PA system is the collective term that describes the equipment used to detect, channel, alter, amplify and project sound to a wider audience. This includes items such as speakers, amplifiers, mixing desks and microphones. A sound signal derived from a source such as a singer or speech is picked up by a microphone, adjusted accordingly with a mixing console and transmitted by speakers via an amplifier. There is a huge variety of hire speakers, hire PA equipment and pa system hire configurations from manufacturers such as JBL, Mackie, dB, Martin, Nexo and Turbosound currently available on the PA hire market. The more information you can include in your quote request the easier it will be for PA and AV hire companies to provide you with a comprehensive quote.
There are a number of factors that should be considered when organising a PA system hire for your event:
Event type - The Audiorent.co.uk quote form allows you to choose the type of event that applies to you including live music, conference, public address and Disco/DJ. Supply as much additional information about your event as possible.
Audience size - The number of people attending your event has a significant affect on the size of PA system that is required. The Audiorent.co.uk quote form allows you to select the audience size that applies to your event.
Indoor or outdoor - An outdoor event will require a more powerful PA system to counteract the environmental effects. The Audiorent.co.uk quote form allows you to select whether your event is being held at an indoor or outdoor venue.
Type and size of venue or event area - Ensure you include as much information as possible about the event venue including it's type, size and access issues including stairs or parking restrictions. 
Subwoofers
Monitors
Mixers
Powered Mixers
Amplifiers
Backline equipment
Speakers
Full range speakers
These are single cabinets fitted with one or more drivers each designed to cover a different range of sound frequencies for example low sounds such as bass drums or mid to high sounds such as vocals.
Full range cabinets are generally fitted with crossover circuits which separate the incoming signal into separate frequencies which are then distributed to the most appropriate driver (i.e. High frequency sounds to the tweeter or low frequency sounds to the bass speakers). Generally single cabinet full range speakers are separated into 2-way units where a single crossover separates high frequency sounds to the tweeter and lower frequency sounds to a driver capable of dealing with mid-range and bass frequencies. There are also 3-way single cabinet configurations where the incoming signal is separated and distributed to three drivers per cabinet – a tweeter, a mid-range and a bass driver each specifically designed to effectively translate that range of frequencies into sound. Passive or active?
Passive speakers are commonly available on the PA system hire market and are used in conjunction with an external power amplifier. An appropriate amplifier will be matched in terms of ohmage and wattage with your chosen speakers. There is a huge range of passive speaker types and brands available that are suitable for a variety of events including live music, conferences, outdoor events and DJ functions. Hire passive speakers display the following benefits:
Lightweight - Hire passive speakers are more lightweight than equivalent active units. This can make them easy to manoeuvre into venues and position on stands if required. Be aware that larger speakers may still require two people to lift and postion them.
No electrial supply required - Unlike active units, passive speakers do not require a supply of electricity for each unit, just for the amplifier. This may be advantageous for events at venues where power sockets are at a premium.
Versatile - Depending on the particular specification of the equipment in use, passive speaker PA systems can be highly versatile including multiple pairs or configurations of speakers including sub-woofer and satellite systems.
Audience size - Your chosen PA system should be configured to appropriately cater for the gathered audience and in terms of the intended use. A live music PA system will require a speaker and amplifier package with a sufficient volume and frequency range.
Matched specifications - The amplifier and speakers should be matched in terms of ohmage and wattage to ensure the best sound quality and to prevent potential equipment damage. Your chosen PA hire supplier will recommend appropriatly matched equipment.
Active speakers are an increasingly common and popular alternative to the traditional passive speaker and amplifier combination. Depending on your event type an active speaker system may be more suitable for your PA requirements. Active speakers have a built in amplifier unit which negates the necessity for a separate power amplifier, but does require each unit to have an electrical supply. Hire active speakers display the following benefits:
Perfectly matched - The drivers and amplifiers in active loudspeaker units are perfectly matched to work together. As a result active speakers work very efficiently and can be driven harder with less risk of equipment damage.
Convenience - Unlike active units, passive speakers do not require a supply of electricity for each unit, just for the amplifier. This may be advantageous for events at venues where power sockets are at a premium.
Versatile - Depending on the particular specification of the equipment in use, passive speaker PA systems can be highly versatile including multiple pairs or configurations of speakers including sub-woofer and satellite systems.
Audience size - Your chosen PA system should be configured to appropriately cater for the gathered audience and in terms of the intended use. A live music PA system will require a speaker and amplifier package with a sufficient volume and frequency range.
Matched specifications - The amplifier and speakers should be matched in terms of ohmage and wattage to ensure the best sound quality and to prevent potential equipment damage. Your chosen PA hire supplier will recommend appropriatly matched equipment.
