Description
The Electro-Voice ELX215 is a formidable dual 15-inch, 2-way passive loudspeaker, also part of EV’s “Live X” series (like the ELX115). It’s designed for serious sound reinforcement applications where high volume, extended low-frequency response, and robust output from a single cabinet are paramount. As a passive speaker, it requires a powerful external amplifier.
Key Features and Highlights:
- Dual 15-inch Woofers for Massive Low End: The most defining feature is the inclusion of two 15-inch EVS-15K woofers. This dual-woofer configuration provides significantly more bass output and extended low-frequency response compared to a single 15-inch speaker. It delivers real “punch” and can often reduce or eliminate the need for separate subwoofers in many medium to large-sized applications, offering a full-range solution from a single cabinet.
- 1.5-inch Titanium Compression Driver: It utilizes a DH-1K, 1.5-inch titanium diaphragm compression driver for clear and articulate high frequencies.
- Two-Way Design: It’s a 2-way full-range design, with an internal crossover separating frequencies for the woofers and the high-frequency driver.
- Very High Power Handling: The ELX215 boasts impressive power handling:
- 600 W continuous
- 2400 W peak This substantial power handling ensures it can deliver high volume output with considerable headroom and minimal distortion.
- Ultra-Wide Frequency Response:
- Frequency Response (-3 dB): 62 Hz – 18 kHz
- Frequency Range (-10 dB): 38 Hz – 20 kHz The -10 dB point at 38 Hz is particularly impressive for a full-range cabinet, indicating its ability to reproduce very deep bass frequencies directly. This makes it suitable for music genres that rely heavily on low-end impact.
- Extremely High Max SPL: Capable of generating a maximum SPL of 137 dB, meaning it can project sound to fill very large spaces and compete with loud stage volumes.
- Broad Coverage Pattern: Features a 90° horizontal by 50° vertical coverage-pattern waveguide for wide and even sound dispersion.
- Robust Plywood Enclosure: Constructed from 9-ply, 15mm internally braced plywood, ensuring exceptional durability and acoustic integrity by minimizing unwanted resonances. The cabinet has a textured black paint finish for protection.
- Integrated Carrying Handles: Designed with robust handles for easier (though still heavy) transportation.
- Dual NL4 Connectors: Equipped with dual Neutrik NL4 Speakon connectors for secure and reliable connection to a power amplifier and for daisy-chaining to other passive speakers.
- Nominal Impedance: 4 Ohms. This lower impedance means it can draw more power from a compatible amplifier, allowing the amplifier to work harder and deliver more output. It’s crucial to use an amplifier that is stable and rated for 4-ohm loads.
- Weight: At approximately 40.7 kg (89.6 lbs), it’s a heavy speaker, reflecting its robust construction and dual 15-inch drivers. This is a two-person lift for safe transport.
Who is the Electro-Voice ELX215 for?
- Large-Scale Live Sound Reinforcement: Ideal for medium to large indoor and outdoor venues, concerts, festivals, and events that require significant sound pressure and full-range coverage.
- Mobile DJs: Especially those playing genres like EDM, hip-hop, or any music that benefits from powerful, extended bass, without necessarily needing separate subwoofers (though adding subs would further enhance the extreme low end).
- Bands and Production Companies: As a main PA speaker where high volume and deep bass are critical.
- Houses of Worship: For larger congregations that need robust sound for music and speech.
Key Differences from ELX115 (Single 15″):
- Drivers: The ELX215 has two 15-inch woofers, while the ELX115 has one.
- Power Handling: ELX215 (600W Cont./2400W Peak) is significantly more powerful than ELX115 (400W Cont./1600W Peak).
- Max SPL: ELX215 (137 dB) is louder than ELX115 (134 dB).
- Low-Frequency Extension: The ELX215 goes lower (-10dB at 38 Hz) than the ELX115 (-10dB at 50 Hz) due to its dual woofers.
- Impedance: ELX215 is 4 Ohms, ELX115 is 8 Ohms. This means the ELX215 will draw more power from an amplifier.
- Size and Weight: The ELX215 is considerably taller, wider, and heavier than the ELX115, making it less portable for a single person.
- Applications: The ELX215 is suited for larger venues and more demanding applications where the ELX115 might be stretched.
Considerations:
- Requires Powerful Amplifier: Due to its 4-ohm impedance and high power handling, you’ll need a very capable power amplifier that is stable at 4 ohms and can deliver enough wattage (e.g., 1000-1500W per channel into 4 ohms) to drive it effectively. Under-powering it can lead to clipping and damage.
- Weight and Size: Its substantial weight and size mean it’s not a speaker you’ll want to move frequently by yourself. Transportation and setup require more effort, often two people.
- No DSP: Like all passive speakers in this series, it lacks built-in DSP, which means you’ll need external processing for EQ, limiting, and precise crossover management if desired.
