PA Systems

Loudspeakers, amplification and processing for every scale of sound reinforcement, from a speaker on a stick at a function to flown line arrays and multi-zone installed systems. The section covers point source cabinets, line arrays, constant curvature arrays, column systems, stage monitors, subwoofers, power amplifiers, system processors and a deep install range, with NEXO, Martin Audio, Biamp, Optimal Audio, Cloud, BSS and Linea Research all represented, plus the stands, covers and mounting hardware that finish a rig.

The sub-categories map to how systems actually get specified. Point Source covers conventional full-range cabinets for venues and portable rigs, and is where most bands and hire companies start. Line Arrays and Constant Curvature Arrays handle longer throws and larger audiences, where controlling how much energy hits the back wall matters more than raw output. Column PA Systems are the fast-deploy option for speech, acoustic acts and rooms where a conventional top and sub would dominate the sightlines. Install gathers 100V line and low impedance speakers, zone amplifiers and commercial DSP for fixed fit-outs. Amplifiers and System Processors serve both worlds, and Subwoofers and Stage Monitors fill in the ends of the range.

Order of decisions matters more here than in any other department. Work out the coverage the room needs first, then the amplification and processing to drive it, then the rigging, mounting and accessories. Buying cabinets before deciding how they will be powered and hung is the most common expensive mistake in this category, and it is usually discovered on the day. Pattern control is the specification that gets overlooked: a modest cabinet aimed properly beats a louder one spraying energy at a reflective ceiling, which is why column arrays have taken over so much wedding and church work.

The guides work through the choices in detail. Active versus passive settles the first question most buyers ask, matching amplifiers and speakers covers watts, ohms and impedance without the myths, and choosing and placing subwoofers explains why a centre cluster often beats one each side. If you are building a system from nothing, the small venue PA guide compares the topologies honestly.

Engineer-level system advice is available, and most of what a complete rig needs beyond the speakers, from rigging steels to covers, sits in the sub-categories here.

PA FAQs

Active or passive? Active for grab-and-go simplicity; passive plus system amplification for multi-box rigs, installs and serious wedge counts. The honest trade-offs are in active vs passive.

How much amplifier do my speakers need? Matched to the cabinet’s programme rating and impedance, undersized amps clipping do more damage than big ones. Worked examples in matching amplifiers and speakers.

Point source or line array? Point source until the room or throw genuinely demands an array, see the NEXO P+ Series guide for how far one box a side now goes.