When it comes to hosting weddings, the best sound system for weddings can make all the difference. From the vows exchanged during the ceremony to the speeches right through to the reception where guests dance the night away, clear and quality audio ensures that every moment is memorable.
For venue owners, understanding and investing in the appropriate sound equipment is essential to meet the diverse needs of both indoor and outdoor wedding events. This guide will help you navigate the essential considerations and requirements for selecting the perfect sound system for your wedding venue.
We have split this blog post into two main sections: indoor weddings and outside weddings, with two subsequent sections for each: the ceremony and the reception. It is important to differentiate between indoor and outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions, as each aspect has its own requirements, such as volume, the types of audio and the number of people it needs to accommodate.
It is also worth pointing out that wedding venues come in such a variety of sizes and capacities, sometimes inside and outside seasonally, and with different requirements entirely that it can be nigh-on impossible to cover all bases. Luckily our friendly and helpful team are on hand to help. Get in touch today and our team will help you find the best sound system for wedding ceremonies.
Understanding Sound Systems for Weddings
Choosing the right sound system for weddings requires a good grasp of the various types of audio equipment available and their specific applications. The requirements for indoor and outdoor settings differ significantly, impacting your choice of sound systems. As I'm sure you're well aware, getting it wrong can have some serious consequences, especially if the bride, groom and guests are let down.
Sound systems for weddings typically need to cover both speech and music. The ceremony itself will most likely require music - from background music playing quietly as guests arrive, to slightly louder music as the bride walks down the aisle. The ceremony will also include speaking, which requires a microphone to ensure the ceremony can be heard clearly. Likewise, there will likely be speeches, which will be conducted by people who may not have perfect microphone technique, so simplicity is key.
The wedding reception will need loud music, perhaps a microphone for announcements and a variety of audio sources to cover all bases for music.
Most often, a DJ will be booked for the reception, and they normally have all of their own equipment. However, it's wise for a wedding venue to have a contingency plan in case the DJ doesn’t have all of the required gear. Also in the event of the couple’s budget not being able to extend to a DJ, a venue with a sound system can offer access to it for a small fee, so there is the ability for them to have some music.
Any audio system should include components like PA systems, which amplify the sound to cover large areas and monitor speakers, which help performers hear themselves. For indoor settings, acoustics play a crucial role, while outdoor setups must contend with ambient noise and open space dispersion.
Key Terms
It’s worth taking a moment to familiarise yourself with some terminology you’re likely to encounter.
PA Systems
Public Address (PA) systems are designed to amplify sound for large audiences, making these wedding ceremony speakers crucial for speeches and announcements during weddings. These systems typically consist of speakers, amplifiers, and microphones, and can vary in complexity and power depending on the size of the venue and the specific needs of the event.
Column PA Systems
Column PA systems feature a sleek, vertical design that provides even sound distribution, making them ideal for both music and speech. Their narrow form makes them a popular choice for weddings where aesthetics are as important as functionality.
Monitor Speakers
Monitor speakers allow performers, such as musicians or DJs, to hear themselves clearly. These speakers are usually placed on the stage facing the performers and are helpful for live performances during receptions.
Microphones
Microphones are essential for capturing voices during ceremonies and receptions. Different types of microphones serve various purposes:
- Handheld Microphones: Versatile and commonly used for speeches and announcements. The wireless variety would be preferred since it keeps the area clear of leads and trip hazards.
- Lapel Microphones: Discreet, clipped onto clothing, ideal for officiants or speakers who need to move freely. Lapel microphones wouldn’t be the first recommendation for those looking to have multiple speakers, but they would be ideal for the celebrant, priest or whoever is marrying the couple.
- Gooseneck Microphones: Mounted on stands or lecterns, perfect for stationary speakers. Gooseneck microphones are great if the speaker is talking from a fixed position but they are less effective at picking up sound that is not directed at the microphone.
We have a helpful blog post all about wedding mics here.
Indoor Wedding Ceremonies
Indoor wedding ceremonies demand sound systems that offer clarity and aesthetic integration. Permanent installations provide a seamless audio experience, while temporary setups offer flexibility for different events.
Permanent Installations
For a seamless experience, permanent installations are the way to go. The 4 x 3" Black Wall Speaker System with Wireless Microphone is perfect for this, offering discreet and effective audio coverage. This system includes four 3-inch wall speakers that can be mounted in strategic locations around the ceremony area to ensure that every word and musical note is heard clearly. The wireless microphone included in this system allows officiants and speakers to move freely without being tethered by cables, enhancing the flexibility and professional appearance of the setup.
