Build Your Pro Karaoke DJ System | Stage Monitors | Product Review

In a previous review I mentioned the JBL JRX 112M as a possible stage monitor choice and its use as a second set of speakers for a surround sound effect. Given an unlimited budget these are the best for both jobs. However their cost may be prohibitive so for those just starting out, The Behringer alternative (but single use), VS 1220F Stage Monitor, is an excellent choice. You can get a pair of them for about the same cost as one JBL.

By doing so you will set yourself well ahead of the crowd of Karaoke KJ’s since most I’ve seen don’t bother with monitors at all. This I think is a big mistake.

Monitors help your singers keep in pitch and follow the music better when they can hear themselves mixed in with the music. It’s very difficult to do this with speakers placed behind them as that is feedback waiting to happen. If you turn things down to avoid the feedback you will have difficulty highlighting the singer. Time after time I’ve been to Karaoke venues where this is the case. When your singers can give their best performance, many of the marginal get pretty good; and the good ones get even better. Most especially the good singers will want to frequent your shows and that is always an enhancement.

The Behringer VS1220F is well matched for the Fender Passport 250 system as the continuous RMS out put is 125W per side. They are well put together and handle being moved very well for a mobile DJ. If you have to make a choice due to budget this is the one for you. Having stage monitors at all will set you apart from the norm and mark you as a professional that serves both his client (The Venue Owner) and his customer well. That will mean more and more repeat business.

High frequency transducer / horn: Dual Driver

Low frequency transducer: 1 x 12 Inch

Program power handling: 600 Watts

Continuous power handling: 150 Watts

Crossover frequency: 3.5 kHz

Construction: Wood

Other features: HF driver overload protection, Ergonomically shaped handles for easy transport

This is an often overlooked subject and to be truthful; it’s a pretty simple proposition, so far as the monitor itself. I’ll cover placement and stagecraft in another article but for now with the system I am recommending one or two 13in – 20in TV’s are your best choice. They are all relatively inexpensive, The key feature to look for is a video in and computer input options. If you can still find one the regular old TV’s (as opposed to Flat Panels) work fine and can be gotten cheap when you can find them. If you can find one with a video out connection so you can daisy chain multiple video on the stage I would get a couple and hold on to them. I have at times used as many as three video monitors at strategic places on the stage to enhance the performances for my singers.

Here are a couple available at Amazon that won’t break the budget.

Coby TFTV1212 12-Inch Widescreen LCD Digital TV/Monitor

Coby TFTV1524 15-Inch Widescreen LCD HDTV/Monitor with HDMI Input, Black