Stay in tune with our top sound system picks! Four of our favorites include:

SW720

Great for large crowds: Plug your iPod into this wireless, battery-powered portable PA system and you’ll be ready to roll. The SW720 by Amplivox features a handheld wireless mic, built-in DVD/CD/MP3 disc player, tone and echo controls, and a built-in 8-inch speaker. Hook it up and reach an audience of up to 500! ($1,259; www.ampli.com)

Light and easy: How about a sound system you can sling over your shoulder and carry around with ease? Despite being just three pounds, the battery-operated Anchor Audio Minivox Lite delivers an impressive 109 decibels of sound. Plug in your iPod, MP3, or CD player and you’ll be ready for audiences of up to 100 or more, with sound clarity both indoors and outdoors. ($329; www.anchoraudiowarehouse.com)

Bose Acoustic Wave

All-purpose elegance: Not too large or complicated, The Bose Acoustic Wave Music System II is a sleek, all-in-one system. It’s great for large spaces—indoors and outdoors—and provides clear, rich sound. Plug it into a standard outlet and play selections from your iPod or tablet (or use the CD player and/or AM/FM tuner). You can also purchase the travel case and power pack for on-the-go needs. ($1,079; www.bose.com)

The price is right: Deliver big and powerful sound using Ion’s Center Stage, a complete sound system consisting of two easy-to-transport, self-powered 50W speakers with stands, a built-in mixer, microphone, and cables. Mic, guitar, other instruments and an iPod plug right into the speakers. Sweet beats, indeed! ($199.99; www.ionaudio.com)

–Jackie Pilossoph