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Last updated: 19 Jan 2021

The Best Portable Battery-Powered PA Systems

Best Choice
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Bose S1 Pro Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Runner-Up
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Fishman Loudbox Mini BT Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Premium Pick
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JBL Eon One Compact Pro Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Best Value
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Mackie FreePlay Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Strong Acoustics
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Orange Crush Acoustic 30 Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Best Mini
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Fishman Loudbox Mini Charge Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Best Portable
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Roland BA-330 Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Versatile 8-Channel
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Samson Expedition XP800 Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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All-in-One
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TC-Helicon SingThing Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Best with Hot Spot
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Galaxy Audio PA6BT Portable Battery-Powered PA System
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Jack Stoneybrook
By Jack Stoneybrook
Published 7:31 pm
Show contents
  • 1 Bose S1 Pro Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 2 Fishman Loudbox Mini BT Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 3 JBL Eon One Compact Pro Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 4 Mackie FreePlay Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 5 Orange Crush Acoustic 30 Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 6 Fishman Loudbox Mini Charge Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 7 Roland BA-330 Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 8 Samson Expedition XP800 Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 9 TC-Helicon SingThing Portable Battery-Powered PA System
  • 10 Galaxy Audio PA6BT Portable Battery-Powered PA System

This category overlaps in many ways with the recommended acoustic amps, as some acoustic guitar amps are also tuned for vocals, and provide a vocal XLR input. Here is our list of the best portable battery-powered PA systems in 2021.

Best Portable Battery-Powered PA System

1

Bose S1 Pro Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Best Choice
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Key Features
  • Two channels with independent EQ, reverb, and ToneMatch technology promise flattering reproduction of voices and instruments, while a dedicated third channel with 1/8″ aux input and one-touch Bluetooth pairing and streaming handles music playback.
  • ToneMatch technologyThe Bose S1 Pro includes a streamlined version of Bose’s ToneMatch technology on channels 1 and 2. Use the microphone setting for rich, lush vocal reproduction at a touch, or the guitar setting for pre-programmed settings for your acoustic. ToneMatch can also be toggled off completely.
  • Factory-installed Li-ion batteryYour Bose S1 Pro includes a factory-installed Li-ion battery. Enjoy hours of powerful sound reproduction on the go. Lightweight — just 15 lbs. — with a convenient carry handleCan be tilted, seated, or stand mounted (35mm pole mount).
THE SCOOP

The Bose S1 Pro really is the all-in-one package. Whether you are hosting an audience of one or an entire event space, this aux system is sure to impress.

2

Fishman Loudbox Mini BT Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Runner-Up
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Key Features
  • At 60 watts, the Fishman Loudbox Mini features two channels with Fishman’s popular preamp and tone control designs. And thanks to built-in Bluetooth connectivity, you can bring in backing tracks or other accompaniment to your performances. There’s also a digital reverb and chorus for the instrument channel and reverb for the microphone channel.
  • This small-but-powerful acoustic amp also features an Aux input and a balanced XLR DI output — great for playing along to or capturing your live performances.
  • When it’s time to make adjustments, the far-left Instrument channel has a Phase switch and Gain, Low, Mid, High, Reverb, and Chorus knobs that let you make those simple yet important changes to your tone and styling. Another set of Gain, Low, High, and Reverb knobs are on the Mic channel, giving you all the necessary controls to dial in a great vocal mix. Finally, a Master volume sets the amp’s overall level.
THE SCOOP

The Fishman Loudbox Mini BT is the acoustic amp you’ve been waiting for. Check out this PA system for its amazing tone control potential and natural-sounding projection.

3

JBL Eon One Compact Pro Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Premium Pick
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Key Features
  • A built-in 4-channel mixer and generous I/O options accommodate your microphones, instrument, and portable media player. Bluetooth enables you to stream audio from your mobile device.
  • You also get an 8-band EQ and high-quality digital effects for optimizing your sound, and a 1/4” passthrough for expanding the system for larger rooms.
  • Channels 1–2 have combo 1/4″/XLR inputs, as well as 48V phantom power for your condenser mics. You also get a 1/4” hi-Z input and one 3.5mm aux input, enabling you to connect your guitar and portable media player. An 8-band EQ, customizable via presets, is on hand to optimize your sound, along with great-sounding reverb, chorus, and delay to give your performance a pro-quality sheen.
THE SCOOP

If you are looking for full-range, clean audio that you can take anywhere you go, you have come to the right place. The JBL Eon One Compact Pro stands out for its portability and exceptional quality.

