Best Portable PA Systems For Musicians, DJs & Duos

Whether you’re a musician, DJ, busking performer or public speaker, chances are you’ll need to use a portable PA system at some point, so you need the best available to you. Having your own portable PA system is vital as it gives you the power to perform anywhere and at anytime, providing music to the masses (or a select few) on your own terms.

For DJs, portable PA systems are an ideal option as you are able to take bookings free from the constraints of the house audio system, buskers can perform anywhere and public speakers know they can rely on their own PA rather than risk difficulties when the venue’s sound system decides to freak out and start causing problems. It happens!

Fortunately, long gone are the days where you would have to drag a massive PA system around with you as there are many fantastic portable PA options from brands such as QSC, Alto, Bose and many more. So today, we’re going to look at the best portable PA systems for musicians, public speakers DJs – in fact EVERYONE!

Our top pick for an all-in-one portable PA solution comes from industry heavyweights Bose, who offer the Pro8 Line Array System from the L1 series.

Why do we think this is one of the best portable PA systems?

Boasting 8 articulated cricket drivers with an integrated 7" x 13" racetrack transducer, the L1 Pro8 has a maximum SPL of 112 dB (cont.) or 118 dB (peak). In combination with its unique C-shape extended-frequency line array, this makes it perfectly suited for those performing in smaller venues.

The integrated subwoofer gives a well-rounded sound that you would expect from a conventional 12” speaker, and thanks to the modular construction of this PA it’s one of the easiest to transport.

Featuring a built-in mixer with two combo XLR-1/4" phantom-powered inputs, the Pro8 also has 1/4" and 1/8" AUX input and BlueTooth streaming, allowing you to connect various audio sources with ease.

Furthermore, the mixer can be used to alter system EQ and ToneMatch presets, as well as adjustments for volume, tone, and reverb - all via simple to use illuminated controls.

You can also use the L1 Mix app on your smartphone to take wireless control over the L1 Pro 8. This allows you to adjust settings instantly from anywhere in the room - extremely handy for ensuring smooth soundchecks and a great gig.

If you’re in need of something a little more powerful than the L1 Pro8 from Bose, you can’t go wrong with the L1 Pro32 - it boasts all of the same features and more!

Why do we think this is one of the best portable PA systems?

As the most advanced PA in the L1 Series of Line Array Systems, the Pro32 delivers a truly epic sound whilst still remaining extremely portable and easy-to-use.

With 32 articulated 2" neodymium drivers, this awesome PA solution gives 180 degrees of horizontal coverage whilst serving up the most focused vertical coverage and highest SPL-over-distance compared to every other model in the L1 range.

Featuring all of the same mix features as the Pro8, you can also use the ToneMatch port in order to add in a Bose T4S or Bose T8S for even more instruments and other audio sources.

If you’re in need of a versatile and transportable PA system for weddings, festivals, or other medium-to-large scale events, we recommend the Bose L1 Pro32.

Displaying industry-leading audio quality with an uncompromised approach to ruggedness and portability, the Electro-Voice Everse 8 is a weatherized battery-powered loudspeaker designed for those who need the best of both worlds from their PA system.

With IP43-rated water resistance and up to 12 hours of battery life, this PA Speaker has been built with performers in mind, allowing you to take your sound with you no matter where you go.

Why Do We Think This Is One Of The Best Portable PA Systems?

This system is built for the outdoors, so it’s one of our favourite options for buskers, fitness instructors, and even just those who want a top-quality sound system for garden parties.

You’re treated to an 8” woofer that utilises a patented SST (Signal Synchronised Transducers) port design along with a high-output titanium tweeter that's mounted onto a custom constant-directivity waveguide

All of this is powered by a highly-efficient Class-D amplifier and a DSP module that's been crafted in collaboration with Electro-Voice's pro-audio brand Dynacord. The Everse 8 features an onboard four-channel digital mixer with pro-grade effects and processing that performers will love to get their hands on. You’ll also be glad to hear that you get Bluetooth connectivity from the Everse, so it’s future-proofed and ready-to-go!

This suitcase-styled PA from revolutionary guitar brand Fender is one of our favourites thanks to its awesome design and assortment of handy features. 

Why do we think this is one of the best portable PA systems?

The Fender Passport Event Portable PA System is a superb option for those who need a powered PA solution on a budget.

Boasting 375 watts of output power, this PA has a versatile sound that can be shaped to suit a variety of spaces.

The user-friendly control panel has 8 inputs (XLR mic/line, 1/4" instrument/line, 1/4" stereo, and 1/8" stereo) in addition to BlueTooth streaming capabilities, making it a solid choice for bands, speakers, preachers, DJs, and more.

The suitcase design makes travelling with this kit easier than almost any other gear, and set-up is extra easy too - simply fold out the side sections (the speakers) and place as necessary. This self-contained build is ingenious and something that all users will appreciate.

This is a great product from a trusted brand - what’s not to love?

The JBL EON ONE Pro All-In-One Portable PA System has been designed for professionals on the move and musicians in need of a high-quality sound system that is simple, easy to use and even easier to set up.

Why do we think this is one of the best portable PA systems?

A unique speaker configuration, Bluetooth connectivity and lightweight construction are all highly coveted features and some of the main reasons we’d recommend this for people looking for a portable PA.

The Bluetooth connectivity within the JBL EON ONE Pro allows you to connect your smartphone or Bluetooth enabled device and stream high quality audio directly to the PA – ideal for those who utilise backing tracks or need to play music in between sets or performances.

