Guide to speaker hire for your event
Nothing kills the vibe of your event quite like forgetting a microphone for the speeches, or not being able to hear the music during the Bride and Groom's first dance. If you're not a sound engineer or experienced in hosting big events, choosing the right speaker package and set up can be a daunting task. Avoid glitches and audio hiccups by planning ahead!
What type of event are you hosting?
The type of event you are hosting, will determine the type of sound system you need. Are you only going to be playing light music in the background throughout the night or will you need to amp up the volume when the dance floor starts? Are there going to be speeches, singers or a performance?
It is always best to think about your audio needs ahead of approaching an audio hire company. The more information you can provide them about your event will help them to provide the best audio solution. Consider the following checklist:
- How many people will be able the event?
- What is the size of the venue and how is the room set out? Will there be a dance floor or a stage? A rough diagram or floor plan will really help them to visualise the space and identify any potential blockers to sound.
- Where will your event take place – inside or outside? Are there ample power outlets to plug things into?
- Will you be giving speeches or is a microphone required?
- Will you be playing your own music or will there be a DJ?
Once you've got a good idea of the type of event you will be hosting – your audio needs will become clearer.
Audio packs:
For a basic party, a DIY sound pack is ideal and includes everything you need to play music from an iPod, phone or laptop. They include a pair of speakers and all necessary cables.
The party hire group offers some great party sound packs with options to customise to suit your needs! You can add in additional speakers or microphones as required.
Speaker type:
Powered speakers are the most common audio hire option – and are typically the speakers provided in audio packs. They have built a built-in amplifier, bass speaker and top end tweeter speaker which allows for all levels of music to be heard clearly and much more user friendly during set up.
Sub-woofer speakers are good for events where you really want to hear those big bass sounds such as concerts or any event that will have a happening dance floor.
Battery powered wireless speakers are completely cable free and perfect for outdoor events or indoor spaces with limited power points or to limit cable clutter. Speakers last up to 10 hours on a single charge and provide all the same options as a powered speaker including Bluetooth or AUX connectivity and are microphone compatible.
Speaker Size:
As a rule of thumb, the larger the speaker, the bigger the sound. Speakers normally come in 12-inch and 15-inch options. A 12-inch speaker will have an output of approximately 400W. A pair of these is perfect for an event with up to 100 people. You can add additional speakers to cater for larger audiences or choose to use the 15-inch option.
Speaker stands allow for sound to be elevated and project across the room without being as interrupted by people and furniture.
Think about your space:
Setting up and transporting your speakers is an important consideration that should not be overlooked in event planning. The party hire group offers delivery and assistance with set up, otherwise you can get a set up demonstration when you pick up your equipment.
If you plan on hosting your event in an oddly shaped room or need sound relayed into other rooms, or throughout a big space, you may require more speakers to ensure the sound is equalised throughout the whole event. A set up service is available should you require an audio technician to set up a large or multiple speaker system for your event.
