Upgrading your DJ setup can really elevate your gigs, so it's great that you're looking into high-quality speakers. When it comes to reliable brands, you might want to consider options like QSC, JBL, and RCF. These are well-regarded in the industry for their sound quality and durability.
For live gigs, active (powered) speakers are often favored by DJs. They have built-in amplifiers, which means less gear to carry and set up, plus they tend to be more plug-and-play. This can be especially useful in rapidly changing venue conditions or when you're on the go frequently.
When evaluating speakers, pay attention to the wattage and sound pressure level (SPL), as they'll give you a good idea of how much sound power you can expect. Also, look for features like built-in digital signal processing (DSP), which can help optimize sound quality based on room acoustics.
Besides portability and sound quality, you might also want to consider the speaker's frequency range and whether it has options for Bluetooth connectivity, which can offer flexibility in various situations.
Have you had a chance to attend any gigs or events recently where you particularly liked the sound setup? It might be worth asking those DJs about their gear to get some more firsthand recommendations.