Having been a gigging musician, DJ, and karaoke provider for over 25 years, I’m well aware of the stress and anxiety many face when it comes to purchasing, transporting, and using the best portable PA systems.
Endless amounts of amps blowing out on me, speakers giving up the ghost when you need them most, not to mention all the trips to the chiropractor to pop my back into its rightful place after taking a tumble with an overly large bass sub. PA systems can be a source of immense stress and anxiety for a working performer, especially in the modern climate where many venues will not have their own dedicated system ready for you to plug in and play.
Thankfully, many manufacturers have now woken up to the huge, increasingly popular need for lightweight, affordable, and powerful amplification on the move. Whether you’re a humble busker, a church preacher, a travelling duo or even a small pub landlord that wants to trial a fortnightly Karaoke Tuesday at the Fox and Badger Inn, there is a solution here for your individual circumstances within your budget.
I have personally given all of these PA speakers a thorough run-through, testing them for performance, reliability, portability, versatility, and value for money. Best of all, I didn’t require a single visit to my chiropractor.
“I’m a professional musician with 25 years’ experience within the industry as a performer, recording artist and occasional live sound engineer. More crucially, I have owned and managed my own Music Recording and Rehearsal facility in Southwest England since 2009. As such, I have great experience working with multiple different PA solutions, both in a controlled studio environment and out on the road in various-sized pubs, clubs, venues and corporate events.”
How I tested: I gave all of these PA systems a good workout across a variety of situations. The beauty of running a multi-use studio facility is that each day can be wildly different, with a kids' Birthday party one day and a death metal band rehearsing the next.
All of the systems detailed here are worthy of their inclusion and rank. There are, of course, other options available, so I would urge you to read our FAQ section, which provides crucial buying advice on what to look out for to ensure the system meets your specific needs.
Quick list
There aren't a lot of PAs on the market that we could say are fully idiot-proof, but the Stagepas 1K is undoubtedly one of them. From speaker columns that simply slot into the sub-unit with minimal effort, Yamaha's one-knob EQ, and simplified global mode control, this PA is impossible to get a bad sound out of - trust me, I've tried!
The Turbosound iNSPIRE iP500 is a 600W modular column PA system built for portable, professional sound. With an 8" subwoofer and six 2" neodymium drivers, it delivers room-filling audio in houses of worship, clubs, boardrooms, and medium-sized venues.
When it comes to game-changing PA speakers, Bose is the leading force. Known for their crisp, hi-fi style sound, clever ToneMatch technology, and world-class build quality, Bose PA systems are among the best available - and that's why the S1 Pro+ takes our top spot.
Designed for simplicity, speed, and everyday practicality, the JBL IRX ONE is ideal for presenters, instructors, small events, mobile DJs, and anyone needing quality sound without the bulk or complexity of a traditional PA setup
The LD Systems MAUI 11 G2 is a compact, column-style PA delivering 1,000W peak power, wide 120° coverage, and refined line-array clarity. Designed for solo performers, small bands, churches, and event spaces, it blends powerful output with sleek visual appeal – especially in its striking white finish.
The EV Evolve 90 is a high-powered, large-format column PA built for professionals who need huge, room-filling sound in a streamlined system. With eight 4.7" drivers and a monstrous 18" sub, it delivers deep, club-ready bass and wide 120° coverage.
Next up is an offering from the guitar amp titans, Positive Grid. Using the Spark Live as its blueprint, this highly portable PA system is designed for more than guitar players and supports vocals, keyboards, and just about any other instrument you want to put through it.
Compact yet powerful, the Electro-Voice Everse 8 delivers class-leading audio, full wireless control, and flexible connectivity options. Whether for outdoor weddings, street performances, or backyard events, it’s a grab-and-go system built to outperform typical battery PAs.
Best overall
What is it? The Yamaha Stagepas 1K MKII is a compact all-in-one PA system that combines a 12" active subwoofer with a column array of 10 1.5" drivers. Designed for solo performers, small bands, DJs and presenters, it delivers impressive volume, intuitive control, and genuine plug-and-play simplicity. It’s a modern take on portable sound reinforcement – powerful, sleek, and remarkably easy to use.
Build quality: Yamaha’s build quality shines through in a sturdy yet lightweight design that feels truly road-ready. The column pieces lock together cleanly without cables, and the included padded soft case makes transport stress-free. At full height, the tower is stable enough for regular gig use, though you’ll still want to guard it from enthusiastic partygoers. Overall, it’s solid, smartly engineered, and built with gigging musicians in mind.
Key features: A 5-channel onboard mixer with EQ, effects and shaping options forms the heart of the system, complemented by Bluetooth streaming and app-based remote control. The MKII brings improved output and refined DSP, plus useful extras like a ducker switch and footswitch compatibility for reverb. Expandability via a second Stagepas or the DXL1K adds flexibility. It’s a thoughtful feature set that balances ease of use with impressive capability.
Performance: The Stagepas 1K MKII punches far above its size, delivering a surprising 125 dB from its compact sub and slim column. Music playback is rich, room-filling and ideal for small to medium venues, though pushing past around 105 dB introduces some mid/high distortion. Vocal clarity is good, with a deeper tone tweakable via the app’s expanded EQ. Its 170° coverage creates an immersive spread that often makes stereo unnecessary.
Final verdict: The Yamaha Stagepas 1K MKII is a brilliantly convenient PA solution that blends portability, power and polish. I had the pleasure of taking it to a small pub for an impromptu acoustic duo performance, and it really was a pleasure. Right off the bat, Yamaha get major brownie points by supplying a quality soft case for the entire system, something I would urge other manufacturers to take note of. Everything packs neatly into one carrier, which takes up barely any room on my backseat. With everything set up within minutes, I could take my time fine-tuning the mics and guitars using the free App on my smartphone, something that is quite fundamental to getting the most out of this system.
The Yamaha is generally hard to beat for what it does, providing crisp, clear and small pub-size room-filling sound whilst taking up a tiny footprint. For an acoustic duo, solo artist, child-party DJ or budding Karaoke compere, this device really does tick all the boxes. I would urge you to be mindful not to place microphones too close to the speakers, as feedback can be an issue at high volumes due to the wide 170° coverage of the line-array speakers. The 12” sub really slams when streaming music through the Yamaha, with the 10 small array speakers delivering a rich and powerful sonic assault, topping out at a frankly ridiculous 125db.
Yamaha has built a smart, well-presented and powerful portable PA system. If only this had a battery-powered option. Perhaps something for Yamaha to consider in future?
Best on a budget
What is it? The Turbosound iNSPIRE iP500 is a 600W modular column PA system built for portable, professional sound. With an 8" subwoofer and six 2" neodymium drivers, it delivers room-filling audio in houses of worship, clubs, boardrooms, and medium-sized venues. Lightweight, Bluetooth-enabled, and DSP-powered, it offers big-system performance in a compact, plug-and-play package.
Build quality: The iP500 is built for the road, featuring a tough plastic enclosure, protective steel grilles, and a precision-lock aluminium array that removes the need for stands or cables. The modular design packs down easily, and the included shoulder bag makes transporting two columns effortless. It’s robust, cleanly engineered, and clearly designed to withstand frequent gigging and setup cycles.
Key features: This system boasts Klark Teknik 24-bit DSP, Spatial Sound technology, a Class D amplifier, Bluetooth streaming, and full iPhone/iPad remote control. Its digital mixer includes combo XLR/jack inputs, onboard reverb, intuitive single-knob navigation, and clear LCD feedback. Custom-designed drivers ensure wide dispersion, while presets and smart filtering make it easy for any user to achieve consistent, polished sound.
Performance: The iP500 delivers rich, detailed audio with excellent horizontal coverage up to 100° – ideal for evenly filling medium-sized rooms. Its DSP constantly optimises EQ, dynamics, and crossover settings for clear, balanced sound, while the Class D amp provides ample clean headroom. Expect tight lows, smooth highs, and reliable output that holds strong all night without overheating.
Final Verdict: As much as I love the Stagepas 1K MKII from Yamaha, the hefty price tag cannot be ignored. Thankfully, Turbosound may have provided a solution for the more budget-conscious among us. The iP500 manages to squeeze out an impressive 118 dB of sound whilst maintaining a pleasingly rich, room-filling soundscape. The 100° dispersion from the tiny 2” drivers in the top line array unit will easily ensure that Granny and Grandad can still hear you from their seats by the toilets.
Of course, the low price tag comes with some drawbacks. I’m limited to just two combo XLR/Jack inputs on the unit. The addition of an external mini mixer would easily overcome these difficulties, though. What was a nice surprise was to discover that they have included a protective cover for the system as standard, an addition that many more expensive manufacturers overlook.
The build feels solid and tactile, and at a smidge over 15kg, the iP500 is a great option for solo artists, duos and children’s party DJs who don’t require ear-bursting levels of volume.
Best Lightweight
What is it? The Bose S1 Pro+ is a compact, battery-powered all-in-one PA system designed for performers, presenters, and anyone needing big sound in a tiny, ultra-portable package. Building on the original S1 Pro, it adds smarter controls, improved portability, and optional wireless connectivity – making it ideal for buskers, small gigs, and even high-quality Bluetooth playback at parties or events.
Build quality: Bose has refined the S1 Pro+ with a lighter, more ergonomic design that still feels tough and gig-ready. The rounded housing, bright auto-orienting OLED display, and intuitive multi-function knobs show thoughtful engineering. Multiple positioning options and a sturdy inset handle boost practicality. The only letdown is the lack of an included carry bag, though third-party cases are readily available.
Key features: Highlights include an 11-hour battery, two combo inputs, Bluetooth streaming, USB audio, and compatibility with the Bose Music App for deep EQ and vocal presets. The standout upgrade is support for two optional wireless transmitters for mics and instruments, which store neatly in the back of the unit, creating a fully cable-free setup. Smart utilities like auto-orienting displays and flexible positioning make it impressively versatile.
Performance: Despite its 6.5 kg footprint, the S1 Pro+ delivers rich, punchy, surprisingly loud sound that easily fills a small venue or outdoor space. Vocals cut through cleanly, acoustic instruments stay vibrant, and the system remains clear even when pushed. Feedback is minimal with sensible placement. As both a PA and a premium Bluetooth speaker, it excels – making it a strong choice for performers, parties, weddings, and mobile entertainers alike.
Final Verdict: Bose has always been able to present their products in a slightly different and aesthetically pleasing way. With the S1 Pro +, however, they went above and beyond by including a built-in charging and storage area for two wireless transmitters. Annoyingly, these need to be bought separately, which significantly pushes up the price of this system if you want to get the most out of the capabilities. But what we have here is a fantastic-sounding and super lightweight system ideal for buskers and solo performers.
With two dedicated instrument channels, plus TRS, Aux and Bluetooth, you can let your imagination run wild with your live performances. Clearly, this hasn’t been made with full-blown gigs in mind; the battery operation plants this system squarely into the realm of street performers, or perhaps a harpist performing at an intimate wedding where space is limited. I’ve used this PA for a wide range of instances, including as a monitor for my son to practice his digital drum kit whilst playing along to his favourite songs being streamed directly to the speaker. I even used the Bose as a mini-Karaoke system for my youngest son and his friends at School.
A word of caution: the mic preamps are not the loudest on this unit. If you really need your vocals to sit on top of the music, you may need to consider an external preamp if you’re planning to push the volume. The sound itself though, is very decent. The long battery life should prove invaluable if you’re unable to get near a mains power point.
Best for small venues
What is it? The JBL IRX ONE is a highly portable all-in-one column PA system featuring an 8" subwoofer and six 2" tweeters arranged in a C-shaped array for wide, room-filling coverage. Designed for simplicity, speed, and everyday practicality, it’s ideal for presenters, instructors, small events, mobile DJs, and anyone needing quality sound without the bulk or complexity of a traditional PA setup.
Build quality: JBL has crafted a sleek, lightweight system that packs neatly into itself for effortless transport. At just 15.5 kg, it’s built with portability front and centre, supported by an ergonomic handle that doubles as an access flap. The internal storage, sturdy construction, and clean design make it feel polished and dependable. Setup is impressively quick – one of the fastest in its class.
