Line array
A line array is a vertical group of speaker modules working together to cover an audience. Learn which venue and layout details to include in your brief.
When it comes up
Line arrays give system designers control over coverage across different listener distances. Their configuration depends on the room, the audience geometry and the performance; a small room may be better served by compact point-source speakers.
Ask about coverage
Describe the front and back of the audience area, any balconies and venue limits. Ask how the system will cover those areas rather than choosing a system based on how many cabinets it has.
Describe the audience area
An outdoor audience spread across a wide lawn presents a different brief from seated guests in a long hall. Before requesting a line array, show the production team the listening area and the stage position. Include any balconies or separate audience zones. The useful discussion is how people across the space will hear the programme, not how large the system will look in a photograph.
Bring to the system discussion
- A plan showing the audience width, depth and any separate listening areas.
- Venue photographs and any restrictions supplied by its technical team.
- The event format, expected attendance and planned soundcheck window.
Before the event
Does every concert need a line array?
The system choice depends on the event and the venue. Ask the sound team to explain the proposed coverage rather than choosing the format solely because another show used it.
Can I choose the hanging position myself?
Discuss possible positions with the venue and qualified production team. The final arrangement needs their assessment; a diagram in an event brief is only a starting point.