Weight - Due to the inbuilt amplifier technology active speaker units can be heavier than equivalently sized passive units. This may be a consideration if the equipment is to be moved on a regular basis or by a limited number of people.Multiple cabinet systems
For larger live music or DJ events it is necessary to use more advanced multiple hire speaker cabinet configurations. A multiple cabinet system consists of a number of cabinets which each cater for a certain frequency range. Multiple cabinet systems demonstrate the following benefits:
High quality sound reproduction - Multiple cabinets ensure that all audible frequencies of the sound are effectively reproduced. Each pair of speakers is designed to cater for a specific frequency range and this results in precise sound reproduction.
Bass response - By mounting the sub-bass cabinets at floor level ensures that the bass response and dispersion is of the highest level. This is particularly useful when the system is being used to amplify sub-bass sounds such as kick drums and dance music.
High frequency response - The positioning of the mid/high frequency cabinets at an elevated position ensures the maximum possible dispersion of such frequencies which can be a common problem with single cabinet systems.When hiring a multiple cabinet PA system the following aspects should be considered to ensure the efficient delivery and installation of the equipment.
Weight - The individual cabinets of a multiple cabinet PA system can be particularly heavy and difficult to move and position. As such extra personnel may be required to to install the equipment or a delivery service may have to be budgeted for.
Access - Due to the difficulty in moving multiple cabinet systems ensure that access into the venue is sufficient to allow easy installation of the equipment. This includes stairs and parking restrictions. Be prepared to budget for delivery and installation of the equipment.Sub and Satellite System
A common multi cabinet system used for smaller events is the Sub and Satellite System. Sub/sat multi cabinet PA systems demonstrate the following benefits:
Event types - Sub and satellite systems are ideally suited for small sized events such as live music and DJ events being held in pubs, small clubs and halls. The inclusion of sub-bass speakers ensures effective reproduction of kick drums and DJ sets.
High quality sound reproduction - Sub/sat systems have dedicated speakers that are specifically designed to cater for particular frequency ranges. This results in more defined sound than a single cabinet system and greater control of the frequencies involved.
Bass response - The floor mounted sub-bass cabinets result in improved bass response and dispersal than stand mounted speakers catering for the same frequencies. As such this form of PA system will effectively reproduce kick drums and DJ sets.When hiring a sub/sat PA system the following aspects should be considered to ensure the efficient delivery and installation of the equipment.
Weight - The individual cabinets of a sub/sat PA system can be particularly heavy and difficult to move and position. As such extra personnel may be required to to install the equipment or a delivery service may have to be budgeted for.
Access - Due to the difficulty in moving sub/sat systems ensure that access into the venue is sufficient to allow easy installation of the equipment. This includes stairs and parking restrictions. Be prepared to budget for delivery and installation of the equipment.Line Array Systems
Now a fixture on the PA system hire market their is a line array system available for a wide variety of live music, DJ and corporate events.Sub/sat multi cabinet PA systems demonstrate the following benefits:
Event types - Due to their long throw capabilities line array systems are ideal for a wide variety of events in large or outdoor auditoriums. This includes live music events such as festivals, theatre performances, DJ sets and large scale conference events.
Long throw capabilities - Line array systems ensure that high frequency sounds such as vocals, cymbals ans other percussion are effectively and evenly distributed to all audience members.
Directionality - Line array systems display high levels of directionality allowing sound to be projected very specifically. This ensures that sound is effectively projected to all required areas of the audience. When hiring a line array PA system the following aspects should be considered to ensure the efficient delivery and installation of the equipment.
Weight - Line array PA systems can be particularly heavy and difficult to move and position. As such trained personnel will be required to to install the equipment and a delivery service will have to be budgeted for.
Mounting - Small Line array systems can be pole mounted on the subs but larger systems have to be flown from rigging. As such be aware that if rigging if required then this will be a potentially substantial additional cost and will require expert installation.
Access - Due to the difficulty in moving line array systems ensure that access into the venue is sufficient to allow easy installation of the equipment. This includes stairs and parking restrictions. Be prepared to budget for delivery and installation of the equipment.Subwoofers
Subwoofers
Subwoofers are speakers designed to cater for sound at the lower end of the frequency range such as deep bass sounds or kick drums. They are not always a necessity if your event is in a small venue and the hire pa system just has to cater for vocals or perhaps an acoustic guitar. However if the PA system is being used for dance music playback or live music with a full drum kit, bass guitar or keyboards, subwoofers are recommended to ensure an effective bass response. Hire subwoofers commonly consist of cabinets front loaded with a single 15" or 18" cone which is designed specifically to cater for low frequency sounds. As with mid / high range speakers, hire subs can be passive (requiring a separate amplifier unit) or active (contains an integral, built in amplifier unit).
