Step 1
Set up both speaker stands
- Open each tripod fully on level ground and tighten its leg knob.
- Set a sensible height—slightly above head height is usually enough.
- Mount each speaker securely and point the grille towards the audience.
Self-service setup guides
Double PA Package Setup Guide
Set up two powered speakers and microphones for clear speech coverage across a wider room.
Reviewed by the Rent Loud team Updated 16 October 2026
Package checklist Step-by-step setup Safety and cable tips
This guide is for earlier PA bookings. Browse current Speech packages.
At a glance
Double Speaker PA Package
£129/day
Package focus
Historical PA instructions for existing hires.
Need extra cables or adapters? Visit Cables & Accessories to add free cables and adapters with at least £49 of equipment hire before discounts.
Before you begin
Choose safe positions, then check every item is there.
What's included
- 2x Powered speaker and stand
- 2x Microphone and stand
- 1x Power and audio cables
Good setup position
- Place speakers to the left and right of the audience, facing them.
- Put microphones in front of the speakers, never behind them.
- Use flat ground, fully opened speaker and microphone stands, and safe cable routes.
- Keep equipment away from drinks and doors.
Setup steps
Work through the setup in this order.
Step 2
Connect microphones
- Set up the microphone stands in front of the speakers.
- Plug each XLR cable into a microphone and Input 1 on the nearest speaker.
- Place microphones in the stand clips and keep their cables off walking routes.
Step 3
Connect power and turn on
- With levels low, connect each speaker to mains power.
- Switch both speakers on.
- Raise each Input 1 level gradually while someone speaks close to the microphone.
- Raise main levels slowly until the voice is clear at the back of the room.
Step 4
Optional Bluetooth background music
- Put one speaker into Bluetooth pairing mode and select it in your phone, tablet, or laptop Bluetooth settings.
- Play music quietly, then balance the source and speaker levels so voices remain clear.
- Keep the device close to the paired speaker and charge it for the event.
Step 5
Balance and test
- Walk to the back and sides of the room while someone speaks normally.
- Match the two speaker levels so one side is not much louder.
- If you hear ringing feedback, lower the microphone input immediately and move the microphone further in front of the speaker.
Step 6
Pack down
- Lower input and main levels, switch both speakers off, and then unplug.
- Disconnect and coil XLR cables, fold microphone stands, remove speakers carefully, and pack their covers and stands.
Useful tips
Keep the setup clear, tidy, and under control.
Speech and microphone technique
- Speak close to the microphone—about a hand's width away.
- Do not cover the microphone grille or tap it.
- Use one microphone at a time if the room is prone to feedback.
- For a panel, test each microphone position before guests arrive.
Cable safety
- Run power and microphone cables around walls where possible.
- Use tape or cable covers where a cable must cross a route.
- Never pull an XLR cable to move a microphone or stand.
Troubleshooting
Quick checks if something is not working.
Microphone has no sound
- Check the XLR plugs are fully clicked in.
- Check Input 1 and the main level are both up.
- Ask the speaker to talk closer to the microphone.
Loud squeal or ringing
- Lower the microphone Input 1 level straight away.
- Move the microphone in front of and farther from the speaker.
- Make sure it is not pointed at a speaker.
Important safety notes
Prioritise clear voices, stable stands, and safe cable runs.
- Keep all equipment dry.
- Do not overload mains sockets.
- Do not move a speaker stand while mounted.
- Keep cables and stands out of walkways.
- Do not open or repair equipment.
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