Test Drive: E-System 10

Portable sound system

by David McQuin -- School Library Journal, 7/1/2004

JBL Harman Pro, 8500 Balboa Blvd. Northridge, CA 91339. (800) 852-5776 www.jblpro.com $1,979.

Whether you're hosting an author visit in the media center or a holiday program in the auditorium, it's important to have a quality sound system. Sturdy and portable, JBL's E-System 10 is an ideal choice for K–12 schools.

The E-System 10 consists of two AKG microphones, a pair of JBL EON-powered speakers, a Soundcraft Spirit sound mixer, and all the cables needed to connect these components. The microphones are nicely designed and ruggedly built, perfect for withstanding the wear and tear of a typical school. The speakers—the core of the E-System—produce crisp, clear sound with little distortion at any volume. Since each speaker comes with its own built-in amplifier and controls, a single microphone can be plugged directly into the back of a speaker to create a simple PA system. If you need more audio oomph, simply add the Soundcraft mixer. Up to eight microphones or other audio sources (such as CD players, cassette decks, electronic keyboards, or computer audio cards) can be simultaneously mixed, adjusted for equal volume, and projected through the speakers.

I put the E-System on a cart and easily wheeled it around the school. Whenever I use the system outside of the media center, I always make sure I have a couple of extension cords on hand, since the sound mixer and speakers need to be plugged into electrical outlets. The E-System provides excellent sound. However, the controls on the Soundcraft board seemed a bit loose as I moved them up and down the slots, but otherwise, all the controls and ports were clearly labeled and stable. If you're not familiar with a sound mixer, all the knobs, buttons, inputs, outputs, sliders, and cables can be intimidating. But with the E-System's detailed instructional manuals and a little practice, you will soon be crafting just the sound you want for each space in your school.

Small and large schools alike need a quality sound system to inform and entertain all sizes of audiences. Priced at $1,979, the E-System will help make all of your events a success. If you are looking for a portable sound system for your school, I recommend the JBL E-System 10.