One of the biggest challenges I've faced as a music teacher is amplifying students for various events: productions, concerts, parents' evenings, carol services, and exam performances. Over the years, I've directed so many mini-gigs that I've become familiar with the inevitable chaos. Beyond the rats' nest of cabling, there's the hassle of mic'ing up acoustic guitars and vocalists, often involving a cumbersome pair of heavy speakers and mixing desk that only work if the wind and electrons are blowing in the right direction.
Rechargeable, portable speakers have been around for a while, but they've rarely provided enough ‘oomph’ for live applications. The Stagepas 100 BTR includes a built-in rechargeable, non-removable battery with overheating protection and a traffic-light warning system to indicate charge levels. While the battery cannot be swapped out for a spare, it charges in just twoand-a-half hours and easily lasts long enough for gigs – I gave up trying to drain the battery when using it quietly as a Bluetooth speaker at home after seven hours. The speaker can also be attached to a microphone stand for optimal placement, and its compact design makes it highly portable, especially with the optional carry bag.
Little and loud
Unboxing the Stagepas 100 BTR, I was pleasantly surprised by its compact size. However, it also feels reassuringly weighty, which is a good thing. In my experience, lightweight portable speakers often sacrifice sound quality, resulting in weak bass response, cabinet rattling, or even the speaker moving around at high volumes. One of my favourite features is the built-in stand, which allows you to tilt the speaker at various angles to suit different scenarios. This makes the Stagepas 100 an excellent choice for on-stage monitoring; in school concerts, I've been able to position it behind students while avoiding feedback. By attaching the speaker to a mic stand, I could also elevate it for better sound dispersion.
Getting connected
There are two combo jacks and a mini-jack input, each with its own volume knob. The combo jacks accept XLR (microphone cables) or standard ¼-inch inputs. Channel 2 even has a Hi-Z input, making it perfect for instruments like electric guitars and basses without requiring a DI box. The mini-jack is handy for connecting devices like keyboards and mobile phones, though it's worth noting that the signal will be mixed down to mono. Additionally, the unit supports Bluetooth, though pairing takes a few extra steps to prevent unauthorised connections. This approach ensures you maintain control over the device during busy events.
An XLR output adds even more versatility. You can connect the Stagepas to another powered speaker for greater volume, use it as a sub-mixer and monitor for front-of-house sound at small gigs, or even route it to an audio interface for recording purposes.
High quality
While Yamaha may be better known by some for motorcycles, its roots in music are evident in its logo, which features crossed tuning forks. As a guitarist, I've owned Yamaha instruments that consistently deliver quality far exceeding their price point. In the pro audio world, Yamaha NS10 studio monitors are legendary, so the pedigree is certainly there.
For amplifying my guitar modelling pedalboard, I've tried several small portable speakers (sometimes referred to as FRFR), many of which were mains-powered. The Stagepas 100 outperforms them in sound quality, ease of use, and practicality. Its simple EQ controls, small size, and ability to tilt back for on-stage monitoring are perfect for many live situations. Without proper angling, even higher-powered units can fail to deliver optimal sound. This reminds me of gigging in small pubs as a teenager with a Marshall stack – its sheer volume bypassed my ears, flapped my trousers, and deafened anyone unfortunate enough to sit ten feet away!
Stagepas usage
Before purchasing the Stagepas 100 BTR, it's important to understand its limitations – or rather, its intended purpose. This is not a speaker for large venues; it excels in classrooms, small performances, and as an on-stage monitor.
I've tested the Stagepas 100 in various scenarios: school concerts, band rehearsals, personal monitoring, busking and as a Bluetooth speaker at home. In all cases, it has exceeded my expectations. For its price, it's the best unit of its kind I've used.
Yamaha Stagepas 100 BTR
£462.00
