Buy public address systems based on venue and audience size

It's a mistake to buy public address systems without knowing your venue size/configuration and general audience size. A rule of thumb with public speaking systems is 1 watt per person, but your venue type can increase or decrease that rule by half. Smaller rooms or crowds typically don't need more than 50 watts. Large, loud or outdoor events can require 600 watts or more per speaker.

I recommend: For smaller, indoor events, consider a portable public address system with a wireless microphone. If your events will be mid-sized, with audiences around 200 to 300 people, you should consider a two-speaker system with more power. Large outdoor events call for public speaking systems that really pack the punch.

Determine what will be broadcast over the PA system

Will your events call for speaking, music or a combination of the two? Different PA systems for sale are designed to deliver different types of sounds.

I recommend: If your events are smaller and call for speaking only, you might want to consider a PA system that's actually built into a podium. If music will be part of the presentation, a PA system with a built-in CD player might be the perfect choice. Hooking a live band up to your broadcast? Set your sights on a system more like this.

Decide whether your PA system will be installed or portable

If your need calls for a system to always be in the same place and work the same way for the same general audience, installing it is the obvious choice. However, if your system will be moved from room to room or venue to venue, be sure to buy a public address system that's easily portable.

I recommend: Check out your options for installed public address systems for everything from high school sports stadiums to your local place of worship. On the other end of the spectrum are personal portable PA systems, wireless public address systems and even megaphones.