PA Systems & Accessories

PA systems amplify sound in a room to ensure clear audibility. They increase comfort and clarity for the audience regardless of where they sit in a room. This makes communication easy and accessible to everyone. Depending on the position of a PA system, the audience knows where to focus its attention. The systems have a mobile microphone, which passes on through different people as they address the audience. Browse Staples for a variety of PA systems under the lecterns and PA systems category.

Components of a PA system
Like any other system, the PA system comes with independent components such as speakers, mixers, and microphones. Others are monitors, sound effects, and cables. Speakers are the main source of sound and project that sound to the audience. They can be portable, allowing their movement around the room, or fixed. Mixers are the meeting points of the entire PA system. They connect the speaker and microphone while at the same time regulating the sound output. It's here that an operator chooses the level of sound and the key churning out of the speaker.

Microphones capture the voice of a presenter and ensure the message passes over to the audience through a mixer. Microphones are different shapes and types depending on personal preference. Monitors are ideal for individuals performing so that they can hear themselves while speaking. Placing them near the performer is best, especially in a crowded place, to help the audience hear the speaker better. Sound effects help to make the sound better and also maintain a balance while communicating. Cables connect all the components.

Considerations when purchasing a PA system
It's always important to consider the number of people to be reached before buying a PA system. A small crowd in a room might not need the same sound and amplifiers as a large crowd in a park. The intended use of a PA system is also crucial in aiding the choice of an appropriate system. Some systems are for passing simple messages, such as in a conference room.

More complex systems are available for use in theaters, parks, and concerts. The sound should be loud and clear to reach the masses. The positioning of the PA system helps in getting an audience's attention as well as clear interaction with the sound.

Where does one position a PA system speaker?
It's best to place the speakers in the center of the space to capture the attention of the entire audience. However, if the crowd is large or outdoors, several speakers can be placed at different locations to ensure that even those on the periphery can hear.

Can you use a speaker without a mixer?
Yes, it's possible to use a speaker without a mixer. Sound needs amplification when addressing a crowd, and speakers are essential. But this is different for mixers. Mixers are only essential in controlling the quality of sound in and out through the other components.

What determines the right power for a PA system?
This is dependent on the intended use of a PA system. If it's for music purposes, the minimum power would be around 60 watts. The larger the crowd, the more power needed.