One of the most economical ways to purchase a PA system is to seek out a good value PA package; typically this is PA equipment that has been bundled together in a special deal that is usually significantly cheaper than if each item was purchased individually.
Typical PA Packages
A standard package will ordinarily include two speakers and a mixer amp as well as sometimes having the appropriate speaker stands, which enable the speakers to be raised up to a suitable height to enhance the sound projection in the venue.
Added Extras for Improved Sound
As we move up through the various packages, slightly higher end bundles may include a small mixer and separate power amp with perhaps a vocal microphone or two. The most important decision is to find a PA solution that meets your budget and is suitably powerful enough to fill the size of venues that you'll be playing in.
Whether you choose a mixer amp or a separate mixer and power amp may also depend on how many microphone inputs are required, so all of these factors will need to be considered before choosing the right sound solution.