Consider this: what captures the attention of the listeners if you’re a busker or an event organizer aside from the performance? Your sound system is the answer, so invest in the best portable PA system that meets your needs for mobility and sound coverage.
Best Portable PA System-Budget Option | Best Portable PA System-Budget Option Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
90 | 300+ |
Best Portable PA System-Under $1000 | Best Portable PA System-Under $1000 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
92 | 60+ | ||||
94 | 200+ |
Best Portable PA System-Over $1000 | Best Portable PA System-Over $1000 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
96 | 300+ | ||||
97 | 400+ |
Best Portable PA System-Battery Powered PA System | Best Portable PA System-Battery Powered PA System Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
96 | 700+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
In the world of audio, attention is the bread and butter of each performer. For any situation, whether performing in the streets or small venues, having a portable amplification that you can bring everywhere is certainly an advantage.
Portable PA systems are self-contained sound systems that you can set up anywhere there’s space to put them. They’re a combination of a mixer, power amplifier, and speaker.
Most of them are powered via wall outlet, but there are battery powered pa speaker units for untethered use. This makes them perfect for pop-up live music events and busking.
We categorized our recommendations into two main sections that separate Portable PA systems that require a wall socket and systems that run on batteries.
If you’re unsure about exactly what a ‘portable’ PA System is, that’s probably because there is no standard definition, so we have defined them in the Methodology section of this guide.
Budget Portable PA System Option
The Behringer Europort PPA500BT is a complete sound system that packs up to a portable form factor. When opened up, the unit separates into three sections: Two speakers and a central mixer module.
The system features a 5-band EQ, Feedback detection, and Bluetooth connectivity. It has 100 built-in effects, including delay, reverb, chorus, and pitch effects, all designed by Klark Teknik.
It’s easy to set up and includes Speaker Cables and a handheld dynamic microphone. Volume-wise, it’s loud enough for small venues, band practice, and small outdoor events. Its portability makes it a great choice for pop-up acoustic gigs as well.
Because of its size, it might not be the loudest sound system so for larger venues and outdoor events, you might need to up your budget.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-set-up portable PA that doesn’t require a lot of technical experience to operate, or if you’re on an extremely tight budget and need something for small events or rehearsals, the PPA500BT is a great option for the best portable sound system.
- 500W (Peak) Amplifier With Bluetooth Connectivity
- Klark Teknik Effects with 100 Presets
- Bundled with 2 x 20′ speaker cables, handheld microphone, mic cable and clip.
- Channels: 6
- Mic Preamps: 2 with 48 V Phantom Power
- Speakers: 2 (1 x 8″ LF, 1 x 1″ HF)
- EQ: 5-Band EQ with FBQ Feedback Detection
- Input: 2 x XLR, 8 x 1/4″, 2 x Stereo (RCA), 1 x 1/8″
- Output: 2 x RCA (speaker)
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 25.9″x13.9″x34.8″
- Weight: 44.7 lbs.
The Best Portable PA Systems Under $1000
When packed up, the Passport Event S2 looks like luggage. But underneath the sleek exterior is a 7-channel mixer paired with a 375W Class D amplifier that sends the signal two 8″ woofers, and two 1/2″ horn-loaded tweeters.
Aside from the volume control, all 7 channels have a 2-band EQ and Reverb. The first 4 channels have an XLR combo input for mics and instruments while Channel 5 has a 1/4″ in for instruments. Channels 6 and 7 are paired into one stereo channel with auxiliary inputs for playing music and Bluetooth capabilities for streaming audio wirelessly.
This system is good for acoustic-electric guitars and miked instruments like Saxophones and flutes.
The sub out and mono outputs add to the expandability of the system, making it great as a static setup for small venues that need a subwoofer and floor monitors.
As with all PA’s this size, bass response and volume aren’t as strong as larger, less portable PA’s. Luckily the sub out and mono out can help in that regard. Do note that the unit does not have phantom power, so condenser mics are out of the equation.