The 4 x 3" Black Wall Speaker System is designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The sleek black speakers blend seamlessly with most interior designs, ensuring they do not detract from the wedding decor. These speakers are compact yet powerful, providing high-quality sound without taking up much space. The wireless microphone operates on a UHF frequency, which reduces interference and provides a reliable connection, essential for uninterrupted speeches and ceremonies.
Complement this setup with a Desktop Paging Microphone with Gooseneck - PDTM370 for clear and professional announcements. This microphone is perfect for fixed locations, such as at a lectern or podium. Its gooseneck design allows for easy adjustment ensuring that speakers of all heights can use it comfortably, it has a latched option and is powered (so its not dependent on phantom power). The Adastra microphone is known for its excellent sound quality and durability, making it a reliable choice for weddings.
A lectern from Electromarket can also provide a stable platform for speakers and officiants. A lectern is designed to hold notes, scripts, or tablets, helping speakers stay organised and focused. Combining this lectern with the PDTM370 Gooseneck Microphone creates a professional and polished setup that enhances the overall experience for the wedding guests.
Temporary Sound System
If a permanent installation isn't feasible, a temporary setup like the Complete PA System Package - SL10 PA Speakers, Mixer Amp, Mic & Stands offers flexibility and high-quality sound. This all-in-one solution ensures that ceremonies can be easily set up and taken down without compromising on audio quality.
The Complete PA System Package - SL10 PA Speakers, Mixer Amp, Mic & Stands is a comprehensive audio solution that is perfect for temporary setups at wedding ceremonies. This package includes everything you need for a professional sound experience, ensuring that every word and musical note is delivered with clarity and precision.
The heart of this system, these speakers are designed to deliver powerful and clear audio. They are ideal for both speech and music, providing balanced sound coverage across the venue. With their robust build and high output, they can handle the demands of any wedding ceremony.
The included mixer amplifier is essential for managing audio input and output. It allows you to connect multiple microphones and audio sources, mixing them into a single output that is amplified through the speakers. This is particularly useful for weddings where you might have live musicians, pre-recorded music, and multiple speakers.
This package comes with high-quality microphones, ensuring that all voices are captured clearly. The stands provide flexibility in placement, allowing you to position microphones wherever they are needed, whether for the officiant, speakers, or musicians.
One of the key advantages of this system is its portability. The components are easy to set up and dismantle, making it ideal for venues that host multiple events or need to reconfigure spaces frequently. This flexibility ensures that you can provide high-quality audio for any wedding, regardless of the location within your venue.
The system is designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and connections. This means that even staff with limited technical experience can set up and operate the system, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for your clients.
Indoor Wedding Receptions
Indoor receptions often involve music, speeches, and toasts, requiring a versatile sound system that can handle various audio sources. The right setup ensures that every word and note is heard clearly, contributing to a memorable celebration.
For indoor wedding receptions, where music and announcements blend to create an engaging atmosphere, the Mobile Disco Setup - DJ PA System, CD Mixer, DJ Booth & Accessories stands out as an exceptional choice. This comprehensive setup is designed to cater to both DJs and live performances, ensuring that every element of the reception is delivered with impeccable sound quality. The robust PA system delivers powerful sound output, capable of filling the venue with clear, vibrant audio that enhances the overall experience for guests. Whether it’s the heartfelt speeches or the high-energy dance music, this setup ensures that every sound is captured and projected flawlessly.
The Mobile Disco Setup includes a high-quality CD mixer, allowing DJs to seamlessly transition between tracks, maintaining the flow and energy of the event. The mixer is equipped with advanced features that enable precise control over the audio, making it easy for DJs to create a dynamic and engaging musical experience. Additionally, the setup comes with a professional DJ booth, which provides a dedicated space for DJs to perform. The booth is designed to accommodate all the necessary equipment, keeping it organised and easily accessible, which is crucial for a smooth and uninterrupted performance.
Moreover, this package includes various accessories such as stands and cables, ensuring that the setup process is straightforward and hassle-free. These accessories are essential for optimising the placement of speakers and other equipment, allowing for optimal sound distribution throughout the venue. The all-in-one nature of this package means that venue owners can provide a professional-grade audio solution without the need for additional purchases or complex installations. This makes the Mobile Disco Setup - DJ PA System, CD Mixer, DJ Booth & Accessories not only an excellent choice for creating an engaging atmosphere but also a practical and convenient option for wedding receptions.
