The Best Generator For Live Sound For 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best Generator For Live Sound
Best Generator For Live Sound

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment Portable Generator

This powerful generator features a 4-Stroke OHV engine with a long-lasting cast iron sleeve, automatic low oil shutdown and digital hour meter – providing real time updates on voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours. With its VFT display and easy to use control panel. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator

This unit has the ability to run on either propane or gasoline and can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools. With dual fuel technology, it provides you with the convenience of having two fuels available for your generator. Read Review

3. Best Quality: WEN 56380i RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator

Featuring a fuel shutoff and the ability to produce clean power, this generator is perfect for powering all of your sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets, and laptops. Plus, it's super quiet engine makes it ideal for camping and tailgating. Get ready to explore with WEN! Read Review

4. Best Durable: Champion Power Equipment 100302 RV Ready

Increase your power output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverter or digital hybrid with the optional Parallel Kit. Get reliable electricity anytime and anywhere with Champion Power Equipment. Read Review

5. Best Design: WEN 56475 Portable Generator

This generator has it all, offering electric start, low-oil shutdown, an automatic voltage regulator and overload protection to maximize safety. It also includes a wheel kit and foldable handles for easy transport. Get your job done faster with WEN's powerful generator. Read Review

Live sound is an important part of any performance. Whether you’re a solo artist playing a small venue, or a bigger band performing in front of a crowd, having the right equipment makes all the difference. A reliable generator is a must-have for any live sound setup, providing the power necessary to keep your equipment running during a show.

With so many models available, it can be hard to choose the best generator for your needs. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place! Here, we’ll discuss the top generators for live sound, considering both portability and wattage, so you can get the best possible performance out of your equipment.

After 20 hours of product research and analysis, We are able to identify the best generator for live sound is Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment Portable Generator. It is easy to carry, versatile and green power source. The performance of this product is of an excellent standard, and it offers a complete set of features that can satisfy your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment Portable Generator
Our Score:
9.7
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours

9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge

All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network

Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)

Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety

TOP Choice #2 DuroMax XP12000EH Generator
Our Score:
9.5
DuroMax

Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.

Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low

With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8

Engine Type: 4-Stroke

Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine..With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.

Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.

Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.

Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.

With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7

212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts with a half-load runtime of up to 8.5 hours

Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb.Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb

Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, a digital load and fuel display, and a two-year warranty

Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets and laptops

Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise;, EPA III and CARB Compliant

Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down

4 Champion Power Equipment 100302 RV Ready
Our Score:
9.3
Champion Power Equipment

What’s included: Oil Funnel,Battery Charging Cables,USB Adapter

Advanced Open Frame Inverter Design: 50% quieter and 20% lighter than a traditional Champion 3500-watt generator, plus our Economy Mode feature saves fuel and extends engine life

Champion Support: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts

Quiet Technology and Extended Run Time: 64 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, your next project or home backup, with 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts for up to 17 hours run time on gasoline

Parallel Ready: Increase your power output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverter or digital hybrid with the optional Parallel Kit

Clean electricity for sensitive electronics: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean power (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter

CARB and EPA III meet requirements for sale in all 50 states

Digital readout helps manage oil changes and maintenance schedule

223cc engine provides 4,750 surge watt and 3,750 rated watt

Features electric start, low-oil shutdown, an automatic voltage regulator and overload protection to maximize safety

Includes wheel kit and foldable handles for easy transport

6 Westinghouse Portable Generator
Our Score:
9.1
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

Plug-and-Play: Comes With Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)

Gasoline Peak Amps: 38A

All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network

Powered by a 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown

Features One 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and One L5-30R 30 Amp Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety

3600 Running Watts and 4650 Peak Watts; Recoil Start; 4 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Up to 14 Hours of Run Time Per Tank

Equipped with DuroMax “CO Alert Technology” that will automatically shut down the generator if an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected

The fully loaded power panel includes four 120V GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30AMP outlet, one 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and a heavy-duty 120/240V 50AMP outlet making it transfer switch ready!

Built using a powerful 500cc OHV DuroMax engine and features ALL COPPER WINDINGS designed to make your generator last for years

This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice

All-new control center with a digital multimeter, push-button start, and a front-facing fuel interface allowing you to change your fuel type in seconds! The digital multimeter displays voltage, frequency, total hours run, and hours until the recommended maintenance

Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup

4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time

Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial

Includes two 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V/240V NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a 2-year warranty

Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key

9 Champion Power Equipment 100554 Portable Generator
Our Score:
8.5
Champion Power Equipment

Trust the reliable 208cc Champion engine with its battery-included electric start featuring a 3-way ignition switch, plus built-in Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather

At 4375 starting watts and 3500 running watts, enjoy up to 12 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline with a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet

Start and stop with ease from up to 80 feet away with the included wireless remote key fob – push-button power and convenience like never before

Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts

120V 30A locking, 120V 30A RV and two 120V 20A outlets and Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads and keeps your appliances and equipment safe

10 Generac 7676 GP8000E Portable Generator
Our Score:
8.4
Generac

Generac durable OHV engine with splash lubrication provides a long engine life

Featuring power Rush advanced technology – delivers over 30% more starting capacity allowing you to do more with less

Electric start Model for easy operation (Battery included)

Large-capacity steel fuel tank with incorporated fuel gauge provides durability and up to an 11 hour run-time at 50% load

Dimensions: 27.2" W x 27" D x 26.5 H | Weight: 198 lb

10000 Starting Watts. 8000 Running Watts

What to Look For in a best generator for live sound?

