How to Set Up a Wedding PA System?
Planning a wedding involves many details – and one of the most important, yet often overlooked, is the wedding PA system. Whether it’s the ceremony, the reception, or the dance floor, having a clear, reliable sound system ensures that everyone hears the vows, speeches, and music without a hitch.
At Star Sounds Limited, we specialize in PA system hire for weddings in Auckland, and we provide free delivery, setup, and collection. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about setting up a PA system for a wedding – from the essential equipment to expert tips for flawless audio.
Why Is a Wedding PA System Important?
A public address (PA) system is what amplifies sound for your audience. At a wedding, this includes:
Ceremony music and vocals (e.g., vows, celebrants, soloists)
Reception speeches and toasts
Background music during dinner
Dance floor audio for the DJ or band
Without a well-set PA system, even the most romantic moments can be lost in silence or muffled sound.
Essential Equipment for a Wedding PA System
Before we dive into the setup, let’s take a look at the basic components you’ll need:
Speakers – Powered or passive speakers (we recommend RCF HDL line array speakers for larger venues)
Mixer – To control multiple audio inputs (e.g., microphones, phones, instruments)
Microphones – Wireless handheld or lapel mics for speeches and vows
Audio source – A phone, laptop, or DJ controller for playing music
Stands and cables – Speaker stands, mic stands, and high-quality cables
Monitors – Optional, but useful for live performers
Need help choosing the right gear? Star Sounds Limited offers wedding sound system hire in Auckland with expert advice and flexible packages.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Wedding PA System
1. Scout the Venue First
Visit your venue (or request a layout from the manager) to plan your speaker placement. Key areas to cover:
Ceremony space (indoor or outdoor)
Reception dining area
Dance floor
Stage (if applicable)
Large outdoor venues may require line array speakers for wider sound coverage.
2. Position Your Speakers Correctly
Place speakers on stands, slightly above ear level.
Aim them toward the audience but avoid pointing directly at walls (to reduce echo).
For ceremonies, place one speaker near the front and one in the middle or rear of the seating area.
For receptions, two front-of-house speakers usually suffice.
Pro Tip: Don’t place speakers behind microphones – this causes feedback.
3. Connect Your Mixer and Inputs
Plug all microphones and audio sources into the mixer.
Use labeled XLR or ¼" cables for easy troubleshooting.
If you’re using music from a phone or laptop, connect using a 3.5mm to RCA or AUX cable.
Set gain levels carefully and test each input.
Need a mixer? We hire Yamaha O3D digital mixers – perfect for weddings and easy to operate.
4. Test the Microphones
Test lapel or handheld mics at the ceremony area – adjust gain and EQ for clarity.
Use wireless mics for flexibility and a clean stage setup.
Always have fresh batteries on hand for the big day.
5. Balance the Sound
Adjust EQ and volume for vocals, music, and background tracks.
During speeches, vocals should be clear and slightly louder than background music.
Walk the room during your sound check to ensure even sound coverage.
At Star Sounds Limited, we do this for you during setup – ensuring perfect sound balance every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Last-minute setup – Always test and set up at least an hour before the event.
Poor speaker placement – Avoid putting speakers behind the audience or in corners.
Using low-quality gear – Cheap microphones and speakers can ruin the sound.
Not doing a sound check – Always run a full test before guests arrive.
Wedding Sound Setup Tips from Star Sounds Limited
✅ Use wireless microphones for speeches and vows – no messy cables.
✅ Keep a tablet or phone nearby to quickly adjust music volume.
✅ Assign a sound operator if you’re managing the system yourself.
✅ Choose reliable PA hire in Auckland to reduce stress on your big day.
Stress-Free Wedding PA Hire in Auckland
Don’t want to deal with the hassle of setting up sound yourself? At Star Sounds Limited, we provide:
High-quality speaker and mixer rentals
Wireless microphone systems
Professional delivery and setup
On-site sound checks
Flexible pickup options after the event
Whether your wedding is in a garden, church, hall, or beachfront, we’ll tailor the perfect PA system for your wedding.
