Portable PA systems to give street performers a voice

Buskers—whose name derives from the English verb to busk, meaning to play or perform in exchange for donations from the public—have very specific needs:

• Portability: they must be able to move easily from one location to another, without having to carry bulky or heavy equipment.

• Battery autonomy: in most cases, buskers do not have access to mains power; therefore, a battery-powered PA system is essential.

• Versatility: they need to connect different instruments (guitars, electronic keyboards, microphones, smartphones or tablets) and manage the mix in a simple and intuitive way.

• Sound quality: even in outdoor environments, the sound must remain clear and intelligible in order to capture the audience’s attention.
• Reliability: performances often take place in changing weather conditions; the robustness of the equipment and its ability to withstand humidity and dust are essential requirements.

Musiccube

• MA 60 III is a 120 W portable amplifier designed for vocals and acoustic guitar. It features two channels with combo XLR/jack inputs and Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming. An integrated DSP enhances the performance of standard microphones by simulating the tonal characteristics of condenser microphones. Built-in effects including chorus, delay, flanger and reverb provide added versatility for live performances. Compact and lightweight, it can operate both on mains power and via a rechargeable battery.

• T2 Pro is a compact line array system delivering an impressive 700 W peak power, designed to provide uniform coverage even in large spaces. It delivers higher sound pressure than an equivalent mains-powered PA loudspeaker. A specially engineered driver design ensures 180° sound dispersion, while a dedicated 50 W independent monitoring system—featuring a mid-range driver positioned behind the handle—allows the performer to easily monitor their performance.
  
  
• Tiny Box D2 is the most compact powered loudspeaker in the Musiccube range, yet it stands out for its 50 W RMS output and sound quality. Its distinctive feature is the presence of independent effects and EQ sections for the two input channels. Equipped with a pair of full-range drivers, it can also be worn over the shoulder using an optional carrying bag.

Audio Effetti alternatives to Musiccube

Swiff Audio

Alongside Musiccube, Swiff Audio solutions further enhance the technical setup of buskers and, more generally, of all musicians and performers who want to eliminate cables by transmitting their signal such as from an electric guitar or bass wirelessly to amplifiers, mixers or other audio devices.

Swiff Audio is a company with strong expertise and technical know-how in 5.8 GHz wireless transmission, and has largely moved away from 2.4 GHz technology due to several limitations, including interference issues. Moreover, 5.8 GHz transmission provides wider bandwidth than 2.4 GHz, which is particularly beneficial for certain instruments (such as bass), preventing the loss or attenuation of specific frequency ranges.

Compatible with a wide range of instruments and PA systems, these solutions deliver an immediate and reliable plug-and-play experience. The robust construction of the devices makes them ideal for coping with the changing conditions of street performances, ensuring consistent operation and complete freedom of movement within a range of approximately 30 metres from the receiving device.

The full list of these products is available here: Wireless systems for instruments.

Conclusion

As we have seen, making street music truly engaging requires technical equipment that combines portability and battery autonomy key factors for performers with sound quality capable of capturing and holding the audience’s attention. In this context, Musiccube systems compact, powerful and designed to follow artists wherever they perform stand out as the most complete and innovative choice for buskers, and beyond.

Alongside these, Audio Effetti also offers alternative solutions through BoomTone DJ, Audiophony, Segon, Mac Mah and Rondson PA loudspeakers, each with specific features tailored to different needs: from power and versatility, to ease of use and extreme portability. These brands broaden the range of options available, allowing artists to choose the system best suited to their style and performance environment.

Finally, with devices such as Swiff Audio, performers can complete their technical setup and move freely without the constraints of cables, focusing entirely on their performance.

Want to learn more?

Email us at international@audioeffetti.com