Here are the Powered PA Speaker Systems that we recommend - great sounding, portable and reliable, all-in-one sound systems.

We have picked out the most sought after 12" speakers which provide a healthy balance of clarity, dispersion, volume and portability. We have also provided links for the bigger 15" woofer models, suitable for larger venues or for those that want to emphasize the lower frequencies.

Update: We also suggest you check out the QSC K12 Review on Gearank.com.

PylePro PPHP127AI

The beauty of products from non big-name manufacturers is that they can have a lot of features without the added cost of branding. The PylePro PPHP127AI is one such product, having multiple features and quality that can rival more expensive models while staying affordable.

For its price, it surprisingly comes with a powerful 1,200 watt amplifier, giving you extended headroom for distortion-free loud music playing. The amplifier drives a 12" woofer and a 1.34" Titanium compression driver, providing sounds that exceed your expectations. The PPHP127AI features a 3 channel mixer with multiple input options for quick connectivity and you can control the sound with its volume bass and treble controls. Other nifty features include iPod connectivity and a remote control that lets you pick what mp3 to play from your USB/SD Card. Finally, all these features are wrapped in a sturdy and stylish housing that does not feel or look cheap. If brand is not an issue for you, then this will give you amazing value for your money.

Behringer Eurolive B112D

The Behringer Eurolive B112D continues to be among the top selling powered speakers in the market, and the obvious reason is its great price tag to features ratio.

Behringer managed to include as many features as they could in a compact and affordable package, while retaining the quality and durability expected from a loud speaker. This speaker cabinet comes with a capable 1,000 Watt Class-D amplifier, more than enough for small to medium sized venues. The back side of the speaker shows its integrated mixer and built-in compatibility with Behringer's wireless microphones, allowing the B112D to double as a portable sound system or to be used as capable amplifiers for instruments and vocals. If you are looking for a reliable sound-system that won't hurt your budget, get the Eurolive B112D.

Mackie Thump Series TH-12A

The Mackie Thump TH-12A is another affordable powered pa speaker that is popular among sound engineers and musicians. Many consider its clarity and midrange performance to be top notch, making it the speaker of choice for small events that feature acoustic instruments and vocals.

At the heart of the TH-12A is an efficient Class-D amplifier, providing 400 Watts Peak power to its 12" woofer and 1" compression driver, which in conjunction with its unique cabinet shape, produces impressive sound quality that are comparable to more expensive models. It doesn't have as much power as many other 12" systems, but it works reliably and suits small venues. If you are looking for an affordable powered pa speaker for small venue acoustic music, get this one.

Samson Auro D412

Samson is a brand known for affordable audio solutions, and the Auro D412 is designed to uphold this reputation. This speaker offers a nice balance of sound quality and features, while staying compact, portable and affordable. This speaker will interest users that want a convenient mobile PA system.

The Auro D412 comes with a built-in 400 watt amplifier, driving a 12-inch extended low frequency driver and its accompanying 1.34-inch compression driver. Although not as powerful as the others in this price range, the D412 provides more articulate bass and high frequency signals. Many use the D412 for meetings, music classrooms and other small venue events that require a clear sound. The D412 comes with a 1/4-inch line input and an XLR mic input, and controls include volume and a two-band equalizer. Adding to its highlights is its ergonomic handles and robust solid polypropylene construction.

Electro-Voice ELX112P

The EV ELX112P continues to satisfy engineers, musicians and fans worldwide. It is among the most recommended powered speakers, and considered to be the best at its price range. Its simple visuals and operation are contrasted by the detailed and articulate sounds it produces.

The ELX112P's bi-amplified design enables it to provide quality audio, featuring an integrated 1000W Class-D amplifier that powers a 12" woofer and a 1.5" titanium compression driver. The sound is described by many as very detailed, able to reproduce little nuances especially in the midrange. The speaker has excellent crossover performance, and it comes with a selectable 100Hz high-pass filter, 24dB/octave filter slopes and transducer protection. Connectivity options include 2 XLR/TRS combo jacks, an XLR Link output and 1 stereo RCA. The ELX112P is a highly recommended mid-priced speaker system.

JBL PRX612M

Although the JBL PRX612M is designed to be an active stage monitor, its versatility and sonic quality has made it one of the most sought after powered PA speakers available. Whether front-of-house main, stage monitor or stand-alone, this speaker will not disappoint.

This speaker comes with JBL's superb construction, which is matched by its audio quality. Its sturdy and reliable cabinet houses a bi-amplified system featuring dual 500-Watt Crown Class-D amplifiers that drive a 12" Differential Drive woofer and a 1.5" neodymium compression driver. Its traditional poplar plywood cabinet is contrasted by its modern DSP features, including a user selectable EQ, protection and input sensitivity selection, as well as cross-over functionality and dynamic limiting. Input options include XLR line and 1/4" mic/instrument inputs. The JBL PRX612M's reliable performance and great sound makes it a very worthy investment.

QSC K12

QSC K Series is considered by many as the industry standard in lightweight powered loudspeaker systems, and we concur. It is lighter than many of its contemporaries and it outclasses other powered speakers with its deep and detailed audio reproduction.

Although the lightweight plastic exterior might put you off at first, the speaker's amazing sound and performance will change your mind if not blow you away. The ABS plastic like exterior actually helps improve the focus and dispersion of the sound, while also being rigid enough to handle the rigors of regular professional use. The QSC K12 features a 1000 watt amplifier with DSP processing that helps it reproduce sound with clarity even at higher volumes. And it has been used successfully in various types of events ranging from formal conferences to rock concerts and even bass heavy dance events. If you want nothing less than the best, then you should invest on a pair of QSC K12 speakers.

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