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PSI AUDIO · SYSTEM GUIDE

How do active speakers connect to a home hi-fi system?

Plan the source, volume control, balanced connections and mains power before choosing an active loudspeaker. Then consider the room and any subwoofer.

Author
MSN Audio
Updated
Guide
System Integration

The short answer: PSI active speakers already contain power amplifiers. Supply a suitable analogue signal with reliable volume control, plus mains power to each speaker. Your current source may be able to stay.

Variable-output DAC or streamer

  1. Music source + analogue output
  2. Volume control in the source
  3. Left / right XLR inputs

Confirm variable output mode, startup level and mute behaviour.

Fixed-output DAC + preamplifier

  1. Fixed analogue output
  2. Preamplifier controls volume
  3. Left / right XLR inputs

A suitable controller must sit between the fixed output and speakers.

An existing system with pre-out

  1. Source into amplifier / processor
  2. Variable analogue pre-out
  3. Corresponding speaker XLR inputs

Check that the output follows volume. Amplified speaker terminals cannot be used.

DAC / preamplifierAnalogue output · volume controlled
Left output → XLRLeft speakerMains power to each cabinet
Right output → XLRRight speakerMains power to each cabinet
Basic signal path. Volume is controlled before the signal reaches the speakers.

An active speaker contains the amplification needed by its drivers. A home system can therefore be built around a source and volume control, without a separate speaker-level power amplifier in that signal path.

The useful starting point is the equipment you already own. Check the analogue outputs, how volume is controlled and how cables will reach both speakers. The following guide uses PSI Audio's analogue active speakers as its example.

01

Identify the source and volume control

A streamer or DAC with suitable variable analogue outputs may connect directly. A fixed-output DAC needs a compatible preamplifier or monitor controller between it and the speakers. An integrated amplifier is useful here only if it provides a suitable pre-out; its speaker terminals are not line outputs.

Check startup volume, mute behaviour, output level and gain before first playback. Begin at a low level. A speaker's rear sensitivity trim sets the working relationship with the source; it is not the same as a convenient daily volume control for the whole system.

02

Run a line signal to each speaker

For A214-M as a centre speaker, use the processor or AV receiver’s centre analogue pre-out. Its XLR input needs the centre signal, with channel level, delay and crossover set in the processor. A receiver without a suitable centre pre-out cannot connect directly.

The listed PSI main speakers use a balanced three-pin female XLR input. Feed the left and right channels separately. A balanced output is a straightforward starting point; an unbalanced source requires correctly wired cabling and a compatibility check, not just any adaptor.

These models do not provide streaming, USB conversion or a wireless music connection. Digital sources still need suitable digital-to-analogue conversion upstream. Never connect an amplifier's speaker-level output to the XLR line input.

A214-M: front and rear, showing the signal connections and mains inlet.
A214-M: front and rear, showing the signal connections and mains inlet.
03

Plan power, support and listening distance

Every active cabinet needs mains power as well as its signal cable. Plan sockets, cable access, stable supports and ventilation. Follow the supplied manual for mains voltage and installation requirements; do not cover the amplifier electronics or enclose the speaker without the required clearance.

Manufacturer listening-distance guidance helps narrow the range. A14-M is oriented towards close listening; A23-M and A25-M support longer typical distances. It does not determine a suitable room by floor area, nor guarantee a listening level at your seat.

04

Connect a subwoofer to work with the main speakers

A subwoofer needs an audio feed whose level follows the main speakers. Depending on the source and controller, this may come from a dedicated output, a compatible split or the subwoofer's input/link arrangement. Confirm the electrical loading and routing for the actual components.

PSI's published subwoofer diagrams coordinate the main monitor's Roll-Off with the subwoofer. Do not assume that a Link connector supplies a complete high-pass crossover. With an external bass-management processor, check which device controls crossover and level settings so adjustments are not unintentionally duplicated.

05

Separate factory calibration from the room

PSI measures and calibrates each speaker at the factory. This controls the product's response before installation. Your walls, desk, listening seat and speaker positions still influence what you hear at home.

Begin with a consistent listening position and sensible placement. If bass is uneven or lingers, compare positions and measure response and decay before deciding whether the next step is a subwoofer, EQ, passive treatment or active absorption.

06

Get help with your connections and model choice

If a model interests you, tell us which source or processor you use and roughly how far you sit from the speakers. We can help check the connections and model choice, then confirm finishes, availability and possible audition arrangements. You can leave details you do not know blank.

Browse Active Speakers, then open the enquiry on the model you want to discuss. Technical sources checked 13 October 2026: PSI user manual, A23-M and Sub A125-M. MSN Audio sells these products; this is connection guidance, not a measured review of your room.

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