The Guide to PA System Hire for Weddings and Parties

Hiring a PA (Public Address) system is one of those "invisible" tasks that can make or break an event. If the sound is crystal clear during the vows and punchy during the playlist, nobody notices the gear. If it’s crackling or too quiet, it’s all anyone talks about.

Here is everything you need to know to ensure your event sounds professional.

1. Identify Your Needs: Speech vs. Music

Not all PA systems are created equal. Your requirements will depend on what you’re actually "amplifying."

• Speech Only: If you only need a microphone for wedding toasts or a celebrant, a single active speaker on a stand with a wireless microphone is usually sufficient.

• Background Music: Small-to-medium speakers that can connect via Bluetooth or an AUX cable.

• The Full Party: For a dance floor, you’ll need a "Full Range" system—usually two main speakers and at least one Subwoofer to provide that "thump" in the bass that gets people dancing.

2. Sizing the System to Your Venue

As a rule of thumb, you should consider the number of guests and whether the event is indoors or outdoors.

Guest Count	Recommended Setup	Approx. Power (Watts)
Up to 50	1–2 Small Active Speakers	200W – 400W
50 – 150	2 Large Speakers + 1 Subwoofer	800W – 1500W
150 – 300	2-4 Speakers + 2 Subwoofers	2000W+

Pro Tip: Outdoor events require significantly more power because there are no walls for the sound to bounce off. If you’re in a marquee or garden, "size up" your speakers.

3. Key Components to Request

When calling a hire company, ask for these specific items to ensure you aren't left missing a vital cable:

• Active Speakers: These have built-in amplifiers, meaning you just plug them into a power socket. They are much easier for DIY setups than "Passive" speakers.

• Microphones: Ask for a Lapel (Lavalier) mic for the ceremony and a Handheld Wireless mic for speeches.

• Small Mixer: This allows you to plug in a phone/laptop and a microphone at the same time and control the volume of each separately.

• Stands and Cables: Ensure they include XLR cables and "tripod" stands to get the speakers above head height.

4. Essential Checklist for the Day

• The "Handover" Test: If you are setting it up yourself, have the hire technician show you how to connect everything before they leave.

• Bluetooth Range: If you're running music from a phone, remember that Bluetooth cuts out if you walk too far away. Keep the device near the speakers or use a wired connection.

• Power Access: Check where the plug sockets are. You may need heavy-duty extension leads if the "stage" area is far from a wall.

• The "Feedback" Rule: Never point a microphone directly at a speaker, or you’ll get that ear-piercing screech!

5. Why Hire Instead of Buy?

While it’s tempting to buy a cheap "party speaker" online, professional hire gear offers:

1. Reliability: Pro-grade brands (like QSC, Yamaha, or RCF) won't overheat or distort.

2. Support: Most hire companies offer an emergency number if something goes wrong.

3. Aesthetics: Professional gear looks sleek and fits into the background of your wedding photos better than a plastic "karaoke" machine.

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