Key features: The IRX ONE includes a simple 3-channel mixer with mic/line inputs, Bluetooth audio (effectively a fourth channel), global EQ, ducker, feedback suppression, and basic tone controls per channel. Its C-shaped array offers wide 160° dispersion, and additional spacers adjust height as needed. While it lacks built-in effects and fine channel shaping, the straightforward design keeps it light, streamlined, and easy to use.
Performance: This compact system delivers surprisingly big, warm sound with a broad 160° spread and a maximum output of 118 dB. Bass is punchy, highs are clear, and music playback remains clean even when pushed. AFS feedback suppression is impressively effective, and Bluetooth audio sounds excellent. Though limited in detailed EQ and onboard effects, the IRX ONE performs brilliantly for presentations, acoustic sets, fitness classes, school events, and mobile gigs.
Final verdict: I’m a fan of how JBL present their products. The design and ergonomics of the IRX ONE is simple and effortlessly portable. This system lacks some of the options of the Yamaha Stagepas 1k MKII, but it gives it a run for the money in the sound stakes. I had the system fully cranked up in a medium-sized hall, and the output was seriously impressive. Lovely, rounded bass and great sonic separation throughout the frequencies. For a solo, duo or even perhaps a bingo caller, the IRX ONE would easily give you enough headroom to get your message across.
We are lacking any kind of effects and fine detailing on the separate channels, which sadly are limited to 3, with only 2 of them accepting the combo XLR/Jack. However, as is the case with all of these portable solutions, you could always boost the versatility by bringing a small portable mixer. I own a couple of small Mackie 8-channel mixers, which I use for small gigs, and they would work perfectly with the JBL, without adding too much weight for me to carry on my own.
All of this aside, the IRX ONE remains a very good choice for small gigs. Feedback rejection is decent, and you’ll be thankful for the ease of assembly when you’re packing down after your show at 11:30pm.
Best for medium venues
What is it? The LD Systems MAUI 11 G2 is a compact, column-style PA delivering 1,000W peak power, wide 120° coverage, and refined line-array clarity. Designed for solo performers, small bands, churches, and event spaces, it blends powerful output with sleek visual appeal – especially in its striking white finish. Ideal for users needing big-room presence from a slim, modern, plug-and-play system.
Build quality: Tall, elegant, and reassuringly solid, the MAUI 11 G2 features a robust plywood sub, aluminium column sections, steel alignment pins, and reliable multi-pin connectors. Though not the lightest at 24.9 kg, it feels engineered for real-world gigging with excellent stability and well-protected components. Its clean aesthetic – particularly in white – helps it blend beautifully into venues without drawing unwanted attention.
Key features: The system packs Class-D amplification (500W RMS), DynX DSP with multiband limiting, three 6.5" woofers, eight 3" mids, dual 1" compression drivers, and a four-channel onboard mixer. Bluetooth audio, mono/stereo linking, and a 120° x 20° dispersion pattern add versatility. While there are no built-in effects or channel EQ, you can easily expand capabilities using an external mixer.
Performance: The MAUI 11 G2 delivers detailed mids, tight bass, and an impressive 124 dB peak output. Its wide horizontal spread creates a natural, near-stereo feel, and feedback rejection is outstanding—ideal for live vocals and spoken word. Music playback is balanced and musical, staying clean even at high volumes. It’s a capable system for pubs, small halls, worship spaces, and acoustic-led ensembles.
Final verdict: A stylish, great-sounding compact line-array, the MAUI 11 G2 hits a sweet spot between power, clarity, and price. Lack of built-in effects is its biggest limitation, and the weight makes it less grab-and-go than lighter rivals. But its audio quality, coverage, and aesthetic appeal – especially the white model – make it a standout choice for performers and venues wanting premium sound without a premium footprint.
