Best Column PA Systems for Professional 2026
Let's be honest, you're not looking for a PA system to amplify your ukulele at a coffee shop. As pros, we need something that cuts through a loud bar band, sounds decent in a less-than-ideal church, and doesn't collapse under the weight of a full drum kit. Column PA systems offer a unique approach to that challenge, but they aren't a one-size-fits-all solution - some are genuinely useful, others are glorified bookshelf speakers. We're digging into the ones that actually deliver for working musicians.
Last updated: August 25, 2026
⚡ The best column pa systems in 2026 are HK Audio Polar 12 MK2/PS 115 A Bundle (top pick), QSC KC 12 WH for tighter budgets, and QSC KC 12 BK Cover Bundle for pros — selected from 15 options across 8 brands, priced $1,397–$4,080, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
HK Audio Polar 12 MK2/PS 115 A Bundle
by
HK Audio
Size
12"
Weight
28.5 kg
Churches
Presentation
Vocal Clarity
Key Feature:
This column speaker packs serious punch with 2000 watts and a built-in mixer. It's great for venues needing clear sound without extra gear. Just be ready to lift it, since the weight isn't listed. It suits clubs and small theaters looking for a solid all-in-one solution.
PROS
- • Strong 2000-watt peak power handles large venues easily
- • Class D biamp design keeps highs crisp and clean
- • Built-in mixer lets you control levels without external gear
- • Wide 120-degree horizontal dispersion covers the whole room
CONS
- • Heavy column design makes transport difficult for gigging bands
- • Lacks built-in reverb or chorus effects beyond basic presets
- • Missing specific weight listing in the provided description details
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 652109
$4,080
#2
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
QSC KC 12 WH
by
QSC
Size
12"
Weight
27.3 kg
Corporate
Churches
Vocal Clarity
Key Feature:
The KC 12 is a seriously impressive, self-contained PA system. It's perfect for singer-songwriters, smaller bands, or anyone needing a clean, powerful sound with minimal setup. The integrated presets and Bluetooth connectivity make it incredibly convenient, though its size means you’ll want a helping hand getting it around.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum, thanks to the compression driver.
- • Column design provides surprisingly even coverage, reducing feedback issues.
- • Integrated presets offer quick, usable sounds for common performance scenarios.
- • Robust build quality; the enclosure feels solid and ready for gigging.
CONS
- • Significant weight makes transport a challenge for solo performers.
- • Limited versatility for very complex sound reinforcement needs.
- • The monochrome LCD, while functional, isn't the most user-friendly.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 607960
$2,447
#3
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
QSC KC 12 BK Cover Bundle
by
QSC
Size
12"
Weight
27.3 kg
Conferences
Presentation
Corporate
Key Feature:
This bundle packs serious punch with 3000 watts of Class D power, making it perfect for loud venues. You can instantly switch between guitar, bass, and mic settings using the app. It's a solid choice for gigging musicians who need reliable sound without hunting for knobs.
PROS
- • Delivers massive 3000 watts of Class D power for big rooms.
- • Includes Bluetooth pairing for up to four speakers in one system.
- • Offers seven preset EQ settings for quick microphone and guitar use.
- • Provides seven reverb modes and a full 200 Hz high-pass filter.
CONS
- • Physical weight and bulk make it hard to move on small stages.
- • Missing specific details on amplifier channel count in the text.
- • Lacks explicit mention of speaker cabinet dimensions in the description.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 626599
$2,413
#4
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
QSC KC 12 BK
by
QSC
Size
12"
Weight
27.3 kg
Conferences
Vocal Clarity
Presentation
Key Feature:
The QSC KC 12 BK is a seriously impressive portable PA. It's a great choice for solo artists, duos, or small bands needing a self-contained, high-output solution. The built-in processing makes dialing in a good sound remarkably easy, even for less experienced users.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum thanks to the 3-way design.
- • The integrated DSP offers genuinely useful presets for various instruments and vocals.
- • Impressive SPL (132dB peak) for its size; cuts through a room easily.
- • Bluetooth TWS pairing simplifies stereo setups for events and mobile applications.
CONS
- • The weight (around 55 lbs) makes transport a challenge for solo performers.
- • The monochrome LCD, while functional, feels a bit dated compared to modern interfaces.
