Speakers-on-a-Stick

This class of portable P.A. gear has gone through some weird twists over the past decade. Not so long ago, the kind of portable powered systems that sit on tripod speaker stands were the norm for smaller gigs, but as technology rocketed forward, the humble speaker-on-a-stick became an “an-klebiter only” tool and was widely dismissed by most in the middle-levels-and-up of the pro audio industry.

But lately, things are changing again, and what had become the exclusive domain of Mackie and Peavey and other working guys’ companies is be-ing embraced by the likes of L-ACOUSTICS and d&b, who are putting out high-end versions of these boxes. In addition, JBL’s VXP series of line-array-on-a-stick products has completely turned this niche on its head.

The products on the following chart run the gamut from lean-and-mean working machines to audiophile-approved tools, and the prices reflect that range of style and pedigree. As always, look at the specs, make a decision based on your needs and your business, and let your ears be the final judge.

Here is a list of products in this month's Buyer's Guide: