The 12 Best Portable PA Systems to Take With You This Summer

What to consider when buying a portable PA system

Power requirements

Different PA systems have different power requirements, and they’re all worth considering.

If it’s operable via mains, does it run off IEC or Powercon? Powercon is a great connector system for daisy-chaining multiple speakers, making it better for larger venues where expandability is a consideration, or for permanent installation.

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Houses of worship, cafes, bars, clubs, theatres, and music venues are all great for these connectors. However, they’re not always as easy to use as IEC cables, which just need a mains connection. This is better in most scenarios but doesn’t usually give you the option to expand.

Of course, the third option is battery operation, where you’ll only have to worry about remembering to charge it. We recommend considering a backup battery just in case!

Battery vs. non-battery operation

A lot of portable PA speakers in recent years offer a battery-powered option of some kind, but not all of them do. So it’s worth making sure that the system you have your eye on can be operated the way you want to.

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On the other hand, if you have a system that can only be operated via batteries, what do you do if you don’t get the chance to charge it up before your next show? Think about what suits you. The most flexibility will come out of a PA that can be operated via both battery and mains power, giving you a backup option if the battery dies before or, worse, during a show.

However, you might not need the extra cost of both if you’re only ever playing outside without access to mains power or are only playing indoor venues with ample power options. Think about what fits you best!

Inputs

Inputs dictate what instruments you can connect to your portable speaker, and this can help you narrow down your search very easily.

Most systems will have some connectors for microphones, typically XLR or a combo jack, so you can plug in a mic no matter what cable it has, 3-pin or 1/4-inch.

XLR connectors are for microphones only, jack connectors let you connect jack signals like guitars or keyboards and synths, but combo jacks offer total flexibility, letting you hook up either – just make sure it’s switched to mic or line mode so you don’t clip your input.

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Then there are aux connectors. RCA connectors are ideal for DJs, as most controllers, turntables, and CDJs operate on RCA cables. 1/8-inch jacks are great for connecting headphone jacks from smartphones, tablets, or laptops, for example, and USB or SD card readers provide another way of playing MP3s without having to worry about the rest.

Specific features you might need

Do you want optimal coverage and sound output for larger venues or outdoor performances? Be sure to check the specs for SPL output to make sure your sound carries.

DSP mixing features are becoming more common, these are great for the more seasoned performers who really want to dig into their sound and get a professional mix before they start. A recent trend is app control, where you can mix from a smartphone or tablet.

However, for the non-tweakers, sometimes the onboard effects, EQ, and level controls will get you most of the way there. It’s good to check whether or not the system you want gives you some way of controlling your sound.

Media players are ideal for DJs, street performers, karaoke singers, and anyone who might need a backing track or to play external signals live.

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Categories: Outdoor