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Tech Roundup: Portable PA Systems 2023

One of the most important things needed in a portable PA system is, of course, portability. Beyond that, systems provide a range of features that, depending on your needs, could be incredibly useful or just unnecessary bells and whistles. So many important things in life come through a portable PA—singer/songwriters, weddings, yoga retreats, graduations, comedy, school sports, bingo games, worship bands, many smaller scale events—all things we’re finally returning to. Here are some things to think about as the need for these speakers continues to ramp up— increasingly via battery operation.

The Alto Professional UBER FX indoor/ outdoor portable PA system provides an option which can perform with or without access to AC power. UBER FX is a self-powered portable wireless speaker with Bluetooth technology; it accepts a range of wireless or hard-wired signal sources. Alto positions UBER FX as ideal for outdoor applications without AC power. The series has 15 built-in Alesis FX and a 2-band EQ for precise tonal adjustment. The unit features two input channels, each with its own independent volume control. Users can stream music wirelessly from any Bluetooth-enabled device, and there is a convenient USB charging port. A 100- watt peak power capacity drives an 8-inch 2-way speaker, a highquality microphone and a long-lasting 45-hour rechargeable battery. Features include: Two Line/ Mic channels with XLR/1/4” combo inputs; NFC pairing and 1/8” stereo aux channels; Master Volume, Line Out and battery level indicator; convenience features including top panel storage tray, telescoping handle and built-in wheels.

The AmpliVox Titan Portable Wireless PA SW800-96 is dubbed “Brilliantly Blue” because it has a colorful blue back panel that shows off its full range of extensive capabilities; but it’s also blue because it’s now proudly made in the USA. The move to bring manufacturing back home was to focus on upgrades such as improving from 16 to 96-channel wireless capability for interference-free sound and to improve quality control and extend the warranty from one to three years. The Titan joins Amplivox’ growing array of made-in-the-USA AV products. A 100-watt amplifier covers audiences up to 2,500, in rooms up to 10,000 square feet, or outdoors. A built-in UHF wireless receiver and choice of wireless mic (handheld, lapel & headset, or fleshtone over ear) provide freedom of movement up to 100 feet from the base unit; also included is a wired hand-held XLR mic with 25-foot cord. A 96-channel receiver syncs with any of the three wireless microphone options; a built-in media-player plays recorded music or speech from multiple inputs – Bluetooth receiver, SD card slot, or USB slot. It’s compact at 35 pounds and rolls like a suitcase. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 10 hours, and additional receiver, mics, and other accessories are available.

At 130 dB and designed to reach crowds of more than 5,000, the Anchor Audio Bigfoot 2 is a portable sound system suitable for big projects. Operating in the 1.9 GHz frequency range, and with its wireless microphone platform, AnchorLink, Bigfoot 2 can connect up to four wireless microphones, providing a line of sight wireless range of more than 300 feet. Its rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are rated to last 2,000 cycles, and the reduced weight of the batteries results in a lighter speaker. Additionally, Anchor AIR allows it to wirelessly connect multiple companion speakers.

The AtlasIED Temporary Audio Systems (TAS) originally debuted in response to demand for portable indoor/outdoor packaged PA systems for temporary healthcare and testing facilities. To alleviate overcrowding at hospitals and to care for an increased number of patients, facilities need high-quality public address systems to assist with crowd control, patient messaging, and critical announcements. For quick and easy setup, the TAS systems come packaged with all the necessary components, including all-weather speakers, handheld and desktop microphones, speaker/ mic stands, power conditioners, amplifiers, cabling, and more. Four different packages are available, designed to serve facilities from 4,960 square feet up to 187,000 square feet. Packages include the TAS-1 (up to 20,000 square feet), TAS-2 (up to 4,960 square feet), TAS-3 (up to 47,678 square feet), and TAS-4 (up to 187,500 square feet). Equipment comprising the TAS packages is also ideally suited to indoor and outdoor venues of all types including athletic fields, gymnasiums, and other places where gatherings occur.

The Bose Professional L1 Pro portable line array systems replace the classic L1 line (the original L1 compact will stay). The new systems include the L1 Pro8, the L1 Pro16, and L1 Pro32 with its choice of two subwoofers. A RaceTrack driver design integrated into the L1 Pro8, L1 Pro16 and the Sub1 and Sub2 modular subwoofers, claims extended bass response and less bulk, making them much easier to transport, carry and fit onstage. Built-in multichannel mixers offer EQ, reverb, and phantom power, plus Bluetooth streaming capabilities and access to the complete library of ToneMatch custom EQ presets. The L1 Pro8 (38.9 lbs) provides a solution for intimate spaces; the L1 Pro16 (54.8 lbs) performs in small-to-medium spaces; and the premium L1 Pro32 (just 28.8 lbs) is a portable system for entertaining large audiences. The systems are complemented by the L1 Mix app, providing full wireless control of the built-in mixers for on-thefly tweaks. Users can adjust mixer settings via phone or tablet from the stage, or walk the room. Volume and tone settings can be changed in the app as well; the mixer and app are synched in real-time. Two combo XLR-1/4” phantompowered inputs, 1/4″ and 1/8″ (3.5 millimeter) aux inputs are included.

