1. Power

There’s a big difference between 50 watts of power and 150 watts, so within the midsize range you should figure out how much power you’ll need. 

There are two important factors to remember here – one is the rule-of-thumb which suggests one watt per person. That’s a conservative estimate, but it ties in with the other rule – you can never have too much power. If you have limited wattage, you’ll need to crank up the volume to reach the rear of your venue. This risks sound distortion, so when you’re estimating how much power you need, go with your higher guess.

Note: the advertised wattage of a PA system is often given as a measure of RMS (root mean square), meaning the average wattage delivered by the PA during use.  The maximum wattage your PA can handle in short bursts without shorting out, or other damage occurring, can vary.

2. Portability

Just as “midsize PA” encompasses many different types of PA systems, “portable midsize PA” can also mean many different things.

Is it light enough to be carried by hand?  Does it have rolling casters?  Does it have a retractable handle?  Think about how you’re planning to transport your PA, as well as how far and how often, before you buy so you’ll know how portable your PA needs to be.

Pound for pound the lighter, more portable PA systems cost more — so if you’re not going to move your system a lot, don’t pay for the most portable high-end system.

3. Speech/Music

If you’re using a PA exclusively for speech – lectures in a large hall, council meetings, that sort of thing – you can opt for a system that’s much less complicated, and usually cheaper as a result.

If you’re looking for a PA for music or multimedia applications, you’ll be better off with more bells and whistles, such as stereo sound, a built-in mixer, multiple inputs, digital capability or effects like reverb.

More features means more money, but your bandmates and your audience will thank you!

4. Flexibility

Regardless of how you plan to use your PA system, you’ll want to have the ability to upgrade and add on extras depending on your needs.

Midsize PA systems are usually able to accommodate component upgrades either as off-the-shelf built-in systems or add-ons. Such PA upgrades include multi-media and music player; companion PA speakers and PA speaker stands; multiple mics, especially wireless mics and microphone stands; true AC/DC power and rechargeable battery power.