I spotted the MAUI being used at my local church at a Remembrance Day event. The reason I clocked it straight away was the version they had came in a lovely shade of white. This may seem like a superfluous observation, but it’s surprising how effective this made the MAUI 11 G2 blend into the immediate environment. The church had the system placed discreetly to the side of the altar, and they were running both a wireless lavalier microphone and hymnal music through it. The wide 120° dispersion of the sound made it feel like the music was being projected in stereo.
It’s not the lightest of options on display today, but it’s an impressive-looking thing at just over 2 metres tall. Packing a punch at 1,000 watts, the LD really is a system that can stand tall and deliver excellent volume and performance. If you were to double the system up, this would easily be appropriate for a full band for a room up to 100 people.
The feedback rejection is excellent. The church minister frequently walked and talked directly in front of the top speakers without a peep of unwanted noise. Don’t snooze on this one, it’s a fabulous system, and in my humble option, the best looking around. If it were my money, I’d go for it in white, just to stand out from the crowd.
Best for large venues
What is it? The EV Evolve 90 is a high-powered, large-format column PA built for professionals who need huge, room-filling sound in a streamlined system. With eight 4.7" drivers and a monstrous 18" sub, it delivers deep, club-ready bass and wide 120° coverage. Designed for bigger gigs, DJs, bands, and production environments, it’s a premium portable solution – portable in design, if not exactly in weight.
Build quality: This is a seriously robust system. The 18" sub is solid, heavy, and engineered for high output, while the column uses advanced materials and neodymium drivers to keep things manageable. EV’s 3-2-1 assembly system makes setup quick despite the heft. With a PowerCON connection, rugged construction, and an optional transport dolly, it's clearly built for demanding professional use.
Key features: Headliners include 2000W amplification, an 18" sub reaching down to 28 Hz, FIR-processed phase alignment, Bluetooth stereo, AES/EBU digital I/O, QuickSmart Link, and app-based control. Inputs cover XLR/TRS combos, RCA, and stereo XLR. The 120° x 25° coverage pattern and laminar-flow venting ensure clean, consistent output. It’s a fully featured system geared toward large events and modern workflow flexibility.
Performance: The Evolve 90 delivers huge, enveloping sound with thunderous low end and an impressive 134 dB max SPL. The 18" sub is the star – tight, deep, and effortlessly powerful – making dance music and full-band mixes shine. Clarity is excellent, though the midrange can feel slightly recessed. With two units, it becomes a true venue-level powerhouse. It’s overkill for small rooms but spectacular for big, lively crowds.
Final verdict: The elephant in the room regarding the Evolve 90 must be addressed immediately. Can this really be classed as a ‘portable’ PA system, given that it weighs almost 45kg? I’m willing to let this one slide on this occasion, but there is a caveat. I wouldn’t recommend that one person carry the sub on their own, unless they use the ‘dolly’, which is available separately for around £160. This is an 18” sub we’re talking about here, this is no joke! What you get is an incredibly powerful PA system which can genuinely bring the party to almost any space.
I have seen pub bands using a pair of these systems to great effect, delivering fantastic punch and crystal-clear sound. It does need to be said, though, using an identical pair of the Evolve 90 systems brings the total price up to a staggering £6k. At that price point, you need to question whether a portable system is really the best option for you. This is far from the smallest and lightest systems on the market, and there is a wealth of active PA speakers available that would serve a large venue just as well, and, crucially, leave a fair chunk of dosh in your wallet afterwards.
If you want massive output, premium sound, and a stylish column-array aesthetic, the Evolve 90 is a show-stopping choice. But it’s heavy, expensive, and only “portable” with help – or a dolly. For pros who prioritise impact over minimalism, it’s a thrilling system that can transform a space. For everyone else, the price and weight may steer you toward lighter, more cost-effective alternatives.
Best for busking
What is it? The Positive Grid Spark Edge is an ultra-portable 4-channel smart amp/PA hybrid designed for buskers, solo performers, and mobile creators. Powered by 65 watts, onboard effects, modelling, looping, and Bluetooth control, it packs a huge sonic toolbox into a tiny, one-hand-carry unit. Think of it as a modern busker’s Swiss-army PA – part amp, part mixer, part multi-FX, all in one.
