What sound power for a conference?

Speech vs music: two different logics

A conference targets intelligibility across the listening area, not sonic impact. Mid frequencies (human voice) matter more than bass.

A system sized for a concert or dance party will poorly serve a seminar or general assembly.

Factors that drive real power needs

Capacity, layout (theatre, U-shape, classroom), ceiling height, materials (carpet, glass, concrete) and distance from stage to last row all drive sizing.

A reverberant room needs less raw volume but better speaker aiming. An absorbent room may need more coverage points.

Even coverage: the real goal

The last row should hear as clearly as the first, with minimal level difference between zones (ideally under 6 dB).

Delay fills correct long or sloped rooms where front PA alone is insufficient.

• Front PA aimed at the audience
• Side or rear fills for deep rooms
• Discreet monitors for speakers
• EQ tuned to measured or tested acoustics

Capacity-based guidelines

These benchmarks guide the brief; only a site visit or detailed plan enables accurate quoting.

Up to 80 in a compact room: compact line array or active columns. 80–250: modular PA with dedicated console. Beyond: zoned system with multiple coverage points and an operator.

Mics and front-end: do not overlook

Even the best PA cannot fix wrong mics or an undersized console. The full chain must be coherent.

Plan gooseneck mics for the lectern, wireless for audience Q&A and rigorous input gain management.

Outdoor and atypical venues in Morocco

Hotel terraces, gardens and courtyards are common for corporate events in Morocco. Wind and urban noise require a different coverage strategy.

Aim speakers at the audience, limit useless side dispersion and use windscreens on wireless mics.