The Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Purchasing industrial pa speaker

Choosing the right PA system brands can make or break your live sound experience. Given the vast array of options available, knowing which brands stand out for their quality, reliability, and performance is crucial.

Please visit our website for more information on this topic.

Whether setting up sound for a small venue, a large auditorium, or an outdoor event, selecting speakers from reputable brands ensures your message and music are heard loud and clear.

Let’s dive into the top PA speaker brands that professionals and musicians trust and prefer for delivering exceptional sound.

Top 8 Public Address Speaker Brands Today

1. Bose

Bose is renowned for its innovative audio technology and high-quality sound systems, providing solutions catering to professional settings and home use.

Key Features:

• Proprietary audio technology for clear, lifelike sound
• Wide range of products, including portable systems and installed speakers
• Engineered for ease of use and versatility in various settings
• Bluetooth connectivity in selected models for wireless streaming
• Durable design built to last

Pros:

• Exceptional clarity and rich sound quality across all volume levels
• Portable systems are easy to set up and transport
• Reliable performance suitable for musicians, speakers, and venues
• Products designed for both indoor and outdoor use
• Innovative technology like the L1 Compact for spatial sound dispersion

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to some competitors
• Some models may be too advanced for basic needs or smaller setups

2. JBL

JBL is synonymous with delivering powerful and dynamic sound across various audio systems, from consumer to professional grade. Known for robust construction and superior sound quality, JBL PA speakers are a top choice for live sound applications.

Key Features:

• Wide selection of both powered and passive speakers
• Durable design suited for rigorous use
• High SPL levels for clear sound in large venues
• Comprehensive range, including subwoofers and floor monitors
• Advanced technology for optimal sound reproduction

Pros:

• Reliable performance in various settings, from small venues to large events
• Exceptional bass response and high-end clarity
• Easy to integrate with existing systems and amplifiers
• Portable options available for musicians and DJs on the go
• Versatile models that cater to both speaking and music performances

Cons:

• Some models may be on the pricier side
• Heavier weight in larger models can affect portability

3. Electro-Voice

Electro-Voice (EV) is renowned for its dedication to sound precision and quality. With a history of innovation, EV’s speakers are engineered for excellence and cater to professional audio needs.

Key Features:

• Precision-engineered audio components for superior sound
• The range includes powered speakers and passive configurations
• Built to withstand the demands of touring and fixed installations
• Innovative technology for minimizing feedback and enhancing clarity
• Exceptional power handling and efficiency

Pros:

• Crystal-clear audio reproduction across all volume levels
• Durable construction ensures longevity and reliability
• High-efficiency designs offer greater power with less energy
• Extensive model range suits varied audio requirements
• Superior feedback suppression technology

Cons:

• Premium quality comes with a higher price tag
• Some models may be bulky for mobile setups

4. Yamaha

Yamaha’s PA speakers are celebrated for their exceptional clarity, durability, and versatility. They are suitable for both professional sound reinforcement and casual audio setups.

Key Features:

• Wide variety of both powered and passive speakers
• Cutting-edge DSP technology for superior sound control
• Durable design for both touring and fixed installations
• User-friendly features for easy operation
• Comprehensive connectivity for seamless system integration

Pros:

• Consistent, high-quality sound across all volume levels
• Robust build quality ensures long-term reliability
• Versatile models for every type of performance or presentation
• High SPL output for clear audio in large venues
• Advanced technology enhances both live and recorded audio

Cons:

• Premium features come with a higher price
• Some models can be heavy, impacting portability

5. RCF

RCF is known for its innovative design and superior sound quality, making its PA speakers a favorite among audio professionals and enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• High-performance drivers for exceptional sound clarity
• State-of-the-art DSP for precise audio adjustments
• Robust cabinets designed for the rigors of live performance
• Wide range of models for applications from clubs to large venues
• Integrated power amps in powered models for high-efficiency

Pros:

• Outstanding audio quality with clear highs and deep lows
• Durable construction suitable for extensive use
• Easy to set up and configure, saving time and effort
• High power output suitable for a wide range of venues
• Innovative designs ensure optimal sound projection and dispersion

Cons:

• Higher cost due to advanced features and build quality
• Some models are bulky and less convenient for mobile use

6. Behringer

Behringer offers a comprehensive range of PA speakers, and they are known for their affordability and reliable performance. Their products are designed to deliver good sound quality across various settings, catering to both beginners and professionals.

