If you need a portable PA system for outdoor events, in this post I have prepared a list of the best outdoor PA systems taking into consideration several factors that will provide you with the perfect sound for your gigs and live events.
Before we dive into the list of systems, I want to point out that if you want to learn how to choose the right PA system for your needs, I have prepared a buyer’s guide with 6 tips on how to choose the right PA system that’s right for you.
The Best Portable PA Systems For Outdoor Events are:
Let’s explore each one of these systems to find out what makes them a suitable choice as a portable PA system for outdoors.
Bose S1 Pro+
The Bose S1 Pro+ is an impressive portable PA system designed for versatility, ease of use, and high-quality sound, making it an ideal choice for outdoor events. Here’s a detailed review to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Design and Portability
The Bose S1 Pro+ boasts a sleek, professional look with a rounded design. Weighing in at 14.4 lbs and equipped with a built-in handle, it’s easy to transport, making it perfect for gigs, presentations, or outdoor events. Its compact dimensions (10.98 x 9.37 x 13.07 inches) allow for easy handling and storage.
Sound Quality and Performance
This PA system features Bose’s Tonematch technology, providing optimized sound settings for microphones and instruments, which simplifies setup for live performances. Users consistently praise its clear and powerful audio output, which can handle a variety of settings and volumes. While it excels in clarity and balance, those seeking extremely high volume levels or deep bass might need additional equipment.
Functionality and Features
The S1 Pro+ offers multiple orientations: it can be placed vertically, tilted back, horizontally, or mounted on a stand, with auto EQ adjustments ensuring the best sound in any position. It includes an integrated 3-channel mixer and optional wireless RF transmitters for microphones and instruments. Connectivity options are robust, with XLR/TRS combo jacks and Bluetooth for versatile audio source integration. The inclusion of a Live Stream mode is a great addition for users looking to broadcast audio directly to a computer.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 11 hours of playtime, making it suitable for long events without easy access to power outlets. Bluetooth connectivity is strong, with a range of up to 30 feet, allowing for reliable wireless streaming. The quick charge mode and easy battery installation add to its convenience.
Value
Although the Bose S1 Pro+ is on the pricier side, its quality, reliability, and versatility justify the investment, especially for professional musicians, speakers, and event organizers who need a dependable portable sound system. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a portable PA system for outdoor events.
Overall, the Bose S1 Pro+ is a versatile, user-friendly, and high-quality portable PA system that’s well-suited for a variety of outdoor events. Its combination of features and performance makes it a valuable addition to any performer’s toolkit.
JBL EON One Compact
When JBL created the EON One Compact, the concept was to design a system that could play anywhere, even if there was no AC power available. It needed to be loud enough and deliver exceptional results.
This all in one, battery-powered PA system can deliver clean, full-range sound making it ideal as a portable PA system for outdoor events.
Features
When choosing a PA system, usually, people pay attention only to the amount of power in watts the system delivers. Although the number of watts is an important measure, you need to pay attention to the sound pressure level or SPL it can provide. Measured in dB (decibels), the higher the number, the louder the system is.
The Sound Performance
This portable battery-powered speaker can deliver 112dB SPL with the use of a 120W amplifier. With this SPL and wattage combination, you can use this speaker for outdoor and indoor audiences between 60 – 90 people.
It comes with one 8” low-frequency driver that can go as low as 37.5 Hz delivering deep, accurate bass. The high-frequency driver is a 1” polymer diaphragm compression driver that delivers crisp, clear highs. The speaker has a full range of sound with a frequency response between 37.5Hz-20kHz.
The Audio Mixer
The built-in 4-channel mixer provides you with enough input channels for your microphones and pluggable instruments, making it perfect for single musicians, duos, or any configuration where a maximum of four channels are needed.
It has two XLR/TRS combo jacks, one 1/4-inch hi-Z guitar input, and one 1/8-inch aux input
With the JBL EON One Compact, you have two-band EQ and reverb effect for each channel. Just use the “CH Select” button to select the desired channel, then equalize that specific channel to your liking, then repeat the same procedure for the rest of the channels.
You’ll rarely find a portable PA speaker this size that includes phantom power for condenser mics. The EON One Compact comes with phantom power for each channel. To activate it for a specific channel, use the “CH Select” button to select the desired channel, then press the phantom button to activate it for that particular channel.
Bluetooth Connectivity
It’s equipped with Bluetooth so that you can stream music from your portable devices.
