Technical Production 101: Audio Visual Systems Explained!

Have you ever wondered what makes up Audio Visual Systems?

When talking about Audio Visual Systems, you have probably heard of the term Pro AVL, also known as Professional Audio, Video and Lighting. At ARK-AV, we focus on Technical Production for the events and entertainment industry so in context, the Audio Visual Systems we are talking about consist of professional grade systems used in theatres, studios and all kinds of stage productions.

When putting together the Audio Visual System for your event, you may be tempted to just go for the biggest and best system your money can buy. Often times, you may end up spending way too much based on blind recommendations, OR you keep your budget too tight and end up with an inadequate system that under-performs on your big launch.

So when planning your Audio Visual System, it all boils down to two main important factors - the type of venue, and the nature of the event.

Two Important Factors for Planning

Firstly, the Type of Venue - The Venue Considerations

• • • What is the size of your venue? Is it big or small?
    • How is the illumination in the space? Do you get lots of daylight, is it bright or dark? Is there sufficient lighting available on site?
    • What about the Acoustics? Does the venue sound quiet and “dead” or is it lively and reverberant?
    • Depending on the outcome of the venue considerations, this will determine the type of AVL system that you need to support the venue.

Secondly, you have to know the Nature of Event. There are two main categories:

1. 1. 1. 1. Events - consist of meetings, seminars, conventions and the like
            • Focus is mainly on presentations and speeches
            • Audio clarity primarily for voice
            • Video presentation on large format screens, confidence monitor
            • Lighting to illuminate the room, presenter, backdrop
         2. Performance - consist of theatre, concerts, dance, fashion show, etc.
            • Focus is mainly to entertain an audience
            • Audio clarity for full range of sound, including subs for a fuller reinforced sound
            • Video can be used for projection design, live cameras, mapping elements
            • Lighting can be used for more than general illumination. You can use lights to enhance mood, design, effects

Based on these two important factors, you can start looking into the different types of systems that best suit your needs. For example:

1. 1. Audio System
      • Point Source vs Line Array
      • Wired vs Wireless Microphones
      • Playback & Monitor options
   2. Video System
      • Big Screen TV vs Video Projector vs LED Wall
      • Cameras - Live, CCTV, Streaming
      • Playback & Monitor options
   3. Lighting System
      • Fixed Lighting Rig vs Specific Design
      • LED vs Lamp-based Fixtures
      • Conventional vs Moving Lights

Bonus Tip!

Manpower & Crew

Don’t forget that you need enough manpower to setup and operate all the equipment. Keep the setup simple & manageable if you’re working with a lean team. Consider hiring professional casual crew during the load-in and setup.

Free Resource!

Planning ahead saves you time and money! Click the link below to download a free Technical Rider template to help you plan for your next event!

Question of the Day

What kind of Audio Visual Systems do you use for your events?

Post your thoughts and answers in the comments section below, we’d love to hear what you are working on.

For more information, check out the full video below.

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