PA Systems - the world would undoubtedly be a whole lot quieter without them and definitely more boring! Now, with how critical these large boxes are to live music, you'd think more musicians would take an interest in what the best PA speakers are on the market and which are suitable for their needs. Sadly, this isn't the case. Many players underestimate the importance of the humble PA speaker and end up with a system that isn't fit for purpose, and this will always lead to a bad-sounding event - and no one wants that! Luckily for you, we've put together this handy guide to help steer you in the right direction.
We've all been at arena gigs or festivals and looked up in awe at the gigantic hanging speakers above us. But, as cool as these are, they might be overkill for that intimate wedding gig you just landed. That's why we have chosen to focus purely on compact active PA speakers that would suit anyone playing in small to medium venues. This includes full bands with drums, solo artists, duos, and trios.
We've made sure that all the PA speakers in this guide are incredibly user-friendly, simple to set up, and, more importantly, easy to transport. So without further ado, let's dive into the best PA speakers on the market right now.
Quick list
First and foremost, PA speakers have to be reliable. A failing speaker could be disastrous for a gig, and not to mention lose you money! With the Yamaha DZR range, that need not be a worry, as Yamaha offers a whopping seven-year warranty on these high-tech loudspeakers.
If the thought of setting up a PA system breaks you out in a cold sweat, then the RCF EVOX system is the perfect solution for you. This all-in-one, small line array is super easy to set up and comes with a myriad of effects - and even amp modellers so you can plug your electric guitar or bass guitar directly in.
The smallest and easiest to move around of the company's L1 range, the Bose L1 Compact System combines a PA and monitors in one unit, with interlocking components that Bose that we found can be set up in minutes. The main component is a slimline array speaker that's about 2m high and features six small drivers mounted at precise angles.
For this guide, we have chosen to single out the ELX200-12P. For us, the 12" powered speaker delivers a fantastic clear and articulate sound - and is more than capable of hanging with the more expensive entries on this list. The EV also features an LCD screen for navigating through EQ presets and giving a visual meter for both input one and two.
If you're entirely new to sound reinforcement, then this is the PA for you. We found that this unit couldn't be any easier to set up. Simply insert the two spacer units into the 12" subwoofer, and top with the line array head, and that's it. Even making adjustments to the EQ and effects is also super simple - with the use of Yamaha's one-knob EQ and simplified controls.
The SRM range is, according to Mackie, the most widely-used mobile loudspeaker ever and, while the SRM450 by itself is a self-contained PA, it can also be used as part of a larger system and can have a subwoofer added, so may be a starting point for someone looking to eventually expand their facilities. We found the Mackie SRM450 to have a fairly punchy sound with plenty of low-end.
Best PA speaker overall
✅Buy if you want a dependable option: This Yamaha speaker is easily one of the most reliable on the market, and that's why it takes our top spot.
❌ Avoid if you are on a budget: Quality like this doesn't come cheap, so if you are on a tight budget, you may want to look elsewhere.
Value: ★★★★½
Reliability: ★★★★★
Sound: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★★
First and foremost, PA speakers have to be reliable. A failing speaker could be disastrous for a gig, and not to mention lose you money! With the Yamaha DZR range, that need not be a worry, as Yamaha offers a whopping seven-year warranty on these high-tech loudspeakers.
No matter the application, there is plenty of horsepower in these 2000W bi-amped speakers, and when we've used the Yamaha DZR, we certainly never thought they lacked volume. The ability to rotate the horn allows you to hang these speakers from the ceiling, mount them on speaker poles, or even use them as floor monitors. The convenient LCD screen located on the back of the unit allows you to easily adjust a wide range of DSP functions, from loading venue-specific presets to adjusting the EQ balance of the speaker. You can also save your setting on a USB drive and transfer them between speakers.
So if you're looking for one of the best PA speakers on the market and one that will stand the test of time, the Yamaha DZR12 is the perfect speaker for you.
"For me, the DZR is a powerful, versatile and deeply clever PA speaker that showcases precisely why Yamaha is at the top of their game when it comes to sound reinforcement." Read our full Yamaha DZR12-D review
Best all-in-one system
✅Buy if you want an all-in-one system: With its powerful built-in mixer, this is the ultimate all-in-one system for small bands, duos and solo performers.
❌ Avoid if you don't like apps: To get the best out of this PA system you need to use the accompanying app, so if you aren't a fan of mixing on your phone or tablet, you'll be better with a more traditional setup.
Value: ★★★★½
Reliability: ★★★★½
Sound: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★½
If the thought of setting up a PA system breaks you out in a cold sweat, then the RCF EVOX system is the perfect solution for you. This all-in-one, small line array is super easy to set up and comes with a myriad of effects - and even amp modelers so you can plug your electric guitar or bass guitar directly in.
The entire system is controlled by the highly intuitive EVOX mobile app. This app allows you to manage all the features of the in-built eight-channel digital mixer, from gain, levels, EQ, and effects. This also allows you to mix from anywhere in the room - and even from the stage if you wanted to.
