Portable PA systems are versatile speaker systems that can be used by musicians, public speakers, and more. They’re commonly used for conferences, sporting events, and weddings but can be used in any situation where you need to amplify sound. They will usually have both microphone and guitar inputs, as well as built-in mixers.
This article provides top choices for portable PA systems, giving detailed information about each speaker system’s power, features, and performance. We will also run you through the most important considerations when buying one.
Bose S1 Pro+
The Bose S1 Pro+ is an easily portable PA system with a 3-channel mixer, Bluetooth, and built-in battery. It is a versatile solution.
Our Category Winners
Best For Presentations
The Bose L1 P8 is designed to provide broad dispersion of sound with excellent clarity and detail in the vocal range. It is ideal for situations where clarity is of utmost importance, like a corporate presentation.
Best For Musicians
The Yamaha Stagepas 600BT is a comprehensive PA system with an impressive 10-channel mixer for complete control. The 2-way speaker design offers a wide sound well-suited to live musicians.
Best For Weddings
Fender’s Passport Venue Series 2 is a full PA system with easy portability. It has a 10-channel mixer with multi-microphone and instrument inputs. It is best suited for weddings where you may want to run PA announcements on the system as the music.
Best For Street Performers
Consider the Alto Professional Busker if the Bose S1 Pro+ is outside your budget. It’s a budget portable PA speaker created with street performers in mind. The 200W output can cater to fairly large audiences.
Best For Sports & Fitness Classes
The JBL EON One Compact is a versatile PA speaker with Bluetooth and battery support. While it lacks the complexities of larger systems with more comprehensive mixers, its 4-channel mixer is easy to use.
Five Important Traits Of Portable PA Systems
- Portability (Weight & Size)
- Power & Coverage
- Easy-To-Use Controls
- Build Quality
- Audio Performance
* The playtime available on a single charge is equally crucial for battery-powered PA systems.
All the best portable PA systems excel in these traits, and I recommend against settling for a subpar system that sacrifices any of these essential aspects. Every PA speaker featured on this list performs exceptionally well in these areas. After all, the last thing you want is to be embarrassed by inaudible sound quality while addressing dozens or even hundreds of people.
The 8 Best Portable PA Systems & Speakers
Technically, one can classify PA systems and PA speakers differently, as PA systems include a mixer and are usually comprised of several components. In contrast, PA speakers are more straightforward, smaller, and easier to use. They may still have mixer controls but don’t typically incorporate additional pieces of gear. We’ve included both types on our list, as these terms are frequently used interchangeably to describe the same thing.
1. Bose S1 Pro+
Max Output: 150W
Mixer: 3-channel
Power: Battery & AC
Weight: 14.4 lbs
The Bose S1 Pro+ improves the popular Bose S1 Pro. It is slightly lighter and offers improved performance over the previous iteration. It is a highly portable PA speaker that weighs under 15 pounds, and the built-in handle makes the S1 Pro+ a breeze to carry between locations. It has a durable design that can be appreciated by those who need to move their PA system between different locations frequently.
Despite its small form factor, the S1 Pro+ retains many connectivity options in larger alternatives. It has two combo XLR-¼” inputs, a single ¼” instrument input, and a 3.5mm aux input. It includes a 3-channel mixer with two channels for instruments and microphones and a channel for audio output. You can use the S1 Pro+’s line-out to connect additional speakers for more comprehensive coverage or connect recording equipment.
The built-in battery ensures that finding a power source isn’t a necessity. Expect around 5 hours of battery life for more extensive coverage of up to 100 people or up to 11 hours of battery life in less demanding indoor areas.
The S1 Pro+ has robust wireless support with a built-in RF receiver, which can be used with RF transmitters for a completely wireless experience (RF transmitters must be purchased separately). Additionally, includes Bluetooth support and can be used as a PA or portable Bluetooth speaker.
Bose has created a PA speaker that produces clean, balanced sound in a compact design. It can be placed in different rotations, depending on your use. You can mount it vertically, at an angle, or even in a monitor position. There are, however, limitations. Because the S1 Pro+ is a small unit, it has limited coverage and is best suited for small venues catering to between 50 and 100 people. The lack of dedicated left and right-channel audio also limits the soundstage performance for those wanting to use their PA system for music purposes. It is an ideal choice for street performers and fitness classes.
2. JBL EON715
Max Output: 1300W
Mixer: 3-channel
Power: AC
Weight: 37.3 lbs
JBL’s EON715 is a durable PA system that weighs just under 40 lbs and is suitable for various uses, including weddings, presentations, musicians, and sporting events. It requires a direct power supply, limiting its potential for street performers. Built-in handles on the top and the speaker’s side make it easy to transport despite being relatively heavy.
The construction of the enclosure is simple yet effective. It is durable and can sustain the bumps and knocks of frequent transportation. A color LCD screen on the back of the speaker lets you directly access functions from the speaker itself. Alternatively, the EON715 has JBL Pro Connect app support, letting you make adjustments via your mobile device. The advanced DSP allows adjustments to EQ, feedback suppression control, delay, limiters, etc.
You get two combo XLR-¼” for microphones and line-level instruments and RCA inputs for stereo devices. Including Bluetooth is a welcome feature for any PA system, and the EON715 comes with Bluetooth 5.0, a modern, efficient Bluetooth version with excellent wireless codec support. You can even use the EON715 as a powerful Bluetooth speaker, and the ability to daisy chain multiple speakers together lets you expand the coverage of your setup.
This powerful PA speaker with 1300W Class-D amps provides professional, high-fidelity audio using JBL’s waveguide technology. It can produce up to 128dB maximum SPL, which is enough volume for moderate-sized venues catering to 150 people. Consider daisy-chaining a few of these speakers together for additional coverage, which is a reasonable approach given that the EON715 is available for under $700.
While it is versatile in its potential, the JBL EON715 is best suited for musicians, weddings, and corporate presentations. It has a clear sound with rich detail and easily customizable sound.
3. Yamaha Stagepas 600BT
Max Output: 680W
Mixer: 10-channel
Power: AC
Weight: 69 lbs
Yamaha has been a staple in the music industry for decades, and the Stagepas 600BT retains the same level of Japanese engineering we’ve come to expect from their products. It features a durable build that can handle the challenges of frequent transportation. At just under 70 lbs, it’s a relatively heavy PA system, but the three separate components (two speakers and a separate mixer) make it easy to move around.
The 10-channel mixer has six inputs, supporting XLR, combo XLR, stereo RCA, and 1/4″ inputs. It also allows for comprehensive adjustments to these channels, including individual control over the highs, mids, and lows and reverb control. This mixer also offers a subwoofer output, monitor output, and more. The mixer is impressive in its capabilities, covering almost everything you’d want from a portable PA system. Even though the Stagepas doesn’t have a dedicated mobile app, the 600BT still has Bluetooth support for music streaming.
The 680W Class-D amp delivers clear audio with excellent dynamic performance. It can produce a maximum SPL of 129dB, enough volume to cover an audience of between 50 and 100 people outdoors or up to 150 people indoors, depending on the size of your venue. The 2-way speakers are aided by the advanced DSP, which results in accurate audio reproduction with detailed highs and deep lows. Still, it should be paired with a dedicated subwoofer for improved low-end.
This versatile PA system is well-suited to weddings, live music performances, corporate presentations, and more. The lack of battery and heavy weight makes it less suited for sports events or buskers.
4. Bose L1 Pro8
Max Output: 300W
Mixer: 3-channel
Power: AC
Weight: 39.8 lbs
Suppose you’re looking for a comprehensive and detailed sound. In that case, the Bose L1 Pro8 is a line array speaker that combines an integrated subwoofer with an array of eight 2” neodymium drivers positioned at different angles for increased dispersion. The C-shape array is particularly good at improving the vertical distribution.
Traditional portable PA systems use a single large driver, resulting in a warm sound that sometimes lacks detail in the upper midrange and treble. Line array setups solve this problem by including smaller drivers dedicated to those frequencies.
