Public speaking can be nerve-racking, especially when addressing a large audience. In addition to thorough preparation, knowing you have the right live sound equipment—including a quality loudspeaker, wireless receiver, and microphone—will help you establish the confidence you need to get the task done. So, we’ve provided a diverse list of the best sounding and most reliable gear that’s ideally suited for live speaking events and presentations.
Speakers
While you may not want to spend a fortune on a powered loudspeaker, you do want to ensure that it’s a good quality model. This way, the focus remains on the speaker rather than on any unpleasant sound elements, like excessive boominess or cloudiness.
If your audience consists of about 100 people and you’re looking for something compact and high-quality, consider a loudspeaker model like the QSC CP12. It shows off a clean and articulate sound profile and provides plenty of volume for smaller venues, like houses of worship, conference centers and large meeting rooms. And should you need to reach up to 250 guests, you have the option of buying a second speaker and turn the CP12 into a robust pair.
The QSC CP12 includes some compelling features that will optimize the sound for your voice and event space. QSC’s advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) features Intrinsic Correction, which ensures accurate performance in a wide range of acoustic spaces with little or no EQ required. Finally, you’ll have the choice of several Contour Selections, like the Speech setting that enhances vocal clarity and stability when used with either a handheld microphone or headset mic.
If you’re searching for something a little more powerful with deeper functionality, check out the K12.2, which is a step up in the QSC speaker range. It not only offers a second mic input, but also allows for Hi-Z instrument connection (in addition to line-in), should you need to expand the loudspeaker to music applications as well. Bought as a pair, the K12.2 will have no problem reaching an audience of 300 or more guests. And the included presets will eliminate any need for manual EQ. Choose the HAND MIC preset for the best sound with a handheld mic. Or if you’re using a headset, choose the HEAD MIC setting for optimum speech intelligibility and feedback reduction. If you’re ready to go all out and invest in two speakers, you can opt for the Speaker Pair with Essential Accessories Kit. In addition to the pair of speakers, you’ll get two stands, two bags, and two mic cables.
Wireless Microphone Systems
Shure is one of the most popular manufacturers of mics, and they make solid wireless microphone systems for the price point. You’ll find budget-friendly receivers that are easy to use, such as the analog BLX4R as well as higher priced digital receivers, such as the QLXD4. Both receivers can be bought on their own or as part of a wireless microphone system or bundle. So, you can choose to keep it simple by purchasing an all-in-one kit that includes a receiver, bodypack and mic, for instance, or customize the setup by picking your components separately. To keep things straightforward, we’ll cover some all-in-one options.
Budget Wireless Mic Systems
If you’re on a tight budget and you’re speaking at a small, casual event, such as an office party or church gathering, consider the Shure BLX24R/SM58. This set provides a cost-effective, yet reliable solution for presenters, offering quality sound, simple setup and intuitive operation. The package combines an analog receiver, handheld transmitter, and an SM58 dynamic mic capsule, which can deliver clear, intelligible speech in a wide variety of environments. The receiver offers a one-touch QuickScan frequency selection to quickly locate a clean RF channel. It also employs microprocessor-controlled antenna diversity technology to reduce dropouts. The LCD display shows group and channel settings and allows you to meter audio level and signal strength. An LED indicator even lets you keep an eye on the transmitter's remaining battery life.
If you prefer using a lavalier mic instead of a handheld microphone, you can opt for something like the Shure BLX14R/W85M, which includes the receiver, a bodypack transmitter, and a low-profile cardioid lav mic.
High-End Wireless Mic Systems
If you’re willing to pay more, you can get your hands on a digital wireless microphone system, like the Shure SLXD24D/SM58, which is a dual-channel unit, or the QLXD14/93, which offers encryption and network control via Ethernet. Both the SLX-D and QLX-D are digital systems, which tend to have better quality audio than the analog systems mentioned above. They also have wider tuning bandwidth and offer more control with respect to frequency selection, helping to avoid various sources of possible interference. Lastly, their display screens are brighter and more detailed. Both receiver models can be bought as packages, either with handheld transmitters and mic capsules or with bodypack transmitters and lav mics. If you need both handheld mic and lav mic options, you can opt for the Shure QLDXD2 Kit, which includes a wireless handheld mic, as well as a bodypack and lav mic.
