The Best Portable / Compact PA Systems + Battery Powered PAs
Budget Option
Here is a budget friendly option for those who are working with limited funds.
Behringer Europort PPA200
For the price, the Behringer Europort PPA200 packs quite a lot of features in its briefcase style portable profile. Opening up the unit reveals a compact mixing console and two speakers, both having a 4" woofer and a 1" tweeter.
Speaking of mixing console, the PPA200 gives you 5-channels to work with, along with expanded input options, a configuration that'll be hard to match in this price range.
It also features a 7-band graphic EQ, built-in receiver for Behringer Ultralink ULM series wireless mics, and it comes with Klark Teknik effects.
If that's not enough, this package even ships with a handheld microphone.
Features:
- 150W Amplifier
- Channels: 5 Channels
- Preamps: 2
- Speakers: 2 x Speakers (1 x 4" LF, 1 x 1" HF)
- EQ: 7-band (Graphic)
- Input: 2 x XLR, 6 x 1/4", 1 x Stereo (RCA), Built-in Receiver for Behringer Ultralink ULM Wireless Mics
- Output: 1 x Stereo (RCA), 1 x 1/4", 1 x 1/4" (Headphones)
- Frequency Response: 40Hz-25kHz
- Polypropylene Enclosure
- Built-in KLARK TEKNIK effects processor built right in
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 13.4"x24.1"x7.3"
- Weight: 26.5 lbs.
Pros
In keeping with the brand's reputation for great value, owners of the Europort PPA200 are very happy with what they got for the money. It gets a lot of commendation for its portability, specifically noting that its briefcase style profile is sturdy enough for transport while being easy to unpack. Many are also happy with how the unit sounds, with reports of it working well in various scenarios - in personal practice, group rehearsals, small venue meetings and more.
Cons
There are some who report that it lacks bottom end, but this is more of a physical limitation given its 4" woofers.
Overall
The Behringer Europort PPA200 is easy to recommend for those who are looking for a portable budget-friendly PA system.
The Best Portable PA Systems
Here are the top rated portable PA systems currently available, with their features described along with a summary of the pros and cons as reported by experts, customers and users.
Bose L1 Compact
The Bose L1 Compact features modern Spatial Dispersion design, which utilizes a line array of six 2" HF drivers that work together to provide the resulting sound. They are supported by a single 8" LF driver that handles the lows and some of the mids.
The amplifier section is rated at 130W, with two ToneMatch capable channels that tailor the sound to work well with microphones or acoustic guitars.
Features:
- 130W Amplifier with Bose Spatial Dispersion Loudspeaker Technology
- Channels: 2 ToneMatch Channels with Presets for Microphone and Acoustic Guitar
- Preamps: 1
- Speakers: 7 (6 x 2" HF Drivers, 1 x 8" LF Driver)
- EQ: 2-Band EQ (Channel 1)
- Input: 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4", 2 x Stereo, 1 x 1/8"
- Output: 1 x 1/4", 2 x RCA
- Frequency Response: 65Hz - 14kHz (+/- 3dB)
- Polypropylene Enclosure
- Setup Positions: Collapsed and Extended
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 78"x13.25"x16.75"
- Weight: 29 lbs.
Pros
For a compact PA system, the Bose L1 Compact's sound projection continues to exceed common expectations, especially when considering its light 29 lb. weight. Reviewers mention that it is loud enough for most small bars and clubs. It also gets a lot of kudos for its sound quality from users and experts alike. Touted by retailers as the singer songwriter's choice, reviews continue to be consistently positive, with many satisfied solo performers, including guitarists, electronic musicians and DJs. There are also plenty of upvotes for its portability, with some even stating that it can be set it up in under a minute.
Cons
There are some reports of feedback issues while performing, specifically when driving the system above the halfway mark. There are also some who wish for more inputs and essential tone shaping like EQ and reverb.
Overall
If you're mostly doing solo or maybe even duo performances, and you prefer something compact and distinct, then check out the Bose L1 Compact.
Turbosound iNSPIRE iP2000 V2
Turbosound is a sister company of Behringer, producing pro audio equipment at mid to high-tier price ranges, and like Behringer, this is a brand that does not hold back on loading their products with features.