It features a 3-channel mixer and supports XLR, ¼”, and ⅛” inputs while also letting you adjust each channel’s volume, tone, and reverb. The ToneMatch presets can easily be toggled between, with the option for microphone, instrument, and no ToneMatch. There is also a phantom power feature for condenser microphones and DJ boxes. It also comes with Bluetooth support and can be used with the Bose L1 Mix mobile app, which lets you make audio adjustments directly from your phone.
The Bose L1 Pro8 is an easy-to-use and easy-to-carry PA system with a built-in handle at the top. The line array attachment is a breeze to snap into place. This compact design makes the L1 Pro8 a versatile PA system that can be used for many purposes, from wedding events to presentations to fitness classes. Keep in mind that the lack of battery means you’ll need access to an AC outlet.
This portable PA system produces high-quality sound focusing on audio definition and dispersion. The driver array has detailed high frequencies with a comprehensive sound. It has a balanced, neutral sound, and advanced DSP technology enhances tonal qualities.
While the L1 Pro8 is substantially more expensive than the Bose S1 Pro+, it’s a very different speaker with much broader sound dispersion, particularly vertically. This PA system is best for buyers who do not want to sacrifice audio quality and have relatively limited inputs. The 2-channel mixer won’t be sufficient for everyone.
5. JBL EON One Compact
Max Output: 120W
Mixer: 4-channel
Power: Battery and AC
Weight: 17.6 lbs
The JBL EON One Compact is a portable PA speaker with a rechargeable battery and Bluetooth support. It has modern features similar to the EON715 but focuses more on portability, affordability, and ease of use. The EON One is best suited for street performers, intimate weddings, fitness classes, and presentations held in small areas.
The EON One has less volume than the EON7150, with sound pressure levels measuring 12 dB lower. Still, the EON One is effective for those who don’t need massive volume and who work in more intimate areas. Indoors, the EON One can cater to between 25 and 50 people, making it well-suited to corporate presentations with limited attendees. A benefit of his PA speaker is that it can easily be paired with another speaker of the same model using stereo pairing. This improves the dispersion, soundstage, and coverage, allowing it to be used in more demanding environments. Still, the EON One is somewhat limited in its offerings to musicians who need a lot of instrument inputs.
Even though it’s a small speaker, you get two XLR/TRS combo jacks, one 1/4″ Hi-Z guitar input, stereo RCA input, and a 3.5mm aux input. It has a 4-channel mixer with 8-band EQ (including EQ presets), and using the JBL Compact Connect app lets you make audio adjustments directly from your mobile device.
The built-in battery is a standout feature of the EON One Compact. It can charge in just 2.5 hours and provides up to 12 hours of battery life, or 6 hours at full volume, making it suitable for events where no power supply is available.
This PA system features an 8” woofer, which can reproduce frequencies as low as 37.5Hz, giving it better bass extension than similar-sized alternatives. It features a clear, detailed sound that works well for voice projection and music. It can be used for various purposes but excels in areas where portability and battery longevity are essential.
6. Fender Passport Venue Series 2
Max Output: 600W
Mixer: 10-channel
Power: AC
Weight: 53 lbs
The Fender Passport Venue Series 2 is made for musicians and features a rugged and lightweight design. It is durable enough to handle the demands of frequent transportation while retaining portability. It is a heavy PA system weighing 53 lbs but can still easily be carried because it consists of three pieces.
It features a 10-channel mixer with 13 different inputs. There are four XLR-1.4” mic/line inputs, two ¼” line / Hi-Z inputs for instruments, two ¼” inputs, and two stereo 3.5mm connections. You can attach a subwoofer using the dedicated subwoofer output to add more bass, which also benefits from an automatic high-pass filter. In addition, it has Bluetooth support for wireless connections. The mixer also lets you adjust the tone and volume and provides extensive reverb control. The Passport Venue Series 2 requires a direct power source, as it doesn’t have a built-in battery.
