Cerwin-Vega prostax PSX-153.(Field Test)(Product/Service Evaluation)

Founded by a young aerospace engineer named Gene Czerwinski, Cerwin-Vega has long been an innovator in the world of pro audio, introducing such products as a high-efficiency sound system with 18" speakers that could produce 130dB at 30Hz (1954), the world's first solid-state amplifier (1957), and Sensurround in-theater systems (developed in 1974 to provide earth-shaking sound for the motion picture Earthquake). Cerwin-Vega was also the first company to produce digital recordings for evaluating loudspeaker designs.

Designed for use in stand-alone or arrayed configurations, the Cerwin-Vega PSX-153 ($580 retail/$399 street each) are high-performance P.A./DJ speakers that feature both 1/4" and Neutrik Speakon input jacks. The drivers are well protected by a sturdy metal grille, and the relatively compact and portable plywood cabinets wear a scuff resistant coating similar to the type used to protect pickup-truck beds.

Arriving just in time to replace my band's tired set of JBL mains, the PSX-153s were immediately deployed at a wedding reception held in the ballroom of a 1920s mansion. Used primarily for vocals--but also providing some reinforcement for the drums and bass-the PSX-153s effortlessly filled the large, hard-surfaced room with clear, balanced sound. Gigs like these can be dicey from a musical standpoint, but it sure makes for a happier situation when your sound system isn't driving people out the door with nasty hot spots in ...