Key Features:

• Wide range of both powered and passive speakers
• Affordable options without compromising on sound quality
• Easy to use and set up for various applications
• Durable designs suited for live performance rigors
• Versatile connectivity for different audio sources

Pros:

• Cost-effective solutions for PA system needs
• Solid build quality for durability
• Clear sound reproduction for its price point
• User-friendly interfaces for straightforward operation
• Suitable for small to medium-sized venues

Cons:

• Some models may lack the power needed for larger venues
• High-end responses might not satisfy all professional requirements

7. Mackie

Mackie is revered in the audio industry for producing robust sound and reliable PA speakers. Their products are a staple in live music and speaking engagements, and they are known for their clarity and build quality.

Key Features:

• High-quality sound with exceptional clarity
• Rugged construction for touring and fixed installations
• Innovative technology for easy mixing and setup
• Wide selection of models for different needs and budgets
• Bluetooth integration on selected models for wireless streaming

Pros:

• Premium sound quality across the product range
• Built to last, even under demanding conditions
• Comprehensive controls for precise sound adjustment
• Portable models available for musicians and DJs on the move
• Effective for both music playback and live performances

Cons:

• Higher price tags compared to budget brands
• Some models may be heavy, affecting portability

8. QSC

QSC stands out for its high-performance PA speakers that deliver superior audio quality and durability. Favored by professionals worldwide, QSC’s PA systems are designed for those seeking uncompromised sound in any setting.

Key Features:

• Exceptional audio fidelity with high SPL output
• Advanced DSP features for sound shaping and feedback control
• Robust and reliable build for professional use
• Versatile PA systems installation options for a range of venues
• Comprehensive product line, from compact to large-format speakers

Pros:

• Outstanding sound quality for live events and installations
• High maximum SPL for clear audio in large spaces
• Durable designs engineered for long-term reliability
• User-friendly interfaces for efficient operation
• Excellent customer support and product warranty

Cons:

• Premium pricing reflects the professional-grade quality
• Some models are substantial, requiring more effort to transport

Here’s A Quick Look

Factors To Consider When Choosing PA Systems

Sound Quality

The essence of any PA system is its sound quality [1]. Opt for speakers that offer clear and balanced audio performance across all frequencies. Whether you’re looking at powered PA speakers or passive speakers, prioritize models known for delivering pristine sound that can fully engage your audience.

Durability

Regular use, transportation, and the occasional bump or knock are part and parcel of a speaker’s life, especially in live sound environments. Durability is essential; robust construction ensures your investment withstands the test of time and maintains performance quality.

Power Rating

Matching speaker power to your needs is critical. Consider the venue size and the typical audience count.

Power amps [2] and speakers should have enough headroom to deliver sound at maximum peak SPL without distortion. It ensures your message or music is heard clearly, whether it’s through a full band setup or a solo performance.

Portability

For those who move their setup frequently, portability is a key consideration. Lightweight, compact speakers that are easy to carry and set up can save time and energy. Many powered PA speakers now have features that enhance portability without sacrificing sound quality.

Connectivity Options

Versatile input and output options ensure your speakers can seamlessly connect with various audio sources and other system components. Consider how many instruments you will connect to maintain its powerful system. Look for speakers with multiple channels that accommodate everything from microphones and musical instruments to music players.

Price

They are finding the right balance between budget and quality for the PA system. While affordable prices are attractive, investing in PA speakers from one of the most popular brands might offer better longevity and performance. Remember, the cheapest PA speaker isn’t always the most cost-effective in the long run.