The Cerwin-Vega CVi-218S (Contra-Sub) is a portable, dual 18in. dedicated subwoofer system designed to extend and supplement the low frequency extension of CVi full range systems in live music and playback applications. The CVi-218S features two high power, cast frame 18in. transducers with 3in. voice coils for extended use during high SPL applications. Steel handles and a pole mount cup are also featured for use as a base for pole-mounted full range systems. This configuration allows the two drivers to work together in the same acoustic space to reduce distortion components caused by driver mechanical non-linearity when the system is driven at high levels. The result is cleaner, smoother low frequency reinforcement at higher SPL levels.

The EAW Redline RL12 and RL15 include an on-board 1,250-watt bi-amplified electronics package mated to customized precision transducers. Redline features EAW Focusing processing to deliver the impulse response of a studio monitor, while DynO algorithms optimize the power transfer from amplifiers to transducers to audience, to optimize headroom and integrity of sound at maximum output. Both models offer consistent directivity via Beamwidth-Matched Crossovers on 90°x60° user-rotatable horns, and 4-aperture elliptical ports provide bass support with no turbulence while maximizing transducer-cooling air flow. The simple pre-defined voicing help the user to set up quickly, and a rear-panel LED mute keeps Redline invisible in aesthetically-sensitive situations.

Last fall, Electro-Voice launched the Electro-Voice EVERSE 8 weatherized batterypowered portable loudspeaker with Bluetooth audio and control. It’s the first battery-powered loudspeaker from Electro-Voice and the first weatherized model of its type. The all-in-one system design opens up pro-audio performance for a wider range of users. A maximum SPL rating of 121 dB and 100×100- degree coverage defy the compact form factor. Core components include an 8-inch woofer mounted using EV’s patented SST (Signal Synchronized Transducers) port design, and a high-output titanium tweeter mounted onto a custom constant-directivity waveguide. EVERSE 8 is driven by a Class-D amplifier and DSP module developed in collaboration with EV’s sibling brand Dynacord. Pro features include a built-in four-channel digital mixer with studio-quality effects and processing, 48 V phantom power, feedback suppression and audio ducking. A custom Li-ion battery pack promises 12 hours of audio-optimized run time. An integrated 12 V DC port provides convenient power from the EVERSE 8 battery, making it perfect for powering a wireless microphone system. For stereo setups, EVERSE 8 is equipped for Bluetooth true wireless stereo streaming, and a charging port for devices. Detailed portability and rigging features, an intuitive setup/monitoring app, and an IP43 cover, and even an optional accessory tote bag, all support flexible applications and ease of use. Available in black or white

With versatile controls and connectivity, the Fender Passport Event portable audio system is useful for amplifying voice, instruments, and background music in a wide range of locations. Its full-range speakers, features, friendly front-panel controls, and 375W of power provide clear and reliable sound. Conveniently self-contained with suitcase-style portability and easy setup, Passport Event also features Bluetooth connectivity for streaming wireless audio from mobile devices. The PA system has a seven-channel powered mixer and full-range speakers, with eight inputs (four XLR mic/ line, 1/4in. instrument/line, 1/4in. stereo, 1/8in. stereo, stereo Bluetooth), plus separate volume, treble, bass, and reverb controls on each channel.

The Fishman SA+6 Bundle, which includes the SA330x, SA Expand, and SA Deluxe Carry Bag, provides a portable 6-channel solution best suited for small to medium sized rooms, clubs or similar sized venues. The SA+6 features 330 W of power plus six channels, each with three bands of EQ, Reverb, Gain, Phase, and 10dB Pad controls. As a wide-dispersion modified line array, it allows everyone in the audience to hear without blowing away the front row. Additionally, it features fullrange audio source handling via three TRS Aux inputs, one 1/4in. Input, and two 3.5mm inputs. The included Deluxe Carry Bag is designed to be extra-tough and versatile, with ample room for extra equipment and wheels for easy transport.

