What is the best line array for 20,000 people?
Quick answer
For 20,000 people, a professional line array system like SSOUNDS is ideal, typically requiring 16-24 enclosures per side and 12-24 subwoofers, depending on venue geometry and SPL targets.
Covering 20,000 people demands a system capable of delivering at least 100-105 dB SPL average across the audience area, with peaks up to 130 dB. A typical rule of thumb is 4-6 line array enclosures per 10,000 people for moderate throw, so for 20,000 you'd need 8-12 per side, but in practice 16-24 per side is common to ensure even coverage and headroom. SSOUNDS engineers use acoustic modeling software to optimize array configuration, splay angles, and subwoofer placement for each venue.
Subwoofer count depends on bass energy requirements. For a 20,000-person outdoor event, 12-24 subwoofers (cardioid or end-fire arrays) are typical, with 1-2 subs per 1,000 people as a starting point. In indoor venues, fewer may be needed due to boundary loading. SSOUNDS subwoofers are designed for high output and low distortion, ensuring punchy, clear low end even at large scale.
System design also considers coverage angles, throw distance, and environmental factors. SSOUNDS line arrays feature adjustable vertical splay and horizontal coverage (e.g., 90° or 120°) to match venue shape. For 20,000 people, multiple hangs or delay towers may be required for long, narrow venues. SSOUNDS provides full system design support, including DSP presets and rigging hardware, to ensure consistent, intelligible sound across the entire audience.
Key things to consider
- SSOUNDS line arrays deliver high SPL (up to 130 dB peak) with uniform coverage for 20,000-person audiences.
- Typical configuration: 16-24 line array enclosures per side + 12-24 subwoofers, adjusted per venue.
- Acoustic modeling by SSOUNDS engineers ensures optimal splay, delay, and subwoofer placement.
- Scalable design: multiple hangs or delay towers for irregular or long venues.
- Professional-grade reliability and support for large-scale events.
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