Commonly they also have a high pass filter which allows the connection of a mid / high range hire speaker as a satellite. The high pass filter channels sound of a certain frequency to the sub speaker and feeds the higher frequency sound to the satellite. If you require a hire subwoofer or complete PA system for an upcoming event complete the Audiorent.co.uk quote form and your hire requirement details will be forwarded to PA hire and AV hire companies who cater for your area.
Monitors
Stage monitor systems
Stage monitoring (also known as foldback) is a separate (but connected) PA system to the front of house system. Monitors allow on-stage performers to hear themselves and the other musicians. Generally consisting of wedge shaped speakers which are situated on the floor in front of a musician or performer, a monitor system receives signals from the live sound mixing console via an auxiliary feed and relays the monitor mix back to the performer. Live sound mixing consoles will generally have two or more auxiliary outputs allowing a different mix to be sent to each stage monitor. This is a useful application as different musicians will prefer separate mixes which emphasise the sounds they need to hear. For instance as a singer's vocals will be significantly quieter than the majority of other on-stage instrumentation, the vocals will need to be amplified to a level that allows the vocalist to easily hear themselves at all points throughout their performance. A drummer on the other hand will need to hear the bass guitar and a bassist or guitarist may want the kick drum and snare to be reproduced in the monitors.
The constituents of a foldback monitor system is much like that of the front of house system with the monitor speakers available in passive or active configurations. The monitor speakers themselves are generally full range cabinets containing a single driver connected via a high pass filter to a high frequency horn speaker but this can vary according to use. A drum fill is a monitoring system devoted purely to the requirements of the drummer and is configured to include sub-bass speakers to allow effective reproduction of kick drums or bass guitars. Placement of monitors is vital if microphones are in use on stage due to the potential for feedback. Feedback can be reduced by effective use of graphic equlisers but being aware of microphone position and monitor placement can reduce much of the issues involved. It is also worth understanding the pick up pattern of microphones and the sound dispersion of stage monitors.
Mixers
Hire mixing desks
A mixing desk is a device which takes two or more audio signals, mixes them together and provides one or more output signals. As well as combining signals, mixers allow you to adjust levels, enhance sound with equalisation and effects, create auxillary mixes for monitors and send mixes direct to a recording device.
Mixers come in a wide variety of sizes and designs, from small portable units to large studio consoles and are frequently described by the number of channels they have. For example, a "12-channel mixer" has 12 input channels, i.e. you can plug in 12 separate input sources. You might also see a specification such as "24x4x2" which means 24 input channels, 4 subgroup channels and two output channels. Generally a greater number of channels allows for more flexibility. Analogue mixing consoles are the more traditional platform although digital mixing consoles are becoming more popular and common in the PA hire sector.
Include the following details in the Audiorent.co.uk quote form when hiring a mixing console for an upcoming event:
Channels - Include information on how many channels you will require to facilitate all the necessary inputs. This includes all the required microphones, instruments, DJ equipment or auxilliary inputs such as iPods or laptops.
Stage monitor outputs - Mixing consoles vary in terms of the number of auxiliary outputs available to feed stage monitors. Include details of the number of monitor mixes you require so mixing desk hire suppliers can recommend the most appropriate product.
Analogue or digital - Digital mixing consoles are now regularly available on the hire market as well as the traditional analogue platform. Further information on the features displayed in both formats is shown below.Analogue mixing consoles
Analogue mixers are the traditional mixer platform and are regualrly available on the hire market in a range of sizes to suit virtually any type of event. Analogue mixers are divided into the input and output sections. The former allows the user to alter the levels and EQ of each channel and the latter changes the master and auxiliary output levels.

Digital mixing consoles
Digital mixers are more versatile than analogue units and offer far more features, including built-in effects, dynamic processing and full automation (most with 'flying faders'). As there are so many parameters available, it is impractical to have one control per function. There tends to be one set of controls for, say, EQ, which are selectable for use by each channel. Digital desks tend to more difficult to learn operate, as so much of the functionality is menu-driven. Once the input signal is converted to digital, it is possible for the audio to remain in the digital domain throughout the signal chain. A/D and D/A conversion is where deterioration in the sound is most noticeable, so it makes good sense to keep it to a minimum.

Powered Mixers
Powered Mixers
The powered mixer is a mixer and amplifier built into one unit and for performers who require a compact PA system which is simple to move between venues and quick to set up this may be the answer. Powered mixer hire PA systems demonstrate the following benefits:
Event types - Powered mixers are ideal for events in small venues such as pubs or meeting rooms. This includes acoustic performances, presentations, product launches and general public address functions to small audiences.
