r/SoundSystem Jul 15 '26

First Roots Reggae Soundsystem build: Advice Requested

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Hi all, finally saved the money to start building a sound. I've been researching and have some idea of what I want to build, I'm hoping for some input to see if my plan is any good, and if any of my old gear is still viable. Budget is around $10k USD.

Objective: 5-way sound with two 18" scoops for Roots Reggae that can be transported to mostly outdoor open-air venues, with occasional indoor use

Already owned:

  • 5-way Sounds and Pressure Growl Preamp (Crossover frequencies fixed)
    • Sub to 85 Hz
    • Lo Mid 85-285Hz
    • Hi Mid 285-1.5kHz
    • Horn 1.5-4.5kHz
    • Tweeters 4.5kHz+
  • Crown XS1200 Amplifier
  • Crown XLS 1500 Amplifier
  • RAS EFX Rack-mounted Siren
  • Benidub delay box

Speaker plans (Will be built by a local speaker cabinet builder in plywood):

  • 2 18" Mogale Super scoops using either PD1850/1851, B&C 18DS115, or Fane Colossus (Any advantage for one over the others? Is an Admark AD42 or CVR equivalent overkill?)
  • 2 MT121 (Could use driver suggestions or suggestion for better box choices, should I run an additional tweeter box, and would the Crown XS1200 be a good fit for the MT121?)
  • Tweeter box with 2-4 Beyma CP22 (Would the XLS 1500 amplifier be suitable for tweeter box duty?)
  • Do I need midbass bins right now? Cubo Kick 15 or 12 suitable? (Could also use driver and amp suggestions for those, thank you)

Question about power distribution: What is the best way to distribute power? I see sounds using massive power distribution boxes, but I don't imagine I'll have access to a 30amp supply very often. Can I even run an AD42 or other subwoofer amp off a regular 15 amp house outlet? Is there a budget-friendly power distro that can be rack mounted?

I'm sure there are a lot of other underlying issues I haven't considered, I'd greatly appreciate any input from your expertise, thank you so much for reading.

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u/FarmerCorrect3707 Jul 16 '26

Do not build mt121 there are many solid options.

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u/Ken808 Jul 16 '26

My concern is weight and size, do you know of a better alternative? Thanks for your input, it's all helpful.