Step by step guide to

setting up a PA System
Lauren Benson
STEP 1

Plug the kettlelead into the mains and the desk.

Kettleleads are used because they are able to transfer

more power.
STEP 2

Connect each speaker to the mains with

kettleleads. Then switch off the speakers so that
they arent damaged when the desk is connected
and switched on.
STEP 3 Speaker input

Connect the desk to the speakers using an XLR

Desk outputs
cable from the main output on the desk to the
inputs on the speakers. The left output connects to
the left speaker and the right output to the right
speaker.

XLR cables
USING ACTIVE OR PASSIVE
SPEAKERS

You can use active or passive speakers. I am using

active speakers because they have a built in amp.
Passive speakers would be more commonly used
in the rig as they are lighter.
STEP 4

Plug in the sound source (CD player) using a figure

8 cable.
STEP 5 Phono cable

Connect the sound desk to the sound source using

a phono cable with quarter inch jack adapters,
then switch on the desk. The input on the desk
can vary depending on your sound source, for
example whereas a CD player uses a line input, a
microphone would use an XLR input.
Quarter inch jack
adapters
STEP 6

Switch on the sound source and press play.

STEP 7

Turn down the volume on the speakers to avoid

damage, and then switch on.
STEP 8

Switch on both channels.

STEP 9

Press PFL (Pre Fade Listen) on one channel, then

PFL adjust the gain until the peak meter begins to
flicker orange. This will allow the sound to get
louder/quieter without damaging equipment. The
gain controls how much sound comes into the
speakers. Repeat for each channel.

Gain controls Peak meter

Step 10

Because the speakers are stereo and I am using 2

channels for my speakers, I will pan my left
speaker all the way to the left and the right
speaker all the way to the right. This will allow
equal sound to exit the speakers.
STEP 11

Adjust the master fader to 0DB to give the sound

an ability to become louder at any point.
STEP 12

Adjust the channels faders to appropriate levels.

STEP 13

Now there is sound exiting the speakers, adjust

the EQ to suit the sound, i.e so it doesnt sound
tinny.