What size PA system do I need for 800 people?
Quick answer
For 800 people, you typically need a medium-format PA system delivering 120-125 dB SPL with even coverage, such as 6-8 line array enclosures per side and 4-6 subwoofers, though SSOUNDS engineers use acoustic modeling to spec precisely for your venue.
Sizing a PA for 800 people depends on venue geometry and content type. A general rule of thumb is to aim for 120-125 dB peak SPL at the listening area with consistent coverage. For a typical indoor or outdoor event, this often translates to 6-8 medium-format line array enclosures per side (e.g., SSOUNDS compact line arrays) and 4-6 subwoofers (e.g., SSOUNDS dual-18" subs) for low-end impact. Coverage should be 90-120 degrees horizontal, with vertical splay adjusted to reach the back rows.
SPL requirements: For speech, 105-110 dB continuous is sufficient; for music, 115-120 dB continuous with headroom. At 800 people, you're in the 'medium event' category where a single point-source cluster may work for small venues, but line arrays offer better pattern control and even coverage, especially in reverberant spaces. SSOUNDS engineers recommend using predictive software to model coverage and SPL distribution before deployment.
Practical counts: For a typical 30m x 20m space (600 sqm), 4-6 line array boxes per side can cover front to back. Subwoofer count depends on bass content; for DJ or live music, 4-6 subs in cardioid or end-fire arrays reduce rear spill. SSOUNDS systems include DSP presets that optimize performance for specific configurations, ensuring consistent results. Always factor in 3 dB of headroom above your target SPL.
Key things to consider
- Target 120-125 dB peak SPL at listening area; 105-115 dB continuous for speech/music.
- Typical rig: 6-8 medium-format line arrays per side + 4-6 subwoofers for 800 people.
- Coverage: 90-120° horizontal; vertical splay calculated for even front-to-back distribution.
- Use acoustic modeling software (like SSOUNDS' AI-assisted tools) for precise venue-specific design.
- Add 3 dB headroom; consider venue acoustics and content type (speech vs. music).
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