Best Portable Column PA Systems for Small Gigs

This is an in-depth overview of the best portable column PA systems for small bands on the market today. I have personally tried or owned most of them. For others, I have done deep research through online stores, manufacturer websites, and forums. This way, you can get the most important information about these products fast, without spending hours or days on research.

Portable column PA systems have gained significant popularity over the last couple of years. This is no surprise, since they are powerful enough to handle everything from solo acoustic gigs to large events with a full band, yet compact and easy to set up. Plus, their coverage is much wider than traditional PA speakers.

If you are struggling with heavy and bulky PA gear from night to night and want to get rid of the speaker stands that get in the way and are not an ideal sight for classy gigs like weddings, you should consider a column PA system. In this guide, I cover what makes these systems special and how to choose the best type for your type of gig. Grab a cup of coffee or your favorite drink while we explore one of the best gig-related game changers ever – the column PA.

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What is a column PA system?

A column PA system consists of a narrow vertical column with small drivers that is attached to a subwoofer base. The column is usually made of two pieces for easier transport. The column’s design, also called line array, spreads sound wider horizontally (120 to 180 degrees) but less vertically than a traditional point-source PA speaker.

Wide horizontal dispersion is possible due to the different angles of the driver positions inside the column. The vertical dispersion in column PA speakers is usually about 30 degrees, which is enough because of the overall column’s height, which covers a significant vertical area by default.

The wide horizontal sound dispersion provides even sound levels and quality from the front to the back.

Why choose a column PA system?

There are many advantages of a column PA system. Older musicians or those with back problems will have a much easier time when gigging frequently.

1. Portability

Column PA systems have a sub and usually two lightweight column speaker parts. The entire system is significantly smaller and lighter than a pair of point-source speakers with the same power and two speaker stands.

2. Less gear needed

For smaller to mid-sized gigs where the column PA stands in the back or in parallel with the band, there is no need for monitors. If your column PA has a built-in mixer with enough channels for your needs, you won’t need an additional mixer. Important: This is true when using a column PA that has enough mixer channels for your needs. Whenever you need more channels than are available, you will need to use a separate audio mixer. Additionally, fewer stands and cables are required.

3. Even coverage

The line-array design spreads sound evenly from front to back. Traditional speakers are sometimes too loud when close to them, while listeners who are further away get much lower volumes.

4. Wide horizontal dispersion

Again, due to their design, column speakers cover a wider horizontal area than normal speakers. Column speakers have a horizontal dispersion of 120 to 180 degrees, opposed to about 90 degrees in point source speakers

5. Lower feedback

The way the higher-frequency drivers are positioned and distributed helps with reduced feedback.

6. Slim and unobtrusive

The slim column design and no need for a speaker stand make column PAs perfect for weddings or events where there is a need for a cleaner ambience.

7. Faster setup and teardown

The system can easily be carried, and the setup time is ridiculously fast: a minute or two.

8. Integrated mixer with DSP

Most models come with two to four channels on their mixer, which is OK for solo or duo gigs, but some models have enough channels for a small band. The mixer can be controlled with an app from your phone or tablet, making gig preparations very easy and fast.

9. Gigs are smaller than before

Standard-sized bands are being booked less nowadays than in the past. Smaller formations: solo, duo, and trio acts are generally cheaper to hire. Column PA systems are perfect for this trend.

What to consider before you buy

Before you pick a column PA system for you or your band, consider these important factors.

1. Power

How much power do you need? What type and size of venues are you most likely to play? What kind of music does your band play? These are all very important questions you have to ask yourself. Don’t only rely on the maximum or peak power specification, rather look at the max SPL in decibels and the RMS rating in watts. These are much better indicators of the column PA’s capabilities.

If you play solo, duo, or generally low-volume acoustic acts, you will never need more than 500 watts RMS for smaller spaces. The good thing about these PAs is that, if you need more power for other types of gigs later on, you can always buy one more column PA. Acoustic singer/songwriter solo acts can easily get away with even less, 200-300 watts.

A full band with drums will need around 700-1000 watts RMS: one to two systems, depending on the venue. My band plays small gigs with only one JBL PRX One, which has 1000 watts RMS and never gets pushed too hard. Lately, manufacturers have started making very strong systems that can handle impressive venues with hundreds of people.

2. Subwoofer size

It’s simple: If you have a drum player or are a DJ, you will need a 12-inch subwoofer, but if you play only acoustic music, a smaller 8-inch bass enclosure is enough. There are models with 15 and 18-inch subwoofers, but I won’t be mentioning them in this article because we are focusing on small to mid-sized gigs. Online musical instrument stores don’t always provide the subwoofer’s size or weight. If it’s not listed there, go to the manufacturer’s site.

