A particularly misunderstood part of the choice of audio equipment is the category of audio amplifiers, as we encounter many cases where the interested party has purchased speakers with high quality features, giving little importance to the capabilities of the amplifier, thus receiving the minimum of its capabilities. audio equipment. Other times we choose amplifiers ignoring the environmental conditions and their operation, as a result of which we constantly face issues of malfunctions, and we have to either temporarily replace them in order to repair them, or replace them with the appropriate material, spending extra money. unnecessarily.

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  • Therefore, when buying reinforcing devices we should pay attention to both their quality of construction and technical characteristics such as their power (RMS power rating), which should possibly reach twice the price listed as rated or average power of the speakers it is called to drive (more detailed information in the technical leaflets of our website). Also, we need to know the type of speakers that it is called to drive, ie if they are speakers that belong to the Commercial category and therefore have a transformer and require an amplifier that works at 100V, or belong to one of the other categories of simple ohms speakers. Finally, an important factor is the degree of so-called Headroom, which marks the difference between the maximum power that our amplifier can deliver without distortion, and the average rated power of the device. The higher this rating is, the less likely it is that the amplifier will be distorted in the output signal and will therefore overheat and damage our speakers as well.

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    It is worth mentioning at this point that in many cases of audio coverage of a multi-space, we encounter the need to install an amplifier with multiple audio outputs, in order to avoid the volume of multiple machines and to reduce the relevant cost when buying them. In this case we must pay special attention to both the technical characteristics and the adequacy of outputs and consequently separate sound control zones in the individual spaces.

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  • Finally, when designing the system, we must take into account that we can use amplifiers of either analog or digital technology, the latter of which work with lower power consumption, heat less, and are much lighter than the former.

• •    In the Commercial / BGM category, where our goal is the sound investment of the space with low-medium volume music background, the condition of a sufficient number of speakers is maintained in order to achieve its full coverage, but we must also pay attention to the issue of quality. of speakers, as our desired goal is to create a pleasant environment in order to extend the stay of those present in the space and thus achieve the purpose of the space, such as increasing sales. Also, respecting the general design of the space, we should give weight to the design of these speakers, so that they harmonize with the environment without arousing negative emotions in the audience. In many cases the choice of recessed ceiling speakers is a one-way street, while in cases where their installation is impossible we resort to small speakers with sufficient quality and power characteristics. In fact, in some cases where the quality requirements are very high, we recommend adding one or more low frequency speakers (subwoofers).
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• Passing now to the wide range of PA (Public Address) and Live categories, the data is changing, as we move to different systems of philosophy, which come to meet completely different needs from the above cases. These systems are usually placed in places of entertainment, mass catering, events but also in closed or open spaces for concerts and performances. Undoubtedly, these are speakers with high demands in terms of their produced sound power, which should be characterized by a satisfactory value in terms of performance quality, as they will play an active role in the operation of the space, perhaps the most important. For example, if we want to invest a bar in sound, music will clearly be the most important means of entertainment for the attendees, so we should give the appropriate weight, placing the choice of speakers to be installed at the top of our to-do list. space.

   

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  • •  In the category of studio & Broadcasting applications, we find speakers that are characterized by high quality performance, as they are called to reproduce the sound as much as possible by faithfully touching its original source, such as a musical instrument. Our demands on intensity (power) are not high, while at the same time the issue of aesthetics may not concern us at all.

       

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•  Finally, in the category of theater & cinema applications, we have similar requirements to those of a PA system (Public Address) with the difference that in the case of cinema, the use of specific forms and capabilities of speakers is required, which are determined by detailed study by specialized staff.

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  • • The actions performed by technicians with at least some formal training
    • Capture sound with one or more microphones
    • Balancing audio from a multi-channel recorder using a mixing console
    • The amplification of the acoustic signal from specialized high power machines (professional audio amplifiers).
    • Control of sound levels, using standard equations and special measuring instruments
    • Audio signals that pass through longitudinal transmission cables, and involve processing at different times and places, involving various skills (audio processing using technology systems).
    • Compliance with individual national and international practices and standards, established by relevant organizations such as the Telecommunications Union, the International Audio Engineering Society and the European Broadcasting Union.
         Consequently, the term "professional sound" is not precisely defined, but its typical features may include:

• •    Compared to home audio equipment, professional audio equipment tends to have features such as:
    • Particularly greater mechanical strength
    • Heavy-duty (industrial) interfaces such as XLR and Speakon
    • Electronic devices with 19-inch rack-mount construction
    • Balanced Audio Signals
    • Higher analog audio signal strength levels (above 0 dBu)
    • AES / EBU digital audio interfaces
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•    Professional sound systems can be designed and customized to meet our needs if we need any music investment for a restaurant, a retail store or even a large sports facility or airport. For hospitality providers, first impressions are everything. Acoustics are a critical element in any environment where comfort and relaxation are required. The right sound system ensures that the background music is evenly distributed and heard clearly, enhancing the overall experience of the guests in the space. In the same way, the pleasant background music is a very important element for the retail environment. The longer customers stay in the store, the better chance we have of increasing our sales.

   

  The ultimate entertainment experience we enjoy at top sports venues or the largest movie theaters around the world depends entirely on good sound, while in corporate applications, clear and concise communication is vital to the success of both small and medium-sized businesses. and international organizations. Integrated professional audio and control systems contribute to our professional success through effective communication and exchange of information.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

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•    Finally, the quality of the sound reproduced by a professional equipment, has the ability to reach those levels, resulting from the use of high-end systems, but it is more likely to have been designed based solely on sound engineering principles and owes little to culture of systems intended for audiophile listeners.