In our tests, we found the RCF to be incredibly intuitive to use, very reliable and most importantly it sounds superb - it makes sense then that we would feature it in our guide to the best PA speakers.
"This clever little line array is portable, powerful and a breeze to set up, and with its intuitive 8-channel digital mixer, it's incredibly flexible, too." Read our full RCF EVOX JMIX8 review
Best for solo performers
✅Buy if you are a solo performer: The Bose L1 Compact comes into its own as a system for acoustic singer-songwriter-style gigs. The sound is even, warm and ideal for smaller spaces.
❌ Avoid if you need battery power: Unfortunately, the L1 Compact can't be battery operated, so if you are playing outside where there is no power, you'll need to try a different option.
Value: ★★★★½
Reliability: ★★★★½
Sound: ★★★★½
Overall: ★★★★½
The smallest and easiest to move around of the company's L1 range, the Bose L1 Compact System combines a PA and monitors in one unit, with interlocking components that Bose that we found can be set up in minutes.
The main component is a slimline array speaker that's about 2m high and features six small drivers mounted at precise angles. This is placed vertically and slotted into a power stand with an integrated bass speaker.
The advantage of a line array is that it dispersesThe Bose L1 Compact System is the smallest and easiest model to move within the company's L1 range. It combines a PA system and monitors into one unit, featuring interlocking components that can be set up in just a few minutes.
The main component is a slim line array speaker that stands approximately 2 meters tall and includes six small drivers positioned at precise angles. This speaker is placed vertically and slots into a power stand that has an integrated bass speaker.
One of the standout advantages of using a line array system like the Bose L1 Compact is its capacity for uniform sound distribution. By dispersing sound spatially, it fills the entire room with clarity and volume while reducing the potential for feedback. This feature is particularly beneficial for live performances, allowing musicians to move freely on stage without worrying about hot spots or dead zones in the sound coverage. Overall, the Bose L1 Compact System is designed to provide exceptional audio performance in a user-friendly and portable design. sound spatially, not only to fill the whole room for the audience but also onstage for monitoring.
Reasonably priced option
✅Buy if you are looking for quality at a reasonable price: For us, the EV ELX200-12P is a very well-made speaker that is designed to last.
❌ Avoid if you need built-in effects: Unfortunately, if you require effects, you'll need to purchase a mixer as this speaker does not have any built-in.
Value: ★★★★½
Reliability: ★★★★☆
Sound: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★☆
Electro-Voice has been in the live sound game for over 90 years, so it's safe to say they know a fair amount about sound reinforcement. Famed for their high-quality and reasonably priced speakers and microphones, EV sure makes some of the best PA speaker systems on the market.
For this guide, we have chosen to single out the ELX200-12P. For us, the 12" powered speaker delivers a fantastic clear and articulate sound - and is more than capable of hanging with the more expensive entries on this list.
Like the Yamaha DZR, the EV also features an LCD screen for navigating through EQ presets and giving a visual meter for both input one and two. This can also be accessed through the EV QuickSmart mobile app.
Best personal line array
✅Buy if you are new to PA: The Stagepas 1K is one of the easiest PA systems on the market to set up and is ideal for newbies.
❌ Avoid if you need a system for a large band: We love this system, but it is too small for most bands. You could use two, but we'd recommend going to a completely different system as you'll save money in the long run.
Value: ★★★★½
Reliability: ★★★★★
Sound: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★½
Now, some of you may be familiar with Yamaha's previous Stagepas system. The ultra-portable PA was incredibly popular with solo performers and duos and this new system builds on that legacy and turns it into a personal line array system.
If you're entirely new to sound reinforcement, then this is the PA for you. We found that this unit couldn't be any easier to set up. Simply insert the two spacer units into the 12" subwoofer, and top with the line array head, and that's it. Even making adjustments to the EQ and effects is also super simple - with the use of Yamaha's one-knob EQ and simplified controls.
Although we feel the Stagepas 1K is a little small for full band setups, this sleek and well-built PA is perfect for singer-songwriters, duos, or even spoken word applications such as speeches, schools, or worship.
"This portable system proves that great things can come in small packages. If your priorities are minimising space, weight and fuss, then you should seriously consider the Yamaha Stagepas system." Read our full Yamaha Stagepas 1K MKII review
Best workhorse speaker
✅Buy if you want power on a budget: The SRM 450 is a classic speaker that offers a reliable amount of power for not a lot of cash.
❌ Avoid if you want something more modern: The Mackie SRM 450 has been around a long time and isn't the most up-to-date in terms of features.
Value: ★★★★★
Reliability: ★★★★★
Sound: ★★★★☆
Overall: ★★★★½
The SRM range is, according to Mackie, the most widely-used mobile loudspeaker ever and, while the SRM450 by itself is a self-contained PA, it can also be used as part of a larger system and can have a subwoofer added, so may be a starting point for someone looking to eventually expand their facilities.
There are two channels, so you can comfortably have two vocals or a vocal and instrument. Channel 2 also has connections for a music player. Onboard DSP provides voicings for PA, DJ, Monitor, and Soloist with various bass roll-offs and mid-cuts, but there is no other EQ.
