How to Choose Speakers for Large Events - Part 3

Making the leap from mid-size events to large stage productions, your audio needs are going to change in a big way. In this video, we are going to be going over the types of speakers you’ll need for events on a much larger scale. Before we get started, be sure to give this video a like and subscribe to our channel.

Hey, Matt from I DJ NOW here, and today we’re going to explore the world of PA speakers in live events, like festivals, concerts, and theaters. We'll delve into various types of speakers, including line arrays, subwoofers, and monitors for performers, as well as the concept of multiple speaker placements to cover different zones within a venue.
 
Line arrays are the workhorses of large-scale live events, known for their ability to provide consistent and even sound coverage over extended distances. Think of them as the heavy hitters in the world of live audio. Line array speakers are stacked vertically and consist of multiple speaker elements or drivers, each designed to handle specific frequency ranges. This vertical arrangement allows for precise control over sound dispersion and projection. What makes line arrays special is their capacity to deliver uniform sound throughout vast venues. Sound engineers can fine-tune the angles and curvature of the elements to direct the sound precisely where it's needed. This ensures that every corner of the audience area receives high-quality audio.

You'll often find line arrays either flown above the stage or stacked on the ground in front of it. The specific placement varies depending on the venue's size and shape, but the objective is always the same: ensure that sound reaches every nook and cranny of the audience area while minimizing undesirable reflections and dispersion.

Let's descend into the world of subwoofers, those speakers that make your heart race with their powerful bass. These specialized speakers are all about delivering those low frequencies that you can feel in your bones. Subwoofers deliver the thunderous bass that adds depth and impact to the overall audio experience. They provide a solid foundation for the music, making it an immersive and visceral experience. Subwoofers are positioned strategically on the ground or, in some cases, flown, depending on the event setup. This careful placement ensures that bass is evenly distributed throughout the venue, ensuring that everyone can feel the music, not just hear it.

Sound engineers utilize crossovers to determine which frequencies are sent to the subwoofers and which are directed to the main speakers. This intelligent management ensures that the primary speakers aren't burdened with frequencies they can't handle, resulting in cleaner and more potent bass.

Now, let's shift our focus to what the artists need for their best performance—monitor speakers or in-ear systems:
 
Imagine a row of speakers lined up along the stage, facing the performers. These are stage monitors. They provide individual musicians with a tailored mix of vocals and instruments, allowing them to stay in sync with the rest of the ensemble and maintain their groove.

Some artists opt for a more personalized experience. In-ear monitor systems replace the traditional stage wedges with snug earpieces that deliver a customized mix directly into the artist's ears. This not only reduces stage volume but also minimizes feedback issues, ensuring a crystal-clear sound for the performers.

In-ear monitor systems often come equipped with built-in communication systems, allowing performers to communicate with the sound engineer and fellow musicians during the show. This real-time communication ensures that everyone is on the same musical page.
 
Now, let's address the concept of multiple speaker placements to cover various zones within a venue:
 
In large venues, sound takes time to travel, which can lead to audio lag for those farthest from the stage. Like when someone is singing the national anthem at a sporting event. Delay speakers are strategically placed at specific distances from the main stage to compensate for this delay. They ensure that sound reaches all audience members simultaneously, maintaining audio synchronization. They’re referred to as delay speakers because the signal to those speakers is delayed ever so slightly in order to reduce the echo effect of having several speakers spaced significantly apart.

Fill Speakers: Sometimes, a venue's unique architecture or obstacles can create audio dead zones where the main speakers can't reach effectively. Fill speakers are positioned strategically to ensure that sound covers, or fills, these areas, so every attendee enjoys a high-quality audio experience.
 
Live events like festivals, concerts, and theater productions are a harmonious blend of various PA speaker types, each serving a specific purpose. Line arrays provide consistent coverage, subwoofers deliver powerful bass, and monitor systems ensure performers are in sync. Multiple placements, including delay and fill speakers, guarantee that audio reaches every corner of the venue. This careful orchestration of audio elements ensures that both the audience and the artists are immersed in an unforgettable sonic experience. So, the next time you attend a live event, listen closely—there's more to the music than meets the ear!

If you want to see what speakers we offer, feel free to check out our Top DJ Speakers of 2024.

Thanks for watching! Be sure to like this video and subscribe to our channel for more content. If you’re looking for some more guidance when it comes to speakers, feel free to give us a call, chat with us online, or stop by one of our showrooms. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help make sure all your speaker needs are fulfilled right here at I DJ Now .