Warranty & Support

A good warranty and responsive customer support can significantly impact your experience with a brand. Brands that stand behind their products and offer assistance ensure you get the most out of your purchase.

Reviews & Recommendations

Research is your best friend. Reading reviews and seeking professional recommendations can provide insights into speakers’ performance in real-world settings. Websites, forums, and contact with industry peers can be invaluable resources when choosing the right PA system.

Benefits of using PA Speaker Systems

• Wide Sound Coverage: PA speakers are designed to project sound over large areas, ensuring clear audio for large audiences.
• High Volume Output: Can deliver loud, distortion-free sound, ideal for events, concerts, and public gatherings.
• Durability: Built for rugged use, PA speakers are durable and can withstand outdoor environments and frequent transport.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for live performances, speeches, conferences, and background music in various venues.
• Enhanced Audio Clarity: Provides clear, powerful sound with minimal distortion, even at high volumes.
• Easy Integration: Can be easily connected to microphones, mixers, and other audio equipment, allowing flexible setups.
• Portable Options: Many PA speakers are available in portable models, which makes them easy to transport and set up at different locations.
• Customizable Sound: Often equipped with equalizers and controls to fine-tune audio output based on the venue and event needs.
• Cost-Effective for Large Events: Public address systems provide high-quality sound for large events without the need for expensive audio installations.

Also read: Church Sound Installation

FAQs

Wrapping Up

Selecting the right PA system for your needs can significantly enhance your audio experience, whether for professional events, performances, or public speaking. Remember, the key to a great sound system isn’t just about choosing the most expensive equipment but finding the right match for your specific requirements.

If you are looking for quality, reliability, and performance, The Network Installers offer expert advice and a wide range of options tailored to your needs.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit AISP.

Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you achieve the perfect sound setup for your venue. Let us be your partner in bringing high-quality audio to your audience.

References:

PA Systems - the world would undoubtedly be a whole lot quieter without them and definitely more boring! Now, with how critical these large boxes are to live music, you'd think more musicians would take an interest in what the best PA speakers are on the market and which are suitable for their needs. Sadly, this isn't the case. Many players underestimate the importance of the humble PA speaker and end up with a system that isn't fit for purpose, and this will always lead to a bad-sounding event - and no one wants that! Luckily for you, we've put together this handy guide to help steer you in the right direction. 

We've all been at arena gigs or festivals and looked up in awe at the gigantic hanging speakers above us. But, as cool as these are, they might be overkill for that intimate wedding gig you just landed. That's why we have chosen to focus purely on compact active PA speakers that would suit anyone playing in small to medium venues. This includes full bands with drums, solo artists, duos, and trios.

We've made sure that all the PA speakers in this guide are incredibly user-friendly, simple to set up, and, more importantly, easy to transport. So without further ado, let's dive into the best PA speakers on the market right now.

Quick list

Best PA speaker overall

First and foremost, PA speakers have to be reliable. A failing speaker could be disastrous for a gig, and not to mention lose you money! With the Yamaha DZR range, that need not be a worry, as Yamaha offers a whopping seven-year warranty on these high-tech loudspeakers.

No matter the application, there is plenty of horsepower in these W bi-amped speakers, and when we've used the Yamaha DZR, we certainly never thought they lacked volume. The ability to rotate the horn allows you to hang these speakers from the ceiling, mount them on speaker poles, or even use them as floor monitors. The convenient LCD screen located on the back of the unit allows you to easily adjust a wide range of DSP functions, from loading venue-specific presets to adjusting the EQ balance of the speaker. You can also save your setting on a USB drive and transfer them between speakers. 

So if you're looking for one of the best PA speakers on the market and one that will stand the test of time, the Yamaha DZR12 is the perfect speaker for you. 

Best all-in-one system

If the thought of setting up a PA system breaks you out in a cold sweat, then the RCF EVOX system is the perfect solution for you. This all-in-one, small line array is super easy to set up and comes with a myriad of effects - and even amp modelers so you can plug your electric guitar or bass guitar directly in. 