Build quality: Despite weighing just 6.2 kg, the Spark Edge feels rugged and gig-ready. Its hard plastic grille, angled base, strong top handle, and reinforced shell are clearly designed for street use and daily transport. The slightly flared chassis gives it stability, and it shrugs off van rides and public-transport bumps. It’s light, sturdy, and practical – exactly what a roaming performer needs.
Key features: The Edge offers four input channels, onboard effects, modelling, Bluetooth audio, MIDI, USB-C, dual line outs, and plenty of EQ shaping. The Spark app unlocks deep editing, AI tone creation, looping, and hundreds of amp/pedal combinations. With presets for vocals, guitar, bass, and acoustic instruments, plus an optional long-lasting battery, it delivers impressive versatility in a tight, busker-friendly footprint.
Performance: For its size, the Spark Edge is pleasingly loud and full, delivering clean, punchy sound for acoustic guitars, vocals, digital pianos, and electric tones. It shines at sensible volumes, producing a balanced, mix-friendly output – but push it too hard and clarity gives way to fuzz. It’s not Bose-level pristine, but for street use it’s responsive, musical, and flexible enough to handle a wide range of instruments with ease.
Final verdict: If you’ve been shopping on the high street recently, chances are you would have seen a busker using one of these. There’s good reason why the Spark Edge has become the go-to solution for solo guitarists, violinists, singers and street preachers. This is so much more than a portable PA system, offering amp modelling, looping, effects and fine detailing to everything from guitars, keys, vocals and indeed whatever and wherever your imagination takes you. With great battery life and weighing a measly 6.2kg, you can sling your instrument over one shoulder and tuck this under your arm with ease.
Of course, at such a reasonable price and small footprint, there are numerous sacrifices to be expected with the Spark Edge. You will not achieve the grandest tones and all-encompassing soundscapes, and for vocals, it does lack the richness that can be achieved by something like the Bose S1 Pro +. But of all the portable, battery-powered devices I’ve used, the Spark Edge is the clear winner for solo instrumentalists who specifically want to ply their trade on the streets.
Within moments of plugging in your guitar and having a play, you’ll realise how well Positive Grid have identified the needs of the street performer and streamlined everything to help you get the sound you want as quickly as possible. Keep the volume at a sensible level, and everything behaves as you’d want it. Pushing the levels will see you struggling to maintain a clean signal, and things will rapidly descend into a fuzzy fog of noise. If you’re after a more impressive clarity and projection, and can afford the extra cost, consider the Electro-Voice Everse 8.
Treat the Spark Edge tenderly, get yourself a sweet preset, and you’ll be raking in the pound coins before you can say ‘this next one’s by Ed Sheeran’.
Best Battery-Powered
What is it? The Electro-Voice Everse 8 is a premium battery-powered, weather-ready portable PA designed for musicians, DJs, instructors, and event hosts who need pro-level sound without cables. Compact yet powerful, it delivers class-leading audio, full wireless control, and flexible connectivity options. Whether for outdoor weddings, street performances, or backyard events, it’s a grab-and-go system built to outperform typical battery PAs.
Build quality: Rugged, lightweight, and weatherised to IP43, the Everse 8 feels every bit the professional tool. Its tough polypropylene shell, soft-touch handle, slip-resistant feet, and optional weather cover inspire confidence indoors or outdoors. Thoughtful design features – like removable battery access and multiple mounting angles – make it practical, durable, and gig-proof. It’s built to survive real-world use while still being easy to carry.
Key features: Highlights include a 400 W Class-D amp, 121 dB max SPL, full-bandwidth 8" + titanium tweeter system, a four-channel digital mixer with effects, Bluetooth streaming, QuickSmart app control, 48 V phantom power, feedback suppression, and true wireless stereo. Add USB and 12 V DC outputs for powering devices, plus multiple mounting positions. It’s a genuinely all-in-one PA with pro features normally reserved for bigger systems.
Performance: The Everse 8 delivers rich, room-filling sound with impressive clarity and throw – particularly outdoors, where many portable PAs fall short. Its tone stays clean even at high volumes, outperforming smaller units like the Spark Edge, which can break up when pushed. With tight low end, smooth highs, and consistent 100° x 100° coverage, it’s equally strong for vocals, acoustic instruments, and playback.