- • Limited versatility for very complex live sound setups; more a focused solution.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 607938
$2,330
#5
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
LD Systems Maui 44 G2 White
by
LD Systems
Weight
47.6 kg
Conferences
Speech
Corporate
Key Feature:
The Maui 44 G2 is a serious contender for bands and performers needing portable, powerful sound. The column design is genuinely effective for projecting vocals clearly, and the DynX processing keeps things clean even when you're pushing it. It’s ideal for smaller to mid-sized stages where clarity and portability are paramount.
PROS
- • Birch plywood cabinet offers exceptional durability and resonance.
- • DynX DSP provides remarkably clean, distortion-free output at high SPL.
- • BEM-optimized tweeter delivers clear, detailed highs with excellent imaging.
- • TrueWireless stereo pairing unlocks a significantly wider soundstage for larger venues.
CONS
- • The substantial weight makes transportation a two-person job, realistically.
- • Cardioid subwoofer pattern requires careful placement for optimal low-end response.
- • Limited channel flexibility restricts complex mixing scenarios.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 549832
$2,565
#6
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Yamaha Stagepas 1K Stereo Bundle
by
Yamaha
Weight
1.8 kg
Presentation
Speech
Vocal Clarity
Key Feature:
The Stagepas 1K is a fantastic all-in-one solution for gigging musicians and smaller bands needing a powerful, portable PA. Its integrated mixer and column array design make setup a breeze, and the Bluetooth functionality is a real time-saver. Ideal for singer-songwriters, acoustic duos, or smaller ensembles wanting a premium-priced, self-contained sound system.
PROS
- • Impressive power output (1100W) provides ample headroom for various performance settings.
- • The slim line array design delivers surprisingly even coverage across a wide area.
- • Integrated digital mixer with multiband compression simplifies sound reinforcement tasks.
- • Bluetooth connectivity and remote control app offer convenient wireless operation and customization.
CONS
- • The overall package is quite heavy, making transport a challenge for solo performers.
- • Limited input flexibility compared to dedicated mixing consoles for complex setups.
- • While versatile, the 1-Pot EQ offers less granular control than a full EQ.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 563639
$2,390
#7
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Bose L1 Pro32 Bag Bundle
by
Bose
Weight
13 kg
Corporate
Speech
Presentation
Key Feature:
This portable system packs thirty-two speakers into a single box for medium venues. The wide horizontal beam lets singers and bands fill the room without sound spilling too far. It connects to your phone for mixing, but the lack of weight info means you should check specs before hauling it around.
PROS
- • 32 neodymium drivers deliver deep bass down to 40 Hz.
- • 180 degree horizontal beam angle keeps sound focused on the stage.
- • Illuminated mixer controls let you adjust tone and reverb easily.
- • Class D amplifiers provide 480 watts of clean power.
CONS
- • Vertical beam angle is fixed at zero degrees for narrow coverage.
- • No specific weight rating is listed in the product details.
- • Single 3.5 mm aux input limits extra microphone connections.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 650843
$2,273
#8
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
4/10
HK Audio Polar 12 MK2 BK Power Bundle
by
HK Audio
Corporate
Vocal Clarity
Speech
Key Feature:
The Polar 12 MK2 BK Power Bundle is a serious contender for smaller to mid-sized gigs – think corporate events, singer-songwriters, and even smaller DJ sets. The integrated mixer and Bluetooth are huge conveniences, and the sound is surprisingly clean and powerful for a column array system. It's a premium-priced package, but the performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for professionals.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and throw thanks to the constant directivity horn
- • Powerful Class D amplification delivers clean headroom and serious punch
- • Integrated mixer simplifies setup and eliminates external gear needs
- • Neodymium drivers offer efficient performance and reduced overall weight
CONS
- • The column design can be visually polarizing for some users
- • While versatile, it's not ideal for very large venues or full-band rock shows
- • Transporting the system can be challenging due to its combined weight and size
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 619941
$2,304
#9
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
LD Systems Maui 28 G3 MIX W
by
LD Systems
Size
12"
Weight
36.2 kg
Churches
Presentation
Speech
Key Feature:
The Maui 28 G3 MIX W is a seriously impressive all-in-one solution. It's perfect for smaller bands, singer-songwriters, or anyone needing a portable, powerful PA with a built-in mixer—the sound is surprisingly clean and full, especially considering its size. Just be aware it’s a bit of a heavyweight.
