At the risk of a public humiliation (again), I'll say the Podiums to me sound as good as the powered Mackie 450v2s (I just sold). To my ears they sound very clean and plenty powerful enough. I am not saying these are as powerful as the Mackies, just that they are much better for my all around needs:

1. Ease of handling
2. Powerful enough for medium size crowds (I'd say they could easily handle 200 - 250 people)
3. My vocals sound much better through them
4. Great built-in handles
5. Lifetime warranty
6. Inexpensive (to say the least)

Please read the large thread for more detail.

[This message has been edited by zuki (edited 03-17-2009).]