Whether you are staging a festival, hosting a backyard graduation, or throwing a wedding reception, you’re going to need the right audio visual equipment to make your event a success. Of the many decisions you will have to make, selecting the appropriate speakers is one of the most important. Consider these four criteria to ensure your event goes off without a hitch.

Audio Visual Equipment 101: 4 Criteria for Selecting Speakers

1. Venue

The environment, venue size, and acoustics will dictate how much sound power, or wattage, the PA system needs. Larger venues and outdoor events will require more watts and amplification to effectively carry quality sound. Smaller and indoor events may be able to get by with an all-in-one or compact PA system. 

2. Purpose  

Each event will have different audio visual equipment requirements. For example, a music performance requires a PA system that is able to reach a greater number audio frequencies. In addition, different band types have varying sound requirements. A jazz or heavy rock event will require lower bass, making powered speakers, which have built-in amplifiers, a good option.

3. Budget

After you determine your budget, filter out the speaker options based on frequency response, SPL output, and dispersion. The requirements will depend on the venue and purpose of the PA system. You may want to consult with an audio technician to help you hammer out the spec details. Once you have done this, ask the supplier to go over an equipment specification sheet with you to find a match that fits your budget. Some trusted industry brands to look for include Gallien-Kruger®, Eden Amplification®, and SWR®.

4. Service & Support

Look for a supplier who is experienced in staging, equipment and instrument rentals, and lighting. You may also prefer a vendor with set-up and event support to avoid technical mishaps. The most professional companies will maintain their equipment well and be happy to answer questions about how it is stored and how often it is tested and cleaned. To determine your provider’s reliability, ask for references, check reviews, and ask for a list of events they’ve worked on in the past.

If you’re hosting an event and need professional audio visual equipment, get in touch with Audio Images Sound & Lighting. Based in Batavia, NY, this concert product company serves Western New York and beyond. Their team has experience supporting events for national artists and backyard parties alike. Give them a call today at (585) 343-4050, or visit them online to learn more.