Basic PA SystemsGuides d'achat

Say you're in band that just got a rehearsal space of its own or a promoter tired of renting speakers for your shows—you can find plenty of options for PA systems on Reverb. The basic components are a mixer, a power amp, and speakers, which can be found in all manner of configurations.

In the video below, Reverb's Joe Shadid takes a look at the various options and explains what buyers should consider before deciding what's right for them. You'll also find a series of excellent and recommended options under the three main configuration categories.

The simplest PA configuration is an all-in-one system, which can be as small as one powered, plug-and-play speaker with a power amp and onboard mixing options. Just plug a microphone or instrument directly into the back, adjust the volume (and perhaps change some tone), and you're good to go.

This type of setup is ideal for a singer-songwriter, a karaoke night, or other scenarios where you don't need many voices or instruments to be amplified, as these plug-and-play PAs generally only have one or two inputs. If you need more than that, you can always add an external mixer for more inputs.

Below, check out the Fishman SA220—a great plug-and-play-style PA system with two inputs that's especially great for acoustic singer-songwriters. This is Joe Shadid's go-to solo performance PA.