PA System Tuning Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Importance of PA tuning for good sound
• Framework for achieving great sound using both ears and data
• Free EQ guide available for beginners

Key Concepts

Defining the Listening Area

• Not the entire venue; focus on active audience engagement
• Identify areas for optimal coverage

Speaker Placement

• Most crucial aspect of sound coverage
• Rule of thumb: Position speakers towards the center of their designated area
• Coverage angle: Area where the speaker performs best
  • High frequencies drop off quicker outside coverage area

Speaker Characteristics

• Different speakers have varying coverage angles
• Coverage gaps may require additional speakers (fill speakers)
  • Types: Front fill and delay fill speakers

Goals for Sound Coverage

• Even volume throughout the venue
• Consistent frequency response from front to back
• Target: +/- 3 dB variation in volume and frequency response across the listening area

Practical Steps for Tuning

Verifying Speakers

• Use pink noise or familiar music to check each speaker’s functionality
• Ensure all drivers are working properly

Setting Levels and EQ

• Use data to set consistent levels across speakers
• Utilize tools like SMART or Open Sound Meter
• Initial setup:
  • Connect microphone and speakers to measurement software
  • Place microphone in center of coverage area for measurement

EQ Application

• Aim for target frequency response using graphs from measurement software
• Typical responses:
  • Small dip in high frequencies
  • Boost in low frequencies
• Apply EQ adjustments based on measurements

Time Alignment

Importance of Time Alignment

• Prevents phase interference and dropouts in sound
• Each sound source can only be aligned in one specific location

Aligning Main Speakers and Subs

• Use the phase response graph to achieve alignment
• Ensure subs are adjusted based on main speaker measurements

Aligning Fill Speakers

• Focus on where fill speakers and mains overlap in volume
• Use impulse response to align fills with mains

Conclusion

• Importance of practical experience in tuning PA systems
• Consistent practice leads to improved skills in sound tuning
• Call for questions and further discussion in comments