MTEM-How To Guide: Audio

"a PA system—more formally, public address system, and also known as a sound reinforcement system—is an electronic amplification system used to get sound from the performer(s) to the audience." (fernandes 2014)

At theatre, dance and music events and venues audio will always be a necessity, whether it is for musicians at gigs and festivals or music for dance and theatre shows, a PA system is an essential part of equipment for any performance. In this guide you will learn how to set up a standard PA system. 

• Mixing Desk- 16 channels. Dials for EQ(Equalisation), Volume, AUX etc. 

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• XLR Cables- 'Gendered' cables connect speakers to mixing desk. Female-input, Male- output. 

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• Speakers-1,000 Watts in each speaker. Built in amplifier. 

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Setting up a standard PA System: 

• Set up two speaker stands on either side of the stage. Make sure that they are safe and secure. 

• Place speakers on to stands. 

• Plug speakers in to technical power (clean power). 

• Plug the 'gendered' XLR cables into the appropriate input and outputs in the speakers and mixing desk. 
• Turn speakers and mixing desk on. 

For more guidance on how to set up a PA system watch this video

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Bibliography/references: 

BEAMWORKSPRODUCTIONS. 2013. How to set up a simple PA System Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmHvvf8UKfs [accessed 18 October 2016].

FERNANDES, jerry. 2014. “Buying guide: How to choose the right PA System.” [online]. Available at: http://thehub.musiciansfriend.com/live-sound-buying-guides/how-to-choose-the-right-pa-system [accessed 17 October 2016].

n.d. [online]. Available at: http://www.allen-heath.com/media/WZ4_16_2_Top_2800.jpg [accessed 17 October 2016a].

n.d. [online]. Available at: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/images2000x2000/Rycote_017018_Mic_Tail_Short_XLR_706559.jpg [accessed 17 October 2016b].

n.d. [online]. Available at: http://indieambassador.com/assets/iauploads/jbl_mrx515_passive_speakers.jpg [accessed 18 October 2016c].