Overall, the Fender Passport Event S2 is a great value for both traveling and setting up in small venues. Being able to pair with a subwoofer makes it a simple yet versatile portable PA system for small setups.
- 375W Class D Amplifier With Bluetooth Connectivity
- Sub output with built-in filter
- Channels: 7
- Mic Preamps: 4
- Speakers: 2 (1 x 8″ LF, 1 x 1.2″ HF)
- EQ: 2-band EQ and Reverb for each channel
- Input: 4 x XLR-1/4″ combo, 1 x 1/4″, 2 x 1/4″ (L/Mono, Right), 1 x 1/8″ (aux)
- Output: 2 x 1/4″ (speaker out), 2 x 1/4″ (mono, sub), 1 x 1/8″ (headphones)
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 23″x 29″x 11″
- Weight: 44 lbs.
The Yamaha StagePas 400BT is a 400-watt powered mixer and 2 passive speaker set that has many features that make live performance convenient.
Where most other brands top at just reinforcing sound, the 400BT adds peace of mind with a One-Button intelligent feedback suppression, keeping unwanted sounds at a minimum.
8 Channels and 4 Mic Preamps round out the capabilities of this all-in-one system, making it capable of using condenser mics.
For the price, the StagePas 400BT is feature-packed, making it great value for people just starting out with sound reinforcement or those who want a mobile setup without the need for other outboard gear. The feedback suppression is great for those not trained in sound system calibration.
Despite all the features, the equalization options are limited.
If you want a competitively priced sound system with a great set of speakers and enough inputs for multiple performers, the Yamaha StagePas 400BT is a good pick.
- 400 watt Powered mixer with 2 passive speakers
- 1-Knob Master EQ; 2-band EQ on each channel
- One Button Intelligent Feedback Suppression
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Channels: 8
- Mic Preamps: 4 – 2 with +48v Phantom Power
- Speakers: 2 (1 x 8″ LF, 1 x 1″ HF)
- EQ: 2-band Channel EQ, 1-Knob Master EQ
- Input: 2 x XLR, 1 x XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line), 1 x XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line/Hi-Z), 4 x 1/4″ TS (dual stereo), 1 x Dual RCA Stereo
- Output: 2 x 1/4″ (speaker), 2 x 1/4″ (monitor), 1 x 1/4″ (subwoofer)
- Frequency Response: 40Hz-20khz (-3 dB)
- Speaker Dimensions (HxWxD): 18.58″ x 11.37″ x 10.82″
- Mixer Dimensions (HxWxD): 7.08″ x 12.12″ x 4.56″
- Weight: 40.34 lbs. (total), 16.97 lbs. (2 x speaker), 6.36 lbs. (mixer)
The Best Portable PA Systems Over $1000
The Electro-Voice Evolve 30M is a portable Line Array style speaker setup with 6 2.8″ HF drivers in tandem with a 10″ woofer.
This speaker setup allows the Evolve 30m 120º of horizontal coverage and 40º of vertical coverage. Perfect for small to medium venues.
The collapsible design makes the speaker easy to set up and tear down for pop-up events and impromptu gatherings.
The volume and coverage the Evolve 30m provides is surprising given its form factor. It has the volume you’d expect from larger speakers. Having the same volume and coverage as larger speakers, in a more portable format is one of the Evolve 30M’s best points.
Because of the form factor though, proper positioning is needed to maximize the throw of the audio. It’s easily misplaced in areas that may hamper the dispersion of the speakers. Another caveat is that it needs the app to have access to all its features.
The Electro-Voice Evolve 30M checks the right boxes for volume, coverage and portability. Get it if you want great sound dispersion, with crisp and clear sound in a compact line-array package.