The Turbosound iNSPIRE iP2000 is a great example, a highly rated vertical array style portable PA system with a digital mixer that houses expanded DSP functions including Klark Teknik's Spatial Sound technology, Bluetooth connectivity, and more.
At the core of this PA system is 1000W Class D amplifier that drives a vertical array speaker that houses sixteen 2.75" neodymium drivers with aluminum voice coils. It also comes with a 12" low-frequency driver that handles the lower frequencies.
Other features include having a single-knob interface with LCD display, and it allows for remote operation via your iPhone or iPad.
Features:
- 1000W Amplifier
- Channels: 2
- Preamps: 2
- Speakers: (16 x 2.75" Neodymium Array Drivers, 1 x 12" LF Driver)
- EQ: Via Digital Mixer
- Input: 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4", 2 x Stereo, 1 x 1/8"
- Output: 1 x 1/4", 2 x RCA
- Frequency Response: 45Hz-20kHz
- Polypropylene Enclosure
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 31.1" x 16.5" x 19.75"
- Weight: 65 lbs.
Pros
The Turbosound iNSPIRE iP200 v2 is well loved for its sound clarity and projection. Users are simply pleased with how well it sounds and performs, being easy to setup and breakdown for transport is another important plus for many users. Satisfied owners include musicians, teachers, sound technicians and venue owners.
Cons
Some caution that the bottom end is lacking, especially when used by DJs, keyboardists and electronic musicians.
Overall
If you're looking for a feature packed portable array PA system, then do check out the Turbosound iNSPIRE iP2000 V2.
Yamaha StagePas 600BT
The Yamaha StagePas 600BT is a portable PA system meant for small-to-midsized venues, it follows after its popular predecessor, with wireless Bluetooth connectivity as an added feature.
It has four mic/line inputs with XLR jacks, with 3-band EQ control for each channel. Channels 1 and 2 come with phantom power, while channel 4 is switchable to hi-Z for use with passive-pickup equipped instruments.
Other features include extra inputs like a 1/8" stereo mini and RCA, and outputs for a monitor and subwoofer.
Features:
- 680W Amplifier with Detachable 10-Channel Mixer
- Built-in Feedback Suppression and SPX Digital Reverb
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Channels: 10
- Mic Preamps: 4 - 2 with +30 V Phantom Power
- Speakers: 2 (2 x 10" LF Drivers, 1 x 1.4" HF Drivers)
- EQ: 3-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: 40Hz-20khz (-3 dB)
- Speaker Dimensions (HxWxD): 21.45"x13.18"x12.55"
- Mixer Dimensions (HxWxD): 7.75"x13.70"x5.31"
- Weight: 56.43 lbs.
Pros
Small groups like singer songwriter and acoustic duos love the sound of the Yamaha StagePass 600BT, describing it as very clear sounding with many satisfied reports of vocals and acoustic guitars sounding nice with this system. Volume is also well appreciated, one user pointed out that he doesn't need to go over half the volume when used in small venues. It also gets a number of thumbs up for reliability and portability.
Cons
Some users feel that the power cable is shorter than they would have liked, but it's an easy fix with an extension power cable. There are also a few who report that while the speakers are easy to setup, the mixer can be tricky to mount.
Overall
With its reputation for sound quality and portability, the addition of Bluetooth streaming further establishes the Yamaha StagePass 600's prominent position in the market.
Electro-Voice Evolve 50
At publication time this was the Highest Rated Portable PA System.
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 SPL.
It has 2 combo XLR line/mic inputs and an aux input, all three having dedicated volume knobs.
Finally, it 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.
Features:
- 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.
Pros
Incredible, amazing, surprising are adjectives that nicely sum up user feedback, owners are astounded by how a column array speaker can sound great and be loud. It is put to good use in various situations, from band rehearsal, to DJ 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, and it getting the highest rating is proof of the pudding.
Cons
There are a few who note that sound projection can be a bit lacking, but that was a very small minority opinion.
Overall
There's a reason why the Electro-Voice Evolve 50 is the top rated portable PA system, be sure to check it out.
The Best Battery Powered PA Systems
These are the highest rated battery-powered PA systems on the market, along with summaries of how hands-on users feel about their quality and portability.
