The 10 Best PA Systems For Bands & Performers 2021

We’re experienced in choosing the right PA systems for bands here at PMT as we help plenty of acts, from fully-fledged wedding bands to acoustic duos and even festival organisers get the PA system they need for the job. So today we’ve rounded up 10 of what we feel are the best PA systems for bands and performers that can be set up quickly without too much fuss and can pump out some serious sound. Here are some of our favourites, ranging from all-in-one PA systems to PA speakers with mixing capabilities and multiple inputs.

First, we have the Bose L1 Compact Active PA System which is another line array system that benefits from 2 input channels and an integrated mixer that you can use to tweak your sound. You have one microphone XLR input on channel 1 as well as one instrument input on channel 2, one RCA stereo input and one 0.31 cm stereo input so you can play a wide variety of different musical sources. This is designed for crowds of up to around 100 people delivering nearly 180 degrees of horizontal sound coverage, so it’s perfect for wedding bands, acoustic duos, and one of the most portable PA systems for bands here as it weighs in at a mere 13.15 kg. This eliminates the logistical issues of bigger PA systems for bands and lets you set up in a minute or less.

• Wattage: 130W
• Price: £643.00

A versatile PA solution, the Bose S1 can operate in 4 unique modes and is a superb option for wedding bands, DJs, and buskers.

For performing to an audience the S1 can be used:

• on an elevated surface
• placed on the floor and tilted
• on a speaker stand (sold separately)

This means that no matter where your crowds are situated you are guaranteed an even frequency level and crystal-clear audio reproduction for your performance. The clever AutoEQ feature uses sensors to detect the speaker orientation and position, then applies the optimum equalization for your set-up.

The S1 is also a wonderful monitoring solution - simply place it on the ground horizontally, in front of and pointing toward the performer, and then tilt the loudspeaker onto its side edge. You can then rotate the Bose logo counterclockwise to match your chosen mode - easy!

The onboard 3-channel mixer offers independent ToneMatch, reverb, and EQ controls on two channels, with a dedicated channel for either wired (3.5 mm) or wireless music sources for streaming via a Bluetooth device.

Price: £539

The Pro model of the ever-popular Eon One PA is here, adding a host of new additions to what was already a stacked list of features.

This compact solution now also offers optional rechargeable battery power operation, an improved easy-carry design, plus Hi-Z and +48V Phantom Power inputs for increased connectivity options.

With a max SPL of 118dB via the 8” LF bass unit and 6x 2” HF drivers, this unit boasts 6 hours of continuous play-time and 100° x 50° Clean Coverage using patent-pending Directivity Control Geometry for best-in-class articulation and clarity.

The 7-channel mixer allows for Bluetooth streaming audio, and despite the extensive capabilities of this PA it weighs in at just 17kg (37.5 lbs.) - ideal for gigging musicians, buskers, and those who appreciate a quick set-up.

Price: £859

 Fender have created yet another useful product for bands with the Fender Passport Event Portable PA System. This all in one PA system is conveniently self-contained and features an ingenious suitcase style design that clips the PA speakers to the mixer so you can carry it easily. There’s 8 inputs i.e. four XLR mic/line, 1/4" instrument/line, 1/4" stereo, 1/8" stereo and stereo Bluetooth, so you have enough channels to play with a band and the separate volume, treble bass and reverb controls on each channel make it a dream for performers who just want to plug straight in. It’s a Fender product so obviously it’s been designed for guitars which is why the Instrument/Line Switch allows you to select the correct impedance for each one and the 375 watts of power makes it perfect for smaller gigs, venues and coffee shops. Lastly, the portability is ideal for travelling musicians and function bands.