- 500W LF + 500W HF Power (1000W total bi-amplified)
- Channels: 8
- Preamps: 2
- Speakers: 6 x 2.8″ HF Drivers, 1 x 10″ woofer
- EQ: 3-band EQ
- Input: 4 x XLR-1/4″ combo, 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo (stereo), 1 x 1/4″ TRS (Hi-Z), Dual RCA Stereo, 1 x 1/8″ (aux)
- Output: 2 x XLR (mix/aux)
- Frequency Response: 45Hz to 20KHz (-10 dB)
- 15mm Plywood, Composite column, Aluminum pole
- Pole Dimensions (HxWxD): 24.4″ x 3.7″ x 6.2″
- Sub Dimensions (HxWxD): 17.6″ x 13″ x 17″
- Weight: 44 lbs.
With its almost perfect rating, the Electro-Voice Evolve 50 is currently the portable PA system to beat.
It is a 2-component system consisting of a column array and a subwoofer, with a combined power rating of 1000 watts.
The column array speaker houses eight 3.5″ neodymium drivers with 8 composite wave guides that allow for a wide 120° of horizontal coverage and 40° of asymmetrical vertical coverage, while the subwoofer houses a 12″ low-frequency driver which together with the column array produces up to 127dB of maximum output (SPL).
It has 2 combo XLR line/mic inputs and an aux input, all three having dedicated volume knobs. It also has built-in DSP (digital sound processing) capabilities, which include 4 factory presets (Music, Live, Speech, and Club), 5 user programmable presets, a 3-band EQ, and Bluetooth compatibility.
It can be astounding how a column array speaker can sound great and be loud. The Evolve 50 embodies characteristics of large festival speakers like line arrays in a size that fits nearly any room. It is put to good use in various situations, from band rehearsal to DJ Setup events, to conferences, to coaching and training and more. This flexibility coupled with ease of use make this a great all-around portable PA system.
Like full line array systems, the speakers can be very directional so optimum placement for dispersion is always recommended.
There’s a reason why the Electro-Voice Evolve 50 is the top-rated portable PA system: it scales down festival-level line array systems and tech and makes it work for small to medium venues. Be sure to check it out.
- 1000W Class D Amplifier
- Channels: 3
- Preamps: 2
- Speakers: 8 x 3.5″ HF Drivers, 12″ x LF Driver
- EQ: 3-Band EQ
- Input: 2 x XLR-1/4″ Combo (Mic/Line), 1 x 1/8″ (Aux in), 1 x Dual RCA Stereo (Aux in)
- Output: 1 x XLR (Mix out), 1 x XLR (Thru)
- Frequency Response: 43Hz-20kHz
- 15mm plywood, Composiite, Aluminum Enclosure
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 20.9″x13.6″x18.5″
- Weight: 57.75 lbs.
The Best Battery Powered PA System
The Bose S1+ Pro has retained a lot of the features of its predecessor, the S1 Pro. It retains a lot of the core features of the previous one but the enhancements they’ve done here couldn’t be ignored.
In this next iteration, they’ve changed the speaker grill to a rounder form factor, making it look sleeker. It also has a much simpler profile at the back of the unit and whittled down the knobs into 1 button knob.
The one-button knob is where you control volume and the 3-band EQ. by pressing down on the button, you switch between the parameters. The knob is accompanied by an OLED display so you know what you’re controlling.
Each of the 3 channels gets an independent 3-band EQ control and reverb (except the aux with Bluetooth streaming).
For wireless control of the parameters, EQ presets, and customization, they’ve also included the Bose Music App.
Another feature of this battery PA unit is that the OLED display and the frequency response follow the speaker orientation. This ensures that you get consistent sound quality regardless if it’s horizontal on the floor, or vertically mounted.
This speaker has 150W power with 2 preamps with 2.25″ HF drivers and one 6″ LF driver. You get the same pristine sound quality that’s expected from this Bose portable PA system, albeit with less volume than their larger systems.
The Bose S1+ Pro also includes an Auto EQ and ToneMatch that help improve the overall sound. It’s a great fit for those who just want to perform right away with zero friction.
The rechargeable battery delivers about 11 hours of performance. Charing this up completely will take 5 hours max. For buskers, this enables long performances minus the anxiety of the battery running out.
