Pro Audio Installation
There are a lot of variables to consider when choosing a PA. For instance, you'll need to think about the size of your audience, where your performances will be, how portable you need your system to be and how much money you can invest.
A PA system is an electronic amplification system used to get sound from the performer(s) to the audience. It's made up of several components, and while one system can vary greatly from the next, each one handles these same basic functions:
-
Converting acoustic sound into electronic signals, most often with microphones or line inputs.
-
Processing and mixing these electronic signals, using mixing boards and effects modules
-
Amplifying signals with a power amp
-
Delivering the sound through speakers
-
Monitoring the performance with speakers or in-ear monitors
Different PA equipment will have different capabilities, features, and designs associated with each of these functions. Your specific needs will determine what you want out of each.
We here at Musical Depot can help you in choosing the right system for you. We offer consultation appointments and install appointments to set up a time for you and/or your organization. Come by
Musical Depot or call Scott Gilreath at 843-407-0226.
Powered and Non-Powered Speakers
For those who want to avoid purchasing one or more dedicated power amps for their PA systems, powered speakers are a popular option that integrate amplifiers directly into their cabinets. Using powered PA speakers means you can also use a non-powered mixer.
Powered speakers are a great option for musicians who play at smaller clubs and other venues. They offer greater portability and reduced setup hassles. The trade-off is that powered speakers provide less flexibility and control over a PA system than separating the power amp from the speakers. Typically, the largest speaker systems designed for bigger performance spaces are non-powered. For this reason, many professional live sound engineers prefer passive speakers that can be configured and positioned to optimize their sound in specific venues.
Floor Monitors
Musicians need to be able to hear themselves and other performers clearly to sound their best, which is why stage monitors are essential. While floor monitors can cause feedback and increase the risk of hearing damage, they are preferred over in-ear monitors by many performers because they are easier to use. These usually wedge-shaped speakers allow performers to hear themselves and play better because of it.
Know Your Mixers
Analog mixers adjust the volume and tone of input audio signals. Most of the control knobs and faders are arranged on the top panel, so it is easy to understand the signal flow and what state the audio is in. Operating analog mixers is normally an intuitive process.
Digital mixers process input audio signals and adjust their volume and tone using digital signal processing technology. Various kinds of tone control that would be impossible using analog equipment can be applied using digital processing. Digital mixers can store the positions of faders and knobs, and recall these positions in an instant. The faders and knobs perform various functions, so the unit itself remains compact, even if the number of channels increases. Generally a digital mixer will require more experience to set up effectively, but will offer far greater functionality than an analog mixer.
Powered mixers are analog mixers with built-in power amplifiers. For this reason, sound can be played with the mixer directly connected to speakers. In cases where the same equipment is always connected, powered mixers can be used by simply turning the power on, so operation is simplified and convenient.