Gearank High Notes
- November 2017: Highest Rated Portable PA System
- December 2016: Equal Highest Rated Portable PA System
Yamaha is a brand that needs no introduction, known for manufacturing quality musical instruments and audio equipment. As a testament to this, their StagePas series of portable speakers ranked the highest on our recommended list prior to being discontinued, thanks to its solid build and sound quality.
On the outside, the StagePas 400i looks like two average 8″ speakers, but the backside will reveal its 400W amplifier with detachable 10 channel mixer.
Practical features include reverb and feedback suppression, along with a one-knob master EQ that optimizes the sound for different situations as you turn the knob.
Features:
- 400W Amplifier with Detachable 10-Channel Mixer
- Built-in Feedback Suppression and SPX Digital Reverb
- iPod/iPhone USB Port included
- Channels: 8
- Mic Preamps: 4 – 2 w/ +30 V Phantom Power
- Speakers: 2 (2 x 8″ LF Drivers, 1 x 1″ HF Drivers)
- EQ: 2-Band EQ per Channel, Master 1-knob EQ
- Input: 2 x XLR/TRS Combo, 2 x XLR (Mix), 6 x TRS, 1 x Stereo
- Output: 2 x 1/4″ (Speakers), 2 x 1/4″ (Monitors), 1 x TS (Subwoofer)
- Frequency Response: 55Hz-20kHz
- Speaker Dimensions (HxWxD): 18.58″x21.46″x10.83″
- Mixer Dimensions (HxWxD): 7.09″x12.13″x4.57″
- Weight: 56 lbs.
Pros
It sounds great and it works, are two statements that reflect market sentiment up to this day. From keyboard players, to electronic drum kit players, to acoustic guitar singer-songwriters, to guitar players who utilize amp modeling units, the StagePas 400i has been put to good use by different types of musicians and at different events. Many commended the system for its clean sound, while others were more than happy to recommend it for its solid build.
Cons
Not much complaint other than one who had issues with Apple devices when connecting to the USB port. There was also one who complained that the mixing board on his StagePas 400i gave out after 2 years of use.
Overall
Unfortunately this has been disconintued, but you can find our current recommendations in our guide to The Best Portable / Compact PA Systems + Battery Powered PAs.