JBL’s own Directivity Control Geometry technology within this unit ensures consistent directionality and the same sound quality whether you’re standing in front of it or the other side of the room, providing extra wide coverage at all times. An unobstructed 8” bass-reflex subwoofer provides all the low end frequencies that are clear and well-defined.

The team at JBL have designed the EON ONE pro with the gigging musician in mind, including a lithium-ion rechargeable battery which gives you 6-hours play time a large comfortable handle to carry the system away and a built-in 7 channel analogue mixer.

4 of the channels have combo ¼”/XLR inputs, each with a switch allowing you to select between mic and line sensitivity so you can dial in your perfect sound quickly. On top of that you have dedicated volume dials, a reverb control knob and bass/treble adjustment knobs within the first 4 channels to further tailor your sound. The other 3 inputs include TRS, RCA and standard 3.5mm AUX so you have a huge range of connectivity options at your disposal.

Weighing in at only 17kg/37.5 lbs., you’ll find it easy to take with you to gigs, set up and pack down – an ideal portable PA for the gigging musician and professional.

This portable PA is filled with innovative technology that’s intuitive and sounds great - just as you’d expect from Yamaha.

Why do we think this is one of the best portable PA systems?

The Yamaha Stagepas 600BT PA System provides singer-songwriters, small bands, and public speakers with 680W of portable power via two 10” speakers. It also boasts a 10-channel mixer that has an array of awesome-sounding effects and a versatile EQ.

Featuring cutting-edge technology to produce stellar sound quality with no hassle, this PA has onboard feedback suppression which targets problem frequencies before they become audible.

Furthermore, the one knob Yamaha Master EQ optimizes the entire range of sounds to match your environment via a single control, and Channels 1 through 4 feature independent sends for the four high-resolution reverb types (Hall, Plate, Room, and Echo).

These superb reverb sounds are derived from the acclaimed Yamaha SPX series of dedicated effects processors, and they can even be controlled via a footswitch - extra-handy if you need them to be switched between songs.

Channels 1 and 2 have phantom power capabilities, whilst the additional Monitor Out and Sub Out make this PA easily expandable if you find yourself in need of a little extra.

Perhaps best of all, this PA is also Stereo BlueTooth Ready - meaning that musicians who incorporate backing tracks, break music, loops, or even software instruments in a live setting can set up without cables and position everything exactly where they need it.

Here we have the JBL Professional EON One Compact PA Speaker – the clue is in the name with this one as it has been designed for those on the move and in need of a portable, compact PA option that still delivers high-powered sound. We also love the four-channel configuration and superb control over your sound!

Why do we think this is one of the best portable PA systems?

The JBL Professional EON One Compact PA Speaker has two channels dedicated for microphones and other line level instruments as well as two other channels for standard 1/4” stereo inputs, so you have a large selection of connectivity options at your disposal. To allow for superior control over your sound, you can utilise a range of dbx and Lexicon-inspired professional effects including reverb, chorus and delay and adjust EQ and volume levels for each channel separately on the back of the unit. This is a great addition and something duos and performing musicians will really appreciate.

However, it’s all about the sound! The JBL Professional EON One Compact features an 8-inch woofer with deep low-frequency performance down to 37.5 Hz. The maximum sound pressure level of 112 dB is ideal for audiences of up to 80-100 people and there’s absolutely no need to worry about sound quality as you have two mic preamps built-in and phantom power for condenser mics, allowing you to get the job done, perform with confidence or get the crowd dancing!

For those in need of a portable speaker with a wide range of applications, you’ll love this one as the design allows you to angle the PA for better monitoring and it can also be mounted onto a speaker stand should you need to.

The speaker can run on standard AC power or via the tool-free, swappable battery which provides up to 12 hours of playtime and can be charged in 2.5 hours - you’re always ready to go portable.

Best of all, there’s no set up required, just plug in, power up and go! One of the best PA systems for acoustic guitar and vocals

The RCF Evox J8 Black Portable Array PA System is a particularly versatile and extremely portable PA system crafted with mobile DJs, entertainers, public speakers and musicians in mind. Delivering perfect vocal reproduction, a surprising amount of bass and a quick fuss-free set up and pack down in seconds, you’re in safe hands with this one!

Why do we think this is one of the best portable PA systems?

Don’t be fooled by its smaller size, as the RCF Evox J8 packs a serious punch thanks to a 1400w Class D amplifier which pumps super high-quality sound to 8 x 2" full-range drivers and a 12" subwoofer – your audience will have no problem hearing you!

You have both XLR and Jack inputs for microphones and line level instruments such as guitars, keyboards or for use with live music and a dedicated flat/boost switch and volume control. The control panel is extremely easy to use and takes all the guess work out of setting up. The output link also allows you to hook up another PA speaker or an additional Evox J8 for true stereo sound.

Speaking of sound – the team at RCF have ensured the best sound possible thanks to the inclusion of FIR filtering technology which helps deliver transparent sound, absolute clarity and perfect stereo images to the listener all with minimum system latency.

The ergonomic speaker cabinet is lightweight at just over 20Kg and comes with a built-in carry handle. The subwoofer has been designed to accommodate the steel pole socket for the array speaker and once locked in, won’t budge even when you’re pumping this thing to the max as RCF have really focused on safety and stability with this portable PA.

If you want reliability, superb construction and gig quality sound that is easy to set up and pack down, the RCF Evox J8 Black Portable Array PA System is an ideal option for professionals.

Shop a full range of PA systems over at PMT Online or call in to your local PMT store today to speak to any of our PA specialists about your needs.

Updated for 2023