Regarding sound quality, the Fender Passport Venue (Series 2) is powered by a 600W class-D amplifier, which produces rich and detailed sound with enough volume to cover moderate-sized venues of a few hundred people. The built-in feedback reduction is effective in reducing unwanted interference.
The Fender Passport Venue Series 2 is a robust portable PA system with many connection options and mixing capabilities. It is best suited for musicians looking for an effective way to cover a moderate-sized area with multi-instrument support. However, it also excels as a solution for public speaking and conferences. The Bluetooth connectivity support is beneficial and adds more versatility to the system.
7. Alto Professional Busker
Max Output: 200W
Mixer: 3-channel
Power: AC and Battery
Weight: 11.9 lbs
The Alto Professional Busker is an affordable, lightweight PA speaker that is designed for easy transport and simple setup. It follows a similar design style to the Bose S1 Pro+, with both speakers weighing less than 15 lbs. The Busker is lighter than the S1 Pro+, weighing just 11.9 lbs. The built-in carry handle makes transporting this PA system effortless.
Alto has uniquely approached this PA speaker, offering multiple variants so you can pick which version is best suited to your needs. We recommend the Bluetooth, battery-powered option for buskers, as it has a lot of versatility.
This portable PA system was released in October 2023 and has many modern features not usually offered by PA speakers, including app support, lengthy battery life, and efficient Bluetooth 5.0 wireless connectivity.
While sporting a compact design, the Busker has many of the features found in larger PA systems. It features a 3-channel mixer with volume control for each channel. You can connect a microphone and instrument using the XLR and ¼” inputs. The built-in Alesis FX processor also allows adding effects, including reverb, delay, and many more. A game-changer is the ability to control your EQ, mixing, and effects directly from the mobile app.
With a 200W built-in amplifier, it is limited in its coverage. Still, the 8” woofer delivers clear and balanced sound, ideal for small venues or outdoor areas where you want to entertain between 30 and 80 people. You can also choose from four different speaker orientations, which can adjust the logo to your orientation, showing the level of detail afforded to this design. It has a detailed sound with good dynamics. However, the low-end bass is less impressive than larger PA systems, with a frequency response ranging from 60Hz to 20kHz.
Overall, the Alto Professional Busker is a portable PA system that blends the versatile controls of PA speakers with the modern connectivity and features found in Bluetooth speakers. It is an excellent choice for street performers, karaoke events, and fitness classes, to name just a few purposes for which this speaker can be used.
8. Mackie SRT215
Max Output: 1600W
Mixer: 4-channel
Power: AC
Weight: 43.32 lbs
The Mackie SRT215 is a lightweight yet relatively powerful portable PA system that, while not suited for large venues, is capable of holding its own in situations where you don’t need large coverage. The lack of a battery does limit its versatility, however. Still, the two carry handles (on the side and top) make this an easily transportable choice.
It has a built-in 4-channel mixer, which includes an XLR input and direct line out on channels 1 and 2 and an aux input on channel 3/4. There is limited control over these channels with a simple gain dial. For additional adjustments to the speaker, you can use the DSP to select from 5 different presets. You can also use the Mackie Connect mobile app to control your speaker remotely with your phone. The speaker’s built-in Bluetooth lets you stream music to the speaker.
The SRT215 is the largest of the SRT series, with a 15” woofer producing up to 133 dB sound pressure level with a peak output of 1600W. It can reach high volume levels with minimal distortion, retaining a clear and vibrant sound. Where it falls short is the low end. The bass extension is limited and benefits from using a separate subwoofer, which Mackie offers as a companion to the SRT215.
Overall, the Mackie SRT215 is a reliable speaker that can produce some great results with the addition of a subwoofer. If you’re not going to use the speaker with music and just for voice projection, you won’t need a subwoofer, and the speaker is ready to go as is. It features a durable design that can handle challenging weather conditions—an excellent choice for presentations, fitness classes, and more.
A Buyer’s Guide To Portable PA Systems
Buying a PA system shouldn’t become a chore. With our buyer’s guide, you can relax, knowing that we’ll guide you through all the important details you should consider before purchasing one. Below, we’ve outlined the different uses for these speakers and which features best suit how you intend to use them. For instance, the best portable PA system for buskers will differ from one intended for weddings.
