Help with choosing a PA system

[map34157]

Hey everyone, I hoping I can find a good reliable PA system for my band. Here's a little back story:

We already have a PA system. However, for some smaller clubs or house parties we play, it's a bit overkill. I'm looking for a PA system that is light, compact and loud enough to use indoors and outdoors. Im looking to buy used and to spend no more than $700. I'm thinking we'd really only be running the vocals through it.

I've been looking into the Yamaha Stagepass 300 or 500, but am not sure which one would best suit our needs.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

[gareth dunster]

I have a 500 i use for small gigs. It sounds great and has just enough to cover a small band plus support tracks ie 4 line/ xlr ins and 2 stereo line ins plus1 rca stereo in.
Its a better mixer setup than the 300 and is loud enough to not disgrace itself for small indoor events.

 

[gareth dunster]

On reflection i think the 300 mixer is similar but with one less stereo line in. Either way, im always impressed with this system.

 

[Floyd Eye]

Used Yamaha EMX 512sc, use some existing mains and monitors. Total cost, $4oo. Those little Stagepas type systems are, um, not good.

 

[map34157]

Thanks for the ideas guys. However, I guess I should have mentioned....The guitarist (who owns the PA system) is super anal about his PA system. There have been times where we've been offered gigs that he was unable to attend (no biggie, life happens). The other guys in the band are looking for "our own" PA system so that if we're offered a gig we can take it regardless of whether or not he can make it. So we would need our own mains and monitors. That's why I was looking at the Stagepas 500.

Here's an example, over the course of the next 6 weeks the guitarist can only practice 2 weeks out of 6 (vacations, graduations, family stuff etc). We practice at his studio (where his PA is). The others guys in the band want to continue practicing, so we'll be doing it at one of the other guys place. I'm looking for a PA that will accommodate our practices as well as gigs when we play out as a 3 piece. What do you think?