DAS Avant 15in 1200W Active Speaker

Hire DAS Audio Avant15A Powered Speaker

15" Active Full-Range Speaker

The DAS Audio Avant15A is a 15" active speaker with a capability that its 12" counterparts in the Edwards fleet cannot match — genuine low-end extension to 45Hz without a separate subwoofer. That 45Hz floor puts real bass into the room from the speaker itself, giving it a physical presence and warmth that makes it the right choice for DJ events, live music, and outdoor applications where bass weight matters and running a separate subwoofer is not always practical or necessary. Hire code AVANT15A.

The Avant15A is from DAS Audio's older Avant range — the same generation as the Avant12A, built to a specification that prioritised audio performance and build quality above all else. The 2" compression driver on a 80x50 degree horn delivers the fuller, warmer high-frequency character that many experienced live sound operators prefer over the cleaner and more controlled response of newer cabinet designs. It is a touring-grade speaker with years of professional use behind it. The cosmetic finish shows that history — this is not the cabinet for a high-visibility corporate event where the speaker will be on camera or prominent in a polished room. For outdoor events, live music, DJ gigs, school productions, markets, and any event where performance matters more than appearance, the Avant15A is a reliable and capable choice.

Two DSP presets — Flat EQ and Boost EQ — cover the two most common use cases. Flat EQ delivers the cabinet's natural response, suited to live music and events where the operator wants to shape the sound themselves via a mixing console. Boost EQ adds low-frequency and high-frequency emphasis for music playback and DJ events where extra weight and presence are wanted without manual EQ adjustment.

At 30kg it is the heaviest full-range top in the Edwards hire fleet and requires a two-person lift at all times. It is not suitable as a floor monitor — the weight and physical size make it impractical for close-listening stage monitoring applications.

Specifications:

• 1,200W peak Class-D amplifier
• 15" driver with 2" compression driver
• 80° x 50° rotatable horn
• 133dB peak SPL
• Frequency response from 45Hz
• Two presets: Flat EQ and Boost EQ
• XLR input and loop-through output
• IEC mains connector
• Weight: 30kg — two-person lift required
• No Bluetooth

Coverage guide: A pair covers 200 to 400 people for general music events outdoors, 300 to 500 people indoors with a subwoofer. These are starting points rather than hard limits depending on room acoustics and event type.

Ideal for: DJ events and dance parties, live music and bands, outdoor events and concerts, school productions and sports days, markets and outdoor festivals, any event where bass weight from the tops is a priority and a separate subwoofer is not being added. Not recommended for high-visibility corporate events where appearance matters or for use as a floor monitor.

Available individually or as a pair. Two-person lift required. Available for self-collection or delivery and setup.

Frequently Asked Questions — DAS Audio Avant15A Hire

Why does a 15" speaker sound different from a 12"?

The primary difference is low-frequency extension. The Avant15A's 15" driver reaches to 45Hz — well below the 60Hz floor of the 12" models. This means the speaker reproduces sub-bass frequencies that a 12" cabinet simply does not produce, giving it bass weight and physical presence that makes music feel fuller and more complete. For DJ events, live bands, and any music-primary event this difference is immediately audible. For speech events and conferences where bass extension is not a priority, a 12" cabinet is usually a more appropriate and practical choice.

Do I need a subwoofer with this speaker?

For most music events a pair of Avant15A speakers operates without a separate subwoofer and delivers more bass than a VANTEC-12A pair with a sub. The 45Hz extension is genuine and audible — not a marketing claim. For events where maximum bass impact is the priority — a DJ night, a dance party, or a high-energy live band — adding an Avant118A or VANTEC-18A subwoofer brings the low end up to club-level impact. The AVANT15118 package combines two Avant15A tops with two Avant118A subwoofers as a pre-configured high-output hire package.

How does it compare to the VANTEC-12A?

The VANTEC-12A is 12" with 1,500W peak, FIR DSP, Bluetooth streaming, a DAScontrol LCD interface with five presets, rigging points, and a current modern appearance. The Avant15A is 15" with 1,200W peak, two basic presets, no Bluetooth, no rigging points, and an older cosmetic finish. The Avant15A wins on bass extension and low-end character — its 45Hz floor versus the VANTEC-12A's 60Hz is a meaningful real-world difference for music events. The VANTEC-12A wins on versatility, appearance, and features. For client-visible corporate events choose the VANTEC-12A. For outdoor music events and DJ gigs where bass weight matters, the Avant15A is a strong alternative.

How does it compare to the VANTEC-215A?

The VANTEC-215A is a dual 15" cabinet with 2,250W peak, 138dB SPL, 40Hz extension, FIR DSP, Bluetooth, and a current modern appearance — significantly more output and more features than the Avant15A. The Avant15A is the right choice when the budget suits it or when the event does not require the output ceiling of the VANTEC-215A. For high-energy events where maximum output from a 15" class speaker is required, the VANTEC-215A is the step up.

Can it be used outdoors?

Yes — the Avant15A is well suited to outdoor events. Its bass extension and output make it a strong performer for outdoor markets, school sports days, outdoor concerts, and community events. Placement on stands gets the cabinet high enough to project over an audience effectively. For large outdoor events where throw distance is significant, the EVENT series line array packages are a more appropriate choice.

Why is it not recommended for high-visibility corporate events?

The Avant15A is from an older DAS Audio range and its cosmetic finish shows years of professional use. It does not have the clean current appearance of the VANTEC-12A or VANTEC-215A. For events where the speaker will be prominent in the room, on camera, or in a polished client-facing environment, the VANTEC-12A is the correct choice. The Avant15A's audio quality is not the issue — its appearance is. This distinction matters on high-profile events where every detail reflects on the client.

Is delivery and setup available?

Yes. The Avant15A is available individually or as a pair, for self-collection or delivery and setup by an Edwards technician. Given the 30kg per unit weight, delivery and setup is worth considering for events where one person is handling the majority of the setup. Contact our hire team at (09) 571 0551 or hire@edwardsnz.co.nz to discuss your requirements.