You could transform this into the best portable PA system with wireless mic and line transmitter as well. S1 provides a slot where you can put both of them into the PA system The set up, takes seconds with no fuss or fiddling around with cables.
It’s worth noting that, given that this is a small PA system, it is simply not meant to be loud far distances. But the bottom line is that it’s great for a small venue gig, and everything similar.
Overall, the Bose S1+ Pro is what I would dub, “The busker’s companion.” Not only that, it’s a Bluetooth-capable PA system that works well at home, outdoors and even on Small Stages. It’s a nifty piece of equipment worth checking out.
- 150W Amplifier with Rechargeable Li-ion Battery (up to 11 hours of use)
- Battery Charge: Time: 5 Hours
- Channels: 3
- Preamps: 2 – No Phantom Power
- Speakers: 1 x 6″ LF Woofer, 3 x 2.25″ HF Drivers
- EQ: 2-Band Per Channel
- Frequency Response: 70Hz-16khz (±3 db)
- Input: 2 x XLR-1/4″ Combo, 1 x 1/4″ TRS (aux), 1 x 1/8″ (aux)
- Output: 1 x 1/4″ TRS (Line Out)
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 13.1″x9.4″x11.1″
- Weight: 14.4 lbs.
- Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth
Things To Consider When Buying a Compact PA System
Portability and Weight
For those who are planning on regularly hauling their PA system to different places, weight is an important consideration. You’ll want a portable PA system that’s as light as possible while also considering your sound quality and coverage requirements. Having sturdy yet comfortable handles are a must.
You may also consider those with built-in wheels, or you can use carts to relieve some of the carrying. Compact form factor is also important, you want one that can fit into your mode of transportation, especially when you’ll be carrying other gear like instruments, where every inch of space you can save is important. Suitcase-style PA systems score high points here, with their space-saving design.
Another often ignored but important feature to look out for is storage compartments, so you won’t have to carry cables separately. Some portable PA speakers with multiple channels can double as a PA System for more intimate events and small venues.
Power and Coverage
Portable PA systems are meant for small venues (with some exceptions), so don’t expect them to be the best portable PA systems for outdoor events. They are usually not loud enough for big stages or open-air concerts. Venue size dictates how much power your PA system really needs. You want one with enough headroom to get your sound to your audience as clearly as possible.
The PAs featured here are all capable of handling small venues, some can even cover medium size ones. Note that the higher the output power, the better the coverage, but at the cost of extra bulk and weight – so you’ll have to carefully weigh your needs to get the system that is at just the right size and power.
The size of the PA speaker system also affects coverage, and it also impacts sound quality. Most portable PA systems will have small to average-size speakers to make them easier to carry around. Don’t drive your speakers over the limit for prolonged periods of time to prevent damage and Crackling from Speakers.
Input Options
The portable PA systems that made it to our list have two or more channels available, and multiple input options. Some even have Bluetooth connectivity and wireless control for conveniently streaming music. You’ll have to assess the input ports that you need – how many mics and instruments are you using and will you play music via aux? Get one that can provide you with enough ports, or maybe go for one with more, for future expansion. On the other hand, you can get a standalone mixer to expand your input options without having to go for bigger PA speaker systems. Some digital PA systems have the ability to wirelessly connect with phones and tables, so you can remote control the settings as you move around the venue.
Built-in EQ and Effects
Those with built-in Equalizer and effects allow for more flexibility, which is useful when contouring sound to match different venues. But more is not necessarily better, especially when you are trying to cut down setup time, go for one that is practical and easy to implement – such as a portable Basic PA System. You can opt for a 3rd party effects unit if you want to have more inputs without switching to a bigger system. They are usually of better quality but add to the setup time and gear that you have to carry around.
Alternative Personal or Small PA Systems
Many Acoustic Amps and Keyboard Amps are also designed specifically to be used as small PA systems with features such as multiple input channels, effects, tone shaping, feedback detection/prevention, mic preamps and phantom power, and more. Often, these sound solutions are good enough for solo performers like singer songwriters, or even duos.
