Step by step guide to setting up a PA System

Lauren Benson

STEP 1

Plug the kettlelead into the mains and the desk.

Kettleleads are used because they are able to transfer more power.

STEP 2

Connect each speaker to the mains with kettleleads. Then switch off the speakers so that they aren’t damaged when the desk is connected and switched on.

STEP 3

Connect the desk to the speakers using an XLR cable from the main output on the desk to the inputs on the speakers. The left output connects to the left speaker and the right output to the right speaker.

Speaker input

XLR cables

Desk outputs

USING ACTIVE OR PASSIVE SPEAKERS

You can use active or passive speakers. I am using active speakers because they have a built in amp. Passive speakers would be more commonly used in the rig as they are lighter.

STEP 4

Plug in the sound source (CD player) using a figure 8 cable.

STEP 5 Connect the sound desk

to the sound source using a phono cable with quarter inch jack adapters, then switch on the desk. The input on the desk can vary depending on your sound source, for example whereas a CD player uses a line input, a microphone would use an XLR input.

Phono cable

Quarter inch jack adapters

STEP 6

Switch on the sound source and press play.

STEP 7

Turn down the volume on the speakers to avoid damage, and then switch on.

STEP 8

Switch on both channels.

STEP 9 Press PFL (Pre Fade Listen) on one channel, then adjust the gain until the peak meter begins to flicker orange. This will allow the sound to get louder/quieter without damaging equipment. The gain controls how much sound comes into the speakers. Repeat for each channel.

PFL

Gain controls Peak meter

Step 10

Because the speakers are stereo and I am using 2 channels for my speakers, I will pan my left speaker all the way to the left and the right speaker all the way to the right. This will allow equal sound to exit the speakers.

STEP 11

Adjust the master fader to 0DB to give the sound an ability to become louder at any point.

STEP 12

Adjust the channel’s faders to appropriate levels.

STEP 13

Now there is sound exiting the speakers, adjust the EQ to suit the sound, i.e so it doesn’t sound tinny.