Weddings, conventions, concerts, speeches—all these events require a way to project sound and address the public. They need a public address system, or “PA system” for short. Many venues, including auditoriums, ballrooms, and even some bars and restaurants, may already have their own in-house PA system, but if you do many live public performances, eventually you’ll need a system of your own.
We have a huge variety of PAs for you to choose from. Keep reading to see if you need a PA, and what type is right for you.
PA system basics
PA systems usually consist of two loudspeaker cabinets, each of which usually contains one large speaker and a smaller “tweeter” speaker or horn for higher frequencies. They’re typically passive speakers, which means they require amplification. This is why most systems include a power amp so that everything receives the power it needs.
PA systems also include a powered mixer, which is like the central nervous system of your PA (similar to a receiver in a stereo system). It will have between four and 24 inputs or channels, and controls for tone, volume, and maybe some echo effects.
Those channels take in and process electrical audio signals from various microphones, instruments, or audio devices before amplifying them to wattage strong enough to drive speakers.
I’m a singer-songwriter playing coffee shops. Do I really need a PA?
For very small performances, you may choose to simply run your vocalist mics through the same amplifier as your guitar, or through a smaller additional amp. This can work, but it brings up many weaknesses, too. The sound of a PA system can fill entire rooms when their speakers are elevated and placed on either side of a performer. Side speaker placement also allows for higher volume without annoying microphone feedback. You can’t get feedback-free volume with centrally-placed amplifiers.
“Tower” PA systems like the JBL EON ONE are newer innovations, and they work very well for small venues. These all-in-one systems are designed to sit on one side of a performer, preventing feedback and filling rooms with amazing bass (thanks to the subwoofer) and treble. These portable PA systems often have built-in mixers, too. Tower sound systems make it very easy for a solo performer to quickly mic a guitar amp in one channel, vocals in the other, and deliver an excellent live sound.
Do only vocals go through my band’s PA system?
Many rock bands starting out with their first PA system only think about putting vocals through their PA. This is a good first step, but the sound can get really jumbled when PA speakers are blasting vocals from the side, guitar and bass amps are coming from behind the band, and acoustic drums are echoing everywhere.
Ideally, you should be mic-ing guitar amps, bass amps, drums, and vocals, which you’ll run into your PA’s powered mixer where you can make final adjustments to the volume levels. Many bassists even prefer to plug directly into a mixer, foregoing amps altogether.
If you want to do this for a band, think about how many inputs you’ll need. You’ll probably want eight channels or more on your mixer to avoid any connectivity issues. The Behringer Europort PPA2000BT is a great portable PA system for bands and it includes a subwoofer, Bluetooth capabilities, and more.
What accessories do I need with my PA system?
Depending on your setup, your PA system may require some accessories to handle everything at your next gig.
Microphones and cables
The more channels your PA has, the more microphones you’ll need. Dynamic cardioid mics are best for live performances. You’ll also need lots of cables for your instruments, microphones, and speakers. Depending on how you set up your PA and the size of the venue, you may need speaker cables that are at least 40 feet long.
Speaker stands
Speaker stands or tripods are also a great investment. Speakers situated up high offer a superior sound quality with less feedback. Some PA systems like this Peavey 100W package even come with speaker stands.
Monitors
Finally, you may be asking, “If my PA speakers are up high and off to the side, how can I hear myself?” You need stage monitor speakers. Monitors like the VocoPro STAGE MAN 1 are floor-placed, powered speakers that project your PA’s final mixed sound back at you. Hearing yourself during a performance is critical, but most PAs do not come with stage monitors or powered speakers. Make sure you have some so the whole band knows where you are.
Now that you know what to look for, you can find the right PA system for you in our vast selection. At Adorama, we carry PA systems from brands like Fender, Yamaha, JBL, Bose, and many others.
