Factfiles Audio Visual Equipment for Demonstrations (1) AUDIO EQUIPMENT

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What you will need	Microphone(s) (preferably small 'radio' types - not a 'hand held' type) An amplifier of some description, with 'speaker outs' Two speakers with stands Connecting leads
Microphones	We will begin with the Microphones; these are the primary pieces of equipment in the audio system. These should be of the 'radio type' (the sort you see TV news presenters/ talk show hosts wearing on their suit lapels). These are best as you do not have to hold them in your hands, and (on a safety note) have no extra leads to fall over! The microphone clips to a lapel or similar item of clothing and the lead is routed to the 'radio box', put either in a pocket, or clipped on the presenter's belt. These transmit the signals to a receiver, which you can sit on top of the amplifier. The receiver is connected to the amplifier, via a lead, to the 'line in' socket.
The Amplifier	The amplifier should ideally have two 'line outs' for the speakers to be connected to; usually the connections will be of the same type as a guitar lead, or the larger headphone type of connector, called a 'jack', but ensure you connect the speakers to the 'LINE OUT' or 'SPEAKER OUT' connectors- this is important! Connect the speakers via leads to the amplifier, and place them on stands roughly at eye level (when standing).
Speakers	Place the speakers on either side, approximately one third of the way down your audience. This has been found to be best, as people at the front can hear the presenter normally; and it also prevents 'feedback' when the microphone comes too close to the speakers. Once satisfied with the positioning of the speakers, tape the leads to the floor.
Vital SAFETY Precautions	1. DO NOT OBSTRUCT AISLES OR EMERGENCY EXITS WITH YOUR EQUIPMENT 2. Once you are satisfied that point 1 has been met, TAPE ALL OF YOUR LEADS TO THE FLOOR, AS THEY PRESENT A DANGEROUS TRIP HAZARD 3. SWITCH OFF EQUIPMENT WHEN NOT IN USE (ie in breaks) ELECTRICITY AND TEA/COFFEE DO NOT MIX!
In Summary You Will Need:	Two Radio microphones, 1 for the presenter the other for the demonstrator (you can get away with one, however it takes time to 'mic-up' your demonstrator after he/she has been introduced). An amplifier Two speakers Cables to connect the speakers to the amplifier Stands for the speakers
Tips	1.   Ask the users of your 'mics' to switch them off during the intervals, or when they're not using them. It can be embarrassing during the interval when they are holding a private conversation! 2.   Tell them to speak normally and not look down at the mic, it can look as if they're nodding a lot. 3.   When setting up the system, place the mic in a similar position to where you will place it on the wearer. A common fault is to hold it to your mouth and adjust the volume to suit that position, placing it on the demonstrators' lapel later will result in the audio signal being too quiet. 4.   Bear in mind, on the whole, most male speakers have a deeper, more 'bass' quality to their voices. Conversely, female speakers voices are usually softer, with a more 'Treble' quality to theirs; adjust the amplifier settings accordingly. 5.   If your guest speaker moves around a lot, tell them to keep a reasonable distance from the speakers. 6.   Keep some spare batteries for the radio mics. 7.   Lastly, be familiar with your equipment, as the lights in your venue will be off. You will reap the benefits if something goes wrong, or you have to adjust something in the dark.
	These notes can be copied - Artnetdirectory 2002
	These notes have been compiled and written by Grant Findlay . He is a Technical Officer on the Committee of the South Wales Art Society, responsible for filming/recording, projection and sound systems used for demonstrators, workshops and guest speakers. Please click here to link to his page Grant Findlay
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