Beginner’s PA An Introduction to PA Andrew Nielson

Goals of Sound Reinforcement To have the clearest possible intelligible sound. This is done by reinforcing the existing acoustical one with an amplified one. With regards to music: to have the sound at a level where the congregation member can hear themselves sing yet do not feel like they are singing on their own. With regards to spoken word: to have the sound as audible and intelligible as possible so that the congregation can hear and understand what is being said.

Components of the System: Microphones, D.I Boxes Cables and connectors The Mixer Effects Units, Equalisers Amplifiers Speakers

Microphones Transform Acoustical energy into electrical energy 2 Types: Dynamic and Condenser Microphones Condenser Mics require +48v Phamtom Power Look after them - don’t drop them, bang them etc.. Keep away from moisture, dust

Lapel Microphones Usually Battery Powered - ensure you have a spare, charged battery Ensure that they are placed high up and facing the persons mouth.

Lectern Microphones Generally “Shotgun” microphones, very directional. Ensure that the microphone is placed facing the speakers mouth.

Pop Filters and Windprotectors Help to filter out “P” pops Can be made cheaply using a stocking and a coat hanger!

Direct Injection (DI) Boxes Convert the electrical signal from line-level to microphone level.

Cables and Connectors XLR - used for microphones and DI boxes. Always Roll Cables Correctly

Cables and Connectors continued RCA - Used for Tape Decks, CD Players, Video etc.. Jack/Phono Speakon - Used for speakers and amplifiers

Multicore/Loom Cable Contains many cables (usually XLR type) used to run from the musicians to the mixer.

The Mixing Console

The Equaliser (EQ) Used to make the sound ‘equal’ (I.e to normalise abnormalities). Similar to a tone control or Treble and Bass controls on a home stereo It is best to fix abnormalities at the source of the problem and use EQ to fine tune.

Cassette Decks Usually an auxiliary send is sent to the tape deck’s input. When setting the levels ensure that they are just over the red. Too little will give make hiss noticeable on the tape, too much will distort.

Amplifiers Amplifies the mixers output signal to a speaker level.

Speakers Convert Electrical energy back into accoustical energy

Foldback Be very careful in placing foldback wedges as they can easily cause feedback

Putting it all together

More Information? Sound on Sound Magazine Yamaha Sound Reinforcement Handbook Manufacturer’s Websites A BASIC INTRODUCTION TO CONCERT SOUND ENGINEERING: