Guide to Sound Systems for Events

Crafting the perfect ambiance for an event involves meticulous attention to detail, especially when it comes to the sound system. Ensuring your audio is impeccable is crucial, as it will make or break any event, from corporate gatherings to private celebrations or conferences with hundreds or thousands of attendees and more people attending virtually via Zoom.

At Studio46, we offer first-rate sound systems designed to elevate your event. In this blog, we’ll review everything you need to know about sound systems for events, including the following:

• Sound System Components
• Choosing the Right Sound System
• Professional Installation and Operation

Sound System Components

All sound systems are composed of several key components that work together to deliver clear, powerful audio. Having Engineers and Techs who understand these elements is crucial for choosing a system that meets the needs of your event. Here are the primary components:

• Microphones: Mics are devices used to capture the sound of a given subject and are indispensable for live events. There are many types for various purposes, including handhelds, headsets, lavaliers, instruments, shotguns, and many others, each suited to different applications and environments. All of them can be wired, and many of them can be used wirelessly, depending on the application.
• Mixing Console: The heart of any sound system, the mixing console allows sound engineers to balance the audio levels of different sources, such as microphones, instruments, and pre-recorded tracks coming into the console at very different volumes. Each source can then be sent and mixed to the appropriate destinations, such as the main PA in the room, recorders, streaming devices, monitors, hearing assistance systems, etc. It’s essential to blend these sources into a cohesive sound experience for each destination since they all have different purposes and requirements.
• Amplifiers: Amplifiers boost the audio signals to drive the speakers effectively and are sometimes integrated into the speaker itself. Having amplifiers appropriately matched to the speakers is crucial for hearing sound without distortion.
• Speakers: Speakers convert amplified electrical signals back into audible sounds. The size and type of speakers, such as line arrays or point source speakers, should be chosen based on the venue geometry and the expected coverage requirements. Our engineers typically model the venue to determine the best deployment of speakers before the show so that we can optimize the system for your event.
• Cables and Connectors: These are the veins and arteries of the sound system, providing the necessary connections between all the components. Quality cables and connectors are vital to prevent signal loss and interference.
• Signal Processors: This includes devices like equalizers, compressors, and effects units that shape and enhance the sound. Signal processors are used to fine-tune the audio output to the specific acoustics of the event space. Most signal processing in modern systems is integrated into the audio console and digital amplifiers so that the system has more flexibility and less potential failure points.
• Monitoring Systems: Monitors, such as in-ear monitors or floor wedges, allow performers to hear themselves and other elements of the mix during the event. This is crucial for ensuring a quality performance.

When put together properly, these parts collaborate to produce clear, understandable audio, but the system is only ever going to be as good as the engineers and techs using it.

Choosing the Right Sound System

Choosing the right sound system for your event involves much more than picking the most expensive equipment. The ideal system should match the specific requirements of your event, venue, and audience. Here’s how to make an informed decision:

Venue Size and Acoustics

We start by considering the size of your event venue. In general, larger spaces will need stronger sound systems. You’ll also want to examine the acoustics. Put simply, acoustics refers to how all sounds behave within a space. Hard surfaces, such as concrete, drywall, or metal, are highly acoustically reflective and can negatively impact how a room sounds depending on how the room is shaped. To overcome this obstacle, we typically deploy the speakers to keep the coverage on the audience and avoid areas that would negatively affect the overall sound in the room.

Type of Event

Next, consider the type of event you’re hosting. Is this a small corporate conference or trade show? If so, you likely don’t need a particularly large or elaborate sound system. Instead, you just need something that adequately conveys audio to your audience with clear and intelligible audio.

On the other hand, say you’re hosting a big charity gala, complete with live music and interactive games. In this case, you may need a larger system that can help your audience feel the music and really connect with your message.

Audience Size

Sound systems should always be tailored to the audience. Are you expecting a large crowd? Your sound system should be loud enough that everyone can clearly hear and understand your audio, from the people in the front row to those in the back. Are you hosting a relatively small event? If so, you’ll want to ensure your system is appropriately matched to the venue and event so that it won’t overwhelm your audience.

Interactivity and Engagement

Finally, ask yourself: How interactive is my event? If you’re hosting a workshop or seminar, the microphones must produce crisp, clear audio so everyone can hear the speaker. If you’re just playing recorded music, you don’t need to worry as much about microphones. However, you do want to ensure your speakers are up to par.

Professional Installation and Operation

Quality sound reinforcement will make or break the experience more than most other things when it comes to live events. That’s why many people turn to the help of professional sound engineers. At Studio46, our experts will select and deploy the most appropriate sound system for your event. Throughout the event, our team will manage your sound system’s technical aspects, ensuring everything is heard perfectly. Whether you want to convey information about a product, play music, or interact with the audience, we’ll help you accomplish your goals.