What size PA system do I need for 800 people?
Quick answer
For 800 people, you typically need a medium-format PA system capable of 100–105 dB continuous SPL at the listening area, such as 4–6 line array cabinets per side with 4–8 subwoofers, but SSOUNDS engineers use acoustic modelling to spec the exact system for your venue and coverage needs.
Sizing a PA for 800 people depends on the venue (indoor vs outdoor), room acoustics, and application (speech vs music). A general rule of thumb: for a medium-sized crowd, aim for 100–105 dB continuous SPL at the farthest listener. This often translates to a medium-format line array system—e.g., 4 to 6 boxes per side—paired with 4 to 8 subwoofers, depending on bass requirements. For outdoor events, you may need more cabinets to overcome the lack of reflective surfaces.
Coverage is critical: you need even SPL across the entire audience area, typically 120° horizontal coverage per side. SSOUNDS engineers use advanced acoustic modelling and AI-assisted prediction to design a system that delivers consistent coverage, intelligibility, and headroom. They factor in audience shape, ceiling height, and obstacles to avoid dead spots or excessive reflections.
Power and rigging also matter. Ensure your amplifiers and DSP are matched to the loudspeakers for optimal performance and protection. SSOUNDS systems include integrated DSP presets tuned for specific configurations, simplifying setup. For 800 people, a single subwoofer array (e.g., cardioid or end-fire) can provide tight, impactful bass without muddying the stage area.
Key things to consider
- Target 100–105 dB continuous SPL at the listening area for music; 95 dB for speech.
- Use 4–6 line array cabinets per side for medium-format coverage; add 4–8 subwoofers.
- Outdoor events require more cabinets (6–8 per side) due to lack of room gain.
- Acoustic modelling is essential—SSOUNDS engineers simulate coverage to avoid guesswork.
- Match amplifier power and DSP presets to the loudspeaker system for reliability and sound quality.
Need the right system specced for your venue?
SSOUNDS designs, supplies, installs and tunes professional AVL worldwide.