3. Weight

This is a very important factor for me. My back problems and age made me very picky when buying new gear; every kilogram matters. I will sometimes choose a piece of gear only because it is a bit lighter, but with less power than another model. The only factor that matters in terms of weight is the subwoofer’s weight, not the whole system’s weight, since it can be collapsed.

One more thing regarding weight: with column PA speakers, you don’t have to lift anything high, as with standard speakers that need to be placed on stands.

4. Mixer

As I mentioned before, most column PA systems come with 2 to 4 channel mixers. If you want to truly downsize your band’s gear, you should consider getting a column PA with a mixer with more channels. There are only a couple of good systems with mixers with multiple channels. Mixers on these PAs usually have fewer controls than separate units, so have that in mind. Small gigs don’t need a lot of sound tweaking, but for larger events, you will need a dedicated mixer for detailed sound checks.

5. Battery

Are you a busker or play outdoor gigs in places with no mains? There are several battery-operated column PA systems that are built for this exact purpose. Some even have spare battery options.

Best column PA systems in 2025

1. JBL PRX One

JBL has been in the business for more than seven decades. They are well-known for their enclosures. This guarantees that their product is meeting the highest standards. Two factors make this column PA stand out: A 7-channel built-in mixer and an RMS power of 1000 watts. The mixer has 4 combo XLR/jack mic inputs, 2 line inputs, and a 3.5mm input, which are enough for a smaller band. The maximum output level of 130 dB with the 12-inch subwoofer will cover most small gigs for pubs and hotels.

A big plus is that the subwoofer unit is lighter than most other manufacturers’, but with more power, which makes it a perfect choice for musicians with back problems. The device can be contrhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grK7tTgxXKIolled via the JBL Pro Connect app, which has some limitations and problems when updates happen, but it does the job. Two auto feedback features come in very handy, if needed. The app can control up to ten JBL PRX series speakers. One-touch ducking for speech applications and 8 user presets for even more easier gigs.

Some sound engineers find the app limited, but are so satisfied with the sound quality of the JBL PRX One that they don’t even bother using the unit’s mixer. Those who prefer physical controls over wireless will find the JBL’s controls very easy to use. 

The JBL PRX One is probably the best all-in-one column PA system for small bands on the market today. The 7-channel mixer, huge power, and low-weight construction, combined with top-quality warm sound, make this unit a true winner.

It comes with a good carrying gigbag for the 2 column parts, but with a very simple cover for the sub. I recommend getting the JBL PRX One Transporter set for fast and safe handling.

Best All-in-one column PA system for small bands

JBL PRX One

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Main features:

• Power: 1000W RMS (2000W peak)
• Subwoofer speaker: 12″
• Column speakers: 12 x 2.5″ speakers and two spacers
• Frequency response:  -10m: 35 – 20000 Hz (-3m: 40 – 20000 Hz)
• Max. sound pressure level: 130dB
• Dispersion angle: Horizontal 130° x Vertical 30°
• Mixer channels: 7 (4 XLR combo jacks, 2x 6.3 mm Hi-Z, 1x 3.5 mm)
• Weight: 25.7 kg (56.7 lbs)
• Dimensions: (W x D x H): 375 x 446 x 2042 mm
• App: Yes
• Battery operated: No

Pros:

Best mixer overall: 7 channels with dbx and lexicon effects

Professional warm sound from JBL

Enough power for bands with drums

Less weight than similar models

7-year warranty from JBL

Cons:

App is known to have problems when updating firmware

Higher price tag

2. QSC KC 12

QSC is the manufacturer behind the famous K series of active speakers, of which the QSC K12.2 has become a top-quality standard. This column PA is built on that same legacy. Since its recent introduction in January 2025, sound producers and bands have been raving about its power and clean sound. This is the column PA speaker with the most power in this list: 1500W RMS (3000W peak).

The horizontal sound dispersion is one of the widest: 145 degrees, which, combined with the massive power and undistorted sound even when pushed to the max, makes this system the best in its class for larger weddings and similar events. The QSC KC12 is the highest of all models, almost 230cm, but it can be used with only the upper column part when placed on a higher stage, which is a nice touch. Quality comes with a higher price tag, so be prepared to pay a bit more than for the other column PA systems on this list. 

