...avoiding the rain, even though the fish are calling my name!

I much prefer it if one person owns the p.a., even if the others pay for the service out of their cut, that way there's nothing to divide when relationships go south. However, that's just the p.a.. It is best if individuals own, carry, and maintain everything to connect to the p.a. I rarely carry my own p.a. simply because it's small and our demands are usually greater, but I've got everyting else, ie mics, stands, backline amps, effects, wiring and even monitors if required.

Renting is often an option though far from ideal. If nobody's got the gear, work out an agreement of some sort. Liquidating gear later will be easier, imho.

Peace, Mooh.