that the power is adequate to produce an enjoyable sound. And it is, since the ideal context for this speaker is small to medium open spaces.

Connectivity is sufficiently varied. In addition to Bluetooth connection in version 2.1, a microphone input, a USB port and an Aux input find their place. In other words, you can connect a little bit of everything from smartphones to pen drives. And with the microphone jack, starting long karaoke sessions is a breeze.

There is no lack of a convenient carrying system. Lenco PA-325, in fact, can fall into the category of "trolley speakers," that is, equipped with lower wheels and a pull-out handle, just like travel trolleys. It is powered by power or by taking advantage of the rechargeable battery, with a claimed autonomy of 5 hours.

Last, there is the disco ball. Placed on the top of the cabinet, it accompanies playback by spinning on itself, just like in 1970s discos.

An active loudspeaker that does not aim for sonic excellence, but still offers a complete audio experience and all the variety required of the most festive speakers.

Pioneer XW-SX70: the perfect amplified speaker for clubs

Pioneer XW-SX70, esponente della categoria delle casse acustiche amplificate

Pioneer TheXW-SX70 is part of the Club7 One-Box range, and it offers many fine technical features, as well as functions designed specifically to enliven parties.

Technically, it is a two-way active bass reflex type loudspeaker. Two 180 mm woofers and two 50 mm tweeters are driven by an amplifier with a power rating of 200 W and impedance on 4 ohms. The audio can be managed by acting on the bass and treble controls, as well as the optional S.BASS.

Connectivity is good. In addition to the Bluetooth connection, there is a USB port and an Aux input. Wireless and wired connections, then, are assured and of excellent quality.

The design choices are interesting. Unlike many other amplified active speakers, Pioneer XW-SX70 chooses to stand vertically. The speaker, however, can also be placed horizontally, thanks to the included feet. The upper and lower front sections, then, feature bright LED strips, which can move to the beat of the music or more slowly.

The power supply is via electricity. The weight of 18 kg is not excessively high, and allows for fairly easy transport.

A well-made active speaker, good for listening to music not only at parties and get-togethers with friends.

Read the data sheet of Pioneer XW-SX70 on the Hi-Fi Prestige online shop

A comparison of the two active speakers

Having to choose between these two powered speakers, one should ask oneself well what one's goal is.

The speaker Lenco PA-325, in fact, is a cheaper priced alternative, has a built-in battery, a microphone jack and a nice disco ball. All of which the other model under review does not have.

Pioneer The XW-SX70, on the other hand, can count on a certainly more articulate audio setup and careful controls for managing the sound output. Overall, the sound experience is compelling, thanks to a powerful amplifier that is also suitable for moving medium to large rooms.

The appearance of the two models follows diametrically opposite directions. If the speaker Lenco is the epitome of trolley speakers, the alternative Pioneer follows the path of elegance, with two discreet LED light strips.

Two rather different amplified speakers, then, which nevertheless meet a common need: to listen to music while having fun, and without worrying about having to connect an external amplifier.

Product added to wishlist