So, pyle has a reputation of being really good or really bad as far as I understand. Many reviews are either completely for or completely against. I would say this is a great middle of the road compromise between a cheap home audio active speaker systems and expensive truly pro audio pa setups. The treble is crisp and clear, the mid range bass is definitely there and loud enough, but the sub bass is absolutely non existent. If you want real bass, GET A SUBWOOFER. Do not buy this and expect chest thumping power. All you can really get out of this is ear bleeding treble if you turn it up really high. (The on board bass and treble knobs are very necessary and useful).
THE BIGGEST PROBLEMS I HAVE: The plastic cap on the bottom of the cabinet is the only thing supporting it on a stand. It is not good enough, and mine broke while using a pyle stand within a month of buying this. If you can, make one out of metal and replace the plastic one, or try to find an alternative. (I am very grateful that the speaker stand did not break the cone when the stand went through the cabinet...) There is a rapid clicking sound if the cable is not placed just so, and a minor hiss is always present but not noticeable (unless you have the cabinet on with no audio playing). Despite these problems, it works really well 95% of the time. The other 5% of the time I wish I was rich enough to afford top of the line equipment, but I can't, so I deal with it.
F.y.i. I am a physicist getting my bachelors; I know a lot about sound physics. I am also an up and coming DJ in the humboldt area, and this portable pa cabinet is perfect for house shows and small backyards and even some large outdoor shows if you have the right acoustic surroundings (i.e. concrete will reflect your audio, giving you more coverage for less power).