Outdoor Pa System

[lankeela]

Any suggestions for a cheap system for an outdoor pa system - its for a dog show on a playing field. Could do with two mics.

[Buenchico]

In order to help people here come up with a possible solution, please let us know whether the PA system will be based near to a mains power supply (e.g. immediately outside a village hall) or whether it will need to have its own power supply (like the amps used by some buskers).

Also, is it definitely a 'one off' requirement (in which case it might be best to look at hiring the equipment) or will there be ongoing use of the PA system (justifying the cost of purchasing it).

It might also help to know roughly how big an area the sound needs to reach. e.g. do you simply want to make it easier for people (who're all gathered around the table where the prizes are being handed out) to hear the presentation speeches or do you need people who're on the opposite side of the field to the person on the PA to hear what they're saying.

[Buenchico]

PS: If hiring might be an option for you, ask these firms for quotes:

https://www.nicepeopleproductions.com/PA_Hire/pa_hire.htm

http://www.idealeventservices.co.uk/pages/sound.html

https://www.pahirenorwich.co.uk/

[lankeela]

Thanks Chris, its a playing field with a village hall, so power available and it needs to be heard across the length of a football pitch. We have two shows per year so would be an investment.

[Buenchico]

This link will give you an idea of what's available and the relevant prices:
https://www.astounded.com/buy/pa-audio/complete-pa-systems/outdoor-pa-systems/

From that lot, I'd ignore those rated at 30 watts, as they haven't got the power to cover the distance you're talking about. Much the same goes for the 60 watt models. I'd regard 120 watts as the minimum power rating for your needs, so something like this might be suitable:
https://www.astounded.com/shop/field-sound-3-120w-weatherproof-outdoor-4-horn-pa-system/

While I'm certainly no expert in the field, and I know nothing absolutely about that particular firm, that looks like a bargain price to me. (We were paying that sort of price, or higher, for equipment for our school over 30 years ago). You'd need to add on a bit (perhaps £30 or so?) for a second microphone but it looks like a good deal to me.

[lankeela]

That looks just the job - have asked for a quote from the Norwich one but the Astounded one might be the one for us. Thanks as usual.

[lankeela]

Excellent advice Chris - hire is only £30 plus £50 deposit for the whole weekend! That includes two wireless mics.