Sometimes the situation calls for the flexibility of a portable PA, whether for worship reinforcement, bar and restaurant stages, or corporate presentations. In the past year, some new options have joined the lineup of proven PA options, including three new pedigreed portables that debuted in January
The Alto Professional UBER FX MK2 Bluetooth 5.0 is a 5-speaker, 320-degree sound array that is not just for music applications; with its flexible I/O and up to 100 hours of charge, it can support business meetings, training sessions, and award/graduation ceremonies. The 200W system features an 8” woofer, stereo tweeters, and full range side-firing drivers providing 320° of audience listening area. The side-firing speakers also make for excellent live performance monitoring. UBER FX MK2 features two input channels, each with its own independent volume control and 2-band EQ and digital effects, and there’s an additional third 3.5mm aux input. Users can stream from any device to UBER FX MK2, and wirelessly connect a second UBER FX MK2 to create a stereo PA system. The Alto Pro App for iOS and Android provides control of mixing functions; the simple single-screen mixer allows users to select a channel and control all parameters. It’s easy to transport with its telescoping handle and wheels, top storage compartment, and two USB charging ports.
Last spring the Anchor Audio Liberty 3 debuted for battery-powered, weatherproof operation. The series, consisting of Basic, Link, Connect, and Hub models, delivers a 123 dB sound output via a Class D amp. Power is managed by AnchorPower Dual Lithium 10 Amp Super cells. A battery fuel gauge and charge indicator give confidence, and a USB charge port allows users to charge devices. The Liberty 3 includes a new optional Power Pack that extends playtime another 3+ hours over the standard seven hours of the Liberty models. Users can operate cable-free for stereo with the new AnchorFlex cable-free audio technology. This world’s first battery-powered PA broadcast audio transceiver is integrated into the Liberty 3 Hub and Connect Models and connects units cable-free up to 300 feet away from each other. The switchable frequency-hopping transceiver operates at 2GHz for up to 1000 systems in mono and can cover a crowd of 1500 people in an area 90’ W x175’ L for outdoor PA applications.
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. 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.
Bose S1 Pro+ delivers the same performance in a lighter package than its predecessor, weighing just 14.4 pounds. Four positioning options allow the speaker to adapt as needed —vertically on a table, tilted back, horizontally on a floor, or mounted to a stand; auto EQ adjusts regardless of orientation. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to eleven hours of usage on a single charge. An integrated threechannel mixer features two channels for microphones and instruments and one dedicated to music playback. Intuitive rotating OLED displays for each channel make it easy to access independent EQ, reverb, and ToneMatch controls. Full, wireless app control supports volume, EQ, reverb, and the entire ToneMatch library of EQ presets. The S1 Pro+ streams via Bluetooth, and an optional mic/line and wireless RF transmitters pair with the system’s integrated wireless RF receivers, which store in the S1 Pro+ unit, and charge when not in use.
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 CVi218S 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 caused by driver mechanical non-linearity when the system is driven at higher SPL levels.
The 2024 EAW LA Series is a two-way, self-powered loudspeaker featuring EAW’s signature sound in a portable and lightweight package. The LA Series supports events that are often geared towards pole-mounted deployments, such as small to medium live shows, weddings, corporate events, restaurants, bars, and clubs. There are four models: the 12” LA121 and LA123, and the 15” LA151 and LA153. Performance versions LA123 and LA153 utilize a 3” voice coil compression driver. The series employs EAW Focusing DSP, which EAW says perfects the impulse response of a loudspeaker in the time domain, eliminating horn “honk” and splashiness for a studio monitor sound. All four models weigh less than 50 pounds individually and the asymmetric pattern of the horn maintains high-frequency directivity where required.
Also last year, the Electro-Voice EVERSE 12 joined the 2022 EVERSE 8 to bring a larger and louder 12” two-way option with the same battery performance and wireless-friendly features that have made the 8 popular. A maximum SPL rating of 126 dB (compared to the EVERSE 8’s 121 dB) and low-frequency response to 45 Hz is combined with wide 100º x 60º coverage.
