Battery-Powered PA Systems Are Audio “Workhorses”

By Rick Sandlas

If there is no ready source of electric power, extension cords have to be connected to a power source or a generator.

Today, many religious institutions employ some form of conventional public address (PA) system. Unfortunately, these systems often are too cumbersome and inconvenient to meet a variety of challenges and locations required of institutions.

“Conventional PA systems simply do not function well when used outdoors or in remote settings,” explains Rick Lazarus, spokesperson for Anchor Audio in Torrance, Calif. “For example, if there is no ready source of electric power, extension cords have to be connected to a power source or a generator.

“These systems can be difficult to set up and might require sound checks and a skilled technician operating a mixing board,” he adds. “Plus, most PA systems are designed for indoor use and are extremely heavy, making them difficult to transport.”

Lazarus says facing these limitations—as well as modest budgets that stand in stark contrast to grandiose goals—causes many religious institutions to turn to a new generation of lightweight, portable battery-powered units.

Lee Milam of Mayfair Church of Christ in Birmingham, Ala., says his church’s Liberty system is his outdoor or mobile “workhorse.” The battery-powered system can reach audiences up to 1,000 and will operate for up to six hours on a single battery charge. Milam purchased his first Liberty unit four years ago and now uses several others in various locations, including an orphanage on the church’s 50-acre property in Mexico and for missionary work throughout Mexico and Central America.

“We also have a unit here at the church we use for all outdoor events,” Milam adds. “Its portability and battery power let us use it for field events— in outdoor places that can’t get power—on a softball field or a football field.” The church also uses the system for children’s programs, for which an instant PA can be set up in the middle of the church gym.

For more information about portable sound systems, call Anchor Audio toll-free at 888.444.6077, or visit www.anchoraudio.com.