Another great feature of the JBL EON One Compact is the option of selecting and controlling effects and presets directly from your phone or tablet. To sound at your best, you have access to an 8-band EQ for each channel by using the app.
Also included are dbx and Lexicon effects such as reverb, chorus, and delay.
For larger gigs or events where you need to cover more area, you can sync up to four EON ONE Compact speakers and use one of them as your primary control unit.
It has two USB ports to charge devices.
The Design of the Speaker
When I say that this is a portable PA system, I mean it. It only weighs 17.6 pounds / 8 kg.
The battery can last up to 12 hours, depending on the volume setting. At higher volumes, about 75%, the battery only lasts 6 hours. Still is a long time of playtime.
In case you need to play at high volumes and 6 hours is not enough, you can buy extra batteries and swap them very easily and quickly without needing any tools.
Activate the “ducking feature” so that if music is playing and speech is detected, it automatically lowers the music’s volume so that the spoken word is heard clearly.
You can place it vertically, or a stage monitor depending on your set up. It also comes with a built-in pole mount so that you have more flexibility for different setups.
Pros
- With this speaker, you get the legendary JBL sound, which is crystal-clear full-range sound.
- It’s a battery-powered speaker that lasts up to 12 hours.
- 4-channel mixer with EQ and effects.
- It includes phantom power for your condenser mics.
- Very light PA system.
- Use your phone or tablet android or iOS to control presets, EQ, and effects.
- Sync up to four speakers for an even louder sound.
Cons
- If used at high volumes, the battery lasts about 6-8 hours.
- Customers have complained that to turn it on; you need to press the power button for 6 seconds. If you don’t know this, you might think that the system is damaged. To turn it off, press the power button for 3 seconds. To resolve this issue, you need to update the firmware. The firmware update is easily done from the JBL Compact Connect app. Download it the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Battery discharges faster if you are in a cold climate.
Yamaha StagePas 600BT
The Yamaha StagePass 600BT is a more traditional portable pa system perfect for outdoor events. If you are a public speaker, singer-songwriter, or a small band, this system has everything you need for your gig or live event.
This portable live solution continues with the legacy of the StagePass family of products, with this system, you will be happy with the sound and versatility it delivers. Let’s explore it in more detail.
Features
Sound Performance of the Speaker
The maximum power level this system delivers is an impressive 129 dB SPL. For achieving this sound levels, the system uses two 280W amplifiers, one per channel for a total of 560W continuous power and 680W peak power. The real power in watts is the continuous power a system can deliver, not the peak power.
Each speaker has a 10″ low-frequency driver and a 1.4″ high-frequency voice coil compression driver. Resulting in a frequency response of 55 Hz – 20 kHz. Each speaker is 13.2 x 21.5 x 12.5 inches (335 x 545 x 319 mm).
With the 10″ woofer, it produces a decent bass response and toned, precise mid-frequency response as well. With the 1.4″ compression driver, the sound it delivers is crystal-clear highs.
The Audio Mixer
The 10-input channel mixer is divided into 4 mono mic/line + 6 mono / 3 stereo line. Each channel has EQ for high, mid, and low frequencies. Plus, a reverb knob to control the effects. With this mixer, you have access to four different high-quality SPX reverb settings, perfect for voice or instruments.
All you have to do is select the reverb type you want then increase the knob to a level you like.
Another great feature with this mixer is the one knob master EQ. If you don’t want to mess with equalization, use this knob to select between speech, music, and bass boost and get the right EQ.
Feedback is always a problem, whether you are indoors or outdoors. The mixer of the 600BT comes with a button that is an intelligent feedback suppressor that get rids of feedback. Produce a high-quality sound that is feedback and distortion-free, making it easier for you.
For your condenser mics you need phantom power. With the StagePass 600BT mixer, channels 1 and 2 can provide you with the required voltage by the touch of a button.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Seamlessly stream audio from your smartphone or tablet with the equipped Bluetooth input. Use it for playing backing tracks, music for parties, conferences, or any events where you want to play audio from your phone with the music library of your choice.
You have the option to expand your sound by adding subwoofer and stage monitors if you want. The mixer has dedicated outputs specially designed to connect powered subwoofers and powered monitors.
The Design of the System
This all in one portable PA system is easy to transport because the mixer is stored and secured at the back of one of the speakers.
The other speaker has storage for the cables and a couple of mics. All you do is carry both speakers, and inside is everything you need to set up your event.