Some of these amplifiers also have a built-in DI, so you can use them for on-stage monitoring while sending a balanced signal to the front-of-house mixing desk when playing larger venues with bigger PA systems. Some have Line Outs which you can use for the same purpose, but you’ll also need a DI Box if you want to convert to a balanced signal There are those who simply look for the best powered PA speaker – these have limited features and usually only have 1 or 2 input channels and no mic preamps, but for some it’s all they need to get the job done.
Which is the Best PA System For a Band?
The more performers and instruments, the more complex the sound solutions have to be. While portable PA systems can’t handle a fully miked band, some have enough inputs to handle the needs of vocals and some instruments. Still, miking drums is out of the question, unless there is a separate mixer to provide the inputs and controls for multiple drum mics. Because they don’t need mics, electronic drum kits are ideal when your band is using portable PA systems. The Yamaha StagePas 600BT, with its 680W of power and 4 inputs, is a good choice for bands that are looking for a lightweight and portable PA system.
Note that no matter how good your portable PA system is, you won’t get a good sound if you don’t do a proper sound check.
Additional Gear Frequently Used With Portable PA Systems
Most people want to put vocals through their PA, so at a minimum, you’ll also need a microphone and cable to plug it in. If you don’t already have the extra gear you need then don’t forget to add them to your budget and buy them when or before you get your new PA. Here are some of the most common types of gear used in conjunction with portable PAs:
- Microphones – only get Dynamic Mics if your PA system doesn’t have Phantom Power; the details are explained in the live mic guide. For Condenser Mics that require external/phantom power make sure the voltage rating of your PA’s phantom power is at least as high as what the mic requires.
- XLR Microphone Cables – these are the types of cables used with handheld mics designed for music. It’s good practice to always have some spare mic cables on hand at gigs and rehearsals – good ones rarely develop problems, but it’s unprofessional to delay playing if you damage your only mic cable during transport or setting up.
- Wireless Microphones – often used in situations where performers or presenters like to roam out into the audience. Some example situations are theater restaurants, houses of worship, and anywhere you don’t want cables cluttering up your performance area.
- Mic Stands – if you need to play an instrument and sing at the same time then make sure you get a tripod base stand with a boom, otherwise straight mic stands are fine.
- Vocal Effects Pedals – in addition to the basics like Reverb, Delay Compression, and EQ, many of these effects processors also have features specifically designed for solo acts and small groups, such as harmonizers, pitch-shifting, looping, and some also have guitar inputs and associated effects. You can also get ones with handy features missing on some small PAs such as Phantom Power and Feedback Suppression.
- Speaker Stands – if you need your speakers elevated and you don’t have something to sit them on, then get purpose-built speaker stands – don’t use mic stands because they’re not designed for the weight.
Best Portable PA System Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016. The current edition was published on August 4, 2024
Since there is no standard definition of portable PA systems, we decided on a set of criteria that addresses the requirements for portability. This includes being designed to be carried by a single person and having the following minimum feature set: at least 2 input channels, a mixer, amplifier, and 2 speaker cabinets, with special exception for vertical array systems and PA systems that run on battery power.
Using these criteria, we were able to come up with a short list of 36 portable PA systems that are widely available within the USA. This includes portable sound systems from brands like QSC, Behringer, Bose, LD Systems and more.
We then gathered the latest user reviews and ratings, forum discussions, along with expert recommendations. All in all, the data gathered came from over 11,000 sources, all of which were processed via the Gearank Algorithm. Together with our years of experience, the resulting rating scores out of 100 were used to select the best portable PA systems to recommend above. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works.
