Amplify Your Sound with the Best PA System
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Samson Rechargeable Battery Powered PA System -
Behringer PA System -
Alesis TransActive Wireless Bluetooth PA System -
TC-Helicon VoiceSolo PA System -
Roland BA-55 Powered Speaker Cabinet -
Yamaha STAGEPAS 600I Portable PA System -
L1 Pro32 Portable PA System -
MiPRO MA-708 PA System -
Fishman SA220 Solo Performance System -
Peavey Escort 6000 Channel PA System -
Peavey Escort 6000 Channel PA System -
Bose L1 Model II System Single B2 Bass Module Package -
MiPRO MA-708 PA System -
Fender Passport Venue PA System -
Buyer's Guide
Musicians and audio-heads shopping on a budget already have plenty of pieces of gear and equipment to concern themselves with before getting to the all-important PA system. Broadly speaking, the system that is going to be responsible for amplifying your sound so that it’s properly audible to the rest of the room (whatever size that may be) is not something that you want a second-rate version of, and therein lies the dilemma for those looking for the best deals on said product. But fret not, budget-conscientious buyers out there, there are actually some great quality, low-priced PA systems available today. These are the best PA systems in 2022, with our picks being relatively lightweight, each weighing than 30 pounds. These picks also accept multiple input types so you can plug a microphone, instrument cable, and more into them for easy use. lastly, these PA systems each deliver a minimum of 20 watts, giving each the ability to easily provide full sound for smaller rooms and venues.
Check out these PA systems with high-quality sound
Samson Rechargeable Battery Powered PA System - Best PA System Overall
Samson’s Expedition Express PA system features a two way speaker enclosure that houses a six inch woofer and a one inch high-frequency driver, which work together to provide a full-range sound that is clear and precise. The system’s 3-channel mixer allows inputs for microphones, instruments, and an 1/8 of an inch stereo jack to receive audio from other sources. Of course, you can also use the Bluetooth connectivity in the system to get your signal wirelessly from mobile phones and tablets. An internal rechargeable battery will give you eight hours of continuous use while a two band equalizer gives you the ability to tweak your sound to fit the room you’re standing in. There's also an ergonomic top carry handle which makes this ten poound system easy to move around.
Behringer PA System - Runner Up
The Behringer Eurolive B108D PA speaker is powered by an eight inch long-excursion driver responsible for the unit’s deep bass and strong signal. A two band EQ works in conjunction with an integrated sound processor to give you greater control over your sound and to also protect the speaker itself from damaging frequencies. The speaker’s trapezoid-shaped enclosure design allows you to have a few options to play with when setting it up which is great for confined spaces. An additional line output allows you the ability to connect this speaker to multiple speakers while ergonomic handles make transporting this PA speaker a breeze.
Alesis TransActive Wireless Bluetooth PA System - Honorable Mention
Alesis’ TransActive Wireless PA system provides you with plenty of options to work with, starting with its inputs. You’ve got an XLR 1/4 inch combo input, a 1/4 inch line/guitar input, and an 1/8 inch aux input to send sound into the speaker. But you can also use the Bluetooth connectivity to wirelessly receive signals from mobile devices and computers (to name a few devices) so you really can get audio from nearly anywhere you need. A rechargeable battery provides up to 50 hours of use while a built-in USB charging port allows you to charge devices like phone, tablet, laptop, and more. This system is also very portable at just over 25 pounds and also includes a standard 35 milimeter socket to attach this unit to a speaker stand.
TC-Helicon VoiceSolo PA System - Consider
The TC-Helicon VoiceSolo FX150 is the veritable Swiss Army knife of PA systems. This unit can operate as a vocal monitor, guitar/bass amplifier, or portable PA speaker. For vocals, you can tighten up your sound with a built-in Intelligent EQ, compression, and reverb. There are also nine reverb styles provided by its VoiceLive three vocal processor, which should be no surprise considering TC-Helicon are the ones responsible for so many amazing digital effects. The system’s Tannoy 6.5 inch two-way speaker provides 150 watts of power, making it a great component for rehearsals or gigs in small areas such as coffee shops. The FX150 also works well for public address environments as a solo PA speaker. There are many configurations that this unit can be used for so it's really up to you as to how it's set up.
Roland BA-55 Powered Speaker Cabinet - Best Budget PA System
The Roland BA-55 portable amplifier comes with a matching wireless microphone that instantly makes this a great contender for those who need to sing, speak, or narrate in a public setting. Two 6.5 inch high-performance speakers work together to provide optimal sound. A three-channel, built-in mixer provides a two band EQ that makes it easy to control the timbre of your audio, while an echo/reverb effect gives it extra character. An integrated storage compartment seamlessly stores the wireless microphone that the unit comes with, as well as accessories. Most impressively, this unit can operate on eight AA batteries although it can also work with AC power using the included adaptor.