• Wattage: 375W
• Price: £649.00

 We’ve picked the QSC K8.2 Active PA Loudspeaker as it’s ideal for travelling bands and musicians due to the high portability and the fact it’s got a pair of balanced combo XLR/F inputs plus a 1/4-inch TRS connector. This makes it a great option for those who want to plug directly into a PA system or use them as part of their onstage rig. This pumps out 2000 watts of power via an 8" Cone Transducer and 1.4" titanium compression driver, so it may be small, but it packs a serious punch. Very handy DMT (Directivity Matched Transition) technology also makes sure the power response and listening area is consistent so everyone hears what they need to! It's 200 watts, has a bunch of connections and is lightweight - ideal for pro setups. Perfectly matched with the likes of the QSC TouchMix mixers.

• Wattage: 2000W
• Price: £669.00

For well under £1000 you get 1100 watts of power and a maximum SPL of 134dB with the Yamaha DXR15 MKII Active PA Speaker – that’s a LOT of power for not a lot of money. Aside from the high power and low cost, we think this is one of the best PA systems for bands as it features road-tested enclosures which have been equipped with steel grilles and ergonomic handles. This not only helps to protect all the inner workings of the speakers but also makes it easier to carry around and set up! An integrated 3 channel mixer accepts both mic and line-level inputs so you can connect a variety of sources and change the level of each channel when you need to.

• Wattage: 1100 Watts
• Price: £885.00

Well we obviously have to have the Yamaha Stagepas 400BT Bluetooth Portable PA System in our best PA systems for bands blog! This thing is essential for touring bands, acoustic duos and acts who want to set up in minutes and have complete control over their sound. With this package, you get two 8” PA speakers, as well as a detachable 8-channel, Powered Mixer that includes four mic/line inputs, two line in inputs that can be changed to Hi-Z for guitarists and two extra channels as well as Bluetooth connectivity. You also get 400 watts of pure power, an onboard feedback suppressor which stops problems before they occur and a 1-knob master EQ to make quick changes. At just over £400, this is easily one of the best PA systems for bands on the market when you’ve got a strict budget.

• Wattage: 400W peak
• Price: £419

The RCF Evox 12 Compact Portable PA System is one of our favourite units for its ease-of-use, hard-wearing construction, and elite sound.

Boasting a 130dB max SPL via a 15” woofer and 8 x 4” neodymium full-range transducers, this unit is for those who need a serious sound solution and will only settle for the best of the best.

Making use of advanced FiRPHASE Filtering Technology and innovative digital signal processing, the Evox 12 guarantees a pristine sound free-from distortion - and the rugged design features bass reflex ports to dissipate air and heat so it can be used for long periods of time.

Baltic birch plywood is teamed with solid aluminium for a system that’s made for the road, and with wheels and handles on the sub you needn’t worry about getting your full rig into any venue or performance space.

Price: £1675

Next up we have the Alto Truesonic TS315 Powered Loudspeaker which pumps out a whopping 2000 watts of power. This 2-way powered loudspeaker makes our best PA systems for bands as it includes an integrated 2-channel mixer with dual XLR/1/4” combo Mic/Line inputs and independent level controls. This allows for a simple plug and play experience whether you’re in a band, need it for front of house at café’s or just need something to take to function gigs. A useful XLR link output also lets you expand the system should you need to go for a stereo sound. We think this is a particularly great option for bands as you get a lush low-end sound from the 15” LF driver. This in conjunction with the 3” high-temperature voice coil means you get all the lows and all the crisp clear high to get a full-bodied sound. Finally, the pass cooling design and ground lift which eliminates interference from other electronic devices makes sure your PA system runs smooth and sounds crystal clear.

• Wattage: 2000W peak
• Price: £249

This all-in-one PA solution from HH Electronics comes with a pair of 10" passive speakers and a 6-Channel powered mixer, making it an incredibly useful option no matter your needs.

With an intuitive design and lightweight construction, almost anyone will find it easy to transport and set-up this PA.

With 16 digital effects, 500w of power (per side), and sound articulation that defies its price point, you’ll get a lot of mileage out of this PA system no matter how you plan to use it.

Price: £319

Shop a full range of complete PA systems for bands, PA speakers and more over at PMT online or call in to your local PMT store to speak to our PA experts about your bespoke needs.