Portable PA systems come in all shapes and sizes.
During the past few years, manufacturers of portable PA systems have become increasingly responsive to the needs of meeting planners who produce events in small venues. There is virtually a flood of new portable PA systems with built-in options that were previously available only in high-end large-area PA systems. Today, the meeting planner can expect a small portable PA to include wireless microphones, rechargeable batteries and higher power ratings
We evaluate a few of these new portable PA systems below to give you an idea of your choices. First however a few general remarks on portable PA systems and the organization of this article.
The most logical organizing principle for small portable PA systems (and hence this article on Small Portable PA Systems) is power or Wattage. Wattage relates to power output and power determines volume penetration of a PA system. Hence, a good rule of thumb for measuring PA systems, coined by the engineers at AudioLink, is: "One Watt Per Person." As a practical matter, in many circumstances you can safely double this rating for small portable PA systems with no audible deterioration in performance. (This rule also begs the question of RMS (root mean square) which is a power rating used by some manufacturers of portable PA systems.)
 AmpliVox Wireless Portable PA Systems
One of the coolest small portable PA systems (and I emphasize small) is the AmpliVox 5 Watt S206. BeltBlaster PA systems are worn around the waist of a teacher, trainer, or presenter who seeks a highly portable solution for enhancing sound projection in a small venue. These AmpliVox portable PA systems include both lapel (lavaliere) and headband mics, although only one may be used at a time. Because it is rated at only 5 Watts, these PA systems are not very effective for crowds further away than 25 feet, but within that distance these small portable PA systems have surprising power. Learn more about the Amplivox S206 BeltBlaster PA Systems.
 Nady Wireless Portable PA Systems
These portable Nady PA systems come with both AC/DC and internal battery powered options. Ideal for use in classrooms, small meeting rooms and small auditoriums, these PA systems include your choice of either a lavaliere (lapel) microphone with bodypack transmitter or a handheld mic. These powerful, yet lightweight, portable PA's feature options usually found only on high end systems. The Nady PA systems emphasize sound amplification, and work better on the tabletop than in the field. With 200 feet of operating range, these small portable PA systems cover a lot of ground. Learn more about the Nady WA-120LT PA Systems.
Hamilton Portable PA Systems
 If you want a small portable PA that also records to cassette, you can't beat these Hamilton PA systems. With 30 Watts of power, automatic level recording, one-touch controls, variable speed, and a full-range 8 inch speaker, these small portable PA systems are very versatile. Expandable with speakers and mics, these PA systems can cover small to moderate crowds of up to 100 people. Like the Nady portable PA, these Hamilton systems operate on AC power or batteries (not included) and are highly portable. Learn more about the Hamilton PA7530 PA Systems.
Califone Portable PA Systems
For a 30 Watt PA with lots of features and add-ons, the Califone systems are remarkably portable. These small wireless PA systems come with two convenient carrying cases that store the amp, a mounting bracket (with swivel), a tripod stand, a remote control, a body pack transmitter and a mic. (The only thing that would make these PA systems more portable is the ability to run on batteries.) Durable and rugged, like other Califone PA systems, this small portable PA has been a teacher's pet since it was first introduced two years ago. These portable PA systems are perfect for small indoor venues. Learn more about the Califone PA300UHFPL PA Systems.
 Anchor Audio Portable PA Systems
These highly portable PA systems are made to order for outdoor use; firemen, policemen and auctioneers are among those who choose the MegaVox Pro as their PA solution. Powered by a 25 Watt RMS amp (which delivers an amazing 126 decibels of clear speech projection), these portable PA systems include a rechargeable battery for true AC/DC functionality. Weighing in at only 15 pounds, these highly portable PA systems are capable of substantial upgrades, including wireless mics and as many as six portable companion speakers. Learn more about the Anchor Audio MEGA6000 PA Systems.
Amplivox Portable PA Systems
These portable PA systems by AmpliVox, nicknamed the "Portable Buddy," barely qualify as small, and, yet, for all their power they fit perfectly in a classroom, a boardroom or a small auditorium. These PA systems feature a 50 Watt multimedia stereo amp, a wireless receiver, 3 mic inputs, and a line-in jack with separate tone and volume controls. With a convenient handle and shoulder strap, these AmpliVox PA systems are highly portable and ready to go. Learn more about the Amplivox SW222 PA Systems.
Fender Portable PA Systems
 These 80 Watt portable PA systems are a recent addition to Fender's family of Passport PA's. This small sibling in the Fender PA dynasty is designed with the trademark molded suitcase that simplifies setup and transportation. Like the other Fender Passport PA systems, the P80 is compatible with all Fender accessories (e.g. wireless mics, battery systems, and stands) to make a truly awesome small portable power house. Learn more about the Fender P80 PA Systems.
Call or email us if you have any questions about which small (or not so small) portable PA systems are right for you.
You may also wish to read our other product reviews on mid-range portable PA systems or large area portable PA systems.
PA systems - Choosing the right PA System
PA systems - Portable PA Systems & PA Accessories
PA systems - Handheld PA's & Megaphones
PA systems - Small Portable PA Systems
PA systems - Midsize PA Systems
PA systems - Large Portable PA Systems
PA systems - Wireless PA Systems
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