Last year, the Electro-Voice ZLX G2 Portable Loudspeakers debuted, the second generation of the ZLX series with 8”, 12”, and 15” two-way models in both powered and passive versions. The new G2 offerings have increased the maximum SPL to 129 dB (ZLX-15P-G2). The woofer and compression driver in each ZLX G2 model are coupled to a patented SST (Signal Synchronized Transducers) ported waveguide, said to aid low-frequency extension, and deliver even vertical and horizontal coverage across all frequencies. Efficient 1000W Class-D power amplifier modules have an integrated four-channel, three-input digital mixer with high-quality effects. The mixer includes two XLR/TRS combo jacks and provides 24V phantom power and Hi-Z compatibility. The mixer also includes automatic feedback suppression, ducking, compression, loudspeaker delay settings, an array of system modes, and more. Powered ZLX G2 loudspeakers also contain subwoofer presets that adjust for both gain and time alignment. Additional high pass (HP) filters are available in the DSP for increased compatibility. All functions can be remote-controlled and monitored using the Electro-Voice QuickSmart Mobile Android/iOS app. The app allows pairing and grouping of up to six Bluetooth-equipped Electro-Voice portable loudspeakers, including stereo pairing.
Also in January, the Electro-Voice Evolve 70 and Evolve 90 powered column loudspeaker systems debuted, designed for audiences of up to 500 people. The 15” and 18” subwoofer options combine with larger mid/high drivers, large voice coils, and subwoofer laminar vent design to provide more output and deep bass. Features include Neodymium column drivers, aluminum distance poles, and lightweight materials throughout. Evolve 70 delivers a maximum SPL of 133 dB; Evolve 90 offers 134 dB. Evolve 70 features a 15” subwoofer, which takes low-frequency extension down to 35 Hz, while Evolve 90 reportedly offers the only 18” subwoofer in its class, providing LFE to 28 Hz. Available in black and white finishes, Evolve 70 and Evolve 90 share many of the same features. Both offer eight 4.7” neodymium drivers for 120°-wide consistent coverage via propriety waveguides, with array-formed asymmetrical 25° vertical coverage. Both models include connections for microphones, line level, Bluetooth, and digital signals. Both new systems are also integrated into the recently updated QuickSmart Mobile App ecosystem, which allows control as part of a system with other Bluetooth-enabled EV portable speakers. Evolve 70 and Evolve 90 will begin shipping in summer 2025.
With versatile controls and connectivity, the Fender Passport Event 2 portable audio system is useful for amplifying voice, instruments, and background music in a wide range of locations. Its full-range speakers feature front-panel controls, and 375W of power. 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.
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, 150W 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.
In January, HARMAN Professional Solutions announced two new loudspeaker additions to its JBL Professional PRX900 Series powered portable PA family. This expands the lineup to include seven models–five powered loudspeakers and two powered subwoofers. The new JBL PRX925 and PRX935 loudspeakers are aligned to existing PRX900 models and integrate with BLE control via the JBL Pro Connect app. The PRX925 is a two-way, dual 15- inch system for larger spaces that can utilize additional low-end support. As a three-way, single 15-inch system, the PRX935 is designed for houses of worship, corporate A/V, or anyone who needs to provide powerful, room-filling sound. Both speakers are easily managed by the JBL Pro Connect app or the onboard color LCD. Both include a 12-band parametric EQ for system tuning, integrated dbx Automatic Feedback Suppression, and more. Both models are enclosed in an 18 mm birch cabinet with optimized bracing for low-end response.
The JBL IRX ONE All-in-One Column PA is intended for small performances, presentations, and busking; the compact system includes a three-channel mixer, Bluetooth 5.0 audio streaming, and more in a 34 lbs. package. Central to the IRX ONE system is its line array-like, C-shaped column of a half-dozen 2-inch highfrequency drivers, said to provide users with a wide sweet spot. The column itself is three separate parts—the array and two spacers—stacked above the base’s 8-inch woofer, which uses a bassreflex design to reportedly get low-frequency response down to 40 Hz. IRX ONE includes a three-channel mixer that has ¼” and XLR inputs with included 48V phantom power and ¼” balanced mix-out. dbx automatic feedback suppression (AFS), five EQ presets, and Soundcraft audio ducking are available onboard.