4

Mackie FreePlay Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Best Value
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Key Features
  • Hook up a vocal mic and your acoustic-electric guitar, stream backing tracks from your smartphone via Bluetooth, and you’re ready to perform with up to 15 hours of operation from the FreePlay LIVE’s built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
  • Portable 150W PA with convenient battery operation and Bluetooth music streamingPrecision-tuned ported enclosure delivers enhanced bass and headroomConnections for microphones, line or instrument level sourcesFull-featured 2-channel digital mixer with onboard effectsBuilt-in lithium-ion battery.
  • FreePlay Connect app enables complete wireless control and access to professional mixing featuresLink to a second FreePlay-series speakerMount on a standard microphone stand with the included adapter…
THE SCOOP

Mackie Freeplay is perfect for a musician on the go. This speaker made our list for its portability and exceptional, full-range sound.

5

Orange Crush Acoustic 30 Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Strong Acoustics
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Key Features
  • Portable 2-channel Acoustic Amp with Battery/Wall Operation.
  • effects loop for choosy stomp and preamp integration, an 1/8″ auxiliary input for jamming along to backing tracks, and pre- and post-EQ outputs for routing signals to a mixing board or interface.
  • Line (pre-EQ) and Balanced (post-EQ) outputs1/8″ aux input — plug in your phone and jam along to backing tracks…
THE SCOOP

This amp has a retro flare that we absolutely love. Not only does this system have fantasic balance and quality, but its vintage design is sure to wow.

6

Fishman Loudbox Mini Charge Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Best Mini
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Key Features
  • At 60 watts, the Loudbox Mini Charge features two channels with Fishman’s popular preamp and tone control designs. There is also a digital reverb and chorus for the instrument channel and reverb for the microphone channel.
  • The Loudbox Mini Charge also features an Aux input and a balanced XLR DI output — great for playing along to or capturing your live performances. And now with Bluetooth wireless connectivity, you can bring in backing tracks or other accompaniment to your performances.
  • When it’s time to make adjustments, the far-left Instrument channel has a Phase switch and Gain, Low, Mid, High, Reverb, and Chorus knobs that let you make those simple yet important changes to your tone and styling. Another set of Gain, Low, High, and Reverb knobs are on the Mic channel, giving you all the necessary controls to dial in a great vocal mix. Finally, a Master volume sets the amp’s overall level.
THE SCOOP

Step up your performaces with the Fishman Loudbox Mini Charge. This amp stands out for its exceptional tone quality and portability that you are sure to love.

7

Roland BA-330 Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Best Portable
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Key Features
  • All-in-one portable digital PA system you can use anywherePowerful, high-quality stereo sound for audiences up to 100 peopleNo setup required; just plug in and go.
  • Powered by AC power or by eight AA batteriesFour custom-designed 6.5″ speakers and two tweeters for wide stereo projection.
  • Built-in effects: EQ, reverb, delay, and wide (on/off per channel)4-channel configuration: two channels for mic/instruments plus two channels for stereo inputsStereo Aux input with dedicated volume-control knobAdvanced Intelligent Anti-feedback function.
THE SCOOP

The Roland BA-330 is proof that a high-quality, portable amp system is a must-have. Its four-channel configuration and built-in effects are sure to stand out amoungst contenders.

8

Samson Expedition XP800 Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Versatile 8-Channel
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Key Features
  • You get a versatile 8-channel mixer, two full-range speakers, and the kinds of extras that make life a little bit easier – including a built-in Bluetooth receiver, onboard digital effects, phantom power, and integrated stand mounts. Four mic/line inputs, two stereo inputs, and phantom power for condenser microphones.
  • Access the 10 included 24-bit digital effects and add a pro polish to your live sound. You can even connect your Bluetooth-enabled device to the XP800 for instant access to program audio or background music.
  • Entire system weight just over 40 lbs.Ideal for small to medium-sized gigs (60-100 attendees)2 x 400W stereo power amp2-band channel EQs.
THE SCOOP

The Samson Expedition is music to our ears. The clean sound projection and versatility of this PA system is what makes this amp stand out on our list.

9

TC-Helicon SingThing Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– All-in-One
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Key Features
  • Featuring TC’s acclaimed harmony engine and vocal processing suite, you’ll be able to deliver studio-quality vocal sound.
  • With a built-in performance looper, a powerful 150-watt speaker, over 200 song- and artist-inspired tone presets, and much more; the TC-Helicon SingThing speaker is an outstanding, feature-packed performance system.
  • It includes TC’s MP-75 Modern Performance vocal microphone with a built-in control for engaging SingThing’s vocal effects. You’ll also receive an XLR cable to hook up the mic, 1/8″ aux cables for connecting a keyboard or music player, and an 1/8″ to 1/4″ adapter.
THE SCOOP

The TC-Helicon SingThing is sure to rock your world. This amp projects studio-quality vocal sound that will enhance any performance.

