How many speakers do I need for a festival?
Quick answer
The number of speakers for a festival depends on venue size, audience capacity, and SPL requirements; a typical main stage for 5,000 people might use 12–24 line array cabinets per side plus subwoofers.
For a festival, start by defining the audience area and desired sound pressure level (SPL). A general rule is 1–2 line array cabinets per 1,000 people for the main hang, but this varies with coverage needs and music genre. For a small festival (1,000–3,000 people), 8–12 cabinets per side may suffice; for medium (5,000–10,000), 12–24 per side; for large (20,000+), 24–48 per side or more, often with delays.
Subwoofers are critical for low-end impact. A common ratio is 1 subwoofer per 2–4 full-range cabinets, but for bass-heavy genres like EDM, you might use a 1:1 ratio. Cardioid sub arrays can reduce rear spill and improve clarity. Always factor in headroom (3–6 dB) to avoid distortion.
Coverage is equally important. Use prediction software (e.g., EASE Focus) to model your venue. SSOUNDS line arrays offer consistent 90° or 120° horizontal dispersion; choose the right horn for your space. For wide or irregular sites, add front-fills, out-fills, and delay towers to ensure even coverage. Always consult a professional system engineer for final design.
Key things to consider
- Estimate 12–24 line array cabinets per side for 5,000-person festival main stage.
- Subwoofer count: 1 per 2–4 full-range cabinets; increase for bass-heavy genres.
- Use prediction software to model coverage and SPL for your specific venue.
- Include delays, fills, and cardioid sub arrays to optimize sound quality.
- Work with an experienced system engineer to finalize the design.
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