Hosting a successful corporate conference in Birmingham relies on clear communication and that starts with great audio. Whether you’re planning a boardroom briefing, a product launch, or a large seminar, the right sound setup ensures every attendee hears your message loud and clear. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up audio for corporate events in Birmingham, with practical tips and expert resources.
1. Understand Your Venue and Audience Size
Before you even look at equipment, assess your venue. Is it a traditional conference centre, a hotel ballroom, or a unique Birmingham location like the ICC Birmingham? Room size, ceiling height, and expected headcount all impact your audio needs. For larger venues or events with breakout rooms, you’ll need more powerful PA systems and possibly multiple setups.
Tip: Always ask the venue about existing AV infrastructure – you might be able to integrate your hire equipment with what’s already there.
2. Choose the Right PA System
For most corporate conferences, a portable PA system with clear, even sound coverage is essential. Look for systems with:
- Sufficient wattage for your audience size (e.g., 100–200 people typically need at least 500–1000W)
- Multiple input options for microphones and laptops
- Compact, discreet speakers that blend into professional environments
If you’re unsure what fits your event, ACE PA Hire’s guide offers a helpful overview of PA system sizing.
3. Select Quality Microphones
Corporate events usually require a mix of microphones:
- Lapel (lavalier) mics for presenters who need to move around
- Handheld wireless mics for Q&A sessions or panel discussions
- Gooseneck or tabletop mics for panelists seated at a table
Wireless options keep things tidy and flexible – just remember to check for interference, especially in city centre locations.
4. Plan for Audio Sources and Connectivity
Most conferences need to connect laptops, tablets, or phones for presentations and video calls. Make sure your mixer or PA system has the right inputs (XLR, 1/4”, RCA, Bluetooth, etc.). Bring spare cables and adapters these are often the small details that make or break a smooth event.
For more on connecting devices, check out Shure’s guide to conference audio.
5. Position Your Equipment Strategically
- Speakers: Place speakers at least 2 metres in front of microphones to prevent feedback. Angle them towards the audience, not the walls.
- Mixing Desk: Keep it accessible for real-time adjustments, ideally central in the room.
- Cables: Use cable covers to prevent trip hazards – essential for health and safety compliance.
6. Test and Soundcheck
Arrive early to set up and test every element; microphones, playback devices, and speakers. Walk the room to check for dead zones or feedback. If possible, have a colleague speak from different points in the room to ensure even coverage.
For an extra bit of info, Eventbrite’s AV tips are a great resource.
7. Have Support on Standby
Even the best setups can run into issues. Make sure someone is available to troubleshoot during the event – whether it’s you or an AV tech from your hire provider.
8. Consider Professional Hire
If you’re not confident with AV equipment or want to guarantee a professional result, working with a local Birmingham specialist like JET Equipment Hire (i.e. us) can save you time and stress. We provide free delivery, setup, and strike across the West Midlands, with tailored packages for conferences of all sizes.
Need help with your next corporate event?
Contact us for expert advice and reliable AV hire in Birmingham and the West Midlands.
