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p a systems
The PA system is much misunderstood.PA stands for 'Public Address' and as the name suggests should be the main amplification for the band.
PA has had a long history, the term derives from the original idea of a microphone going through an amplifier to a pair of conical shaped horns used to address a large gathering of people, this basic system was soon adapted for use by popular singers fronting big bands and orchestras. By the late '50s although the bands had got smaller, with the advent of rock 'n' roll the volume had increased dramatically and by the early '60s specific portable PA systems had been developed by people such as Vox and Fender. Around the mid '60s guitar and bass amps had improved significantly and the micing up of drums became commonplace so the small PA of the day was found to be seriously lacking.
Performers, such as The Who, began to take matters into their own hands and approach companies such as WEM to manufacture the first transistor multichannel PA mixer with separate power amplifiers, crossovers, bass, mid and horn units. The idea then as it is now was to take the concept of a recording studio, where all separate signals such as guitar, bass, keyboards, drums and vocals etc. are brought together, then balanced, EQ'ed and then projected through to sets of speakers at the front left and right of the stage. This revolution was quickly utilised by every live act around the world. By the early seventies PA had become very sophisticated with massive sound systems with large enough output to fill large stadiums.
Today PA systems have got smaller, sound better, easier to use/setup and are cheaper than ever before. There are many options and we stock everything from small club systems for solo/duo acts to full band setup. With many years of experience we give unparalleled advice and help. We offer a price match policy, and will take special orders.
Current special offers can be found here (opens in new window)
