Whether you’re planning a garden party, a wedding in a marquee, or a major outdoor event, hiring a PA system is crucial for clear, reliable sound. But with so many options out there, how much should you expect to pay for PA system hire in the UK? Let’s break down the costs, what influences them, and how to get the best value for your event.
PA System Hire Costs: From Garden Parties to Festival Main Stages
PA system hire prices in the UK can range from as little as £40 for a small gathering to tens of thousands for a festival main stage. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
1. Small Events & Garden Parties (Up to 50 people)
- Typical price: £40–£100 per day
Perfect for BBQs, speeches, or background music. Usually includes a compact speaker and a microphone. - JET Equipment Hire example: “Briefing Kit” — £45 per day or £63 per weekend.
2. Medium Events (50–300 people)
- Typical price: £100–£300 per day
Great for weddings, corporate events, or parties in marquees and barns. Packages often include two speakers, wireless mics, a mixer, and lighting. - JET Equipment Hire example: “Indoor Atmos Pack” – £145 per day or £228 per weekend.
3. Large Events (300–1,000 people)
- Typical price: £300–£1,500+ per day
For sports events, outdoor ceremonies, or small festivals. These setups use powerful PA rigs, stage monitors, and often a sound engineer.
4. Major Festivals & Concerts (1,000+ people)
- Typical price: £2,000–£20,000+ per day
Main stages at events require line array systems, digital mixing desks, and a full technical crew. Companies such as Britannia Row Productions and Skan PA specialise in this scale.
What’s Included in the Cost?
Most reputable PA hire companies include:
- Speakers and stands
- Mixers and microphones (wired/wireless)
- Cables, accessories, and basic setup
- Delivery (often free within a local area)
- Optional extras: lighting, smoke machines, playlist curation
At JET Equipment Hire, all packages include setup and wiring, free delivery within the Midlands, and access to Spotify playlists tailored for professional event sound systems.
Factors Affecting PA Hire Prices
1. Event Size & Venue
The number of guests and the venue layout (indoor/outdoor, open field, marquee, etc.) directly impact the size and type of system you’ll need.
2. Equipment Specification
Premium features like wireless microphones, digital mixers, or lighting will increase the cost. For example, JET Equipment Hire’s “Party Sound System” (with wireless mic, mixer, smoke machine, and lighting) is £95 per day or £143 per weekend.
3. Hire Duration
Longer hires (e.g., weekends) often come with discounted rates. JET Equipment Hire offers weekend deals that save you up to £50 compared to booking two single days.
4. Delivery & Setup
Local delivery is often free, but mileage charges may apply outside the core area. JET Equipment Hire delivers free across the Midlands, with additional charges beyond.
5. Technical Support & Operation
Most standard hires are “dry hire” (you operate the equipment), but you can often add on-site technical support or a sound engineer for an extra fee.
Custom Packages & Sourcing for Larger Events
While JET Equipment Hire specialises in small to medium events, we know that sometimes you need more. That’s why we offer custom setups and can source larger systems through our trusted network – just let us know your requirements for a tailored quote.
How to Get the Best Value
- Book early for the best equipment availability and possible discounts.
- Bundle packages (speakers, mics, lighting) for better rates.
- Use local providers to save on delivery.
- Check what’s included – ask about setup, support, and extras.
Example Packages from JET Equipment Hire
| Package | What’s Included | Price (Day/Weekend) |
|---|---|---|
| Briefing Kit | 1x Bose L1 Compact, 1x Wired Mic | £45 / £63 |
| Indoor Atmos Pack | 2x Bose L1 Compact, 1x Smoke Machine, 1x Wireless Mic, 1x Mixer, 2x LED Par Can | £145 / £228 |
| Party Sound System | 2x Bose L1 Compact, 1x Wireless Mic, 1x Mixer | £95 / £143 |
All packages include setup, wiring, and free Midlands delivery.
Final Thoughts
PA system hire in the UK is flexible and accessible, whether you’re hosting a small garden party or a headline festival stage. For most private and corporate events, expect to pay between £40 and £300 per day. For larger or specialist events, bespoke packages and partnerships can provide exactly what you need.
Ready to get started?
Request a FREE No Obligation quote from JET Equipment Hire.