So far, we’ve talked solely about Shure wireless mic systems mostly because the components are all so easy to mix and match and are available in a variety of bundles. However, there are other fantastic all-in-one systems out there, like the Sennheiser EW-D ME2/835-S SET or the pricier and more advanced, EW 500 G4-KK205, which comes equipped with an impressive sounding Neumman KK205 Mic Capsule.
Consider Upgrading Your Mic
While it’s very convenient to buy a fully equipped wireless microphone system, some may want to upgrade their wireless mics to achieve a premium broadcast quality sound that’s tailored for speech and most effectively minimizes noise or any chance of feedback. The low profile DPA 4080 CORE is a miniature cardioid lavalier mic with an electret-condenser capsule that delivers incredibly clean, crisp, and clear speech. In fact, the brand specializes in mics that are optimized for professional live stage work and presentations. The 4080 CORE is tuned with a soft boost in the 4 to 6 kHz range for clarity. The low-cut filter also helps to minimize low-end rumbles and reduce unwanted proximity-effect bass frequencies.
Many presenters prefer headset or earset microphones, often because they stay clear of one’s shirt. Lav mics can sometimes cause rustling/interference when attached to clothing, especially if the presenter tends to move around. If you’re worried about this issue, opting for a DPA model, like the dual-ear CORE 4088 might be a safer bet, albeit a pricey one. If you’re looking for something more affordable, the dual-ear Galaxy Audio HSM4 headset or single-ear UEM-155 earset mic from Senal are worthy alternatives.
Do You Have the Right Connector?
When purchasing your lavalier or headset mic, you want to ensure that the connector is compatible with your bodypack. For example, if you’re pairing the 4080 CORE lav mic with a Shure transmitter, like the QLX-D, then you need to choose the lavalier model with a TA4F connector. Similarly, if you’re using a Sennheiser bodypack transmitter, like the SpeechLine SL Bodypack DW, you’ll want to pair it with a mic that has a 3.5mm locking connector.
All-in-One Speaker and Wireless Mic Systems
If you’re speaking at a smaller, more relaxed venue and don’t want to throw down tons of cash for a sperate speaker and wireless microphone system, there are some simpler options that may streamline your setup while also saving you some money. The LD Systems ANNY 10 Kit is a 10-inch battery-powered Bluetooth PA Speaker with a choice of one or two bodypacks and headsets. Alternatively, you have the option to pair the speaker with one or two wireless handheld microphones. Given that the system is portable, battery powered and extremely easy to use, it’s a great alternative for casual presenters who prefer to keep things easy. The onboard rechargeable battery powers the ANNY 10 for between 5 and 25 hours depending on how you use it, while the built-in luggage handle and rolling wheels ensure the system is easy to transport.
Apart from the extra input sources on the speaker, which include two XLR-1/4" combo jacks (switchable for mic or line level) a single 3.5mm jack, and two RCA inputs, you’ll also be able to stream via Bluetooth. Additionally, the back of the speaker features a 6-channel onboard mixer, which provides 3-band EQ, echo, and reverb effects, as well as individual channel and master volume control. And on the top of the speaker, there is a handy storage compartment for mobile devices.
Of course, you can find even lesser-expensive models, such as the Samson Expedition XP106w, which, should get the job done without issue if you’re speaking at a smaller, more casual event, like a classroom or party.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide the caliber of equipment needed for your event. If you’re presenting to shareholders or pitching a million-dollar idea to upper management and your job depends on it, it might be wise to invest some extra thought and money into your purchasing decision. But if you’re simply speaking to a classroom or presenting at a low stakes conference, you don’t necessarily need to buy the most professional equipment on the market. Luckily, there are options in every price range to suit your specific needs.
For more information about the products listed, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out our detailed product pages. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.
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