10

Galaxy Audio PA6BT Portable Battery-Powered PA System

– Best with Hot Spot
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Key Features
  • At just over 6 lbs., this full-range (80Hz–18kHz) speaker uses the latest amp technology to move 170 watts of vocals, keyboards, or guitar through its tiny, capable frame. Plug directly into the Galaxy Hot Spot Bluetooth and engage its onboard compressor/limiter and EQ, or stream audio over your phone. Independent levels balance your sources.
  • Efficient two-way speaker system (6.5″ woofer, 1.5″ tweeter)Promises 170W of clean, full-range (80Hz-18kHz) audio2 XLR mic inputs with independent level controlsBluetooth receiver streams audio from your mobile device1/8″ stereo line in for legacy music players.
  • Shared 3-band EQ cleans up stage soundOnboard compressor/limiter protects your driversXLR Thru for daisy-chainsIncludes one straight mic stand mounting adapter…
THE SCOOP

The Galaxy Audio PA6BT Hot Spot is small but mighty. Only weighing in at just around 6 pounds does not stop this system from delivering high-quality, loud amplification.

Best Portable Battery-Powered PA Systems Buying Guide

Whether you’re on the road or in the garage, family picnic, or a tailgate party, sometimes the only sound you hear is the trumpets blaring and the drums beating. If you have a portable PA system, you can turn the sound down to just a few decibels to keep the crowd in the moment. Portable battery-powered PAs are a big time-saver for events like these, as they don't require electricity or power cords. You don't have to worry about running out of batteries or having someone find another outlet when the music is low. A portable battery doesn't lose power the way a wall outlet or AC adapter might, either. Let's take a look at some of the features you need to consider when shopping for a Portable Battery-Powered PA System.

American Songwriter delivers original review content that connects musicians of all skill level with outstanding products. We help people discover practical products that will improve their lives and are worth the investment, focusing on experience and real-life use cases. In the same way that readers trust American Songwriter to navigate music news, they also trust us to navigate the abundant world of internet shopping. General information about types of products and categories is provided here to assist readers in meeting their varied purchase needs and is not intended to represent the page author's endorsement in any way.

PA System Buying Tips

Be aware of common issues. When choosing a portable PA system, consider these common problems that might crop up:

  • Many battery-powered systems are not designed to handle extreme cold. If you plan to use your portable system in the snow, you will need to be sure that it is rated for that temperature.
  • Some batteries might also not work with certain types of batteries. Check with the manufacturer if you are unsure of the system’s specifications.
  • High battery levels can cause temporary or permanent damage to the portables. Make sure your battery's voltage is within safe limits. You should only run your PA speaker if the vehicle battery is fully charged. Otherwise, make sure the battery terminals are secured to prevent shorts.

Important Considerations

Battery life

The battery life of portable public addresses varies widely. The most important factor is to never run the system for a long time without charging it. A battery that lasts only a few hours is okay, but be sure the speakers can handle it before you start counting hours. Even then, it might only be three to five hours at the most. If you want to listen to the radio during a big meeting, you'll need a battery system that can go 12 to 18 hours without needing to be recharged. Some portable systems can run for as long as 24 hours on a single battery charge.

Sound quality

Portable PA systems are typically not very loud. That doesn't mean they aren't useful, though. Most are designed to minimize background noise to deliver clear, clear sound. There are, however, some systems that are so quiet that they can't even be used in some areas. Check the manufacturer's specifications to verify that the portable system you’re considering is quiet enough to use in a public space.

Maintenance

Because they're powered by batteries, portable battery-powered public speakers require regular maintenance. You must make sure they all work properly before they last more than a short time. This means removing and replacing the batteries and keeping the AC outlets clean. While the majority of systems have the ability to play music and the like, not all are equipped with a CD player. In other cases, the speaker may need to connect to a portable music player via HDMI.

Portable PA System Price Ranges

Inexpensive

While you can find a basic portable public addressing system for under $100, expect to find only two outputs – a news broadcast and a commercial – along with a CR2032 battery. While these systems may be adequate for short-term use, they’re unlikely to be very durable and will require frequent replacement batteries.

Mid-Range

A mid-level portable system is usually found between $150 and $500. You'll find two or three outputs, dual-tone output, and both a battery and AC power source. Most will include some basic features like a three-way communication channel and weather reports.