Yamaha STAGEPAS 600I Portable PA System - Best Portable PA System
The Yamaha StagePas 600i Portable PA System cranks out 680 watts of power through a fully-featured 10-channel mixer. Each channel has its own 2-band EQ that allows you to dial in the best sound for its respective instrument or voice. An additional Master 1-knob EQ helps to sweeten the overall output sound once you’ve calibrated the individual signals. You can also add a high-end SPX digital reverb to the first four channels of the system, making it ideal for creating an even bigger sound than what you’ve already started with. An iPod/iPhone dock makes it easy to play music directly from your own library while also charging the device.
L1 Pro32 Portable PA System - Best Portable PA System
The Bose L1 Compact System keeps both the audience and performer in mind with its multiple features designed to provide excellent audio from all directions. The unit’s Spatial Dispersion loudspeaker technology provides an even sound across the stage and deep into the audience, even for listeners who are positioned at extreme sides. The L1’s dual ToneMatch channels have fixed presets for handheld microphones and acoustic guitar, making this a great option for the gigging singer/songwriter. An integrated 2-channel mic/intstrument mixer on the unit’s rear ensures that you’ll be able to keep your setup more contained than most other options. And best of all,the entire PA system weighs only 29 pounds so it's easy to move from one location to another.
MiPRO MA-708 PA System - Best Portable PA System
MIPRO’s MA-708 PA system is made for easy travel and use, as it weighs only 35 pounds fully loaded. The system can run off a rechargeable battery for up to seven hours, though it also has options for AC power and direct DC, too. The sound itself is driven via 190 watts of power through its 8 inch woofer and 1 inch tweeter. A built-in Bluetooth receiver allows users to stream music from anywhere within reach. A Voice Priority component makes it easy to instantly mute music when a wireless mic is used, so you won’t have to deal with clashing audio from the two sources.
Fishman SA220 Solo Performance System - Best Portable PA System
If you’re a singer/songwriter looking for a one-stop shop for all of your sound needs for your next gig, look no further than Fishman’s SA220 Songwriter Package. This PA system is centered around a compact, all-in-one acoustic amplifier that drives 200 watts through 6x4 inch cone midrange drivers. Also included is a Sennheiser e835 dynamic cardioid vocal mic, which solves the problem of needing an additional component to start singing through your new system. Also included are a 20 foot mic cable and mic stand so you have all you need to start gigging. And you really can grab this package and get moving, thanks to the inclusion of a gig bag and the fact that the entire system only weighs 25 pounds.
Peavey Escort 6000 Channel PA System - Best Portable PA System
The Peavey Escort 6000 PA system is extremely portable, weighing in at just under 50 pounds. It’s also easy to move around thanks to its luggage-style wheels. Although its relatively compact, this system still packs quite a punch, thanks to its pair of 300W two way speakers. The Escort 6000 also has a nine channel powered mixer which features seven XLR mic inputs as well as a seven band graphic EQ and onboard digital effects. You can even play MP3s off a thumb drive through the system thanks to an integrated USB port.
Peavey Escort 6000 Channel PA System - Best Portable PA System
The Peavey Escort 6000 PA system is extremely portable, weighing in at just under 50 pounds. It’s also easy to move around thanks to its luggage-style wheels. Although its relatively compact, this system still packs quite a punch, thanks to its pair of 300W two way speakers. The Escort 6000 also has a nine channel powered mixer which features seven XLR mic inputs as well as a seven band graphic EQ and onboard digital effects. You can even play MP3s off a thumb drive through the system thanks to an integrated USB port.
Bose L1 Model II System Single B2 Bass Module Package - Best PA System Overall
The Bose L1 Model II Single B2 Bass Module Package PA system is comprised of a loudspeaker line array, a power stand, and a bass module. Like many of the products in the Bose line, this PA system is extremely lightweight at only 24 pounds which makes it very simple to set up. Bose recommends this system for crowds of 300 or less, making it an ideal pick for medium-sized gigs, business events, educational seminars, and more. When you place this system behind you onstage, it also enables you to hear exactly what your audience will hear so it effectively doubles as a monitor. This system also comes with carrying bags to make setting up and breaking down even easier.
MiPRO MA-708 PA System - Best Portable PA System
MIPRO’s MA-708 PA system is made for easy travel and use, as it weighs only 35 pounds fully loaded. The system can run off a rechargeable battery for up to seven hours, though it also has options for AC power and direct DC, too. The sound itself is driven via 190 watts of power through its 8 inch woofer and 1 inch tweeter. A built-in Bluetooth receiver allows users to stream music from anywhere within reach. A Voice Priority component makes it easy to instantly mute music when a wireless mic is used, so you won’t have to deal with clashing audio from the two sources.
