I know the subject of pa and speakers has come up a zillion times, but I'm looking for a lightweight (under 30 lbs) speaker. Good fidelity is a must, since I usually use a Bose L1 or Barbetta Sona 32. I'm not interested in any the computer speaker systems, nothing against them, but I'm only looking for a single powered speaker for small venues (up to 80 people). Any suggestions appreciated. Thanks.

Glenn

http://www.yamaha.com/yamahavgn/CDA/ContentDetail/ModelSeriesDetail/0,,CNTID%25253D5014978%252526CTID%25253D560071,00.html

I've got a display one with case

Email me

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www.AudioworksCT.com
203.876.1133

Glenn Ive been using the Tapco (mackie)Thump 15a's...lightweight, 15" woofer, 4 band EQ & a real nice sound...you back will love you I love these things!
Best bang for the buck anywhere.
http://www.tapcoworld.com/products/thump15a/index.html

Glenn,

I see you have both SD1 and SD5, what are your thoughts comparing the 2?

Frank

Glen,
Last week I purchased the Stagepass 300 system and returned them the next day. I guess I spent about 8 hours with them and my Tyros 3 and never could get them to sound any better than my M-Audio BX5a speakers. The BX5a speakers were $300.00 at GC.

Frank,
Really loving my Tyros 3. Your service was outstanding. Have used it now on about 25 gigs and I can't believe the reactions I am getting from the audiences. One night after the gig it took me an hour to break away from about a dozen folks who wanted to know about my keyboard. Seems like every gig there have been folks who have commented about how great the keyboard sounds. Anyway - very pleased with the purchase.

Later,
Hammer

Glenn,

I've used a single Barbetta Sona 32C with the PSR-3000 a few years ago for smaller crowds and it really worked well. Not as good as the Bose, but adequate for small restaurant gigs. I have a friend who uses the same rig and says it's all he needs. You might want to give this a try.

Good Luck,

Gary

Here's another option that is under 30 lbs as you requested. http://www.mackie.com/products/srm350v2/


[This message has been edited by moldmaker (edited 11-29-2008).]

[This message has been edited by moldmaker (edited 11-29-2008).]

I have the Mackies and they are awesome...I use them setup as floor wedges, a bit behind me, which is safe and plenty powerful. They point up just perfect towards the crowd. Best move ever made. I also had the Stagepas 300 - no comparison vs Mackie (my opinion only).

Hi:

I own also two of the Tapco Thump TH-15As VERY versatile and LIGHT weight.
So you know, Tapco belongs to Mackie, so, is a very GOOD quality product.

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mdorantes

FBT makes great speakers: The Maxx 2A or Maxx 4A should definitely be looked at.

Here are two reviews of Maxx 4A:
http://acapella.harmony-central.com/showthread.php?t=832463
http://www.tandemsales.net/PDF/Gig%20Review.pdf

Here is a review of Maxx 2A:
http://www.tandemsales.net/PDF/Test%20Report%2010inch%20%20Pow.%20Speakers%20Tools%20engl1.pdf

Beakybird

Glenn,

It should ultimately depend on what your ears, wallet and back says.

I can recommend hundreds of options, and so can everyone else. But you need to be happy with the sound, the flexibility, and of course the costs.

I've had customers buy Behringer and Samson Active speakers and say they are the best, I've also had people say they sound like garbage cans.

When money is no object, your choices are tend to narrow down, like FBT, RCF, DBTechnologies, Mackie, JBL, Bose, and so on.

When you are trying to get with in a budget, that's when certain compromises start to happen.

You'll get a better sound with setting up a studio monitors with a sub, that's where you'll get the superior fidelity.

But if you are performing for more that 4 people you are going to need something with more throw to accomplish this.

That's when you move into a more of a powered "pa" speaker.

Do you want to create a stereo image, then you can look at models that come with 2 speakers or a set like this http://www.fbtusa.net/a1000_a900-a500-a400-a100.html

Like I said before, if you want to give me a call or email I can give you my opinions, you don't have to buy from me, I like helping, so you don;t have to feel bad if you don't buy. Most people will tell you I'm not a hi-pressure at all

Frank

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www.AudioworksCT.com
203.876.1133

Often overlooked .... Yorkville!! The new Elite e10p 10" powered speakers (350watts! Not inexpensive but worth the money! They will last forever ... 2 year unconditional Warranty. I have Two along with Two LS200p powered subs. I have compared with the FBT Maxx2 and the e10p's have a cleaner more "True" sound, if that makes sense. But that's my ears!! I think everyone hear has given you good advice now go out and try all of them, if possible, and Good Luck!!

For the money these guys pack a punch indeed.
However if you want a nice portable non active I would suggest the Yamaha PAS300 or PAS500. Amazing low end for small drivers.

Frank... As you know, there are more similarities between the SD1 and SD5 than there are differences. Big advantage of the SD1, which I worked with for ~ 4 years, is the 76 keys. Primary advantages of the SD5, which I've been working with for the last 8 months - some newer styles, voices, and onboard speakers. Both great boards, IMO.

Gary... I've been using a single Sona 32C for all my smaller venues, and yes, it sounds very good. But even that 37 lbs will be too much for me after upcoming surgery, so the doc tells me... for ~ 6 months, but that will pass.

I have an old JBL Eon10 I'll probably use.
Sounds OK, but lacks that crisp clarity (upper end) that I'll miss.

Glenn

[This message has been edited by GlennT (edited 11-30-2008).]