Finding The Best Portable PA System For Your Needs
PA speakers differ in size, control features, input and outputs, and tonal qualities. These differences make specific models better for particular purposes, and this is something you should consider. To ensure you don’t waste money on the wrong product, we’ve outlined the most important traits a PA speaker should have for different use scenarios.
Power & Coverage
The most important consideration is the type of coverage you require from your PA system. Some models are made to cater to small audiences between 20 and 50 people, while others can provide enough volume to cater to thousands. While power and volume can’t be directly converted due to differences in efficiency, one can use the power output of a PA system to provide a rough estimate of the type of volume it can produce.
Below are estimated power requirements for common PA use scenarios:
Busking
| Audience | Power |
|---|---|
| 10-30 People Outdoors | 50-100W |
| 30-50 People Outdoors | 100-200W |
| 50-100 People Outdoors | 200-400W |
| 10-30 People in a Subway | 30-50W |
| 30-50 People in a Subway | 50-100W |
| 50-100 People in a Subway | 100-200W |
Sports Events
| Audience | Power |
|---|---|
| 20-50 People | 100-200W |
| 50-200 People | 200-400W |
| 200+ People | 400W+ |
Presentations
| Audience | Power |
|---|---|
| 20-100 People | 100-200W |
| 50-100 People | 200-400W |
| 200+ People | 400W+ |
Weddings
| Audience | Power |
|---|---|
| 50-100 People Indoors | 100-180W |
| 100-200 People Indoors | 180-400W |
| 200+ People Indoors | 400W+ |
| 50-100 People Outdoors | 120-200W |
| 100-200 People Outdoors | 200-400W |
| 200+ People Outdoors | 400W+ |
* These are estimates subject to efficiency, sound dispersion, sonic variables to the PA system, and environmental differences.
Some portable PA systems can reach impressive volume levels unmatched by traditional Bluetooth speakers. However, these metrics are only sometimes provided by the manufacturer. We’ve highlighted the sound pressure level readings in our product summaries, where available.
Battery vs. Powered PA Systems
All battery-powered PA systems are portable, but not all portable PA systems are battery-powered. A battery-powered system is essential for buskers and some sporting events where there isn’t likely to be power available. These PA systems are limited in their power potential but offer more versatility than AC-powered alternatives. If you need a PA system that runs on batteries, reference the length of playtime on a single charge to ensure it can reliably cover the duration of your use. We recommend giving yourself some leeway, as battery performance can degrade over time. Consider opting for 30-50% more battery life than you need.
Powered PA systems can still be portable and easy to carry. These types of PA systems usually have their own mixer included, and because they aren’t confined to the limitations of battery power, they can achieve louder volume for better coverage. The added features sometimes mean they aren’t as easy to operate as a barebone battery-powered alternative. They typically cost more than most battery-powered units and are best suited for more demanding events like weddings and public speaking.
Connection Types (Wired & Wireless)
Portable PA systems come with various connection types, usually focusing on input variety. If you want a PA speaker that can do more than just announcements, consider a Bluetooth PA speaker. Such systems are useful for parties and events, allowing you to turn your PA system into a party speaker. The Bose S1 Pro+ is an example of a portable PA speaker that takes this approach.
Something to consider, however, is that PA speakers have different sound characteristics than party speakers. Party speakers have a thumping bass and tend to offer flashy lighting effects. On the other hand, PA speakers tend to have reduced bass and offer more clarity in the midrange and the upper frequencies. They are also more toned down in their aesthetic and functions.
If you’re after a party speaker that can also do PA announcements, consider looking at the JBL PartyBox series. The PartyBox series has microphone inputs for PA purposes while excelling at playing music.
Ensure the PA system you buy has the required input and output connections. Most models will have multiple XLR and 1/4-inch inputs and an array of output types. The types of connections differ between models, but these are some of the most commonly found connection types in PA systems:
Size & Weight
The best portable PA systems are those that are those that can balance portability with performance. The size and weight determine how easy it is to move the system between events. Lightweight and compact speaker systems are best for those who use them daily. Consider your transport capabilities and physical limitations when buying a PA system.
