If you are reading this, then you must have realized you need a PA system in your warehouse. But how do you pick the perfect one? It all boils down to certain factors and features you need. Therefore, in this post, we’ll reveal what you need to look for when choosing a warehouse PA system.
Wattage
Wattage is a way to measure how much power amplification. This can refer to the power amps inside active speakers or power amps outside passive speakers. You can visit https://livesoundblog.com/ to learn the differences between active and passive speakers. There are two forms of wattage to consider:
- Peak: Peak power is the highest wattage that an amplifier can handle when it is pushed to its limits and still work. The amp in a speaker should only operate at this level for a short time to keep it safe. So, don’t think this is the actual output level.
- RMS: Root Mean Square (RMS) is the measurement for how much wattage an amplifier produces on average. This will help you figure out how much power you’re working with on average. This, in turn, will help you determine how loud and far the sound will go from the speaker.
But wattage isn’t a great way to describe how loud a speaker. This is because it is influenced by several factors. These factors include amplifier type, driver design, and efficiency.
Sound Quality
You should check the frequency range numbers and frequency response graphs of a system. When you do this, you will get a better idea of how the product sounds. The frequency range tells you what frequencies the speaker can play back.
The best range for this is between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. This is covering human’s full hearing range. You don’t really need anything past this except you are planning to train dogs or something.
Some full-range speakers may have not so many low frequencies. The range for such products is 60 to 100 Hz. This isn’t a big deal because you can connect a subwoofer to the speakers to make the low frequencies go downwards.
You should also look at the frequency response graph if the manufacturer provides it. The graph shows a line across the frequency range that reveals how well the warehouse PA system handles certain frequencies. With this, you can better understand how a speaker sounds.
If you want to know how loud something is, look at its highest SPL. With an exact measurement, this will show you how loud the speaker is at range. If you go over this level, the sound will become distorted. Thankfully, most PA systems are built with safety features like overload protection to stop this from happening.
How Big and Heavy
Size affects how easily the speaker can fit in important places. Weight determines how easy it is to carry and move the system. It is very important to know how much your speaker weighs and how big it is in order to transport this setup.
Is there room for it in the trunk of your car? Can you carry it yourself, or do you need someone to help you? Do you need to get it off? To answer all of these questions, you will need to know how big and heavy your PA system is.
Mixer Complexity
It can make a huge difference how complicated the built-in mixer is on your machine. You might desire a mixing experience that is so complete that you don’t need an external front-of-house mixer. This is particularly true if you’re a seasoned artist who knows how to run your sound. On the other hand, if you’re new to sound, you might want an easier PA system that lets you get started faster.
Some built-in mixers have very few settings. Others have full wireless mixing, while others don’t have a mixer at all. You can read this article to learn more about mixers and amplifiers. Whichever one you choose should fit with how you want to work and perform.
Also, you need to think about how many inputs it has. You need to consider whether that number is enough for the number of instruments you want to play. If you want to buy a PA system, check out the mixer to see if it works well for you.
Clear Audio
A warehouse PA system’s main job is to make sure that sound is clear and understandable throughout the building. Most warehouses are noisy because of all the machines and tools that are in them. It is important that the sound system has clear audio that can be heard over all the other noise. This way, everyone staff can hear messages and directions.
Digital Signage
Because warehouses are hard on the ears, digital signage is an important addition to the paging system. With signage, you can solve typical issues like:
- Inability to hear sound when it’s loud.
- Analogue clocks that are out of sync.
- Replacement batteries that cost a lot.
- Problems with sending repetitive messages
VoIP Phone System Integration
For the best warehouse operations, the communication method for the warehouse should work well with VoIP phone systems. You can visit https://www.fcc.gov/ to learn more about Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP). This integration makes it possible for timely announcements to be made from any phone in the building. This, in turn will improve safety and reaction times.
IoT Connectivity
IoT connectivity lets you handle and monitor the system from afar. It allows you to make announcements even when you’re not there. This ensures consistent communication at all times.
Flexibility and Scalability
Warehouses arrangement is always changing. This is because operational demand, inventory, and layout change from time to time.
Therefore, you need to pick a PA system that can be expanded and changed as needed.
How Easy It Is to Use and Maintain
Simple processes are needed in warehouses. The best PA system should have an easy-to-use interface that everyone on the team can use. In addition, the system should be reliable and require little maintenance.
Conclusion
Picking the right warehouse PA system is important for good communication, higher safety standards, and getting work done in the warehouse. Warehouse managers can make smart decisions by putting clear sound, digital signs, system integration, scalability, and ease of use at the top of their lists. Buying a reliable PA system with lots of features not only makes daily tasks easier, but it also makes the workplace more productive and friendly.
