Well, you CAN get a decent soundcard, but then again, why not spend 150$ more and give yourself the added comfort and features of a DJ controller, including a headphone connector and volume control and a mic input (should you want one).
I know you emphasised not to be looking for a DJ controller, but you asked for our honest opinion.
We are not saying buy new, but you can probably get a decent used controller for under 125 USD. All you’d need would be a USB cable to your laptop, a cable from the controller output to the PA (a mic with cable if you plan on using one), if the controller is not USB-powered you’d need a power adapter and that is is. Nice and tidy and stereo.
As for 4 PA speakers (assuming you have a good output – balanced preferably – going), it’s a set-up I prefer for rooms where I want to create a “dancefloor” area. Pointing the speakers inward and having 4 of them means you can play them a little less loud while still getting a more balanced sound level all over the dancefloor area with the added benefit of the sound being somewhat contained there, leaving space around the dancefloor where conversation is easier.
Booth speakers are handy, but a bonus and I would say forget those if you are going to stick with laptop only operation.
Hope that helps some.
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