Outdoor Wedding Ceremonies
A PA system for outdoor weddings presents unique challenges, including weather conditions and sound dispersion in open spaces. The equipment must be robust and capable of delivering clear audio over larger areas.
Permanent Installations
Outdoor wedding settings demand sound equipment that can withstand various weather conditions while delivering clear and powerful audio. The 6x 3" BHW30BK Black Wall Mounted Commercial Music System - In/Outdoor is an ideal choice for such environments, offering both durability and high performance. These speakers are designed to be weather-resistant, ensuring they continue to function optimally despite exposure to elements like rain, wind, or sun. This robustness makes them perfect for outdoor wedding ceremonies, where reliable audio equipment is essential for a smooth and memorable event.
The BHW30BK speakers provide exceptional sound quality, ensuring that every word spoken and every note played is heard clearly by all guests. Their compact yet powerful design allows for strategic placement around the ceremony area, ensuring even sound coverage without overwhelming the visual aesthetics of the venue. These wall-mounted speakers can be discreetly integrated into various outdoor setups, whether it's a garden, beachfront, or courtyard wedding, blending seamlessly with the surroundings while delivering outstanding audio performance.
Moreover, the versatility of the 6x 3" BHW30B system means it can be used for both ceremonies and receptions, making it a valuable addition to any venue’s audio arsenal. The speakers are easy to install and can be positioned to maximise sound distribution, creating an immersive auditory experience for guests. By investing in this robust and weather-resistant sound system, venue owners can ensure they are well-equipped to handle outdoor weddings, providing couples and their guests with an unforgettable celebration, regardless of the weather conditions.
Temporary Sound System
For temporary outdoor setups, the Column PA System - Vonyx VX1050 Speaker System, Mixer, Stands & Mic offers a perfect blend of portability and power, making it an excellent choice for wedding venues. The column design of this system ensures that sound is evenly distributed across the open-air environment, which is crucial for maintaining audio clarity and consistency. This feature is particularly beneficial for outdoor weddings where sound can easily disperse, ensuring that all guests, no matter their location, can enjoy clear and balanced audio.
The Vonyx VX1050 is designed with ease of transport and setup in mind, making it ideal for venues that frequently host events in different locations. The system includes a powerful mixer that allows for easy adjustment of audio levels, ensuring optimal sound quality for both speeches and music. The included microphones, stands, and cables provide everything needed for a complete audio setup, eliminating the need for additional equipment purchases. This all-in-one package simplifies the process of setting up a sound system for outdoor weddings, saving time and effort while delivering professional-grade audio performance.
Moreover, the Vonyx VX1050 system’s portability does not compromise its power and sound quality. The speakers are designed to deliver robust and clear audio, capable of covering large outdoor areas effectively. This makes it suitable for both intimate ceremonies and larger gatherings, providing flexibility and reliability. The system’s durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigours of outdoor use, offering long-lasting performance and value for wedding venue owners. By choosing the Column PA System - Vonyx VX1050 Speaker System, Mixer, Stands & Mic, venues can ensure they provide a superior audio experience for outdoor weddings, enhancing the overall atmosphere and creating lasting memories for couples and their guests.
Outdoor Wedding Receptions
Creating a lively and immersive atmosphere outdoors can be challenging, but the Vonyx VX800 2.1 Active Speaker System DJ Setup with CD Mixer & Lights rises to the occasion effortlessly. This comprehensive system is designed to deliver powerful audio, ensuring that music and announcements are projected clearly and effectively across large outdoor spaces. The active speaker system includes a subwoofer and satellite speakers, which together produce a rich, full-bodied sound that can energise any event, making it perfect for wedding receptions.
The integration of a CD mixer adds another layer of versatility to the Vonyx VX800 setup. This feature allows DJs to transition between tracks seamlessly, mix music on the fly, and create a dynamic auditory experience that keeps guests on their feet. The mixer is equipped with intuitive controls that are easy to use, even for those with limited technical expertise, ensuring smooth operation throughout the event. This ease of use makes the VX800 an attractive option for venues that want to offer professional DJ services without the need for extensive training or setup time.
