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Advice on buying your first pa system

Never bought a PA System before?

You've got to start somewhere - that's why we've tried to keep it simple, and have created the Advice Centre (left) to explain as many of the PA basics as we can such as the difference between powered and un-powered (active and passive) systems and the different kinds of wireless microphones. If you don't understand how they work but just want to plug one in and start using it, don't despair - just give us a call and we'll advise you!

Pick'n'Mix or an off the shelf PA Package?
As well as the individual components of PA Systems such as speakers, mixing desks, amplifiers, monitors, microphones and stands we stock a range of off-the-shelf PA Packages in the online shop - you'll find they're cheaper than buying the items individually. These are an easy solution for Schools and Halls because it's quite easy to work out how many watts you'll need and which is the right system for you. You can find the best package for you by using the selector on the Halls page. However, we realise everyone needs something slightly different, so give us a ring and tell us what you need to use the PA system for and we'll be happy to advise you and create a custom package that's just right for you.

Buying a PA System for a band?
Selecting a PA System for a solo singer or a duo is easier than choosing the right components for a large band. To make this easier we've created a
unique PA System Designer which asks a series of questions about your band and the type of venues you play, and will come up with the perfect PA System for your needs. These Custom PA Packages aren't available in the online shop as they're designed especially for you, but they're offered at an even greater discount than the standard PA Packages!

Should you be buying powered speakers, a powered mixing desk or a powered amplifier? It's a  mind-boggling question if you don't know the answer, but it's actually quite simple to decide. A PA system only needs one source of power, so you would either have powered speakers (they contain their own amplifiers and plug into the mains as well as the mixing desk), or passive speakers ... if you choose passive speakers you need some other source of power, so you can choose a powered mixing desk with an amp built in, or a passive mixing desk and a separate power amplifier. If you want to install the system (wall-mount the speakers and hide the wiring) then you are best off choosing passive speakers with either a powered mixer or a passive mixer and a power amp. If your mind is still boggled, give us a call on 01375 892317 and we'll help you to choose!

What you buy really depends upon what you want to use it for. Whether you're looking for a PA System for your band or for a venue such as a school, a hall or a club contact us if you need any help with choosing the right gear for your needs. Don't worry if you're not sure what all the buzz-words are - we'll keep it simple! Alternatively, click on one of the sections below for specific advice and recommendations.

Remember to look to the future

When you're deciding what to buy don't forget to look ahead. You want to make sure that the gear you buy now can easily be upgraded when your band is successful and you're playing larger gigs! Venues such as clubs and halls should plan ahead too - you might only be doing quiz nights now, but what about in 2 year's time? You don't need to buy more gear now, just make sure that what you do buy can be added to and expanded upon in years to come, and that's where we can help.
 

QR12PA PORTABLE PA SPEAKER

If your audience is up to 75 people or you need to use more than one microphone at a time then the QR12PA would be a better choice for you than the EZPA. It's mains or battery operated and comes with 2 wireless handheld microphones which can be used at the same time. It has a carry handle on the side and is easy to lift, plus the wheeled base and extendable handle make it easy to trundle around. It's 57 cm high and weighs 14kg. Headset & lapel mics are available as optional extras. Two units can be used wirelessly at the same time to give you more power. The unit can be placed on a speaker stand for better sound coverage.

  • 100 Watts Power output

  • USB and Card Reader (SD/MMC) function

  • Supplied with 2 handheld wireless microphones

  • Two further inputs for wired microphones

  • Dual rechargeable batteries (12V, 5Ah)

  • 8 hours battery life

  • Units can be linked wirelessly for large venues, and can also output to a powered speaker

  • Trolley with telescopic handle built in

  • 35mmØ Top Hat enabling you to put this on a speaker stand if required

  • Headset and Lapel Microphones available as optional extras

  • Weight 14kg

OUR PRICE

£209 inc VAT

   

LD Systems 200W PA Package with active 10 inch speakers
Ideal for small to medium schools, halls and and band rehearsals

This package would be ideal for small to medium halls for vocal amplification and background music for up to 200 people.  The 6-channel mixer is strongly constructed and lightweight, versatile and easy to use with plenty of high quality effects on board.  The speakers are lightweight and made of ABS moulded plastic for easy transportation.  The speaker stands are designed with pneumatic suspension for safety and durability allowing the speakers to be lowered slowly and safely. Carry bags are supplied.

  • 1 x LD Systems 6 channel mixer with FX

  • 2 x LD Systems 100w + 25w 10" active speakers

  • 2 x LDP10B carry bags for speakers

  • 2 x KM6F2PM XLR to jack 6m cables

  • 2 x SPS56B air cushioned speaker stands

  • Includes VAT

OUR PRICE

£655 inc VAT

LD Systems 400W PA Package with 8 channel mixer & powered 12 inch speakers
Ideal for medium halls, schools and bands

This package is ideal for schools with medium halls for vocal amplification and recorded or Live music (you can connect a CD player, iPod or laptop to these systems). The mixer is compact and versatile with loads of effects that will keep you up to date for years to come. Neodymium speakers give weight saving and extra power capabilities to the active 12" speakers.  The speaker stands are designed with pneumatic suspension for safety and durability allowing the speakers to be lowered slowly and safely. Please note that the active speakers need to be plugged into the mains as well as the mixing desk.

  • 1 x LD Systems 8 channel mixer

  • 2 x LD Systems 160w + 70w 12" active speakers

  • 2 x LDP12B carry bags for speakers

  • 2 x KM6F2PM XLR to jack 6m cables

  • 2 x SPS56B air cushioned speaker stands

  • Includes VAT

OUR PRICE

£900 inc VAT

LD Systems 600W PA Package with powered mixer & 12 inch speakers
Perfect for larger schools, halls, pubs and bands

This package is ideal for schools with medium to large halls for vocal amplification and recorded or Live music (you can connect a CD player, iPod or laptop to these systems). The mixer is compact and versatile with loads of effects that will keep you up to date for years to come.  The speaker stands are designed with pneumatic suspension for safety and durability allowing the speakers to be lowered slowly and safely. The power amp is built into the mixing desk so the speakers are lighter than powered speakers, and there are less wires to trail around as these speakers do not need to be plugged into the mains.

  • 1 x LD Systems 12 channel mixer with integrated DSP effects processor and power amplifier The power mixer has a total of eight (8) input channels: 4 MIC inputs (mono) and 4 line inputs (stereo).

  • 2 x LD Systems 12" speakers

  • 2 x LDP12B carry bags for speakers

  • 2 x KM6F2PM XLR to jack 6m cables

  • 2 x SPS56B air cushioned speaker stands

  • Includes VAT

OUR PRICE

£1070 inc VAT

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If you would like to drop us an email to discuss your PA System requirements or have any other questions just click on the link or give us a ring!

 

 

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