Pros
- High-quality portable PA system from a
well-known company with over 50 years of experience in the audio industry. - It delivers more than enough power for small to
medium-size audiences in indoor or outdoor events. - The mixer includes smart DSP functions for
feedback suppression. - One knob master EQ for easy EQ optimization.
- Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming.
- 10-channel stereo mixer
- Easy to carry and setup.
Cons
- This pa system is overpriced because, for the
same amount of money, you can get two powered speakers and a small mixer. But
it is not going to be as portable as this one. - For a small person, it could be a bit heavy.
both speakers with the mixer are 56.4 lbs. / 25.6 kg.
Yamaha STAGEPAS 1K
To sound professional in an outdoor event, you need the right equipment. You need something portable, easy to set up, and have enough sound level to make your audience feel the music.
The Yamaha STAGEPAS 1K is just that. It’s a portable, sleek design that delivers beautiful sound, plus the mixer has everything you need to put up a show that will be legendary.
Let’s take a closer look at this portable PA system for outdoor and indoor events.
Features
Design of the Speaker
The STAGEPAS 1K speaker has an impressive design. It uses ten 1.5″ high-frequency drivers in a J-curve design for an accurate dispersion pattern, and a 12″ compact subwoofer for reproducing the low frequencies. The dispersion is 30 degrees vertically and 170 degrees horizontally.
This all in one portable PA system is light. The whole system only weighs 50 lbs. / 23 kg. It can be assembled and disassembled in minutes. Thanks to its spacers, you don’t need any speaker stands. Depending on the size of your audience, you can either use one or two spacers to get better dispersion.
The enclosure is made off high-quality ABS plastic with steel protective grille. The lightweight ABS is coated with high-grade polyurea to prevent wear and tear during transport. The polyurea is scratch-resistant to withstand harsh performance environments.
It comes with a protecting cover for the subwoofer that also serves to store the spacers and the driver unit. It also has extra pockets for storing cables and microphones.
Everything fits in one package that you can transport very easily anywhere your gig is. For even easier carrying, you can buy the DL-SP1K Dolly as an extra accessory for easy hauling.
The sound it Produces
The good thing about this design is that sound is projected uniformly from front to back, and it can also travel longer distances. The highs are very crisp and clear, and the lows are deep, accurate, and punchy. The bass is not muddy at all.
All of its components can provide a maximum output level of 119dB SPL thanks to its 1000W class D amplifier. There is one 190W amplifier for the ten 1.5″ drivers and one 810W amp for the 12″ subwoofer.
Yamaha has used all the experience gained in the last 50 years designing PA systems and has developed this system that will meet or exceed your expectations.
If you are a mobile DJ looking for a portable PA system you can easily set up for parties, the Yamaha STAGEPAS 1K is a great choice. I would recommend using two of these systems for a stereo sound and for getting extra loudness and bass.
The Audio Mixer
The STAGEPAS 1K comes with a 5-channel mixer. Three mono inputs and one stereo channel. Each channel has an independent volume control.
Each channel has a 1-knob EQ making it a breeze to equalize. By turning the know to the left, it cuts unwanted low-end frequencies, perfect for speeches or instruments with too much bass.
Turning the knob to the center flattens out all frequencies producing a more natural, uncolored sound. By turning the EQ knob to the right, it emphasizes the low and high-end frequencies, perfect for bands that include more than one instrument.
Another great feature included in the mixer is the “MODE” multiband compressor. It offers three options: speech, music, and club. By selecting the setting that applies to your event, it automatically adds an edge to your sound by adjusting the correct compression setting.
Yamaha included with this speaker its SPX digital reverb. It offers four options: hall, plate, room, and echo, perfect for vocals and musical instruments. Just select the one that sounds the best for you.
It comes with output channels for linking two or more STAGEPAS 1K together either in stereo mode or in mono mode to double the input channels.
Connectivity
With the STAGEPAS 1K, you get Bluetooth connectivity. You can stream your backing tracks or playlists from your mobile devices.
You can also download Yamaha’s STAGEPAS Editor for your Android or iOS device. With this app, you can easily control the speaker’s settings from your phone or tablet. Plus, save your settings in memory so that you can have consistent sound in all your events.
Pros
- High SPL of 119dB and 1000W Class-D amp.
- Compact easy to carry PA system.
- High-quality materials guarantee long life.
- Enough inputs for solo musicians, duos, or small bands.
- Easy one-knob EQ and compressor.
- Perfect for mobile DJs, especially with two of these speakers.
- Bluetooth connectivity.
Cons
- The price tag is on the high side.