Behringer Europort MPA40BT-Pro
The Behringer MPA40BT-Pro is a truly mobile PA system complete with rechargeable internal battery that can allow the unit to run for up to 12 hours. This means that you can use this PA system virtually anywhere, and makes it ideal for busking, or for small outdoor shows.
This PA system follows the luggage form factor, complete with a carry handle. It houses a 40W amplifier that drives an 8" woofer and 1" tweeter, and for its small size, this unit allows for multiple input sources with its 4 channels, two mic preamps and Bluetooth connectivity.
Features:
- 40W Class D Amplifier
- Channels: 4
- Preamps: 2 - No Phantom Power
- Speakers: 1 x 8" LF Driver, 1 x 1" HF Driver)
- Runs On Rechargeable Battery or AC Power
- Bluetooth Streaming
- EQ: 2-Band EQ (Treble and Bass)
- Input: 2 x XLR Combo, 1 x Stereo (RCA)
- Enclosure: Polypropylene
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 16.6"x12.2"x9.6"
- Weight: 18.1 lbs.
Pros
Reviewers continue to give generous ratings for the Behringer MPA40BT-Pro, citing its portability and battery life as its edge. Many of the reviews are from buskers who feel that it easily surpasses their expectations - from its balanced sound to how efficient it is at using battery power. There are also some who recommend the MPA40BT-Pro for venues with little to no-power access, be it for important outdoor wedding events, or for simple personal outdoor use.
Cons
There are a few who are not too impressed with the quality of the included microphone, some of them recommend getting a better microphone to get the most out of the PA system. One user mentioned feedback issues, but he was using it for a small venue with 70 to 80 persons, and was probably driving the unit a bit more than normal operation.
Overall
While there are definitely other battery powered PA systems in the same price range, this one gets our recommendation for its high ratings due to its great balance of price, quality and battery life.
LD Systems Road Jack 10
The LD System Road Jack 10 is a portable battery powered PA system that follows the shape of a trolley bag, complete with built-in wheel and handle for easy transport.
Complementing its portable design is the ability to run on rechargeable battery pack for up to 20 hours.
At its core is a 100W peak amplifier that drives a 10" LF Driver, and a x 3" HF Driver.
It has 3 channels with dedicated volume controls, and also has adjustable reverb and 2-band EQ.
Features:
- 25W RMS / 100W Peak Class D Amplifier
- Channels: 3
- Preamps: 2 - No Phantom Power
- Speakers: 1 x 10" LF Driver, 1 x 3" HF Driver)
- Runs On Rechargeable Battery Pack or AC Power
- Frequency Response: 65Hz - 18kHz
- Bluetooth Streaming
- EQ: 2-Band EQ (Treble and Bass)
- Input: 1 x XLR, 1 x TRS, 1 x RCA Stereo Pair
- Enclosure: 15mm MDF
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 20.7" x 16.3" x 12.9"
- Weight: 35.7 lbs.
Pros
Portability and value for money are the top two reasons why users are pleased with the LD Systems Road Jack 10. Owners are satisfied with its sound, but they are more impressed with how it works nicely as an outdoor PA system, be it small gatherings or musical jamming.
Cons
There are a few reports of Bluetooth related issues, while some aren't too impressed with its battery life.
Overall
If you're looking for a true outdoor-capable portable PA system, then check out the LD Systems Road Jack 10.
Bose S1 Pro
At publication time this was the Highest Rated Battery Powered Portable PA System.
The S1 Pro gives you Bose quality sounds in a compact 15-pound form factor with built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery.
It has a 30W amplifier with 2 preamps that drive multiple speakers within the cabinet which include three 2.25" HF drivers and one 6" LF driver, all working together to give the sound quality that you expect from Bose, albeit with less volume than their larger systems.
It comes with Auto EQ and ToneMatch that helps improve the overall sound be it for vocals or instruments.
Other features include independent EQ and reverb for the two channels and a third channel dedicated for Aux input with Bluetooth streaming.
Finally, its distinct speaker cabinet is designed to work in any position, be it mounted, tilted or seated.
