GUIDEBOOK
PA SYSTEMS
Renting PA systems – Your comprehensive guide for events, parties, and trade fairs in Berlin
A good PA system is the heart of any event – whether it's a company party, trade fair, concert, festival, or private party. Only with the right sound technology can music, speech, or presentations be transmitted to the audience clearly, powerfully, and without interference. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know before renting a PA system in Berlin: Which system is suitable for which event, which microphones are needed, when are line arrays useful, and what are the differences between active and passive systems.
Why a professional PA system is crucial
Many event organizers underestimate the importance of high-quality sound reinforcement. Poor speakers or the wrong technology can lead to echo, distortion, and uneven coverage. Especially at larger events such as trade fairs, concerts, or festivals, unclear sound can ruin the entire experience for visitors.
A professional PA system guarantees:
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Clear reproduction of speech and music
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Powerful bass and treble reproduction
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Reliable coverage of the entire audience area
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Prevention of feedback and interference
We are happy to assist with planning and implementation.
Which PA system for which event?
Choosing the right PA system depends on the size of the room, the audience, the type of event, and your budget.
Small events (up to 50 people)
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Examples: Birthday parties, small company meetings, private readings
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Systems: Compact active speakers, portable speakers, or small PA systems
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Advantage: Quick to set up and take down, easy to use
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Microphones: One or two wireless handheld microphones or a headset for moderation
Medium-sized events (50–300 people)
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Examples: Seminars, workshops, small concerts, company parties
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Equipment: Active speakers with subwoofers, mixing console, monitors
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Microphones: Handheld microphones, lavalier microphones for speakers, instrument microphones for live bands
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Special feature: Sound must be distributed evenly, possibly additional monitor sound for stage
Large events (300–2,000 people)
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Examples: Trade fairs, product presentations, festivals, open-air parties
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Equipment: Line array systems, powerful subwoofers, passive systems with power amplifiers
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Microphones: Wireless microphones, directional microphones for stages, instrument microphones for bands
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Special feature: Sound control via mixing consoles, delay speakers for large areas, professional cabling
Large events & festivals (>2,000 people)
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Examples: City festivals, open-air concerts, large trade fairs
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Equipment: Large line arrays, subwoofer sets, distributed sound systems
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Microphones: Wireless systems, headsets for presenters, radio links for artists
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Special features: Technical planning including stage layout, suspension points, truss systems, and safety loads
Line array vs. full-range speakers
Line array systems consist of several speakers that are suspended vertically one above the other.
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Advantage: Even sound distribution over long distances, high volume without distortion
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Ideal for: Festivals, large concerts, trade fairs with large audience areas
Full-range speakers (e.g., speakers on tripods)
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Advantage: Simple setup, flexible, ideal for small to medium-sized rooms
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Area of application: Conferences, seminars, small parties
Active vs. passive systems
Active PA systems have integrated power amplifiers, which makes setup much easier. You save on additional amplifiers, need less cabling, and can get the system up and running quickly. Many active systems also have integrated DSP functions such as equalizers or limiters, allowing you to adjust the sound directly to the room acoustics or the requirements of your event. Active systems are particularly practical for small to medium-sized events, seminars, parties, or conferences where uncomplicated and quick setup is required.
Passive PA systems, on the other hand, require external power amplifiers, but offer greater flexibility when combining different components. They are ideal for larger and more complex setups, such as line arrays at festivals or trade show appearances with multiple stage areas. Passive systems allow you to tailor the performance precisely to the event and optimally integrate different speakers into one system.
Microphones for every application
Choosing the right microphones is crucial for ensuring that speech, singing, or instruments are transmitted optimally.
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Handheld microphones are ideal for presentations, speeches, or singing. They offer maximum freedom of movement and are easy to use.
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Lavalier microphones are wireless and attach to a lapel or piece of clothing. They are ideal for presentations, panels, or speakers who want to be microphoned inconspicuously..
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Headsets are perfect for active presenters or speakers who need both hands free, for example, during workshops or fitness events.
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Instrument and directional microphones are used by bands or specific sound sources to transmit a clear, defined sound and minimize interference.
We are happy to assist with planning and implementation.
Contact us for a no-obligation consultation and a personalized quote!