PROS
- • Excellent BEM waveguide delivers remarkably even sound coverage.
- • Integrated digital mixer simplifies setup and reduces external gear needs.
- • DynX DSP Gen.2 minimizes distortion and maximizes headroom significantly.
- • Cardioid subwoofer pattern helps control stage feedback and room interaction.
CONS
- • The integrated mixer, while convenient, limits routing flexibility for complex setups.
- • Weight makes transport a challenge for solo performers or frequent travel.
- • Premium-priced compared to more basic PA systems; cost-benefit needs careful consideration.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 584774
$1,853
#10
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
FBT Vertus CS 1000
by
FBT
Size
12"
Weight
33.5 kg
Presentation
Speech
Corporate
Key Feature:
The Vertus CS 1000 is a seriously impressive column PA. It's a great solution for bands, DJs, or public speakers needing focused, clear sound in spaces like churches, smaller venues, or corporate events – the vertical coverage is a real game changer. The integrated storage is a surprisingly useful touch, too.
PROS
- • Excellent vertical coverage due to the 6 x 3in tweeter array
- • Rubberized aluminum handles offer secure and comfortable transport
- • Integrated storage in the subwoofer is incredibly practical for setup
- • Class-D amplification delivers clean power without fan noise
CONS
- • Limited horizontal dispersion may require careful placement for wider audiences
- • 33.5 kg is hefty; transport may require two people
- • Column design isn’t ideal for all music genres – less versatile than a traditional PA
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 463070
$1,690
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
DAS Audio Altea-Duo-20A-W
by
DAS Audio
Size
10"
Weight
39 kg
Churches
Speech
Presentation
Key Feature:
The Altea-Duo-20A-W is a seriously impressive column PA – a real step up in power and clarity. It's perfect for bands, DJs, or event organizers needing consistent, full sound across a moderate-sized venue. The build quality feels solid, and the integrated Bluetooth functionality is genuinely useful for background music or announcements.
PROS
- • Birch multiplex subwoofers offer exceptional rigidity and resonance control.
- • The column array design provides remarkably even coverage across a wide area.
- • DASlink app offers genuinely useful remote control and system management.
- • High SPL (127dB) and extended frequency response (37Hz-20kHz) delivers impressive clarity.
CONS
- • Significant weight (39kg) makes transport and setup a two-person job.
- • Column design isn't ideal for very small spaces or close-range monitoring.
- • Limited EQ flexibility compared to dedicated mixing consoles or processors.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 570047
$1,476
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
DAS Audio Altea-Duo-20A
by
DAS Audio
Size
10"
Weight
39 kg
Conferences
Corporate
Churches
Key Feature:
The Altea-Duo-20A is a seriously impressive package for bands, DJs, and presenters needing clear, even sound in pubs, clubs, and smaller event spaces. The column design really cuts through the noise, and the built-in Bluetooth makes setup a breeze. It’s a solid performer, though be mindful of its weight if you’re moving it frequently.
PROS
- • Birch multiplex subwoofers deliver tight, controlled low-end response.
- • The column array provides remarkably even coverage for medium-sized spaces.
- • DASlink app offers genuine control over presets and subwoofer levels.
- • Integrated Bluetooth and True Wireless Stereo add significant convenience on the fly.
CONS
- • 39kg is substantial; portability will be a consideration for solo performers.
- • The 50° vertical coverage might be limiting for larger venues or complex room acoustics.
- • EQ is basic; serious sound engineers will likely want external processing.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 570039
$1,476
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Turbosound IP3000
by
Turbosound
Size
12"
Weight
51.8 kg
Speech
Conferences
Churches
Key Feature:
The IP3000 is a serious piece of kit, offering substantial power and clarity in a column format. It's ideal for bands, DJs, or events needing portable, self-contained sound reinforcement, especially where a wide, even coverage is paramount. The integrated mixer and Bluetooth make it surprisingly versatile for smaller to mid-sized venues.
PROS
- • Klark Teknik spatial sound truly widens the stereo image, impressive for a column.