We found the Mackie SRM450 to have a fairly punchy sound with plenty of low-end - even though it can lack a little high-end definition - and a pair would provide plenty of volume for most situations.
Also consider
So those are our top picks, but there are many more great options to choose from that offer something a little different in terms of features and performance. We've selected some more of our favourites below.
FAQs
Choosing the right PA can seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. If you follow this simple advice, you should be able to quickly find the best PA system for your situation.
How many inputs do I need on a PA speaker?
First of all, think about how many instruments will be running through the PA – unlike at large concerts, you're unlikely to be amplifying every instrument on the stage. You'll most likely need enough inputs for the vocals, acoustic guitars, bass, and maybe a keyboard. If you do want to play everything through your system, then you'll need to consider purchasing a mixing console.
Look at the total number of XLR mic inputs and any instrument and line inputs and see if it's going to provide everything you need in the immediate future, but also for any projects you might get involved in down the line. Some even come with built-in Bluetooth, which is very handy if you want to stream music throughout the gig.
What wattage does my PA need to be?
Well, there's no hard and fast rule for how powerful your PA system needs to be. Think about the size of venues you'll be playing regularly (and don't forget your rehearsal space) and consider the rated power output. There are so many variables that will change how loud a speaker will appear. The room size, indoors or outdoors, and the number of audience members, all affect how a speaker performs. So check the manufacturer's guidelines for a rough place to start.
How easy is a PA to move around?
Suppose you're a solo artist, a busker, or just prefer the easy life. In that case, portability may be a significant factor to consider. All of the systems on this list are easily transported, some more so than others. If you want to minimise the amount of gear you're carrying around, then it's worth checking out an all-in-one system. Some of these even fold down into an easy-to-carry unit.
What features does my PA system need?
It's worth thinking about how much control you need over the audio. For speech applications, it's not all that important to have an array of effects. Still, for music, you may want to have good quality reverb and a decent EQ section so you can really shape your sound. Many systems these days come with a mobile app. This is very handy if you need to mix the sound from on the stage or even if you want to make adjustments on the fly.
How much should I spend on a PA system?
PA speakers come in various shapes and sizes and therefore vary wildly in price. However, when it comes to deciding how much to spend, it really comes down to the application of the PA system.
If you are a working professional playing in a wedding or function band, then your PA system is one of the most essential elements of your setup. At the end of the day, you could be the best sounding band in the world, but if you play through a sub-par PA system, you’re not going to sound as good as you could. Therefore, it’s imperative that you invest in the best PA speakers you can afford. Professional systems can cost anywhere from $/£1,200 - $/£2,000.
It’s worth noting that if you are a working musician, your shiny new speakers will eventually start paying for themselves. A better sounding band will get more bookings, and if you go for a larger system than you have now, you could also take on larger events.
For more casual bands or performers, you may want to spend a little less and opt for a system around the $/£800 mark. This will still get you a powerful system, but it may not have the same features found on professional speakers.
Solo artists, or buskers looking for a battery-powered option, can easily pick up a system for around $/£300 to $/£500. But again, you do get what you pay for, so be sure to check if the model you are looking for has all the features you need - if it doesn’t, you may need to go up to the next price bracket.
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With more than 17 years of experience, MusicRadar is the premier music-making website in the world. Run by musicians for musicians, we offer expertly written gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by an extensive team of highly experienced industry professionals.
Below, you'll find more information on the expert authors of this guide.
Daryl is a Senior Deals Writer at MusicRadar, and is responsible for writing and maintaining buyer's guides on the site as well as testing out products for reviews. Before writing for MusicRadar, Daryl worked for many years in music retail, helping musicians of all ages find the best gear for them.
Daryl also has a passion for live sound, having worked professionally as a sound engineer in a number of venues around Scotland and holds a first-class Bachelor's degree in Creative Sound Production from the University of Abertay. He's worked for various bands, as well as his fair share of pantomimes, dance shows, opera and has operated the sound for some of the country's top comedians, including Alan Carr, Ed Byrne and James Acaster, among others.
Dan is a freelance contributor at MusicRadar and has a passion for great music gear and writing. Dan is a professional touring and recording artist and has 25 years of experience working within the music industry. He owns and runs a professional recording studio in Bath, UK, as well as an independent record label. As a working musician, he's always on the lookout for tech that will benefit the live and studio environment.
How we test PA speakers
The way in which we test a speaker is crucial and will ultimately show off the PA system's strengths and weaknesses. Our first port of call is to collect a selection of reference tracks. These songs need to be professionally produced, cover several genres and display a wide range of frequencies to ensure we are testing the system fairly.
We will then play the PA speaker at various volume levels - paying close attention to the low, mid and high frequencies and how they change at different dB levels.
Lastly, we will plug in a microphone, acoustic guitar or keyboard and test the sweep of the EQ as well as any other tone-shaping features that may be present, such as compressors and effects.
All of the above factors, along with the overall built quality, weight and ease of use, are then considered when deciding if a product makes the grade and is worthy of being included in our guide to the best PA speakers.
Read more about how we test music making gear and services at MusicRadar.
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