How to choose the right PA system for you: size, portable, sound coverage, features

Do you need to buy a public address system for your school, company or organization? It can be a difficult task to choose the right PA system with so many different sizes and features available.

The following tips will help you narrow down the competition and find the system that best meets your needs:

1. Portable or stationary?

Do you need to use your sound system indoors, outdoors, or both? Are there a variety of activities for which you could use a public address system? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, then you should choose a portable system. Portable sound systems give the planner and present the versatility to easily move your system wherever you want.

Many portable PA systems include rechargeable batteries and AC power options. This is a must for outdoor events like cross-country races and parades because it allows you to follow the action without tripping over cords, searching for outlets, or untangling annoying cords.

2. Calculate the size of your audience

Portable PA systems reach between 50 and 7,500 people (in optimal conditions). Make a good estimate of the number of people you want to cover. It’s always better to overdrive than underdrive because you can always turn the volume down on the biggest and loudest PA systems.

3. Estimate the desired coverage area

Top of the line systems can cover anywhere from 600 square feet to 25,000 square feet with a single device (additional speakers add more coverage). Remember: Just like estimating audience size, it’s better to be wrong and overestimate.

4. Determine the desired characteristics

Portable PA systems offer a wide variety of options including audio accessibility (iPod/iPhone, MP3 player, CD players/recorders…) and microphone options. Microphone options include the type of microphone (wireless, handheld, lapel, headset, etc.) and how many wireless microphones can be used simultaneously. Volume and tone controls are pretty standard. Many systems have additional features such as a voice priority feature that turns off music when speaking into the microphone.

5. Research.

It is important to diligently search for a good PA system that meets your needs and will be well worth the investment in purchasing a quality system. Looking for customer reviews, testimonials, and warranty options are great ways to ensure you’re getting the best quality system available. It is not uncommon to hear of a public address system that has lasted for more than fifteen years.

With all these tips in mind, a savvy consumer should have all the tools and knowledge they need to make the right purchase.

Good luck choosing a PA system!