Powered speakers are speakers that have built-in amplifiers. They can be connected directly to a mixing console or sound source, without the need for an amplifier. Such speakers are available with passive or active crossovers built into them. Powered speakers, to some extent ease the set-up of a system. However since low-level signal cables have to be run to the speakers from the mixer, main console or control centre, noise pick-up can be a problem. This is solved by incorporating "balanced" line inputs into the speakers which are meant to be driven by balanced signals (and cables) from the mixer.

Speakers