The best generator for live sound is assessed based on many factors. best generator for live sound research varies depending on the type, feature, and quality of this product. It is not too complex to cover, yet we will give you some buying guide and solutions to these problems.

Please take a closer look at best generator for live sound characteristics below would be beneficial for you. Let’s look through and keep in mind:

Fuel Source

Generators are generally powered by either gasoline, natural gas or propane.
The majority of portable generators run on gasoline and can generally keep fridges and lights running for several hours. These generators can't be relied upon for long-term power backups, such as when there is no electricity for several days.
Propane and natural gas are used more often for large home-standby generators. These fuels can be used for larger home standby generators as they are cleaner-burning and offer on-demand power.
Solar or battery-powered power sources are an alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. These machines have different capabilities, and their run time can vary widely. However, they might be the best match for you if your power requirements are less than minimal. They are typically used for camping only, not home.

Type

You need to decide which generator type is best for you: a portable or standby generator. This will help you decide if you just want the lights to stay on or if you need to power other electrical components such as the refrigerator, window, central air conditioner, and the fridge.

Size

Installing home generators requires space. So make sure that you consider the dimensions of all models. You can find generators in a variety of sizes, from smaller units measuring less than 3ft to more large units measuring 5ft or more. A general rule of thumb is that the generator with the highest power rating will be larger.
Be aware that the clearance between your home and generator may be determined by local codes or model specifications. A small generator may require only 18 inches of clearance.

Warranties

A warranty is usually included with the purchase of a generator. The warranty covers both labor and parts for most residential inverter and portable generators. For standby generators which can be larger investments, you will usually get a 3- to 52024 warranty period.
Certain warranties may also include travel expenses for technicians to visit the generator and fix it. However, this depends on which manufacturer you are using.

Wattage

A generator's wattage is the measure of its ability to provide power for whatever it plugs into. This information is crucial to understand about any generator that you are considering.
However, this number does not represent the entire picture. Wattage is made up of three parts: power needed to turn on an appliance and power required to maintain it running. It also includes power necessary to sustain a power surge, which is when regular juice returns to normal and all appliances start to work again. Many appliances use more power for startup than their run energy consumption. You could overload your generator when you turn on appliances and other devices. If the generator can't provide enough power, it could overload. You need to know how many watts your generator can generate, depending on whether it is powering just one item or the whole house.
An increase in generator costs is generally associated with a higher wattage. Most people agree that it's better to have enough power than not to be able to run your fridge or keep cool by a fan.

Automatic Start

Whole home generators can automatically start when power goes out. This allows the generator to automatically start supplying power when there is no electricity from the utility. This feature is usually only available on standby generators, and not portables. These systems can provide peace of mind and may be more expensive than the security that your generator will automatically turn on without interrupting vital systems like heating and cooling.

FAQs

What is a generator for live sound?

A generator for live sound is a device that provides electrical power to audio equipment and other equipment used in live events such as concerts, music festivals, and other performances. Generators help power the sound system, lighting, and other equipment needed to create the perfect live sound experience.

What types of generators are available for live sound?

There are several types of generators available for live sound, including portable generators, diesel generators, and inverter generators. Portable generators are typically used for smaller events and are easy to move and transport. Diesel generators are best for larger events and have more power output than other types of generators. Inverter generators are quieter and fuel-efficient, making them ideal for indoor events.

How do I choose the right generator for my live sound needs?

Choosing the right generator for your live sound needs depends on the size and type of event you’re hosting. Consider the size of the venue, the type of equipment you need to power, and the amount of power you need. If you’re hosting a large event, it’s best to opt for a diesel generator. If you’re hosting a smaller event, a portable or inverter generator is your best option. You should also consider the noise level of the generator and how it will affect the sound quality.

What precautions should I take when using a generator?

When using a generator, you should always make sure to keep it in a well-ventilated area and away from any combustible materials. You should also always make sure the generator is turned off before attempting to refuel or perform any maintenance. Additionally, you should never operate a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces.

How do I maintain a generator for live sound?

To maintain a generator for live sound, be sure to always keep the fuel tank full and regularly check the oil levels. Additionally, it is important to perform regular maintenance such as changing the spark plugs, air filters, and fuel filters.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

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