Final verdict: Electro-Voice has nailed the brief: a lightweight, weather-resistant, battery-powered PA with true pro-audio performance. It sounds big, behaves impeccably at volume, and offers features usually found in far larger (and pricier) systems. The addition of both USB and DC Power outputs makes charging your devices and items such as wireless transmitters and receivers a breeze. With excellent battery life, flexible I/O, and rock-solid projection, the Everse 8 is arguably the best all-round portable Battery-Powered PA at its price. For outdoor performers and mobile events, it’s a standout winner.
How to choose the best portable PA system for you
It’s important to understand where these modern, lightweight, portable solutions stand within the existing PA System Market. If we look at what a traditional-looking PA System comprises, it is generally the following:
1. A pair of passive or active (powered) full-range loudspeakers.
2. A mixer with enough channels for all your microphones, instruments, etc
3. An amplifier (assuming the speakers are passive)
4. One or two bass subwoofers (optional).
Is it better to hire or buy a PA system? We weigh up the pros and cons of purchasing vs renting.
The above, depending on the size and power of the PA system, would generally be suitable for a full band in small to medium-sized venues. There’s no two ways about it, it’s a lot of stuff to transport to and from the gig. But not all musical groups, artists or performers need all that power and options. For speakers, solo artists, instrumentalists and even children’s DJs, something much less cumbersome is what the doctor ordered. Portable PA Systems have been designed to provide a lightweight alternative, reducing the set-up time whilst also taking up less room onstage.
For the sake of clarity, I will state now that I do not believe that any of the systems in this buyer’s guide are suitable for a loud rock band, with the exception of the EV Evolve 90. But even in the case of that system, you would need two of them to get an effective audio experience, and by the time you’ve spent almost £6K on all of that, you’re no longer dealing with a system that is truly portable or cost-effective for the purpose. For a loud rock band playing the pub circuit, I would always recommend a pair of 15” full-range active speakers on stands with an appropriate mixer. A separate sub or two is a nice optional extra, but by no means crucial unless you’re a thrash metal band that requires chest-pulverising kick drums to be heard and felt above all else.
So it’s very important that you think carefully about what you need it to do. If you purely need this for a loud-speaking engagement, you probably will not need much in the way of inputs, and equally, if it’s for a small venue, it doesn’t need to be ridiculously powerful. However, if you’re providing the DJ music for a big party in a medium-sized venue, you’re going to need something with a deep sub bass enclosure to really get that party started.
FAQs
How many channels and effects will I need?
This is probably the most important thing to consider when purchasing one of these systems. If you are an acoustic band consisting of 2 vocals, 1 acoustic and 1 keys player, you’re going to need at least 4 channels. Ideally, 2 of those should be a combo XLR/Jack input for your microphones, with the other 2 capable of taking instrument inputs.
Just as importantly, will you need the ability to add effects to your mix? Most of the time, I would suggest that everyone will require at least some basic effects and fine-tuning capabilities such as reverbs, delays, duckers and EQ. You may be surprised to learn that many of these Portable systems do not come with effects, so please pay close attention to this when browsing.
Now, of course, lack of effects and channels does not mean the end of the world, as you could always use your own external mixer and plug that directly into the system. Indeed, I have witnessed several DJs doing exactly that when using the incredibly powerful EV system. They were in need of a number of live Microphones, two record decks, twin CDJs and other assorted channels; therefore, they simply brought their own Mackie or Behringer desks with them. This is a perfectly good solution; however, it obviously means you’ll be carrying more things. If your eyes are on the prize of keeping size and weight down to an absolute minimum, then please do your research and ensure the channels provided give you ample options for the future.
Do I need battery or mains power?
You’ll notice that the Portable PA market is almost split into two distinct groups. Systems such as the Yamaha Stagepas 1K MKII and the Turbosound iP500 600W are all mains powered, which means the only way you’d be able to take this outside would be to bring your own power generator or to run a long extension from a building. This is where the battery-powered likes of the Positive Grid Spark Edge and the Bose S1 Pro + do a great job of providing truly wireless amplification. Do bear in mind, though, that reports on battery life can be varied, and you should always plan on the worst-case scenario and consider additional batteries should you be in a fee-paying gig situation. The bride will not be happy if she has paid you to do flamenco guitar whilst she walks down the aisle, only for your battery to die.