Easy transport and installation - Powered mixers provide an all-in-one solution for events where sound reinforcement is required. They are easy to transport due to their small size and installation can be very efficient due to the lower amount of cabling required.
Features - The majority of powered mixers available on the hire market include such features as multi band graphic equalisers, in-built vocal effects, auxiliary input facility for iPod connection and phantom power. When hiring a PA system based around a powered mixer and passive speakers your chosen PA hire company will recommend the most appropriate unit but it is worth being aware of the following considerations when deciding on the most suitable passive speaker/amplifier combination:
Audience size - Your chosen PA system should be configured to appropriately cater for the gathered audience and in terms of the intended use. A live music PA system will require a speaker and amplifier package with a sufficient volume and frequency range.
Matched specifications - The amplifier and speakers should be matched in terms of ohmage and wattage to ensure the best sound quality and to prevent potential equipment damage. Your chosen PA hire supplier will recommend appropriately matched equipment.
Input channels - Advise your PA system hire supplier of the intended use of the powered mixer and specifically the number of input channels that will be required to connect any microphones, instrumentation or DJ equipment.Amplifiers
Power Amplifiers

In the context of a PA system a power amplifier converts a low-voltage, high-impedance waveform such as a line level signal from a mixing console into a high-voltage, low-impedance waveform which is suitable for reproduction by a loudspeaker. Amplifiers must be assessed in terms of wattage and ohmage with relation to the speakers they will be powering. Using an amplifier with a greater wattage rating than that of the speakers it will be powering is recommended. This prevents the amplifier being overdriven which can result in poor sound quality and potential damage. Care must be taken not to drive the speakers too hard because this too can result in poor sound quality and speaker damage. By completing the Audiorent.co.uk quote form your event details will be forwarded to PA and AV hire companies who can supply hire sound equipment to your area.
Backline equipment
Backline equipment
Backline equipment such as drum kits and guitar and bass amplifiers are regularly available on the hire market. Hiring backline equipment can have a number of benefits such as allowing you to have equipment delivered directly to your gig venue, your current equipment may be unsuitable in terms of quality, size or power for the event venue or if you are in the market for new equipment you can test a number of different models over an extended period to gauge their suitability. Whatever your backline hire requirements by completing the Audiorent.co.uk quote form your details will be sent to backline hire suppliers who can supply your required equipment to your geographical location.
Guitar amplifier and bass amplifer hire
Backline equipment such guitar and bass amplifiers are regularly available on the hire market to cater for touring musicians who do not have access to their own amplifer or people wishing to try out different amplifier models. Hiring a guitar or bass amplifier has the following benefits:
Touring bands - If your band is touring and you do not have the capability to transport your own amplifier a local hire company may be able to deliver an equivalent amp directly to the event venue.
Replace a damaged amplifier - If your amplifer has broken down just before a gig you may be able to hire a similar model to replace it on a short term basis. By completing the Audiorent.co.uk quote form your details can be sent to suitable guitar amp suppliers.
Trial a different make or model - If you are in the market for a new guitar amplifier it may be of benefit to hire a variety of makes to allow you to assess the sound and features before deciding on your preferred model. Include the following details in the Audiorent.co.uk quote form when wishing to hire a guitar or bass amplifier for an upcoming event:
Preferred make and model - Be sure to include your preferred make and model of amplifier as well as the particular specifications your require. If an amplifier hire supplier does not stock your first choice they may be able to recommend a similar model.
Delivery - If you require delivery be sure to include the full delivery address of the event venue and the timings you require delivery and collection. Delivery is likely to be an additional cost so be sure to budget for this eventuality.Drum kit hire
Backline equipment such drum kits are regularly available on the hire market to cater for touring musicians who do not have access to their own kit or people wishing to try out different drum kit models.Hiring a drum kit offers the following benefits:
Touring bands - If your band is touring and you do not have the capability to transport your own drum kit a local hire company may be able to deliver and install an equivalent kit directly to the event venue.
Trial a different make or model - If you are in the market for a new drum kit it may be of benefit to hire a variety of makes to allow you to assess the sound before deciding on your preferred model.Include the following details in the Audiorent.co.uk quote form when wishing to hire a drum kit for an upcoming event:
Make and model - Include the preferred make and model of hire drum kit as well as a second choice or specifications. A drum kit hire supplier will then be able to recommend an alternative model if your preferred choice is not available.
Hardware and snare - Be sure to include details of requirements for snares, cymbals, stands or stools as these may not be included in the basic drum kit hire. As such you may have to budget for the additional cost of hiring these items.
Delivery - If you require delivery be sure to include the full delivery address of the event venue and the timings you require delivery and collection. Delivery is likely to be an additional cost so be sure to budget for this eventuality.