- • Neodymium drivers deliver a surprisingly lightweight feel for the power output.
- • Integrated digital mixer simplifies setup and reduces external equipment needs.
- • The DSP presets offer a good starting point for various performance scenarios.
CONS
- • The sheer size and weight necessitate a dedicated transport and handling solution.
- • Column PA design limits low-frequency extension compared to traditional setups.
- • Bluetooth audio quality, while functional, isn't lossless for critical listening.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 448175
$1,397
#14
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Bose L1 Pro16 Bag Bundle
by
Bose
Weight
24.8 kg
Presentation
Speech
Churches
Key Feature:
This bundle packs a powerful line array into one easy-to-carry bag. It shines for solo artists and DJs who want quick setup and clear audio. Just remember, you'll need your own mixer to control the sound fully.
PROS
- • J-shaped array folds into a single compact bag for easy transport.
- • 16 neodymium drivers deliver clear sound for singer/songwriters and DJs.
- • Integrated subwoofer handles low frequencies without external speakers.
- • Bluetooth and AUX inputs connect instantly to phones or instruments.
CONS
- • No dedicated microphone preamps built into the main unit.
- • Missing a built-in mixer, requiring external control for complex setups.
- • Weight and size may be challenging for very small venues.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 650848
$2,250
#15
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Bose L1 Pro32
by
Bose
Weight
13 kg
Corporate
Presentation
Conferences
Key Feature:
The L1 Pro32 is a solid choice for singer-songwriters and smaller bands needing a self-contained, portable PA. It's incredibly easy to deploy, sounds surprisingly good, and the ToneMatch presets take the guesswork out of EQ. It's a premium-priced solution, but the convenience and sound quality make it worthwhile for the right gigging musician.
PROS
- • Articulated drivers deliver surprisingly wide, even sound coverage.
- • ToneMatch presets genuinely improve vocal and instrument clarity quickly.
- • The integrated mixer is well-thought-out and remarkably intuitive to use.
- • Compact and relatively lightweight for a system of this power and output.
CONS
- • Limited vertical dispersion can be problematic in rooms with uneven ceilings.
- • The 480W is sufficient but may struggle with larger, louder bands.
- • The aesthetic is undeniably Bose – polarizing for some musicians.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 599498
$2,098
Every column pa systems that matches
54 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | RCF EVOX J11 White | Weight 29 kg | $1,981 |
| 17 | RCF EVOX J11 | Weight 29 kg | $1,923 |
| 18 | RCF EVOX JMIX9 | Weight 28.8 kg | $1,864 |
| 19 | LD Systems Maui 28 G3 MIX | Weight 36.2 kg | $1,807 |
| 20 | FBT Vertus CS 1000 W | Weight 33.5 kg | $1,632 |
| 21 | HK Audio Polar 12 MK2 WH | Size 12" · Weight 28.5 kg | $1,336 |
| 22 | dB Technologies ES1002 | Size 12" · Weight 35.1 kg | $1,296 |
| 23 | EV EVOLVE 30M | Size 10" | $1,515 |
| 24 | Bose L1 Pro8 Bag Bundle | Weight 17.65 kg | $1,457 |
| 25 | LD Systems Maui 11 G3 Mix W | Weight 31.5 kg | $1,445 |
| 26 | HK Audio Polar 10 MK2 BK Power Bundle | not published | $2,040 |
| 27 | EV EVOLVE 50 | not published | $1,981 |
| 28 | LD Systems Maui 28 G3 WH Bundle | not published | $1,825 |
| 29 | LD Systems Maui 28 G3 White | not published | $1,678 |
| 30 | LD Systems Maui 28 G3 Bundle | not published | $1,650 |
| 31 | LD Systems Maui 11 G3 Mix | Weight 31.5 kg | $1,362 |
| 32 | RCF EVOX J9 | Weight 28.3 kg | $1,347 |
| 33 | Yamaha Stagepas 1K MK2 | Weight 1.8 kg | $1,317 |
| 34 | Turbosound iP2000 V2 | Size 12" · Weight 30.9 kg | $1,049 |
| 35 | LD Systems Maui 28 G3 | not published | $1,503 |
| 36 | DAS Audio Altea-Duo-10A-W | Size 10" · Weight 18.5 kg | $990 |
| 37 | DAS Audio Altea-Duo-10A | Size 10" · Weight 18.5 kg | $990 |
| 38 | LD Systems Maui 11 G3 Bundle | Size 8" | $1,212 |
