# Event sound glossary

> The Alquiaudio glossary explains, in one or two sentences, the 29 technical terms that come up most when hiring sound for an event in Catalonia: speakers, mixing, microphones, lighting and planning.

- URL: https://www.alquiaudio.es/en/event-sound-glossary/
- Last updated: October 2026

## What do speaker and power terms mean?

These are the concepts that determine how much sound reaches the audience, and at what quality.

- **Subwoofer** (sub): A speaker dedicated to the lowest frequencies, usually below 100 Hz. It gives body to dance music; Alquiaudio uses 18-inch subwoofers.
- **Full-range speaker**: A speaker that reproduces voice and music across almost the whole audible spectrum. It is the basis of any event sound system.
- **Active speaker** (powered speaker): A speaker with the amplifier built into the cabinet. It is quicker to set up and, if one fails, the rest of the system keeps playing.
- **Passive speaker**: A speaker that needs an external power amplifier. Common in permanent installations such as theatres.
- **RMS watt** (continuous power): A measure of the power a system can deliver continuously. More reliable than the “peak power” many manufacturers advertise.
- **Decibel (dB)**: A logarithmic unit for sound intensity. Every extra 3 dB means double the power, though the ear perceives it as a small increase.
- **Coverage**: The area where sound arrives at a similar level and clarity. Good coverage matters more than total power.
- **Delay**: A short delay applied to speakers placed far from the stage so their sound arrives in sync with the main system.

## Which terms are used in mixing and on stage?

These are the words you will hear from the technician during set-up and the sound check.

- **Mixing desk** (mixing console): The unit that receives every signal (mics, instruments, music) and adjusts their level and tone. Alquiaudio uses a 32-channel desk.
- **Channel**: Each independent input on the mixing desk. A five-piece band with drums usually needs 18 to 24 channels.
- **Stage monitor** (wedge): A speaker pointed at musicians or presenters so they can hear themselves.
- **In-ear monitor** (IEM): An earpiece that replaces the stage monitor. It lowers stage volume but takes practice.
- **DI box** (direct injection): A device that adapts the signal from instruments such as bass or keyboard so it can be connected to the desk without noise.
- **Equalisation** (EQ): Adjusting the bass, mids and treble of a signal. It makes speech intelligible and helps prevent feedback.
- **Feedback** (howl): The squeal that occurs when a microphone picks up the sound of its own speaker. Avoided with good placement and EQ.
- **Sound check**: Testing music and mics before the audience arrives. At Alquiaudio it always happens before doors open.

## Which microphone terms are worth knowing?

These help you choose the right microphone for each person and moment.

- **Headset microphone**: A mic worn on the head that sits next to the mouth. The safest choice for presenters and officiants who move around.
- **Lavalier microphone** (lapel mic): A small mic clipped to clothing. Works well in quiet settings and for video recording.
- **UHF**: The radio frequency band used by professional wireless microphones. More stable than 2.4 GHz in rooms with lots of Wi-Fi.
- **Digital dividend**: The reallocation of the 800 MHz and 700 MHz bands to mobile networks in Spain. Microphones operating there can no longer be used.

## Which lighting and power terms appear in a quote?

These explain which lights are installed and how the equipment is powered.

- **LED PAR**: A compact LED light that projects a coloured beam. Used to wash walls, trees or the dance floor.
- **DMX**: A lighting control protocol for programming scenes and syncing lights from a console.
- **Generator**: Equipment that produces electricity where there is no mains supply. For sound it must be suitable for audio to avoid hum.
- **Sound limiter**: A device that prevents a maximum decibel level from being exceeded. Some councils require one for outdoor events.

## Which event planning terms does Alquiaudio use?

These are the documents and concepts that organise the work before the day of the event.

- **Technical rider**: A document listing the technical needs of an event or band: equipment, power, timings and placement.
- **Alquiaudio Rider**: A one-page technical rider that Alquiaudio includes free with every quote, with placement plan, sockets, timings, mics and Plan B.
- **Input list** (channel list): A list of a band’s instruments and mics, channel by channel. It is the basis for preparing the mixing desk.
- **Minor contract** (contrato menor): A Spanish public procurement procedure for services with an estimated value below €15,000 excluding VAT, common for town festival sound.
- **Plan B**: A ready alternative for rain or breakdowns: back-up equipment, covers and a covered area set out in the Rider.


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**Alquiaudio** — Alquiaudio is a sound and lighting hire company with technicians, based in the province of Barcelona and serving all of Catalonia since 2015. Its own 6,000 W system covers weddings, corporate events, town councils, town festivals, private parties and live bands of up to 7 musicians.

- Tel. / WhatsApp: +34 722 538 833 (https://wa.me/34722538833)
- Email: info@alquiaudio.es
- Open 24/7, 365 days a year, holidays included
- Based in the province of Barcelona · Serving all of Catalonia
- Web: https://www.alquiaudio.es/