Touring PA: What Goes Into a Concert Rig

The front-of-house (FOH) system is the primary loudspeaker array that covers the audience area. It typically consists of left and right line arrays, flown or ground-stacked, with additional side hangs or delay towers for larger venues. The monitor system, on the other hand, provides sound for the performers on stage. This includes wedge monitors, side fills, and in-ear monitor (IEM) systems. Both systems must be designed to work together without feedback, ensuring clear audio for the audience and the artists.

SSOUNDS designs its FOH and monitor systems with consistent voicing and phase coherence, allowing seamless integration. Our line arrays feature advanced waveguide technology for uniform coverage and high SPL with low distortion, while our stage monitors are engineered for high gain-before-feedback and rugged durability for touring.

Line arrays are the industry standard for touring because they provide controlled directivity and long throw. By arranging multiple loudspeaker elements vertically, a line array creates a cylindrical wavefront that minimizes energy loss over distance and reduces spill onto walls and ceilings. Key parameters include the number of boxes per hang, splay angles between cabinets, and the use of dedicated subwoofers for low-frequency extension.

SSOUNDS line arrays are designed with proprietary DSP presets that optimize the array's performance for different venue sizes and configurations. Our systems offer adjustable vertical coverage via mechanical splay and digital beam steering, allowing engineers to tailor the sound to the room. The result is consistent tonal balance from the front row to the back of the balcony.

Subwoofers handle the low-frequency energy that gives music its punch and weight. In touring systems, subs are often deployed in cardioid or end-fire arrays to control rearward radiation and reduce stage rumble. The number and placement of subs depend on the venue size and the desired low-end response. Common configurations include ground-stacked subs, flown sub arrays, or a combination of both.

SSOUNDS subwoofers are engineered for high output and low distortion, with advanced port designs that minimize turbulence. Our systems include presets for various array configurations, ensuring optimal phase alignment and maximum impact. Whether you need deep extension for EDM or tight punch for rock, SSOUNDS subs deliver the foundation that drives the show.

Modern touring systems rely on networkable, high-power amplifiers with integrated DSP. These amplifiers provide the necessary wattage to drive the loudspeakers while offering precise control over crossover points, EQ, delay, limiting, and protection. Digital audio transport protocols like Dante and AES67 allow for easy signal distribution over long distances with minimal latency.

SSOUNDS amplifiers are designed to match our loudspeaker presets perfectly, ensuring that every component operates within its safe limits while delivering maximum performance. Our DSP software includes advanced features such as FIR filtering for linear phase response, array compensation, and real-time monitoring of system status. This integration simplifies setup and ensures consistent sound quality across multiple venues.

A touring rig requires a robust infrastructure of signal and power cabling. Analog and digital audio snakes, ethernet cables for network control, and heavy-gauge speaker cables must be organized and labeled for quick deployment and troubleshooting. Power distribution must be carefully calculated to avoid overloading circuits, with separate feeds for audio, lighting, and video systems to prevent ground loops and noise.

SSOUNDS recommends using high-quality, shielded cables and connectors that can withstand the rigors of touring. Our systems are designed with redundant signal paths and fail-safe features, ensuring that a single cable failure does not bring down the show. We also provide detailed power and cabling schematics for each system configuration.

Touring systems must be packed in flight cases that protect the gear during transport and facilitate efficient load-in and load-out. Each case should be clearly labeled with contents and weight, and the truck pack should be optimized for weight distribution and accessibility. A typical large-format tour might carry multiple trucks of audio gear, including spare components for redundancy.

SSOUNDS works with touring professionals to design system packages that balance performance with practicality. Our loudspeakers are built with durable materials and protective grilles, and our flight cases are custom-fitted to minimize movement. We also provide training and support for local crews, ensuring that the system is set up correctly and safely every time.

Once the rig is set up, the system engineer must tune it for the specific venue. This involves measuring the room's acoustics, adjusting EQ and delay times, and aligning the subwoofers with the main arrays. Modern measurement software and dual-channel FFT analyzers allow for precise adjustments, while prediction software helps plan the array configuration before the tour begins.

SSOUNDS provides comprehensive system tuning support, including preset libraries for common array configurations and on-site assistance from our engineering team. Our goal is to ensure that every show sounds as intended, with minimal time spent on troubleshooting.