For battery-powered solutions, I would recommend considering systems which allow for quick battery swaps to give you peace of mind in high-stakes situations. Clearly, mains-powered systems are always going to give you the sonic advantage over their battery rivals. Of late, I have witnessed more buskers using the column systems whilst using a Portable Power Station such as the Jackery. This could be something to consider, as this would essentially give you the best of both worlds, high output and true wirelessness.
Lastly, for our busker friends out there. Please keep in mind that not all of these systems are water/weather proof. If you plan on taking these to the streets, do your research and buy the appropriate covers for your PA system. Water and electricity do not mix well!
How powerful does my PA need to be?
One last word on the subject of power. Please don’t get dazzled by the number of watts that something boasts that it has. What really matters is the quality of the signal and the decibel level of the sound. Listen to what the buyers and reviewers are telling you about the sound capabilities. Watts really don’t mean much at all in the grand scheme of portable PA systems.
The Bose S1 Pro + system, for example, advertises a mere 108 W of power, but for a small pub or even a luxury alternative to a home Bluetooth speaker, this thing absolutely crushes! You’ll be amazed by the amount of noise being generated from such a slight-looking thing. Whenever possible, try before you buy and most importantly, have fun!
How I tested the best portable PA systems
I was able to give all of these PA systems a good workout in a variety of different situations. The beauty of running a multi-use studio facility is that each day can be wildly different, with a kids Birthday party one day and a death metal band rehearsing the next.
I was keen to test each system out at the things they do best; for instance, the Bose S1 Pro + is perfectly suited as a mini-satellite-style speaker that can be pole-mounted and tucked away to the side at a corporate or wedding event for speech and backing music. I was able to take the Bose along to a wedding that our band were performing at a stately home setting on the outskirts of Bristol. The guests had asked us to provide the means to amplify the speeches during the wedding breakfast, as well as play gentle background music during the meal itself. It would have been overkill to ask them to use one of the band microphones through our own full-range PA system, so this was a great excuse to chuck the Bose in the back of the van. As it turned out, it worked great and meant the band could continue setting up discreetly in the main room without worrying about the formalities next door.
Some of the other non-battery systems were used in a rehearsal setting, and indeed, many of our studio clients were keen to be used as guinea pigs and practised through them at decent volumes. I found that the majority of these systems were very much suited to acoustic and/or function bands, which didn’t necessarily feature loud, thumping drums and guitars.
The smaller battery-operated systems, such as the Positive Grid and Electro-Voice offerings, which are primarily aimed at the busker market, were taken to my children’s school for their talent show evening in their main hall. The event did not call for high volumes; indeed, when it comes to young ears, it’s crucial that levels are kept to a minimum. So, this was an ideal event to try them out on vocals, backing tracks, guitars and even a digital drum kit.
When it came to the most powerful systems, such as the EV 90 and the Yamaha StagePas models, I decided these would be best suited to a couple of Hen-Party events that we had at the studio. These parties call for loud, chest-thumping volume and need to be capable of carrying a strong vocal signal over and above the backing music.
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Below, you'll find more information on the expert author of this guide.
I’m a freelance contributor at MusicRadar, and I have a passion for great music gear and writing. I am also a professional touring and recording artist and have 25 years of experience working within the music industry. I own and run a professional recording studio in Bath as well as an independent record label. As a working musician, I am always on the lookout for tech that will benefit the live and studio environment.
Recent updates
08/01/26: This guide has been completely overhauled with all-new products. We called in every unit and tested them together to see which one came out on top.
30/01/25: We have added the Positive Grid Spark Edge. This small but mighty unit scored well in our recent review, and we thought it deserved to be featured in this guide.
10/12/24: We've gone through our product selection to ensure we are happy that we are showcasing the very best portable PA speakers on the market right now.
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