Controls
The extent to which you can control your PA system will vary between models. Simple PA speakers can be limited on controls and may only allow you to adjust the volume of your channels. Portable PA systems that include mixers will consistently give you more control over your sound. These mixers can include everything from feedback suppression and monitor controls to EQ, channel volume controls, and built-in effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between portable PA systems and portable PA speakers
It’s complicated. While the two terms are used interchangeably, there is technically a difference between them, with PA speakers typically consisting of a single component with built-in controls. On the other hand, PA systems usually include a standalone mixer or amplifier for added control and may comprise multiple speaker units.
What is the difference between an active & passive PA system?
Active PA systems have built-in amplifiers, while a passive PA requires an external amplifier. Active PA systems are more straightforward to use, with fewer concerns around amplification.
Can I use a portable PA system for live performances?
Yes, you can. There are portable PA systems that offer multiple inputs sufficient for live performers.
Should I get a Bluetooth speaker with a microphone or a PA system?
Prominent Bluetooth speakers with microphones can suffice for situations that aren’t very demanding, but they lack the same power a PA system provides. They also tend to lack the mixing capabilities provided by most PA systems.
What is feedback, and how can I prevent it?
Feedback occurs when the microphone picks up the speaker output. This problem can often be resolved using feedback suppression. If feedback suppression is unavailable on your PA system, you must adjust the mic’s position relative to the speakers.
My cousin wants to start a band, and I suggested he buy or rent a PA system he can use to preform almost anywhere. Your article had some great tips regarding this, and I liked how you said to consider bringing some trash bags along if my cousin does rent a PA system like this, as the bags can tape can be used to protect the PA equipment in chance of inclement weather. Thanks; I’ll share this with my cousin to help him get and use a PA stem for his future band.
Hi Jocelyn!
Thanks for getting in touch! We’re so glad you found our article helpful and we wish your cousin all the best in starting a band!
This was a really helpful article, now I know what to get.
Hi Matt,
I sing in seniors residences and some have no sound systems. I use my laptop and iTunes for the music and sing using their mike and sound system, if they have one. Audiences vary from 40-60 and rare 100. Their equipment set up is sometimes unreliable or of poor quality.
My question is what mini portable LIGHTWEIGHT quality sound PA system would you recommend in my situation?
Thanks so much!
Hi Elaine
Thanks for taking the time to read and post your question. I would have to go with the Fender Passport Conference. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and quick to setup. This system has two speakers, so you will achieve good coverage. The Fender system puts out some good quality sound which is especially important when playing for an older audience. There are also more than enough inputs for the inputs you have mentioned. I would also recommend a quality microphone like the Shure SM58 for your vocals.
Thanks so much Matt for the advice! I carry in all the equipment and weigh about 105 pounds. The system weighs 30 pounds. Is there anything around 10 pounds or lighter that would do the job decently?
I had read about the Fender Passport mini portable PA system, with a 7 watt amp, that is clear and loud enough for 25-50 people. It weighs 7 pounds. It realize it wouldn’t cover all situations. I wonder how big a room it would work in?
Many thanks! Much appreciated!
Hi Matt…thanks for this insightful post. We’re a basketball academy with 2 outdoor courts. We need sound on the courts when we practice or have events. An everyday use is to have upbeat background music to make practice more enjoyable. We also have events where we could use sound for music play as well as for announcements. What system would you recommend to us?
Puneet – apologies for the belated reply here. I’d go for the Behringer EUROPORT. It’s got great sound and is more than powerful enough to cover off 2 basketball courts but the main reasons I suggest this setup is because it actually has a battery, so you don’t need to park it near a power outlet. 2 Hrs of continuous playtime should be more than enough for practice! Also, it’s got wheels… I’m assuming you won’t be leaving it on the court between practices so this is easy to wheel in and out. Hope this helps.