This may seem like a really stupid question but what is the difference between Activespeakers and passive speakers? In particular Im wanting to know about the alesis M1 MK2 speakers. If I get the M1 MK2 ACTIVE speakers will I not need to buy an amplifier? Will the just plug straight into my mixer? I read somewhere that they are bi-amplified or something, does that mean theres no need for a seperate amplifier?
Also which speakers would you purchase yourself? active or passive?

Thanks in advance for your help/advice.

active speakers have built in amplifiers and you dont need a seperate amp

passive speakers dont and you'll need an amp for them

I have a pair of the M1s and theyre great for what you pay

Thanks mate for your help. BTW which M1's do you have ACTIVE or PASSIVE?

actives, i got them about a year ago now.

i wanted to get some proper monitors to replace the hi-fi bookshelves i was using for mixing but I still wanted to be able to use the old speakers. The actives were the best solution as i didnt need to splash out on a new amp!