When planning for hire stock or specifying fixed installations, the price tag alone isn’t enough to make your decision. Reliability, sound quality, ease of deployment and feature set all play a role in determining the right product for the job.
With the introduction of the EVIVA range, Electro-Voice has created a new entry point below the established ZLX-G2 series, opening up new opportunities at a more accessible price point. While both families deliver the expected Electro-Voice sound quality and build, they are designed with different users and applications in mind.
This article explains how EVIVA and ZLX-G2 compare, and which range makes the most sense depending on your requirements.
Introducing the Families
Electro-Voice EVIVA Series
A family of active loudspeakers designed to offer professional Electro-Voice sound quality at accessible prices. The range includes 12” and 15” two-way tops, along with an 18” active subwoofer, making it suitable for complete PA system builds.
Electro-Voice ZLX-G2 Series
Available in both passive and active options, ZLX-G2 is the long-time “go-to” choice for mobile DJs, performers and hire companies. The G2 range builds on the legacy of the original ZLX series, offering premium sound quality with improved output, enhanced connectivity and advanced onboard DSP. ZLX-G2 is available in 8", 10" and 12" options, with the 8" model being an extremely compact and portable solution for applications that require premium sound and quick setup.
Price and Positioning
EVIVA sits at a competitive price point, making it particularly compelling for cost-conscious buyers.
ZLX-G2 carries a higher MSRP, reflecting its fuller feature set, including higher maximum SPL, wider frequency response, a Dynacord-powered built-in digital mixer and Bluetooth control via the QuickSmart Mobile App.
This price gap helps EVIVA appeal to musicians, venues, schools, village halls and anyone looking for professional sound quality without paying for features they don’t need. Meanwhile, ZLX-G2 continues to command a strong market position with audio professionals and users who value advanced control and flexibility.
Feature Consideration
Both EVIVA and ZLX-G2 deliver powerful Electro-Voice sound suitable for gigging and live sound applications. Each model features a 1000W power rating and a 90° x 60° coverage pattern. However, the ZLX-G2 series outperforms EVIVA in terms of frequency response, frequency range and maximum SPL.
In terms of portability, both EVIVA models are lighter than their ZLX-G2 equivalents. The EVIVA 12P weighs just 12kg compared to the ZLX-12P-G2 at 14.82kg, while the EVIVA 15P weighs 14.6kg versus 16.78kg for the ZLX-15P-G2. The EVIVA 12P is also slightly smaller than the ZLX-12P-G2, although this reverses at the 15” size, where the EVIVA 15P is marginally larger than the ZLX-15P-G2.
Both ranges support Bluetooth audio streaming, but control is where ZLX-G2 begins to stand out. ZLX-G2 features an onboard DSP and mixer section, including a built-in 4-channel digital mixer with effects, feedback suppression, ducking, parametric EQ and more - all powered by Dynacord. A full-colour LCD allows setup directly on the speaker, while the QuickSmart Mobile App enables remote control.
Another feature exclusive to ZLX-G2 is the integrated 25-degree kickback angle, which is particularly useful for musicians.
Aesthetics are also worth considering. Both ranges feature Electro-Voice’s modern design language and look professional on stage or in an install. However, the ZLX-G2’s full-length grille gives it a sleeker appearance, which may be preferable for corporate event production and fixed installations.
Which is best for you?
Choose EVIVA if:
- You want a great-sounding PA at a more budget-friendly price that performs solidly across all applications.
- You plan to use a digital mixer and don't need advanced onboard DSP.
- You’re outfitting a venue or rig on a tighter budget.
- Weight and size are a priority.
Choose ZLX-G2 if:
- You need an 8" box!
- You want advanced onboard DSP, effects and wireless control built into the loudspeaker.
- You value faster setup times and the convenience of integrated connectivity and app control.
- You regularly run corporate events and benefit from the sleeker full-grille aesthetic.
- You need to run shows without an external mixer and want an all-in-one solution.
- You want wider frequency response, greater frequency range and higher SPL.
Conclusion
The introduction of the EVIVA range from Electro-Voice gives customers with tighter budgets the opportunity to access the iconic EV sound, without paying for the advanced features found in the ZLX-G2 systems. Both ranges carry the trusted Electro-Voice build quality, but the decision ultimately comes down to whether you prioritise feature-rich versatility or straightforward value for money.
As UK trade distributors of Electro-Voice & Dynacord, we stock both families and offer competitive trade pricing, technical support and attentive after-sales care. If you’re bolstering your hire stock, specifying a fixed installation or considering stocking these units for resale, contact us on 01525 850085 to discuss your requirements.