The Galaxy Audio Traveler (TV10) is an AC/battery operated portable PA system that allows for a quick and uncomplicated setup. The system features a 10in. woofer, 1in. horn, 150 W max amplifier, and can be configured in a variety of ways to meet specific space needs. The system includes four inputs (X:R, 1/4in., RCA, and 1/8in., each with its own volume control), a 2-band EQ, and a master volume. Audio outputs include a dual RCA line out and a 1/8in. line out. The durable ABS enclosure features a convenient carry handle and a provision for standard pole mounting. The TV10 has a retractable handle and durable wheels for easy mobility. The Traveler also has a “plug in” modular design, which allows optional function modules to be added or removed.

The all-in-one HK Audio Lucas NANO 608i combines eight inputs, digital mixer, integrated reverb effects, app control for iPad, intuitive EQ and compressor functions, and Bluetooth audio streaming. DSP functions can be controlled via the LUCAS NANO REMOTE app, including drawable EQs, professional compressors, and storable mixer scenes. The Expert model is pitched at audio pros; there’s also an entry level Easy model.

HARMAN Professional Services JBL IRX Series portable PA loudspeakers carry a lightweight build for easy transport, and include features like Bluetooth audio streaming to help ensure a professional sound system in varied environments. The IRX Series consists of two active PA loudspeakers, the IRX108BT, sporting an 8-inch woofer and the IRX112BT, which features a 12-inch woofer. As well as Bluetooth compatibility, the JBL IRX Series speakers also offer custom, applicationbased presets and automatic signal processors, speeding up the dial-in process. Built-in dbx Automatic Feedback Suppression protects the speakers, stopping feedback before it starts. One-touch ducking automatically lowers music volume when speech input is detected, in the same fashion as sidechain compression. The 1,300-Watt amplifier will help the IRX Series loudspeakers deliver a sound with minimal distortion at high levels. The IRX108BT features a frequency response down to 54Hz and maximum SPL of 127dB, while the IRX112BT goes down to 53Hz with a maximum SPL of 129dB. As is the norm for JBL loudspeaker products, the IRX108BT and IRX112BT have undergone 100 hours of stress testing to ensure performance in real-world conditions. Two combination XLR/ TRS inputs on the back feature professionalgrade preamps to deliver clarity for mics, playback devices and mixing consoles. Streaming from mobile devices is made easy with one-button Bluetooth connectivity, or you can use Bluetooth to connect two speakers to provide a true stereo image.

HARMAN’s JBL EON ONE MK2 battery-powered column PA carries the EON-family acoustic innovations, 5-channel digital mixer, comprehensive Lexicon and dbx DSP, Bluetooth 5.0 functions, and full app control in a lightweight, rechargeable battery system that weighs just 42.5 pounds. Its geometrically optimized, C-shaped array of eight 2-inch tweeters works in combination with a 10-inch woofer for even response down to 37 Hz. This C-shaped array provides wide horizontal dispersion and deep vertical throw. The MK2 has a built-in 1,500-watt (peak) amplifier; Variable Power Performance technolog y automatically optimizes performance for either AC or battery power, providing 4 dB of extra headroom when connected to AC power. A full-color LCD display lets users choose beginner, intermediate or advanced control. The system features Lexicon effects like reverb, chorus, and delay, in addition to a full suite of dbx DriveRack technology, including AFS (Automatic Feedback Suppression), parametric EQs, limiters, delays and SubSynth. User-configurable presets and onboard hardware EQ with three fixed knobs are easy to use. Easy ducking, Neutrik XLR combo jacks, one Hi-Z input, balanced passthrough, two channels of 48V phantom power, and an app are among the features of

The compact LD Systems CURV 500 PS is an easily configurable array system with eight interlocking satellites that are operated via a SmartLink adapter. The elements (12x12cm. in size) are equipped with LD System’s WaveAhead technology, and one 4in. and three 1in. drivers provide detailed playback. The 10in. bass-reflex subwoofer houses the Class D power amplifier and includes a limiter, protection against short circuit, overheating, over-voltage, as well as a 4-channel mixer with 16 digital effect presets and Bluetooth. Combo and Speakon-compatible sockets offer extensive connectivity options, and the subwoofer features four digital system presets, an M20 threaded flange, and three carrying handles. The second subwoofer with its own power amplifier offers identical technical specifications, but does not require any mixer. The CURV 500 Power Set includes two subwoofers, one with a mixer unit, eight satellites, two SmartLink adapters, two extension tubes and matching speaker cables. If more power is required, the CURV 500 Power Set can provide a power of 920 watts RMS and a maximum sound pressure of 134 dB.

