Hi: Had the same question 2 months ago when I did my first gig…I suggest you Research the Behringer Product Line. Excellent reputation and quality at a reasonable price in my opinion and I haven’t been disappointed. Compare to JBL which in my opinion are WAY overpriced for the sound and quality. I am new to DJ ing and have started some weekend mobile DJing. I extensively researched PA systems within my price line which was less than $1000. I ended up and started with a pair of Behringer B215D mounted on reasonably priced speaker stands. The speakers are active (amplifier built in) and provided more than enough sound and reasonable Bass for a venue of 100 people or so. However, for a bigger gig, I caved in and I ended up purchasing the Behringer B1800D-PRO subwoofer (18″) to complete the system and that made the system awesome… but added $650 (us) to the cost. It allows me the potential though to play venues of up to 300-500 though, (weddings, etc.) Note though that the 18″ Sub is very heavy so you need a good transport system to get it in the gig… but it is worth it for the body shaking bass. If you want to be set up quick and portable you may need to go with a smaller sub like the B1500D-Pro perhaps, but cannot comment on the sound quality of that sub. Anyways that is my 2 cents on the PA matter: Behringer B215D’s and B1800D-Pro Sub + stands + cords = less than $2000 (US) 8)
