Ask an Event Expert: Secrets to Event Audio Success

Nick: Presenters are the rock stars of every event, whether they’re educators, executives or keynote speakers. Their confidence depends on being able to hear themselves and the audience, just as much as the audience needs to hear them. Supporting presenters means thinking about their perspective: What technology helps them feel comfortable? What setup allows them to focus on their message instead of worrying about technical issues? When presenters are supported, they deliver stronger performances and connect more deeply with participants. I always encourage production teams to use foldback speakers (loud speakers)  so presenters can hear themselves and feel like they’re a part of the conversation.

Nick: One thing I see often is planners trying to cut costs by sharing microphones or mixing types on a panel. It might seem efficient, but it can create confusion and uneven sound. It’s better to have enough mics and stick to one type for each session. Another issue is speaker placement. Audio should be heard, not seen. Flying speakers or using column speakers can make a huge difference in both sound quality and aesthetics.

Nick: Audio design is all about creating an environment where sound is present and effective. In larger spaces, flying loudspeakers — hanging them from rigging or truss — above the audience helps distribute sound evenly and keeps the stage visually clean. Column speakers, which we’ve introduced across the U.S. as our new standard for small to medium spaces, offer acoustic advantages, providing wider coverage and even distribution of sound. The goal is to make hearing easy for both presenters and participants, regardless of room size or layout. We use array shading in our planning to make sure there’s consistent volume everywhere, so nobody gets blasted in the front row or left out in the back.

Nick: Music sets the tone: It can energize walk-ins and make transitions feel calmer. Silence can feel awkward — the atmosphere is completely different without music. With the right music, we can transform the energy and style of an event. Encore Music makes it easy for planners to create the kind of mood that fits the emotional journey of the participants.

Nick: We support everything from small general sessions to multi-million dollar productions, and the key for each event is understanding the goals and the audience’s needs. For small to medium spaces, column speakers are a great starting point. They’re cost-effective, deliver clear, even sound and they look great, too. For bigger productions, we can add delay speakers or advanced mixing to ensure everyone at the back of the room gets the same experience. Our team works closely with planners to find the right balance between technology, aesthetics and value.

Nick: Think about both the audience and the presenters. What do they need to feel comfortable and engaged? Plan for flexibility, have backup solutions ready, and don’t be afraid to ask for expert advice.