The Mackie SRM-Flex combines an ultralightweight design, SRM Series sound quality, a full-featured 6-channel digital mixer, and wireless control and streaming. The modular design of SRM-Flex features a 10” LF woofer in the molded cabinet base module, which also contains the 1300W amplifier and builtin digital mixer. The 3-piece tower houses a wide-dispersion array with 6 x 2” high-performance HF drivers for clear, whole room coverage. This modular tower design allows the user to easily change the height of the mid and high frequencies to match the ear level of the audience. At under 30 pounds, the SRM Flex is easy to carry one-handed, and it’s small size means it will fit easily into the trunk of a car – or even on a bus. Two flexible Mic/Line inputs accept microphones, instruments, and more. There is also a dedicated stereo channel with dual 1/4” line inputs and a dedicated 1/8” Aux In / Bluetooth streaming channel. Channels 1 and 2 are equipped with individual 2-band EQs and Reverb level controls with 3 different reverbs to choose from and three voicing modes. Connecting to a second SRM-Flex or house PA is easy via the professional XLR Mix Out. In addition to physical controls, the SRM-Flex Connect app allows wireless control from your iOS or Android device. The app not only provides the same control available on the SRM-Flex itself, but offers even more customization like front LED and metering behavior, presets, and more.

BlacklineX Powered brings active options to the Martin Audio BlacklineX family. Comprising the 12-inch XP12 and 15-inch XP15 full range enclosures plus the 18-inch XP118 subwoofer, BlacklineX Powered integrates acoustic, DSP and amplifier technologies. BlacklineX Powered offers optional Bluetooth control, streaming, and a built-in 3-channel mixer, providing increased flexibility and features for a variety of uses, including live venues, DJs, corporate events, and houses of worship. The series features 1300W and 2000W Class D amplifiers, onboard DSP, and userrotatable horns for horizontal or vertical enclosure orientation. Mounting options include wall bracket, eyebolt suspension, and pole-mounting.

The Mipro MA-727 PA systems are aesthetically designed in three cabinet sizes with built in amps and DSP. Optional UHF or ISM 2.4 / 5.8 GHz receiver modules for selection upon request. IO includes configurable wireless receiver modules, MP3 recorder/player, USB port, SD card slot, line input jack (LINE IN), and microphone input jack (MIC IN). All audio sources can be adjusted individually. The sister MA-828 and MA-929 allow one optional CD player module but must be pre-fitted in the factory. Multiple speakers can be wirelessly linked and there is a SUB OUT jack. A patented retractable handle, stand adapter, built-in exclusive rechargeable battery holder, and external AC power are part of the user considerations. Built-in alarm siren with fade-in function and VOP (Voice Priority) function provide safety notification features.

The MIPRO MA-808 is the company’s flagship portable wireless PA system. The rugged one-piece speaker cabinet houses an efficient class-D/ AB amplifier with a 10in. woofer and a 1.5in. tweeter that drive high sensitivity two-way loudspeakers, with limiter circuitry that reduces distortion and increases intelligibility for powerful, clear sound. It offers an ideal public address solution for large crowds. It features up to 4 UHF or 2.4 GHz diversity receiver modules with 16 auto-scannable frequencies, and a built-in active antenna prevents accidental antenna breakage. The Voice Priority option mutes music when a wireless mic is used. Additionally, it includes a Bluetooth receiver for music streaming. A retractable handle and wheels make it easy to transport.

Introduced last year, the Peavey P Series PA system comes in two sizes, the 180-watt P1 BT and the 200-watt P2 BT (for Bluetooth). They have rear-facing mixers with three channels, each with their own dedicated 2-band EQ and volume control. Channels 1 and 2 have XLR and line-level inputs, while channel 3 has RCA and 1/8” inputs, with Bluetooth connectivity at the touch of a button. There is also a master volume, a 1/4” sub-woofer connection, and XLR connections for pairing units for stereo setups. The P1 BT has a pair of hi-fidelity 6.5” woofers and a 1” high-frequency compression driver, while the P2 BT has a trio of 6.5” woofers and the compression driver. The P1 BT comes in at 263.5mm (D) x 235mm” (W) x 584 mm (H), weighing just under 7kg, with the P2 BT a little taller at 762mm and weighing in at 15kg.

The PreSonus CDL series includes the CDL12 constant directivity loudspeaker and the companion subwoofer, the CDL18s. Both Dante-enabled, the powered enclosures can be flown as a vertical array, or combined for ground-stacked applications. Each CDL12 consists of eight 2-inch drivers aligned in a segmented circular-arc high-frequency array centered in front of a 12-inch woofer. The output of the low-frequency driver travels from the same acoustic axis as the high-frequency array so that the pattern always radiates from the center of the CDL12, whether used individually, or as part of an acoustically coupled vertical array with up to six enclosures. The CDL18s features a custom 18in. low-frequency transducer with 4in. voice coil that can travel 7mm before over-excursion, and handles 800 W.