Best column PA system for larger events

QSC KC12

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Main features:

• Power: 1500 W RMS (3000 W peak)
• Subwoofer speaker: 12″
• Column speakers: 2x 4″ midrange drivers, 1″ compression driver
• Frequency response:  40 – 20,000 Hz (- 10 dB)
• Max. sound pressure level: 132 dB (peak)
• Dispersion angle: 145° x 35°
• Mixer channels: 3 (2 x Line/Mic/Hi-Z + Bluetooth or Aux input)
• Weight: 27.3 kg / 60.2 lb, subwoofer=22.0 kg / 48.5 lb
• Dimensions: (H x W x D): 2270 x 357 x 455 mm
• Battery operated: No

Pros:

Highest power column PA system

Wide 145-degree horizontal coverage

Available in white for elegant events

6-year warranty from QSC

Cons:

Expensive compared to other column PAs

Taller height, but can be collapsed

3. HK Audio Polar 12 MKII

This is the latest column PA speaker system to come out on this list. The sub’s construction is made of birch multiplex. HK Audio came up with a newly developed mechanical connection between the subwoofer and column, which makes the system very stable compared to some other PAs. The MKII stands for the second generation of the Polar 12. The new column’s housing has been upgraded with high-rigidity aluminium for improved mid-range dispersion. Customers report the new HK Audio Polar 12 MKII delivering much clearer sound than the previous series.

The mixer has 3 channels useful for instruments and a stereo channel for music playback via bluetooth 5.0 or RCA inputs. The maximum output is rated at 2000W, but as I mentioned before, that isn’t always the best indicator of power. On the manufacturer’s site, you will find that the system is rated at 500W RMS and a maximum sound pressure of 127db. The HK Audio Polar 12 MKII can’t be controlled by an app, but when using two units, it can be controlled in stereo mode with the TWS (true wireless stereo) technology.

Considering its moderate price, the improvements of the Polar 12 MKII, and the very good sound quality it produces, this column PA system could easily become the best buy in its class. 

Best budget-friendly column PA

HK Audio Polar 12 MKII

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Main features:

• Power: 500 W RMS (2000 W peak)
• Subwoofer speaker: 12″
• Column speakers: 6 x 3″ midrange drivers and 1″ tweeter
• Frequency response: 35 – 20,000 Hz (-10dB)
• Max. sound pressure level: 130 dB
• Dispersion angle: (H x V): 120° x 30º
• Mixer channels: 4 (Two XLR / 6.3 mm jack combos + 1 x 6.3 mm + RCA stereo)
• Weight: 28.5 kg / 62.8 lbs, subwoofer=20.9 kg / 46.1 lbs
• Dimensions: (W x H x D): 370 x 2136 x 478 mm
• Battery operated: No

Pros:

Very good value for money

Separate subwoofer volume control

5 storable user presets

Very stable construction

Also available in white color

Cons:

Heavier than other models

4. LD Systems Maui 28 G3

LD Systems is a German-based company with a wide palette of column PA speakers that can handle anything from solo acoustic to full band performances. We are looking at the most powerful system, the Maui 28 G3. It also comes in a model with a built-in 4-channel mixer, with not much flexibility, but at a price that doesn’t reflect what you get. The sub is made out of thick birch plywood with polyurea coating. The column is relatively robust, thanks to 12 x 3.5” speakers and 2 x 1” tweeters, but doesn’t wobble like some other models.

The new G3 series is a much-improved version of the G2: 12” sub instead of 2 x 8”, which delivers deeper bass (37dB instead of 45dB) and a cardioid subwoofer feature that can be turned on or off. The cardioid feature reduces low-frequency spill to the stage for a more pleasant experience for performers. The PA system is designed to be used with an external mixer, but has a very useful input and output section with separate left and right thru XLR outputs and a dedicated sub XLR output. 

With its 35.4 kgs, the LD Systems Maui 28 G3 is on the heavier side of column PAs for small bands, but with its 1030W RMS of power, a 12-inch sub, and a moderate price, it is a good choice for bands with drums.

For those who want power on a budget

LD Systems Maui 28 G3

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Main features:

• Power: 1030 W RMS, 2060 W peak
• Subwoofer speaker: 12″
• Column speakers: 12x 3.5” full-range speakers and 2x 1” tweeter drivers
• Frequency response: 37 – 20,000 Hz
• Max. sound pressure level: 125dB
• Dispersion angle: (H x V): 120° x 30 °
• Mixer channels: 2 (Left and right inputs)
• Weight: 35.4 kgs / 78 lbs, subwoofer=22.8 kg / 50.3 lbs
• Dimensions: (W x H x D): 370 x 2067 x 472 mm
• Battery operated: No

Pros:

High power for price

Cardioid on/off button for reducing boominess on stage

Separate outputs for left / right mid-highs and sub

Cons:

The column is bulkier due to the 3.5″ speakers

Needs additional mixer

5. EV Evolve 50M

Electrovoice offers the widest range of portable column PA speakers, with most models available either with or without an integrated mixer. Having options is a very professional move from Electro-voice. The Evolve model that suits the criteria for Easymusicgig best has to be the EV Evolve 50M, which hits the sweet spot in terms of quality, weight, power, and features.