   

   

   

   

   

   

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  • Stereo and 2.1 stereo audio systems

     

       Analyzing the above basic categories, and starting from the first one, we will simply mention that this is the simplest category, which, however, we meet by heart as it addresses a wide range of professions, which are practiced through office spaces. The application of these systems does not require special knowledge, as each of us can apply such a system, even in their basic form as that of desktop audio, ie simple standalone audio systems. In other cases where our requirements are greater - such as in a multi-office space - there is the possibility of such sound systems, as long as we choose to serve this condition the appropriate speakers, but also the appropriate amplifier that will drive them (as in the case of the multi-band amplifiers we encountered above).

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

• • Commercial / BGM Audio Systems (100 Volt)
     
       In the second large category, we find the Commercial / BGM speakers, which consist of speakers and special form amplifiers. More specifically, these systems operate in areas where music background (BGM) or announcement playback is required. Such places are shops, public catering establishments, hotels, educational institutions, etc.
       A standard stereo amplifier, and a few pairs of speakers could provide a small business, such as a restaurant, adequate background music but this would not work well on a system with many speakers and long cable runs. Classic stereo amplifiers reproduce a low voltage - high power signal, which in order to power the speakers requires large cross-section cables and complex connections between the speakers. It is this condition that greatly increases the cost of installing a conventional system making this option unprofitable.
       By using special systems that have a voltage transformer of 70/100 Volt, and "loading" the audio signal on this high voltage, we achieve the fall of the requirements in power transmitted through the cables and consequently our requirements in large cross sections. . At the same time we use a single cable per audio band regardless of the number of speakers in the room, while reducing our requirements for different amplifiers. This automatically reduces the cost of the installation, which is important when creating a new business space.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

   

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    Studio / Broadcasting audio systems

     

       In the category of studio & Broadcasting sound systems, we find mainly small speakers which each have their own amplifier and are of high quality in order to give us the best and most faithful reproduction of sound in the workplace. It is easy to understand that in a studio, the requirements for proper listening are high as we have to accurately receive in our ears the sound as it is reproduced from the primary source, such as a singer, or a group of musicians. A similar condition is found in professional broadcasting venues such as a radio station.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

• • Audio systems Public Address (PA) & Sound Reinforcement
     
       Large and the next category of audio that we consider, as it includes every installation of live audio playback, whether it comes from a group of musicians, or is played through music machines such as cd players, by a DJ.
       In terms of equipment composition, we would say that it is simple in terms of its basic structure, as it consists of conventional speakers and high power amplifiers. However, we must take into account that in order to proceed with the supply and installation of the system suitable for our professional space, we must definitely turn to the appropriate professional systems consultant, as specialized knowledge and extensive experience are required.
       In an attempt to approximate how this class works, we could say that a microphone, an audio mixing console, an amplifier, and a pair of speakers are a small PA system. More specifically, for the composition of a PA system we use:
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

   

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    • MAIN SPEAKER SYSTEM:

     

       These speakers are divided into two categories. Active speakers are powered, which means they have built-in amplifiers. All that is required is to connect the audio source directly (microphones, instruments, etc.) or to connect them via an audio mixing console. Passive speakers are not powered on, which means you will need to add an external amplifier. There are pros and cons to each type of speaker, and the final choice depends largely on how you plan to use your PA system. For example, the active ones are used more in cases where their frequent transport is required, while the passive speakers are the ideal solution in permanent installations.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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    • HXEIA SUBWOOFERS:

     

       Low frequency speakers (subwoofers) are used to amplify low music frequencies, and to add depth to any kind of music, but especially to dance music. If the PA is for speeches and lectures, folk music, or a choir, then you probably won't need a subwoofer.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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    • HXEIA MONITORS:

     

       Monitors are speakers that are set up so that musicians can hear the music they play over the noise of the crowd and the diffused sound of the central speaker system in the room, and thus be able to perform better.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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    • AMPLIFIERS:

     

       In case we choose to equip our space with passive speakers, we must also supply the appropriate amplifiers to drive them. The power of each amplifier should be at least equal to or even better than the rated power of the speakers to ensure clarity of sound and to avoid distortion.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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    • MIXING CONSOLES:

     

       Mixing consoles are the heart and control center of PA systems All music and audio sources can be mixed in the mixing console, and then sent to the amplifiers and speakers. Each mixing console has volume and tone controls for each input channel, enabling the user to balance the individual signals and create a clear output signal.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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• • SOUND PROCESSORS:

   

     Most of the audio processing required for the proper performance of a PA system is usually integrated into the mixing console and amplifiers, and is mostly sufficient, especially when it comes to a small basic system. Larger systems, however, require the possibility of more detailed adaptation to space, so the addition of sound processors is one way in our choices. Audio processors incorporate the following:
  • Equalizers: Equalizers are used to configure the sound so that the sound effect can be adjusted in space. This parameterization is performed per sound frequency (linear eq), or per frequency range (parametric eq).
  • Limiters: Limiters are used as safety devices in the system, as they set limits on the final output power of the amplifier so that it does not exceed the strength of the speakers it drives.
  • Effects: The effect units enable us to color the sound so as to create a more pleasing and impressive effect for the audience.