What is the best line array for a conference?
Quick answer
For conferences, the best line array is one that delivers clear, intelligible speech with even coverage, such as SSOUNDS' compact line array systems, which combine precision waveguides and DSP-optimized presets for vocal clarity.
Selecting a line array for a conference prioritizes speech intelligibility and uniform coverage over raw SPL. SSOUNDS designs its compact line arrays with narrow vertical dispersion and controlled horizontal patterns to minimize reflections and feedback, ensuring every word is heard clearly from front to back. Systems like our 2-way passive arrays are ideal for rooms up to 500 seats, while larger venues may benefit from 3-way active configurations with dedicated midrange drivers for vocal presence.
Practical sizing depends on room geometry and audience layout. For a typical conference hall (e.g., 20m deep, 15m wide), a pair of 8-10 enclosures per side flown at 6-8m height provides even coverage. Subwoofers are often unnecessary unless for AV playback; focus on full-range cabinets with 60Hz-18kHz response. SSOUNDS offers predictive modeling tools to simulate coverage before installation, ensuring optimal array curvature and splay angles.
Key considerations include amplifier power (recommend 1.5x continuous program power per cabinet), DSP with FIR filters for phase coherence, and rigging hardware for safe deployment. SSOUNDS systems include integrated flying frames and quick-release pins for fast setup. For portable conferences, ground-stacked arrays with tilt brackets can work, but flown arrays yield superior sightlines and acoustic consistency.
Key things to consider
- Prioritize speech intelligibility: look for narrow vertical dispersion (e.g., 10-15°) and high directivity to reduce reverberation.
- Size the array based on room depth: typically 1 cabinet per 2-3m of throw; use modeling software to verify coverage.
- Choose full-range cabinets with a vocal-focused midrange (1-4kHz) and avoid excessive subwoofers unless needed for multimedia.
- Ensure amplifier power matches or exceeds cabinet program rating (e.g., 500W continuous per 8-ohm cabinet) and use DSP with FIR filtering.
- For portable use, consider ground-stacked arrays with tilt; for permanent installs, flown arrays offer better sightlines and acoustics.
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