Last year saw the launch of the LD Systems ANNY Series battery-powered portable P.A. system. Intended for performers who need to handle mobile live gigs, the new line incorporates the ANNY 10, with a 10” woofer and 1” tweeter, and the ANNY 8 model. The ANNY 10 features an active two-way full-range loudspeaker and includes an integrated six-channel mixer, three-band EQ and effects (reverb, delay), Bluetooth 5.0 streaming, and a footswitch input for hands-free effects control. The back of the speaker includes a pair of microphone/line combo inputs, a stereo channel with 3.5 mm jack (AUX), and RCA inputs. Inside the ANNY 10, a battery can hold up to 25 hours when used in ECO mode or can provide five hours at maximum volume. A secondary, bundled version of the ANNY 10 comes with a pair of LD Systems wireless mics, which can be used with the speaker. Settings onboard the speaker include a DSP-based VOCAL mode, as well as a priority function that can be activated, noting which connected microphone should be prioritized. All ANNY speakers can be connected wirelessly
The 2024 Mackie ShowBox is a battery-powered all-in-one performance rig combining a portable PA, acoustic guitar amp, six-channel mixer, effects rack, and USB-C interface into a single device that can can be carried in one trip from the car. A 400W amp, custom drivers, included battery, and six input channels support up to 12 hours of use. Mackie highlights an innovative breakaway mix controller; connecting to ShowBox through the included (lengthy) fabric-covered Ethernet cable, the mix controller mounts directly to a mic stand and provides control over levels for mics and instruments as well as built-in effects, tone shaping, user snapshots, looper, tuner, and recording controls. ShowBox replaces amps and PA systems with switchable “amp” and “PA” voicing modes, plus settings for indoor and outdoor performance. It features two layers of dynamic effects for vocals and instruments, and 3-band parametric EQ and single-knob compression on each channel. A built-in USB-C audio interface supports streaming online or recording. ShowBox can also record straight to an SD card, and Bluetooth allows for streaming backing tracks and fill-in music between sets.
Martin Audio BlacklineX Powered brings active options to the BlacklineX portable 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 builtin 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 user-rotatable horns for horizontal or vertical enclosure orientation.
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. It offers a public address solution for large crowds. It features up to four 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.
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.
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, 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, providing access to all the parameter pages on the LCD display. The system includes RCF’s Class D power amplifier technology. The D-Line amplifiers feature a mechanical aluminum 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 cordfree 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.
Also in January, the QSC KC12 debuted. It’s a 3-way, 3000-watt loudspeaker system intended for solo entertainers, musicians and bands, mobile entertainers and DJs, AV productions, and static installations. The portable KC12 system consists of a ported subwoofer, housing a 12-inch (305 mm) driver extending down to 40 Hz. The mid/high enclosure features a 1-inch compression driver combined with the proprietary QSC LEAF (Length-Equalized Acoustic Flare) waveguide, as well as two high-excursion 4-inch (102 mm) midrange drivers that provide full-range horizontal coverage of 145 degrees and 35 degrees of audience-directed vertical coverage. Configured with or without its column pole, the system can be deployed on a floor, stage, or riser.
SKAA is the wireless HiFi audio standard developed by Eleven Engineering, Inc. SKAA transmitters work with iOS and Android mobile devices, Mac and Windows computers, televisions, and just about any product with a line output or a headphone jack. SKAA is also available in purpose-designed partner products as a built-in technology not requiring an external transmitter. SKAA has become popular as a wireless solution for the emerging PSM (Party Speaker Market) due to its long range and the fact that no network is required. In January, Eleven Engineering announced that Wet Sounds, a premium marine, powersports, and outdoor audio provider, launched Wet Sounds Portable PL, a wireless speaker that utilizes SKAA capabilities to navigate environments with heavy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth traffic for uninterrupted audio signals. 
The Wet Sounds Portable PL features 126 dB of sound to fill any space, both indoors or outdoors; Pro-grade SKAA Wireless Audio; and an IP67 weatherproof and dustproof rating. Weighing 25 pounds, this speaker also features an ergonomic handle for easy transport, interlocking stackable capabilities, and integrated LED lighting.
The Yamaha STAGEPAS 200 was 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 60W 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.