The QSC K.2 Series is comprised of the 8in. K8.2, 10in. K10.2, and 12in. K12.2 fullrange loudspeakers. Each loudspeaker model in the K.2 Series is equipped with a 2,000W power module matched to high-performance woofers and compression drivers. DMT (DirectivityMatched Transition) ensures smooth coverage across the entire listening area. Onboard DSP provides Intrinsic Correction voicing and advanced system management to further optimize performance. K.2 Series models additionally provide operators with a library of preset contours for common applications, while offering storable scenes to recall user-configurable settings such as input type, delay, EQ, cross-over, and selected contour via the loudspeakers’ LCD screen and control panel. All three models can be operated as either main PA or as a floor monitor. Each model can also be flown, wall- or truss mounted, or placed on a speaker pole, either straight-firing or with 7.5-degree down-tilt utilizing the dual pole cup.

Expanding the EVOX J Series, RCF has added an 8-input digital mixer to the system. The EVOX JMIX8 features onboard processing from the Z.CORE DSP, which provides full mix functions and includes instrument FX and AMP simulations. It also includes an EVOX iOS/Android-compatible app for users to manage the JMIX8, and Bluetooth audio and a Hi-Z instrument input. All the available functions on the EVOX JMIX8 system integrated mixer can be managed from the operating panel, with select buttons that include Input, Output, Home, System, MFX, and FX, which give access to all the parameter pages on the LCD display. The system includes RCF’s ClassD power amplifier technology. The D-Line amplifiers feature a mechanical aluminium structure, stabilizing the amplifier during transportation and helping the fanless heat dissipation.

The Samson Expedition XP208w Rechargeable Portable PA carries 200 watts of power, 20 hours of battery life, a 4-channel mixer and Bluetooth audio. A variable reverb control adds depth, and a voiceover ducker automatically lowers the music when speaking or singing into a microphone (XLR or wireless inputs). In addition, a master 2-band EQ is provided to adjust the tonal characteristics of the XP208w, as is a line output to daisy-chain additional speakers. The system includes a wireless handheld microphone for completely cord-free performance. It’s housed in a polypropylene enclosure with a steel grille, locking telescopic handle and smooth rolling wheels that weighs just under 24 pounds. A 1 3/8” speaker mount allows the XP208w to be mounted using any standard speaker stand.

The 2,400-Watt Turbosound TVX118B is a front-loaded 18in. subwoofer system that is engineered to work in conjunction with Turbosound loudspeaker management systems. The bass reflex port design enclosure has a high powered carbon fiber 18in. low frequency driver and provides fast and accurate transient response for virtually distortion-free operation. Finished in a durable semi-matte black paint, the cabinet is constructed from 18mm birch plywood and includes a powder coated perforated steel mesh grille backed with reticulated foam, an integral 35mm pole mount for satellite speaker applications, and carry handles that are strategically placed for easy transport. The rear panel connector plate carries Neutrik speakON NL4 connectors, with switchable input and link connections to accommodate standalone subwoofer applications, or subwoofer and satellite speaker connectivity via 4 core speaker cabling.

In January, the latest Yamaha STAGEPAS 200 debuted, the first in the range to provide a rechargeable lithium-ion battery powered option (200BTR). STAGEPAS 200 provides all the features of a high-quality portable PA system in a remarkably compact, 30mm cube-shaped enclosure. It supports Bluetooth audio streaming and remote control. A 1.4” HF + 8” LF high-quality coaxial compression driver is powered by a 180 W Class D amplifier. An onboard five-channel (3 mono mic/ line and 1 stereo line) digital mixing section is included; each input channel is equipped with a 1-knob EQ/preset and 1-knob Effect controls – a function proprietary to Yamaha. Together with the ‘Mode’ compressor on the main outputs, users can easily and intuitively create the sound they want. Priority ducking, feedback monitoring, and an app are among the features. Multiple mounting options are included, and a comprehensive app supports most functions. Optional carry case contributes to ease-of-use options.

With 5.5 hours of runtime at full output power and a standby battery life of more than 48 hours, the Yorkville Sound EXMMobile is capable of getting users through a variety of gigs where AC power is not an option. The 60 W system weighs just under 20 pounds and uses two 6.5-inch woofers and a studio monitor quality soft dome tweeter. It features three discrete input channels with individual volume and tone controls, is Bluetooth enabled, and includes an integrated digital effect processor.

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