A vast array of self-powered speakers are available today ranging from desktop-sized studio monitors to large-scale line-array cabinets. American Audio recently introduced its XSP series of self-powered speakers, a range of four speakers—the XSP8A, XSP10A, XSP12A, and XSP15A—all with woofers of the size appropriately indicated in their model names. I had a chance to evaluate an XSP10A, and frankly, approached it with skepticism. After all, how much can be expected from a 10-inch, self-powered, 200-watt, bi-amplified speaker that sells for about $199?
Mixing Capabilities
While this loudspeaker certainly has its shortcomings, I found the stand-alone mixing capabilities of this speaker are quite impressive. Connections include a balanced XLR mic input, a 1⁄4-inch mic input,followed by an RCA stereo pair representing a line-level input, and a balanced XLR line input. A 1⁄4-inch line-level output jack and a balanced XLR line-level output are provided and intended for daisy-chaining multiple speakers. Controls include a mic input level, line input level, master output volume, and bass and treble control knobs. The bass and treble controls are shelving type with cut or boost of 12 dB. The Cabinet, especially the grille covering, is not heavy duty. Neither are the drivers—how could they be in a $199 speaker—a fact that becomes apparent particularly at high volumes.
Rigging
Rigging options abound on the cabinet, making the XSP10A appropriate for fixed installation or portable applications. However special brackets, which are included, must be inserted to use it as a floor monitor.
Bang for the Buck
When you look at the feature set, the American Audio XSP10A offers an amazing package for the price. There are many 10-inch, two- way loudspeakers that cost as much as10 times more. So should your church pay exponentially more for a similar loudspeaker configuration? It depends. As the principal live sound engineer for a portable church that aspires to greater things, I can certainly empathize with the notion of working under a tight budget. In my opinion, the pricing of these speakers makes them attractive for use as stage monitors, for youth services, or for a church on a budget that simply needs to “get the job done.” However, they simply do not exhibit the sound quality of their more expensive competitors.
