Small versatile PA systems

[Spudman***]

For a simple system for open mics I'd suggest:

Powered PA head Peavey XR600B or the Mackie PPM 608 or PPM 1008. The Mackies can do both the mains and monitors. They also have digital effects built in. Behringer also has a similar PA head.

2-15" with horn top boxes
and if your budget allows
2- 12" monitors

Get some speaker stands and 4 speaker cables and you are ready to rock.

The PPM608 will cost around $600
Mains speakers cost around $400-$600 for a pair

For a good system expect to dump at least $1000
on a budget you can get started, if you are a crafty and diligent shopper for about half that price. You won't have any bells and whistles though.

[kidsmoke*]

great feedback! thanks!

The yamaha stagepas500 is appealing.

The mackie & pyle boards with powered speakers (also Pyle) seem to have lept to the front, or should I say top, of the list.

Another dude had suggested I don't do smaller than 12" bins. seems a common thought, knocking the Fender kits out of the ring.

Keep it coming folks. All info fully digested.