Fender Passport Venue PA System - Best PA System Overall
Fender’s Audio Passport Venue PA system brings a big sound with it, despite its tiny footprint. This 600W Class D-powered system is capable of bringing both pristinely clear highs and bass-driven lows to the table. Each of the channels in this PA has its own High EQ, Low EQ, Volume, and Reverb. Each speaker also incorporates a 1x10 inch woofer and a 1x1.2 inch horn-loaded tweeter to achieve the sounds it is capable of producing. In a great modern twist, this system can also record its audio (in WAV format) directly to a USB key, using the built-in USB Record/Playback jack. The Passport Venue also comes with all of the audio cables needed to get started, allowing you to dive right in.
Buyer's Guide
With several PA systems out there in the market, choosing the right one can be tricky. In this buyer’s guide, we will help you answer some critical questions regarding purchasing the best PA systems out there.
What is a PA system?
PAs or public address systems are used to amplify sound from the performer to the audience, and they are usually composed of several things, with all of them handling the same function. They help convert acoustic sound to electronic signals, process and mix electric signals, amplify signals using a power amp and transmit the sound via speakers.
Types of public address systems
Public address systems can be gotten into the following categories.
Fixed PA systems
This type of system is mainly used in movie halls for producing sufficient sound. Before using this system, you need to find an excellent location to place it.
Indoor public address systems
This type of PA system is the small one that uses between 50 and 200 watts of power. The output of this speaker depends mainly on the energy being used in it. Such systems are not known to produce huge sounds.
Portable public address systems
Such systems are lightweight and small, and they can be carried pretty much anywhere. You may also find portable PA systems that come fitted with tires for easy conveyance. The best part of using this type of system is that it doesn’t take up much space.
Things to consider before buying a PA system
Here is a breakdown of some key features to look out for before buying a public address system.
. How does it sound
This is by far one of the most important factors to consider before getting a public address system. You certainly would want the best sound output, especially if you are a performer. The ideal audio ought to be free from distortion and clean especially when used at high volumes. Also, the audio range must be sharp, and mid-frequencies ought to provide a decent level of balance and warmth. The bass response should not have boominess, but it should be meaty.
. The power factor
Knowing your power requirements is another critical factor worth considering before buying a public address system. If you aren’t organizing a musical concert or something as significant as that, you should opt for low-powered systems. However, if you are a DJ, you should search for equipment packed with output power.
Power ratings can be confusing because of the absence of standardized models, and most manufacturers would instead go for the most power.
. Value proposition
You certainly do not want to buy a PA that doesn’t give you value for your money. If you want to be sure you are getting a good deal, the system’s features should be the first thing to consider. The system should be flexible enough to accommodate your needs. But note that premium quality brands often cost the most. Ideally, you should patronize brands with years of proven experience as such brands have better products.
Also, know how much you are willing to spend, design as this will help you streamline your options. Also, don’t buy without considering your needs because it won’t make sense to pay a lot for features you may not use.
. Ease of setting up
The best public address system should be easy to move around and set up. Portability is one thing you must never ignore in your search for a sound PA system. If you are into music, you will need something you can quickly move around with one hand. Such PA systems often come lightweight and with a handle. If you are a live band, mobile DJ, or just a poet on the street corner, you need to consider how you will move the system around.
. Flexibility of connections
Another critical factor to consider in this regard is the available connection options. For mobile DJs or solo performers, there may not be a need for multiple channels. However, for a five-piece band, for instance, various connections should be the core focus. You won’t want to buy additional Public address systems for the entire band when doing all the work.
Also, connection options such as AUX and Bluetooth should be considered.
Benefits of using a PA system
PAs help addresses multiple persons at the same time in a given location. This system of addressing people comes with several advantages.
1. They are designed to help you cut through background noise
2. Regardless of the speaker’s voice, the effect of getting the audience’s attention is the same. Also, with a good loudspeaker, it doesn’t matter if your voice is shy or soft; the information will still be adequately passed across.
3. Another outstanding benefit of the best PA systems is that they are quite easy to maintain. Also, the installation and use of this device have become so easy that it leaves just a little footprint behind. Maintenance has become relatively easy, and the user can get trained to use the system quickly.
4. Also, PA systems can be used to locate persons in a large gathering. For instance, if there is a need to find a student in a crowded cafeteria, a good public address system should be enough to catch their attention.
FAQ's
Q: How big a PA system do I require?
The size of the PA you get will ultimately depend on the audio requirements and venue. Smaller systems are perfect for background music or simple speech needs. Such PAs could have power outputs as small as 50 watts.
Q: Which should I get between a non-powered and powered speaker?
If you don’t want to buy more than one dedicated power amp for your PA system, you should purchase powered speakers. If you are a musician that plays at small clubs, powered speakers are the best.
Q: Where can I get a decent PA system close to me?
The internet brings everyone and everything closer to you. You certainly do not need to travel far to get the best PA systems because the products reviewed in this piece can be gotten with just a click.