The mixer has plenty of inputs, similar to the JBLPRX One, and the EV QuickSmart Mobile App can control up to 6 Evolve systems, which comes in very handy for multi-spaced events. The feature that captures attention is the QuickSmart link. When connected, two EV Evolve 50M systems act as one system, where the mixers from each are combined into a double-sized mixer.

Bottom line, I recommend the EV Evolve 50M for those performers who need an all-in-one system with plenty of mixer channels and lighter gear. Two of these systems can easily handle a smaller band with an acoustic drum kit.

Column PA with expandable mixer

EV Evolve 50M

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Main features:

• Power: 1000 W
• Subwoofer speaker: 12″
• Column speakers:  8 x 3.5″ high-frequency drivers
• Frequency response: 43 – 20000 Hz @ -3dB / 37 – 20000 Hz @ -10dB
• Max. sound pressure level: 127dB
• Dispersion angle: (HxV): 120° x 40°
• Mixer channels: 6 (4 x XLR / jack combo mic / line + 2 x XLR / jack combo stereo line (one stereo channel) + stereo bluetooth (no physical input))
• Weight: 26.25 kg / 57.9 lbs, subwoofer=20.3 kg / 44.8 lbs
• Dimensions: (H x W x D): 530 x 2045 x 471 mm
• App: Yes
• Battery operated: No

Pros:

QuickSmart doubles the number of mixer channels when connecting two devices

Sub unit not too heavy

Good working app

Cons:

Higher price

6. JBL EON One MKII

If you need to be able to play in places where power sockets are nowhere to be seen, this is the best choice for your duo or small band. Buskers, this is the battery PA system for more-than-one-musician busking combos. If you must have more channels, the Zoom LiveTrak L-6 is the best battery-operated mixer, which is packed with features for such a small size. The JBL EON One MKII is one of the rare column PA speakers with a mixer that has 4 instrument-usable channels plus a 5th AUX channel. Most systems that have built-in mixers that are labeled as 4-channel systems only have 2 or 3 channels plus a mini jack for music playback.

The entire system can be collapsed and stored in the back of the subwoofer. The column consists of three parts: the speaker and two spacers. The weight of the whole system is 19.3kg, which is significant for longer carrying. For those longer, pedestrian routes in the city, any cart for musicians will do the job. The rechargeable battery will last for six hours. The 10-inch subwoofer is capable of producing 37 dB, and with the eight 2” tweeters, offers an all-in-one pro-grade column PA system for all purposes, anywhere.

Best baterry-powered column PA

JBL EON One MKII

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Main features:

• Power: 400 W RMS (1500 W peak)
• Subwoofer speaker: 10″
• Column speakers: 8 x 2″ Sound line (with two spacers)
• Frequency response: 37 – 20000 Hz (-10dB)
• Max. sound pressure level: 123 dB
• Dispersion angle: 140° x 30°
• Mixer channels: 5 (3x XLR combo jacks + 1x Hi-Z jack input + 1x Mini jack input)
• Weight: 19.3 kg / 42.5
• Dimensions: 490 x 322 x 2000 mm
• App: Yes
• Battery operated: Yes

Pros:

Battery-powered; plays anywhere

Wide horizontal coverage

Decent number of channels on mixer

Cons:

Not suitable for louder bands

High price

My thoughts about column PA systems

I did not mention the cheaper column PA systems that are available because I don’t think they could be used for professional needs, at least not for too long. Some cheaper models would do a fine job for solo acoustic players or quiet duo acts; that is a topic for a different blog post.

Column PA speaker manufacturers should, in my opinion, consider models with more mixer channels. Many small trios would be grateful for that. There are only a couple of models that have more than 4 mixer channels. I don’t find the models with standard steel poles instead of spacers for the column speakers looking good for elegant events.

Final thoughts

Column PA systems are here to stay. Their small dimensions and weight, ease of transport, simple setup, slim looks, and better coverage than traditional speakers make them the ideal choice for small to medium-sized gigs. Furthermore, their design allows us to play gigs without using stage monitors and mixers when only several channels are needed.

The JBL PRX One is a true all-in-one unit with enough power and mixer channels for a small band. If you need maximum power, the QSC KC12 has a whopping power of 1500W RMS, but it is on the heavier side and comes with a higher price tag. Electro-Voice’s Evolve series has the widest range of models to choose from, with and without a built-in mixer. The HK Audio Polar 12 MKII offers very good features for its price.

Be sure to determine your priorities when deciding on a column PA system. Do you need it for different-sized gigs? Do you want a built-in mixer? Does weight matter? If you play frequent small to mid-sized gigs, you want to make your life as a professional musician easier. A column PA speaker system is the biggest game-changer on the market.

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