PA's always better than an amp - But Less Portable
Aloha,
If you are interested in dual channel stereo live applications, then you might consider a dual source PA over a single source amp. In every way, it is much more flexible in terms of soundstaging, placement, quality and control - especially if you are using several sources or dual effects in stereo. Stereo amps are very limited in terms of room control because they are mostly single source - dual speakers in one box.
The only area in which a PA (mono or stereo) is not better than an amp across the board in terms of the quality of a live amplification system is portability. You have to carry and set up more gear with a PA. Soloists or small acoustic combos who don't mind the extra gear or who cannot compromise on sound and control prefer PA's. Those more concerned with schleppability playing smaller venues tend to champion an amp. It's as simple as that.
New systems such as Fishman's Soloamp apparently combine the best characteristics of both a PA and an amp.
Trust you own ears on which works for you.
A Hui Hou!
alohachris
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