I’ve worked events for most of my career ranging from pop-up acoustic shows to DIY punk shows to large concerts. For small venues, pop-ups, busking, and other events with up to 50 people, these portable PAs can provide sound reinforcement easily. Because of the nature of some of these products, I usually have to weigh in on whether I’d need power or portability as a priority. Features like effects or feedback suppression come secondary and are usually added bonuses on top of your main priority.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
I’ve worked events for most of my career ranging from pop-up acoustic shows to DIY punk shows to large concerts. For small venues, pop-ups, busking and other events up to 50 people, these portable PA’s can provide sound reinforcement easily. Because of the nature of some of these products, I usually have to weigh in whether I’d need power or portability as a priority. Features like effects or feedback suppression come secondary and are usually added bonuses on top of your main priority.
Contributors
Allen Articulo: Research, Supplemental Writing
Alexander Briones: Research, Editing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: By Gearank.com using photographs of the Electro-Voice Evolve 30M, Yamaha StagePas 400BT and Electro-Voice Evolve 50.
More Best Portable PA System – Expert Recommendations for 2024 Related Posts
Comments:
23 responses
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The following PA Systems came off the recommended list when we published the November 2022 Edition:
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Hi, how would you rate Sony SRS-XP700 for battery-powered karaoke/PA/party speaker?
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Publication of our October 2021 Edition resulted in the following systems coming off the recommended list above:
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We are looking at something to use outside for Graduations, that includes microphone and are all battery operated?
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Looking for a system with 4 wireless microphones. how does it make sound, does a speaker need to be purchased separately?
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You’ll need to buy a PA system like the ones above, that’s the part that has amplified speakers and makes sound, and a separate wireless microphone system.
A wireless mic system is comprised of wireless mics that pic up the sound and transmit it to a wireless receiver which is then plugged into a PA system.
You can see our recommendations for 4 microphone options in our Wireless Microphone System Guide.
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Our October 2020 update resulted in the follow PA systems coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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I recently purchased a Bose S1 with stand after spending time viewing many alternatives. Had I known of your Website here, my decision would have been much easier and faster. Thank you for providing this information. I am happy with my choice as it will meet my needs beautifully. I will use https://www.gearank.com from now on.
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Thank you Daniel, we really appreciate your support!
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Looking for a portable PA system for outdoor and indoor events. This would be for a local government entity. Must be easy to use. Any suggestions?
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You typically need a bit more power for outdoor events so I would go with one of the more powerful systems like the Yamaha StagePas 600BT or the Fender Passport Venue.
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Hi, could you tell me which one to go between a yamaha stagepas 400i and a samson xp800? I’m sax payer.. Thank you!
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As a result of the October 2019 update to this guide the following systems have been removed from the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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The following PA system has been removed from the recommended list above due to a lack of availability but you can still read our analysis of it: Turbosound iNSPIRE iP1000.
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Looking for a review of this system. Any thoughts? Gemini WRX 900TOGO Portable Line Array PA System rocketmandj@yahoo.com.
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After reading these reviews i went ahead and purchased the Europort MPA40BT-Pro, and I’m not seeing the “Built-in Feedback Suppression and SPX Digital Reverb” that is itemized as the 2nd bullet point- was that a mistake? Special emphasis on Reverb- Am I missing something? Thanks in advance.
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Hello KM,
I apologize for the mixup of the Europort MPA40BT-Pro features. It does not have built-in reverb, but it does support bluetooth streaming. We have updated the guide accordingly.
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As a result of our November 2017 update the following system was removed from our recommended list: Behringer EPS500MP3.
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Today we removed the following PA from our list of recommendations due to a lack of availability: Harbinger HA300
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Looking for a portable Pa with echo what would your suggestion be solo artist small venues auditorium
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All of the ones listed above under The Best Portable PA Systems, with the exception of the Bose L1 Compact, have reverb – which is what I think you mean by ‘echo’.
You mentioned auditoriums so I suggest you focus on the more powereful systems such as the Yamaha StagePas 600i or the Fender Passport Venue.
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Just curious where would the Peavey Escort would fall?
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If you mean why didn’t we include the Peavey Escort 3000 as one of the recommendations in the current version of this guide, then the answer was that it fell just below the cutoff Gearank score of 89 – it was at 87 at the time. You can view the current Peavey Escort 3000 Gearank score here.
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