I have a Nady WA 125U portable PA 20 watt power. It has really helped when I perform my magic shows. But I've recently had some minor problems causing me to do a couple of shows without it. I can survive without it as I just talk a lot louder. But I find doing ventriloquism it is so, so much more important having a sound system. I now want to bring another system with me just for rare instances when one breaks.
I'm thinking of buying a Histonic, but before I do I would like to get input from others.

I just sold one today to a guy who flew in to pick up his Hands-Free Toucan. Chris you could ask at the owner's forum too.

Ax

I use the nady wa120, which is also 20 watts. I do find that I need to keep the batteries recharged with each use, or I get an occasional zapping sound. But, as long as I chage them until most of the lights go out in the back (one takes a long time and I don't always get it completed) then it does well.

It came with a flimsy plastic headset, which quickly broke, so I replaced it with their next better model of a headset mic. It has a wire frame and I'm assuming has better sound. It was nice to replace.

You could try using a different mic in the unit and thereby narrowing down whether your problem is with the unit or with the mic. If you haven't had it long don't forget the warranty.

I use the Trayner 150 otherwise known as a buskers special. Great sound, multiple inputs, lots of volume and runs for 10 hours when charged.

I love mine.

We have a thread on the forum called Sound Advice. It has several ideas as well. Axtell now offers a highly portable and powerful system. I don't know if it's included in the sale, as most electronics don't have a large margin from wholesale to retail.

Sorry..an old Canadian TV toy ad. I use the Florida Magic model 567. Neale, good to read your stuff again.Ron

If I am doing a kids birthday party in a living room is a mic really necessary?

I find ventriloquism easier to do with a mic. It helps the "illusion" since the sound for you and your figure are both coming from the box. It also allows them to laugh or call out more. I once set up for a tiny library and decided not to bring in the sound. But there was a 2 year old who squealed every time the puppet opened it's mouth and spoke. I kept losing punch lines! He was LOUD, but having a ton of fun.

A mic is definitely a plus in practically every situation -- even walkaround. You can overcome the audience and any background noise quite easily. I even have a headset mic for my figures!

I find it to be such an important thing to have now, especially in my vent routine that I have now bought a backup system.

I thank you all for your mixed advice I am now sure that the mic will be necessary because it will be held in the back yard, so i also will need a power supply as well any recommendations... the problem here is that its in NYC and I am in South Florida do I buy it and schlepp it to NYC via plane is it worth the schlepp? Non paid event.

When I fly I just tell them what I need for sound. Wireless headset mic and a sound system large enough for the audience. They can dig one up pretty easily. It is far too easy for airlines to damage one. Have you seen how they toss the luggage around? I should toss my salads so good!

Doubt I'll ever have that problem. The only time I fly is on Christmas Eve...

Hey that reminds me Santa.... put diapers on your reindeers this year!!

Ax

Ax, that was their idea of a special gift for you... to help green up your landscape...

Hey guys and gals...I don't want to give the wrong impressions but the birthday party is a friend of the family, do I ask them to supply the sound system or do I wing it. Doing the best I can without a mic...There is no fee for this one, its gratus.