Line Array Setup and Rigging: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide

Line Array Speakers: Overview and Why Proper Rigging Matters

What line array speakers are

Line array speakers are vertically stacked loudspeaker modules designed to create a controlled, long-throw sound field for concerts and large events. Correct setup and rigging directly affect coverage consistency, intelligibility, and structural safety.

Planning Your Line Array Setup: Site Survey and Objectives

Assess the venue and audience

Begin by defining audience area size, indoor vs. outdoor conditions, sightlines, stage height, and mounting points. For outdoor festivals, consider wind exposure and temporary truss capacity. For fixed venues, verify permanent rigging points and their load ratings.

Define coverage goals and SPL targets

Specify target SPL (e.g., 95–105 dB LAeq for many concert settings) and frequency coverage. Use manufacturer prediction software or third-party tools to model where the sound must be uniform and which areas can tolerate roll-off.

Rigging Hardware and Load Calculations

Choose rated hardware and apply safety factors

Always use certified rigging hardware with traceable Working Load Limits (WLL). Apply at least a 5:1 safety factor for human-occupied spaces whenever local regulations require it (common practice is 5:1 or higher for flown systems).

Common hardware and recommended WLLs

Below is a quick comparison of typical rigging items and their usual safe working loads. Always consult manufacturers' data and local code before selecting equipment.

Pre-Rigging Checks and Safety

Inspect both equipment and paperwork

Verify each loudspeaker module’s rigging points, inspecting for cracks, missing hardware, or loose bolts. Confirm each piece’s serial number and any batch-specific service notices from the manufacturer. Check inspection certificates for chain hoists and frames.

Plan for emergency and environmental factors

Establish a wind-speed threshold for taking arrays down (for temporary outdoor rigs, commonly 15–20 m/s depending on array size and exposure). Confirm evacuation pathways and ensure no personnel underneath a flown load during lift unless permitted and protected by regulation.

Step-by-Step Rigging Procedure

1. Pre-assembly and labelling

Lay out all modules on the ground in numerical order. Label each module with its rigging position to avoid confusion during the lift. Check rigging pins, safety clips, and the condition of flying frames.

2. Attach suspension and connect mechanical links

Attach certified shackles and slings to the array’s rigging points according to the manufacturer’s rigging manual. Ensure all locking mechanisms are secured and cotter pins installed where required.

3. Lift and fly the first module

Use an electric chain hoist or a certified crane to raise the first module slowly while personnel maintain tag lines to control rotation. Fly it to the planned trim height and temporarily secure it to the structure or truss points per load plan.

4. Add subsequent modules and set splay angles

Progressively add modules, setting the splay angle between modules according to your coverage plan. Typical splay angle guidance: 0.5–3° per module for long-throw line arrays, 3–8° for mid-throw, and up to 10–12° for short-throw setups. Use the array’s dedicated angle pins and locking plates for repeatable geometry.

5. Indexing and safety verification

Once fully flown, verify the total suspended weight against the truss/structure load capacity and cross-check tension on each suspension point. Perform a lift-and-hold test at a low height to ensure rigging stability before final trimming to position.

Aiming, Coverage, and Acoustic Optimization

Use prediction software and real-world checks

Run a prediction using manufacturer tools or third-party software (e.g., EASE, L-Acoustics Soundvision) to estimate coverage and SPL distribution. After deployment, perform in-situ verification with a measurement mic and RTA to confirm the model.

Delay towers and fills

For long venues, design delay towers so their acoustic output aligns with the main arrays. Calculate delay times based on distance (approx. 2.94 ms per meter) and level-match the outputs to avoid combing and echo artifacts.

System Processing, Tuning and Safety Monitoring

System processing and preset usage

Apply line array presets when available and then tweak with measurement-based EQ. Use high-pass filters for flown subs where appropriate, and set limiting to protect drivers from overload. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended presets as starting points.

Ongoing safety monitoring

Implement routine checks during the event: inspect suspension points, monitor wind conditions, and assign a rigger on-call. Keep a log of hourly inspections for longer events and store load charts and rigging plans in your site documentation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Coverage holes and hot spots

If you see uneven coverage, adjust array splay, tilt the array to shift coverage, or add delayed fills. Re-run measurements after each adjustment to avoid introducing new problems.

Mechanical looseness or noise

Rattle or buzzing often comes from loose rigging hardware or unsecured cables. Stop the show if you suspect structural movement. Tighten and secure hardware on the ground when possible, or lower the array for a full inspection.

Why Choose T.I Audio for Line Array Speakers and Support

Company capabilities and engineering support

T.I Audio, a leading pro audio manufacturer brand for 14 years in China, offers a complete portfolio including line array, PA speaker, stage monitor, subwoofer, power amplifier, active line array, active speaker, processor, digital mixer, and wireless microphone. Our 8-person engineering team has over 20 years of pro-audio system experience, and we provide technical support for rigging and system design. With production staff of 100 and more than 10,000 m² of factory space, T.I Audio supports installations for concerts, festivals, houses of worship, clubs, and rental companies globally. Visit https://www.ti-audio.com/ for product details and dealer opportunities.

FAQ: Common Questions About Line Array Setup and Rigging

Q: How do I determine how many line array modules I need?

A: Use prediction software to model coverage based on module dispersion and SPL output. Consider audience size, distance, and desired SPL. Manufacturers often provide example configurations for common venue sizes as starting points.

Q: Can I fly arrays without a certified rigging frame?

A: No. Always use manufacturer-approved flying frames or certified adapters. Improvising with unsuitable hardware risks equipment failure and serious injury.

Q: What wind speed should force me to take a flown array down outdoors?

A: This depends on the array profile and exposure. A common working threshold is 15–20 m/s, but you must use the array’s manufacturer guidance and local regulations; consult an engineer if unsure.

Q: How important is splay angle precision?

A: Very important. Small angle changes significantly affect coverage patterns. Use the array’s angle-setting hardware and validate with measurement tools to ensure consistent audience coverage.

Q: Who should perform the rigging?

A: Certified riggers with experience in theatrical or concert rigging should handle flown systems. For large or permanent installs, involve a structural engineer to approve anchor points and load distribution.

Q: Where can I get more support or buy line array speakers?

A: Contact T.I Audio through https://www.ti-audio.com/ to view line array options, access technical data, or inquire about dealer opportunities worldwide.