Expensive and Above

The most expensive portable media systems cost from $1,000 to well over $5,000. For this price, you'll get dual tone, three channels, full USB connectivity, touchscreen support, multiple output options, real-time weather forecasts, automatic volume control, built-in speaker, NOAA weather radio, large capacity batteries, hardwired speakers, remote control. These are powerful systems that should last for years!

Features To Look For In Portable Battery-Powered PAs

There are a number of features you should take into account when looking to purchase a portable PA system. These features are essential to making sure that your portable system works well and comes with the best possible quality.

Sound Quality

The sound quality is probably the most important feature to look for in a PA system because without a good sound, it won't be very useful. The quality of the sound is dependent on the type of battery used and its power output. Some models use AA batteries while others use AAA batteries. PA system's sound will be muffled if the batteries aren‘t powerful enough. If you are looking for an automatic PA system, the quality will not be as important.

Functionality

Most portable battery-powered PAs come with some basic functions that can be used for any event. This makes the devices extremely versatile. Depending on your needs, you may want to buy a model that has the ability to play AM and FM radio stations, allows you to record speeches and messages, and allows for you call for the attention of people on a small screen.

Operating System

Your portable personal communications (PPC) device will come pre-loaded with a variety of different operating systems. In some cases, these operating system are completely free of charge. Other models will require you purchase the OS to use. When shopping for a system with this type, be sure to check the price to see what you re really paying. Additionally, consider the operating-systems that come bundled with your device.

Frequency Capability

For a sound system to be able to transmit at high frequencies, a transmitter must be powerful and have a high-quality antenna. Although portable devices don't transmit the same frequencies as personal communication devices, there are still areas where you can use a personal communicator. For example, if you want a signal that will reach faraway areas, look into a frequency-capable portable device with an AM or FM transmitter.

Portability

The best way to decide which portable power stations to go with is to consider your location. Do you mainly want the portable system in your home or do you also want it for use in the office? The more portable your system is, typically, both in terms of location and function, is the better. Consider how many devices you would like to have connected to your personal PA system at any given time. How portable or portable-only do your devices need to actually be to function properly?

Ease of Use

Many portable PA devices are pretty easy to set up and use – especially if your will only be using it once. However, some devices require a little more work. Look for portable options that allow you some choice in how the device is set-up.

Wireless Range

Depending upon where the wireless range is needed, will determine how useful the public message system will actually turn out to operate. A wireless signal will definitely travel faster than a wired connection, but it also means that the signal may not reach the exact location where it was intended.

Final Thoughts

What are portable PAs?

Portable PA systems are essentially giant speakers. You can mount one on your roof or on a pole in your yard, or mount it to the top of a motorhome or truck. They’re basically portable speakers, but with big bells and whistles. Portable PA systems run off batteries or AC adapters, and are typically used for concerts, parades, sporting events, festivals, political conventions, charity events and more. Some models are even capable of broadcasting HD audio to multiple people at the same time.

How to choose the right portable PA system for your situation?

Depending on the application, you‘ll want to consider a few things when purchasing a portable PA.

  1. First off, it's important to note that portable systems aren “hardwired"and don't require an external power source. However, the distance you need to cover will dictate how far you can wire them up and which type of cord you should use. If you want something that s going to give you some range, make sure you choose a cord that allows at least 50 feet of wire to be connected.
  2. Additionally, be sure that the portable PA system you buy has a balanced line out so you don't have to worry about the power going out due to overload.
  3. Finally, if you plan on broadcasting to more than one location, a PA that is also a soundboard is a necessity. Considering that a speaker can cost upwards of $1,000, we highly recommend finding one that supports this function.

Portable Battery-Powered PA System FAQ

Q: What is a portable PA system?

A: A portable PA system is basically a speaker system that attaches to your vehicle or boat to give you a way to entertain your friends and family. Many people use these to play music in cars or as a form of entertainment in the beach or lake, or even on the golf course. They are relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and compact, so they are an ideal option for anyone who doesn’t have an outlet in their vehicle.

Q: How small can a PA speaker be?

A: Portable PA systems can be as small as an 18” square speaker or larger. Some models are so small they cannot even be placed on a dashboard. Others can have speakers that are up to 70 inches wide.

Jack Stoneybrook
By Jack Stoneybrook
Jack has been a touring guitarist for almost 20 years, playing in a number of country music and rock bands. Jack loves the road and defines himself as a never-ending student of the guitar and other important instruments or tools that make a musician.
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