Whether you’re organizing a music concert, a corporate function or a school sporting event, one thing is certain; you will need reliable and quality audio so that your audience can immerse themselves in the experience you have created.

Think about the last music concert you attend. Was the sound quality crisp, clear and projecting at the anticipated volume for a concert? Were you absorbed in the magic of the music and artist? If so, then you have a professional audio company to thank.

Specialist audio companies know that sound quality can make or break your event. It is guaranteed you will notice poor sound quality at a concert and there will be a lot of disgruntled patrons. If you want to avoid this at your event then you should organize your audio requirements through a specialist company who will ensure consistent sound and professional service.

Here are five things you need to know when booking an audio company:

#1 – Why use an audio company?

An audio company is the place to go if you are looking for reliable and quality sound. While there are ‘jack of all trade’ production companies who can organize all of your event needs, they generally aren’t experts in any one area and therefore their knowledge and experience on audio may be limited.

The talented audio professionals who work in specialist companies are extremely knowledgeable and experienced. They can supply you with range of professional audio gear and state of the art equipment, provide sound advice and can even assist with designing tailored solutions to meet your needs.

Their expert knowledge is combined with experience and passion to ensure all of your needs are well looked after. Producing quality sound is a complex process, and the specialists know what is required to produce top quality sound. An audio company’s brand and reputation is also on show at your event, so they are just as invested as you in ensuring it’s a success.

#2- Budget, budget, budget!

When you are booking in your audio requirements, it is essential that you have a budget in mind. How much of your overall event budget would you like to allocate to audio?

Audio services range greatly in price, and your budget will guide companies in determining which products and services to offer. They can customise to your specific needs and provide a range of goods and services including equipment hire only; hire plus installation; or hire, installation and staff (eg sound mixing) for the event day. Costs can range from $50 for a single speaker up to $25,000+ for full service.

Ensure your budget is realistic and you have done your research on average prices for these services, keeping in mind that you are hiring specialist services and equipment.

#3 – Logistics are key

For top service and a smooth event, your audio experts will rely on you to provide them with a schedule of events and key logistical information. Information to provide in advance should include at a minimum:

Confirmation of event time and location, and a venue map if possible

• Times for set up of equipment
• Times for rehearsal and sound check
• Access for loading and unloading equipment
• Rigging data if hanging speakers required

#4 – Audio is not the same as lighting

There is a common misconception that audio companies offer event lighting too. An expert audio company typically specializes in sound only as they are professionals in this arena and focus their efforts on doing sound really well. They leave the lighting up to others but often have good deals with lighting providers and can point you in the right direction.

Also remember that professional audio engineers have spent years learning their trade just as any other qualified engineer. There is science behind what they do so treat their knowledge with respect, and trust that they know what is best for your event.

#5 – Book early!

Just as you would book your holiday accommodation or wedding photographer in advance, arrange your audio needs early so that your aren’t disappointed. To avoid disappointment, aim to book a minimum of one to three months in advance of your event. Summer months, from November to April, is the peak period for an audio company, so lock in your event requirements before your day gets booked out.

When booking, it is best to first call up to discuss your specific needs. Following this it is important to send an email specifying your logistical information to ensure no detail is missed.