In addition to its impressive audio capabilities, the Vonyx VX800 system includes integrated lighting, which is crucial for creating a vibrant and visually engaging reception venue. The lighting effects can be synchronised with the music, adding a dynamic visual element that enhances the overall atmosphere. This feature transforms any outdoor space into a lively party environment, complete with colourful lights that dance in time with the beats. By combining powerful audio and captivating lighting, the Vonyx VX800 2.1 Active Speaker System DJ Setup with CD Mixer & Lights ensures that every outdoor wedding reception is memorable and exciting, providing a comprehensive solution that meets all the audio-visual needs of any event.
Choosing the Right Sound System for Your Wedding
Selecting the appropriate sound system depends on several factors, including the size of the venue, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, and the expected guest count. Here’s a brief guide to help you make the best choice:
Venue Size
The size of your venue is one of the most critical factors in determining the type and number of speakers you’ll need. For small to medium-sized indoor venues, wall-mounted speakers or a compact PA system might suffice. Larger venues may require multiple speakers strategically placed to ensure even sound coverage. Outdoor venues, regardless of size, benefit from column PA systems for their broad sound dispersion.
Small to Medium-Sized Venues
For intimate indoor settings, such as chapels or small banquet halls, the 4 x 3" Black Wall Speaker System with Wireless Microphone provides excellent coverage without overwhelming the space. For outdoor settings, the 6x 3" BHW30BK Black Wall Mounted Commercial Music System - In/Outdoor offers both durability and performance.
Large Venues
For larger indoor venues, the Complete PA System Package - SL10 PA Speakers, Mixer Amp, Mic & Stands ensures that sound reaches all corners of the room. Outdoors, a powerful setup like the Column PA System - Vonyx VX1050 Speaker System, Mixer, Stands & Mic can cover extensive areas, ensuring clear audio for all guests.
Indoor vs. Outdoor
Indoor systems should prioritise clarity and acoustics, with permanent installations offering a clean aesthetic. Outdoor systems must be weather-resistant and powerful enough to combat ambient noise. Portable systems are often ideal for outdoor settings due to their flexibility.
Indoor Considerations
Acoustics play a significant role in indoor settings. The right placement of speakers can help mitigate echo and ensure even sound distribution. Permanent installations, like wall-mounted speakers, can blend seamlessly with the decor and provide consistent audio quality.
Outdoor Considerations
Outdoor systems need to be robust and weather-resistant. The Column PA System - Vonyx VX1050 Speaker System, Mixer, Stands & Mic offers portability and power, making it ideal for temporary setups. For permanent installations, equipment like the 6x 3" BHW30BK Black Wall Mounted Commercial Music System - In/Outdoor ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions.
Guest Count
A higher guest count necessitates a more robust sound system to ensure everyone hears the ceremony and music clearly. For smaller, more intimate weddings, a basic PA system may be sufficient.
Small Gatherings
For smaller gatherings, the Complete PA System Package - SL10 PA Speakers, Mixer Amp, Mic & Stands is an excellent choice. It offers clear audio for speeches and music without being overly complex to set up.
Large Gatherings
Larger weddings require more powerful systems to ensure that all guests can hear clearly. The Vonyx VX800 2.1 Active Speaker System DJ Setup with CD Mixer & Lights is ideal for large outdoor receptions, providing both powerful sound and integrated lighting for a complete audio-visual experience.
Integrating Various Sound Equipment
To achieve optimal audio performance, consider integrating different types of equipment. For instance, use PA systems for general sound amplification, monitor speakers for performers, and a combination of handheld and gooseneck microphones for speeches and vows. This integration ensures that all aspects of the wedding’s audio are covered, from the subtlety of spoken words to the energy of dance music.
Combining PA Systems and Monitor Speakers
For venues hosting live performances, integrating PA systems with monitor speakers is crucial. Monitor speakers allow performers to hear themselves clearly, which is essential for maintaining the quality of live music. The Mobile Disco Setup - DJ PA System, CD Mixer, DJ Booth & Accessories is a comprehensive solution that includes both PA and monitor speakers, ensuring a seamless performance.
Microphone Selection and Placement
Microphone selection and placement are critical for capturing clear audio. Handheld microphones are versatile and suitable for most speeches and announcements. Gooseneck microphones, like the PDTM370, are ideal for fixed positions, such as at lecterns. Lapel microphones are excellent for officiants or speakers who need to move freely.
Conclusion
Investing in the right sound system is crucial for making weddings at your venue memorable. Whether hosting a serene indoor ceremony or a lively outdoor reception, selecting equipment tailored to the event’s specific needs is essential. Explore the range of options available at Electromarket to find the perfect sound system for your venue, ensuring every wedding you host is an auditory success.