- Bigger size bands would need to get an external
mixer with more channels. - No wireless linking between similar speakers for
stereo sound.
Electro-Voice Evolve 50
For over 90 years, Electro-Voice has designed and built sound reinforcement systems that have a legacy of high-quality and excellence.
With all of the experience gained over the years, Electro-Voice designed the EVOLVE 50. It’s a PA system that delivers the perfect combination of lightweight, low profile, and incredible sound performance with the new powered column systems.
Let’s see what sets this system apart from others, and why it can be an excellent choice for outdoor events.
Features
The Design of the Speaker System
The EVOLVE 50 uses eight 3.5” neodymium high-frequency driver and one 12” low-frequency woofer. Neodymium magnets offer considerable advantages over regular ferrite magnets. They are smaller and lighter but concentrate twice as much magnetic field. This phenomenon will produce more sound pressure in the speaker’s cone.
The 12” subwoofer is housed in a 15mm plywood enclosure that serves as a base where the array column seats. The pole that connects the array speakers is made of aluminum, and the array enclosure itself is made of poly-composite material, which is a strong, reinforced plastic.
Setup and takedown are straightforward; it only takes a few minutes. This system is recommended for singers, songwriters, duos, small bands, mobile DJs, work-out instructors, etc.
It weighs 57.87lbs (26.25kg), and the dimensions are:
- Depth Sub: 18.5 in; 471mm Column: 6.9 in; 172mm Pole: 2.2 in; 55mm
- Width Sub: 13.6 in; 345mm Column: 4.0 in; 102mm Pole: 1.9 in; 48.5mm
- Height Sub: 20.9 in; 230mm Column: 32.5 in; 825mm Pole: 36.6 in; 929mm
This speaker comes in black and white colors. Choose the one that you like and blend with your style. Plus, the pole and column come in a carrying bag for easy transport.
Sound Performance
High and low frequencies are accurately reproduced with this system. The 12″ subwoofer can go as low as 37Hz, which is very punchy and deep. The high-frequency array, besides having eight 3.5″ drivers, also has carefully located eight composite waveguides to control the dispersion of the high frequencies.
Horizontally it has a coverage of 120 degrees, and vertically the coverage is 40 degrees. These dispersion angles guarantee coverage to sitting or standing audiences.
The total maximum output level is an impressive 127dB, loud enough for outdoor audiences of 80-120 people depending on where you place the speaker.
To achieve this SPL, the EVOLVE 50 uses two class-D amps with a total of 1000W. The high-frequency drivers handle 500W, and the 12″ subwoofer handles 500W.
My recommendation is to use two of these speakers for outdoor events and link them together. That way, it can serve for audiences between 120-200 with no problem.
The Audio Mixer
The EVOLVE 50 comes with a mixer that has two XLR/TRS combo jack input, one 3.5 mm Input, one Stereo RCA input, one XLR THRU output, and one XLR MIX OUT output.
This portable system comes with a powerful DSP engine. It comes with four presets that optimize your sound by selecting the one that best fits your situation. The included presets are: music, live, speech, club.
If you don’t like the presets, use the three-band EQ and effects to create your own presets. You get up to five programmable user presets.
Do you use condenser microphones for performing? Don’t worry; this system got you covered; it comes with phantom power that can be activated from the menu.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Use your Android or iOS device to control and monitor your speaker. With the app, you can control up to six EVOLVE 50. If there is a critical performance issue, you will immediately know because it will send you notifications to your mobile device using Bluetooth connectivity.
For singing using backing tracks, or for playing your party’s playlist, use the Bluetooth capability to stream music directly to your EV EVOLVE 50.
Pros
- Compact design that would blend in any type of
event. - It comes in two colors, black and white.
- It is made of high-quality materials.
- Easy to carry and quick to setup.
- It provides professional sound with a maximum of
127dB SPL.
Cons
- The price tag for this PA system is on the high side.
- Mixer inputs and outputs might not be enough for more prominent bands.
- It could be a bit heavy for some people to carry around.
- The subwoofer doesn’t come with a cover; you have to buy it separately. At this price range, you would expect it to be included.
Conclusion
In this post, I have presented the best portable PA system for outdoor events. Each one is unique in its way, but depending on your needs, any one of these systems would be a perfect match for your events and gigs.
I have written another post reviewing other portable PA systems; some of them are battery-powered.
This post should help you chose the right PA system for you. If you have any questions or comments, please let me know by posting a comment or using the contact form. Thank you for reading my blog.