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 120–125 dB SPL at FOH, with 2–3 line array enclosures per side and 4–6 subwoofers, depending on venue acoustics and coverage requirements.
Sizing a PA for 800 people depends on the venue type (indoor vs. outdoor) and desired SPL. A good rule of thumb is 3–5 watts per person for speech, and 10–15 watts per person for full-range music. For 800 people, this translates to a system capable of 120–125 dB SPL at the mix position, with even coverage across the audience area.
For a typical indoor event, a medium-format line array with 2–3 boxes per side (e.g., SSOUNDS compact line arrays) and 4–6 subwoofers (e.g., dual-18" or single-21" subs) will provide clean, powerful sound. Outdoors or for high-SPL events, you may need 4 boxes per side and additional subwoofers. SSOUNDS engineers use AI-assisted acoustic modelling to predict coverage and SPL, ensuring your system is perfectly matched to the room geometry and audience layout.
Key considerations: coverage angle (90° or 120° horizontal), subwoofer placement (cardioid or end-fire for low-frequency control), and amplifier headroom. Always factor in a 3–6 dB safety margin for peaks. For 800 people, a system with 2–4 kW of amplification per side is typical.
Key things to consider
- Target SPL: 120–125 dB at FOH for music; 105–110 dB for speech.
- Line array: 2–3 boxes per side (indoor); 4 boxes per side (outdoor).
- Subwoofers: 4–6 units (dual-18" or single-21") for full-range impact.
- Amplification: 2–4 kW per side, with DSP presets tuned by SSOUNDS.
- Always model the venue with acoustic simulation for precise coverage.
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