How to Buy a Public Address System

Your public address system can be the difference between a successful event and a disaster. Whether you need a portable or a built-in system, consider every component so you get the power and features you need without wasting money on capabilities you don't need.

Instructions

1. Choose an amplifier with the right amount of power. School auditoriums or churches need 100 to 300 watts, a nightclub 1000 to 2000 watts, an outdoor concert 10,000 or more watts.

2. Select speakers that handle exactly the wattage of the amplifier. Overloading and under loading speakers can damage them.

3. Get a mixer if you have many microphones, CD players, turntables and other devices. Include an equalizer if you are working with live music or complex sounds.

4. Allow speakers, singers and actors to move freely by choosing wireless microphones. Look for sound quality, durable hardware and multiple frequencies.

5. Choose cables with tough, flexible casing that are long enough to meet your needs, but not so long that you lose too much signal. Shielded cables prevent noise from nearby radios and power tools.

Tips & Warnings

• Rent a system before purchasing to learn what you truly need and don't need. Spend time talking with the technicians at the rental service to learn more.

• Test every piece of the system before you buy a used system. Disconnect and reconnect everything yourself as part of the test.

• Protect your equipment with strong, weatherproof and padded cases. Always pack and cover equipment against dust and moisture when not in use.