The entire system is controlled by the highly intuitive EVOX mobile app. This app allows you to manage all the features of the in-built eight-channel digital mixer, from gain, levels, EQ, and effects. This also allows you to mix from anywhere in the room - and even from the stage if you wanted to.

In our tests, we found the RCF to be incredibly intuitive to use, very reliable and most importantly it sounds superb - it makes sense then that we would feature it in our guide to the best PA speakers. 

Best for solo performers

The smallest and easiest to move around of the company's L1 range, the Bose L1 Compact System combines a PA and monitors in one unit, with interlocking components that Bose that we found can be set up in minutes. 

The main component is a slimline array speaker that's about 2m high and features six small drivers mounted at precise angles. This is placed vertically and slotted into a power stand with an integrated bass speaker. 

The advantage of a line array is that it dispersesThe Bose L1 Compact System is the smallest and easiest model to move within the company's L1 range. It combines a PA system and monitors into one unit, featuring interlocking components that can be set up in just a few minutes.

The main component is a slim line array speaker that stands approximately 2 meters tall and includes six small drivers positioned at precise angles. This speaker is placed vertically and slots into a power stand that has an integrated bass speaker.

One of the standout advantages of using a line array system like the Bose L1 Compact is its capacity for uniform sound distribution. By dispersing sound spatially, it fills the entire room with clarity and volume while reducing the potential for feedback. This feature is particularly beneficial for live performances, allowing musicians to move freely on stage without worrying about hot spots or dead zones in the sound coverage. Overall, the Bose L1 Compact System is designed to provide exceptional audio performance in a user-friendly and portable design. sound spatially, not only to fill the whole room for the audience but also onstage for monitoring.

Reasonably priced option

Electro-Voice has been in the live sound game for over 90 years, so it's safe to say they know a fair amount about sound reinforcement. Famed for their high-quality and reasonably priced speakers and microphones, EV sure makes some of the best PA speaker systems on the market. 

For this guide, we have chosen to single out the ELX200-12P. For us, the 12" powered speaker delivers a fantastic clear and articulate sound - and is more than capable of hanging with the more expensive entries on this list. 

Like the Yamaha DZR, the EV also features an LCD screen for navigating through EQ presets and giving a visual meter for both input one and two. This can also be accessed through the EV QuickSmart mobile app. 

Best personal line array

Now, some of you may be familiar with Yamaha's previous Stagepas system. The ultra-portable PA was incredibly popular with solo performers and duos and this new system builds on that legacy and turns it into a personal line array system. 

If you're entirely new to sound reinforcement, then this is the PA for you. We found that this unit couldn't be any easier to set up. Simply insert the two spacer units into the 12" subwoofer, and top with the line array head, and that's it. Even making adjustments to the EQ and effects is also super simple - with the use of Yamaha's one-knob EQ and simplified controls. 

Although we feel the Stagepas 1K is a little small for full band setups, this sleek and well-built PA is perfect for singer-songwriters, duos, or even spoken word applications such as speeches, schools, or worship. 

Best workhorse speaker

The SRM range is, according to Mackie, the most widely-used mobile loudspeaker ever and, while the SRM450 by itself is a self-contained PA, it can also be used as part of a larger system and can have a subwoofer added, so may be a starting point for someone looking to eventually expand their facilities. 

There are two channels, so you can comfortably have two vocals or a vocal and instrument. Channel 2 also has connections for a music player. Onboard DSP provides voicings for PA, DJ, Monitor, and Soloist with various bass roll-offs and mid-cuts, but there is no other EQ.

We found the Mackie SRM450 to have a fairly punchy sound with plenty of low-end - even though it can lack a little high-end definition - and a pair would provide plenty of volume for most situations. 

Also consider

So those are our top picks, but there are many more great options to choose from that offer something a little different in terms of features and performance. We've selected some more of our favourites below.

FAQs

Choosing the right PA can seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. If you follow this simple advice, you should be able to quickly find the best PA system for your situation. 

How many inputs do I need on a PA speaker?

