What to Consider When Hiring Sound for Your Event

By | 1 Entertainment on Aug 03 2021

Every event needs sounds, regardless of its size. With that, you need to rent sound, and it can be overwhelming for first-timers! Don’t worry; we have some sound advice for you. Here are things to consider:

1. PA or Sound System Size

The size of the PA or sound system depends on the size of the event place and the amount of people who are coming. Additionally, you also need to consider the band or DJ if you have one.

A small PA of two speakers will work for a small venue with at least a hundred people. On the other hand, if your event is bigger than that, you need to add more speakers.

Another thing is, if the venue is outdoors, you need to have more speakers and a more powerful PA. However, more speakers don’t mean you get louder sounds.

2. Mixing Desk/Console

A mixing desk or console is the “heart of a sound system” that falls into two categories:

Digital
Analogue

It is responsible for the volume of all microphones and instruments connected to it. Furthermore, it controls the output levels.

To know the right fit, assess the exact number of microphones, instruments and other things you need to connect to the console. Naturally, the more things you need to plug in, the bigger desk you need to rent. Having a list of everything will be extremely helpful at a time like this.

Consider the auxiliary outputs if you have a band at the event because they use it for their monitor mix. These allow band members to hear themselves and have their mix separate from what the audience hears.

An average band requires two to six Aux Sends. The best way is to ask the band.

3. Microphone

There are different microphones you can choose from, and it’s important that you choose wisely. Normal ones are the wired microphones that connect to the mixer. A wired microphone is best used by backup singers.

A wireless handheld mic is perfect for speeches, crowd question-and-answer sessions and for lead singers. There is also a wireless lapel that is a mic clipped onto the dress or shirt. It allows for hands-free movement.

Instrument mics are drum mics, condenser mics, saxophone and guitar mics. They’re used for acoustic instruments that can’t be connected to the desk.

4. Power Plugs and Backup Power

Sound equipment needs power; therefore, when you have all the necessary equipment, you need to check the power points at the venue. With that, you need to take into account the number of power extension cables you need to power all the equipment. Make sure all batteries are fully charged as well. For non-rechargeable batteries, always put a fresh set of batteries before the event.

It’s important to have an alternative backup power as well. You never know when the main power will fail, so it’s best you have a backup. Rent a standby generator, but before you do so, you need to consider the size of your PA and the power demands of all the sound equipment.

Conclusion

When hiring sound for your event, things can get overwhelming quickly, especially if you don’t know exactly what you need for the kind of event that you have. Luckily, there are companies that can handle the sound aspect of your event, so you won’t have to.

1 Entertainment is known to specialise in corporate events in London. We have the best party and wedding DJs and sound and lighting. Contact us today to get started!