Features:
- 150W Amplifier with Rechargeable Li-ion Battery (up to 11 hours of use)
- 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 1/8" (aux)
- Output: 1 x 1/4" TRS (Line Out)
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 13.1"x9.4"x11.1"
- Weight: 15.7 lbs.
Pros
Coming from Bose, sound quality is a given, and this is attested to in many user reports. While its primary design is for outdoor use, there are reports of it working well in other situations including being a stage monitor, a supporting speaker for a medium size venue event and even a main speaker for small room settings like good old karaoke. Some even use it as a wireless multimedia speaker and are very happy with its sound. Many also report that the Bose S1 Pro is solid and reliable enough for professional gigging use.
Cons
There are a few who feel that the low end response isn't strong enough, while others complain about the highs when listening from a distance. Both these concerns are expected though, given the small profile of the speaker. It is simply not meant to be loud and to sound full at far distances.
Overall
If you're looking for an all-around Bluetooth capable PA system that works well at home, outdoors and even on stage, then check out the Bose S1 Pro.
Things To Consider When Buying a Compact PA System
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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 are storage compartments, so you won't have to carry cables separately.
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Power and Coverage
Portable PA systems are meant for small venues (with some exceptions), so don't expect them to be loud enough for big stages or open air concerts. Still, 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.
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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 for convenient wireless streaming. Again, you'll have to assess the input ports that you need, and 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 systems.
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Built-in EQ and Effects
Those with built-in EQ 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. 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.
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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. 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 also some people who simply use a 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.
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Which is the Best PA System For a Band?
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.
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Which is the Best Rechargeable PA System?
It has to be the Bose S1 Pro, with its very high Gearank rating - which translates to the market actually appreciating its overall performance. For those with budget constraints, the Behringer Europort MPA40BT-Pro is a good alternative, with high enough ratings to make it to this guide but at more reasonable price point.
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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 December, 2016 written by Alexander Briones who also wrote the latest edition which was published on October 28, 2020.
Since there is no standard definition of portable PA systems, we decided on a set of criteria that addresses 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 battery powered PA systems. Using these criteria, we were able to come up with a short list of 27 portable PA systems that are widely available within the USA. We then gathered the latest reviews and ratings, which for this edition included the most recent feedback up to mid October, 2020. All in all, the data gathered came from over 7000 sources, all of which were processed via the Gearank Algorithm. The resulting rating scores our of 100 were used to select the best portable PA systems to recommend above - divided into three categories: The Best Portable PA Systems. Best Budget Portable Pa System, and Best Battery Powered Portable PA System. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works.
Comments
Our October 2020 update
Submitted by Jason Horton on
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:
I recently purchased a Bose
Submitted by Daniel Holm (not verified) on
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 gearank.com from now on.
Thank you Daniel, we really
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Thank you Daniel, we really appreciate your support!
Looking for a portable PA
Submitted by Carri (not verified) on
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?
You typically need a bit more
Submitted by Jason Horton on
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.
Hi, could you tell me which
Submitted by Jorge Guiñez (not verified) on
Hi, could you tell me which one to go between a yamaha stagepas 400i and a samson xp800? I'm sax payer.. Thank you!
As a result of the October
Submitted by Jason Horton on
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:
The following PA system has
Submitted by Jason Horton on
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.
Looking for a review of this
Submitted by Joseph Roecklein (not verified) on
Looking for a review of this system. Any thoughts? Gemini WRX 900TOGO Portable Line Array PA System rocketmandj@yahoo.com.
After reading these reviews i
Submitted by KM (not verified) on
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.
Hello KM,
Submitted by Alexander Briones on
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.
As a result of our November
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our November 2017 update the following system was removed from our recommended list: Behringer EPS500MP3.
Today we removed the
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Today we removed the following PA from our list of recommendations due to a lack of availability: Harbinger HA300
looking for a portable Pa
Submitted by mary (not verified) on
Looking for a portable Pa with echo what would your suggestion be solo artist small venues auditorium
All of the ones listed above
Submitted by Jason Horton on
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.
Just curious where would the
Submitted by David D. (not verified) on
Just curious where would the Peavey Escort would fall?
If you mean why didn't we
Submitted by Jason Horton on
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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