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REVIEWED
DAP Audio ClubMate II
Although we all love to spend our money on the latest hi-tech lighting effects, it can’t be denied that at the very heart of what we do as mobile DJs is playing music. Therefore it can be argued that the most important aspect of any DJ’s setup is the PA – a good DJ sound system will make music sound loud and clear without feeling uncomfortable for an audience to listen to for a prolonged period of time.
On the other hand, poor sound can make a DJ’s job even harder than it already is, driving guests to find quieter places for conversation away from the music. Once this has happened, attracting them back to hit the dance-floor can be a tall order indeed. This means that investing in top of the range high quality PA is of utmost importance. Of course, there are times when the big-brand top-of-the-range offerings simply aren’t an option. For example, when you’re just starting out, or – in my case – when you already own a large, expensive PA system but want another, more compact, option for smaller functions and as a backup. It is for this reason that I was very keen to try out the DAP Audio Clubmate II system, as it fits within my budget and – on paper – seemed to tick all of my boxes.
The Clubmate II is a portable, active DJ sound system comprising a 15” powered bass bin and a pair of 8” + 1” satellite speakers, which has a combined power output rating of 700W RMS. Priced just under £600, this is certainly an affordable option, although it’s worth noting that ‘accessories’ which are sometimes included as standard must all be purchased as extras in this case. Firstly, and most importantly, no speaker leads are provided to connect the sub to its satellites. Stands for the satellites are not included and padded covers are also an optional extra.
The main sub unit has a strong 13-layer plywood construction while the satellites are made from MDF. All three speakers are finished in a slick textured black and are fitted with robust black metal grilles. The downside of this wooden build is the inevitable weight. The tops – being both compact and passive – come in at a very manageable 9kg, however the sub – due to its larger dimensions and the fact that it contains the amps for the whole system – weighs a fairly whopping 46kg.
Recessed carrying handles are provided, one on the back of each satellite speaker and one either side of the sub. This means that the satellites can easily be carried in together in one trip and that the sub can just about be lifted by one man alone. However, if you’re carrying it for anything more than a very short walk, it really is a two person lift. This isn’t a problem to me, as I always work with a helper/roadie, but will definitely be something to consider if you regularly work alone. Wheels are not mounted to the sub, as I have seen on some other similar systems, however a specifically-designed ‘wheel board’ is available - as (you guessed it) an optional extra.
On the other hand, poor sound can make a DJ’s job even harder than it already is, driving guests to find quieter places for conversation away from the music. Once this has happened, attracting them back to hit the dance-floor can be a tall order indeed. This means that investing in top of the range high quality PA is of utmost importance. Of course, there are times when the big-brand top-of-the-range offerings simply aren’t an option. For example, when you’re just starting out, or – in my case – when you already own a large, expensive PA system but want another, more compact, option for smaller functions and as a backup. It is for this reason that I was very keen to try out the DAP Audio Clubmate II system, as it fits within my budget and – on paper – seemed to tick all of my boxes.
The Clubmate II is a portable, active DJ sound system comprising a 15” powered bass bin and a pair of 8” + 1” satellite speakers, which has a combined power output rating of 700W RMS. Priced just under £600, this is certainly an affordable option, although it’s worth noting that ‘accessories’ which are sometimes included as standard must all be purchased as extras in this case. Firstly, and most importantly, no speaker leads are provided to connect the sub to its satellites. Stands for the satellites are not included and padded covers are also an optional extra.
The main sub unit has a strong 13-layer plywood construction while the satellites are made from MDF. All three speakers are finished in a slick textured black and are fitted with robust black metal grilles. The downside of this wooden build is the inevitable weight. The tops – being both compact and passive – come in at a very manageable 9kg, however the sub – due to its larger dimensions and the fact that it contains the amps for the whole system – weighs a fairly whopping 46kg.
Recessed carrying handles are provided, one on the back of each satellite speaker and one either side of the sub. This means that the satellites can easily be carried in together in one trip and that the sub can just about be lifted by one man alone. However, if you’re carrying it for anything more than a very short walk, it really is a two person lift. This isn’t a problem to me, as I always work with a helper/roadie, but will definitely be something to consider if you regularly work alone. Wheels are not mounted to the sub, as I have seen on some other similar systems, however a specifically-designed ‘wheel board’ is available - as (you guessed it) an optional extra.
The full review can be found in Pro Mobile Issue 72, Pages 82-83.