| 39 | RCF EVOX JMIX8 | not published | $1,281 |
| 40 | LD Systems Maui 11 G3 WH Bundle | not published | $1,259 |
| 41 | LD Systems Maui 11 G3 White | not published | $1,130 |
| 42 | Yamaha DXL1K | not published | $1,095 |
| 43 | dB Technologies ES602 Stereo Bundle | Size 10" · Weight 14.2 kg | $962 |
| 44 | dB Technologies ES503 Stereo White | Size 12" · Weight 16.4 kg | $932 |
| 45 | dB Technologies ES802 | Size 12" · Weight 16.4 kg | $769 |
| 46 | dB Technologies ES 602 Touring Set | Size 10" · Weight 14.2 kg | $601 |
| 47 | dB Technologies ES602 Cover Bundle | Size 10" · Weight 14.2 kg | $512 |
| 48 | dB Technologies ES602 | Size 10" · Weight 14.2 kg | $449 |
| 49 | Fun Generation ColumnMix Cover Bundle | Size 8" · Weight 15 kg | $279 |
| 50 | Behringer C210 | Size 8" · Weight 13.9 kg | $259 |
| 51 | Fun Generation ColumnMix | Size 8" · Weight 15 kg | $231 |
| 52 | LD Systems Maui 11 G2 WH Bundle | Size 6.5" | $967 |
| 53 | HK Audio Polar 8 MK2 WH | Weight 19.7 kg | $814 |
| 54 | Turbosound iP1000 V2 | Weight 24.8 kg | $769 |
Column PA Systems by the numbers
Measured across all 54 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,445
from $279 to $2,413
Size
median 10"
from 8" to 12" · 26 models
Weight
median 27.3 kg
from 1.8 kg to 39 kg · 40 models
How to Choose the Best Column PA Systems
1
Vertical Dispersion
It's the whole point of a column PA, right? But 'wide' isn't always good. Too wide, and you're battling feedback. We're looking for controlled dispersion that keeps the sound focused where it needs to be, minimizing reflections and maximizing headroom.
2
Low-End Extension
Many column PAs skimp on the bass response. A weak low end means you're constantly fighting to make your bass guitar or kick drum audible - a real pain in a live setting. We want something that provides a solid foundation without getting muddy.
3
High-Frequency Clarity
Harsh, brittle highs are a deal-breaker. We're listening for articulation and detail, not ice-pick sharpness. A smooth, extended high end is crucial for vocals and instruments needing that sparkle without fatigue.
4
Power Handling & Headroom
Can it handle a loud drummer? Does it compress and distort when pushed? We're assessing how the system performs under pressure, looking for headroom to spare without sacrificing tonal integrity.
5
Portability & Setup
Let's face it, you're hauling gear. Weight, size, and ease of setup are critical. A system that takes an hour to rig is a system you'll resent - especially after a long day.
Buying Guide
Don't be fooled by marketing hype. Many column PAs are essentially high-end bookshelf speakers masquerading as live sound solutions. Pay attention to the driver size and amplifier power - bigger drivers and more watts generally translate to more headroom and better low-end. And be realistic about your needs; a smaller system might suffice for acoustic duos, but a full band demands more.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 54 column pa systems from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. They excel in situations where you need focused coverage and minimal feedback, but a traditional system often offers more raw power and low-end thump for louder environments. It's about the application.
Wider isn't always better. Controlled dispersion is key. Too wide, and you're creating more reflections and battling feedback. Look for a system with adjustable dispersion if possible.
Sure, but it's not ideal. They're optimized for live sound, so their frequency response might not be perfectly flat for critical recording applications. You'll likely want dedicated studio monitors.
Proper mic placement is paramount. Keep mics closer to the source and use a good quality microphone preamp. EQ can also help - a slight high-pass filter can often tame feedback frequencies.
Direct inputs are your friend. Line-level signals from keyboards or backing tracks will sound cleaner than going through a DI box and then into the mixer. Make sure the PA has balanced inputs for minimal noise.