First of all, think about how many instruments will be running through the PA – unlike at large concerts, you're unlikely to be amplifying every instrument on the stage. You'll most likely need enough inputs for the vocals, acoustic guitars, bass, and maybe a keyboard. If you do want to play everything through your system, then you'll need to consider purchasing a mixing console. 

Look at the total number of XLR mic inputs and any instrument and line inputs and see if it's going to provide everything you need in the immediate future, but also for any projects you might get involved in down the line. Some even come with built-in Bluetooth, which is very handy if you want to stream music throughout the gig.  

What wattage does my PA need to be?

Well, there's no hard and fast rule for how powerful your PA system needs to be. Think about the size of venues you'll be playing regularly (and don't forget your rehearsal space) and consider the rated power output. There are so many variables that will change how loud a speaker will appear. The room size, indoors or outdoors, and the number of audience members, all affect how a speaker performs. So check the manufacturer's guidelines for a rough place to start.  

How easy is a PA to move around?

Suppose you're a solo artist, a busker, or just prefer the easy life. In that case, portability may be a significant factor to consider. All of the systems on this list are easily transported, some more so than others. If you want to minimise the amount of gear you're carrying around, then it's worth checking out an all-in-one system. Some of these even fold down into an easy-to-carry unit.  

What features does my PA system need?

It's worth thinking about how much control you need over the audio. For speech applications, it's not all that important to have an array of effects. Still, for music, you may want to have good quality reverb and a decent EQ section so you can really shape your sound. Many systems these days come with a mobile app. This is very handy if you need to mix the sound from on the stage or even if you want to make adjustments on the fly. 

How much should I spend on a PA system?

PA speakers come in various shapes and sizes and therefore vary wildly in price. However, when it comes to deciding how much to spend, it really comes down to the application of the PA system. 

If you are a working professional playing in a wedding or function band, then your PA system is one of the most essential elements of your setup. At the end of the day, you could be the best sounding band in the world, but if you play through a sub-par PA system, you’re not going to sound as good as you could. Therefore, it’s imperative that you invest in the best PA speakers you can afford. Professional systems can cost anywhere from $/£1,200 - $/£2,000. 

It’s worth noting that if you are a working musician, your shiny new speakers will eventually start paying for themselves. A better sounding band will get more bookings, and if you go for a larger system than you have now, you could also take on larger events. 

For more casual bands or performers, you may want to spend a little less and opt for a system around the $/£800 mark. This will still get you a powerful system, but it may not have the same features found on professional speakers.

Solo artists, or buskers looking for a battery-powered option, can easily pick up a system for around $/£300 to $/£500. But again, you do get what you pay for, so be sure to check if the model you are looking for has all the features you need - if it doesn’t, you may need to go up to the next price bracket. 

Why trust us

☑️ Established
☑️ 2.9 million monthly users globally
☑️ 9,500+ reviews on-site

With more than 17 years of experience, MusicRadar is the premier music-making website in the world. Run by musicians for musicians, we offer expertly written gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by an extensive team of highly experienced industry professionals. 

Below, you'll find more information on the expert authors of this guide. 

How we test PA speakers

The way in which we test a speaker is crucial and will ultimately show off the PA system's strengths and weaknesses. Our first port of call is to collect a selection of reference tracks. These songs need to be professionally produced, cover several genres and display a wide range of frequencies to ensure we are testing the system fairly.

We will then play the PA speaker at various volume levels - paying close attention to the low, mid and high frequencies and how they change at different dB levels. 

Lastly, we will plug in a microphone, acoustic guitar or keyboard and test the sweep of the EQ as well as any other tone-shaping features that may be present, such as compressors and effects. 

All of the above factors, along with the overall built quality, weight and ease of use, are then considered when deciding if a product makes the grade and is worthy of being included in our guide to the best PA speakers. 

Read more about how we test music making gear and services at MusicRadar.

Related buyer's guides

MusicRadar's got your back Our team of expert musicians and producers spends hours testing products to help you choose the best music-making gear for you. Find out more about how we test.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of industrial pa speaker. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.