music

Wireless Mic Disaster: Avoid It With A Professional Sound Engineer

Here’s How A Professional Sound Engineer Can Help You Avoid Wireless Mic Disaster

A wireless mic can be a game-changer for just about any type of event, but they have a learning curve. If you want to avoid cumbersome cables but aren’t sure how wireless mics work, hiring a professional engineer is essential.

An experienced engineer can help you avoid some of the common problems people run into with wireless mics. Additionally, a professional knows how to properly set up the system so things run smoothly from the beginning.

Wireless Mic Signal Blockage Can Still Pull The Plug

Even without a plug, if you experience signal blockage, your sound grinds to a halt. Signal blockage occurs when something, particularly something metal, comes between the transmitter and the receiver. Even walls and large groups of people can cause this undesirable effect.

Not so fun fact, it’s the high salt content in the human body that actually interferes with the signal.

Because you’re bound to have walls and crowds to contend with, a professional sound engineer can help reduce the potential for transmission issues before and during your event.

Wireless Mic Signals That Can’t Go The Distance

Because radio waves disperse as they travel through space, the placement of your equipment really matters. Putting your components in the wrong place can cause weak, intermittent or even non-existent signal paths.

This concept is called strengthening Signal-to-Noise-Ratio. Believe it or not, you can’t place components too close together, either. Both of these issues can cause signal problems.

Professional engineers know how to assess a room and avoid these signal strength problems.

Wireless Mics Have Wavelengths That Vary

Unless you want to give yourself a crash course in the different wavelengths antennae utilize, you’ll need a professional to help with optimal wireless mic setup. In addition to the variables we’ve already mentioned, different antennae use different wavelengths and this contributes to ideal placement.

It’s one of the diagnostic tools sound engineers use to decide where components need to be.

Additionally, there are unidirectional and omnidirectional units and each of these behave differently and dictate different placement.

There are many variables to consider which is why professional experience is so valuable.

Wireless Mic Frequency Sets Need Attention

Here’s another thing to juggle – you need to ensure your wireless setup isn’t trying to operate on the same channels as local broadcasting networks. If you try to use the same channel that is already in use you’ll experience problems. This is most crucial to outdoor events.

However, indoor events featuring wireless mics also need to steer clear of channels any broadcast network within 30-60 miles.

If you’re using wireless microphones and wireless in-ear monitors together, things become even more complicated and require a frequency coordination computer program diagnostic. Guess who has that kind of program?

Professional sound engineers.

Avoid Event Day Headaches With Professional Help

The point of this article isn’t to scare you away from wireless mics. It’s actually the opposite. We love wireless systems because they give our clients the freedom to run their event exactly as they imagine it.

If you want to take the wireless plunge, however, hiring a professional team is truly the best way to keep the frequency on point.

Blog - 09/07/2019

San Francisco Corporate Sound Equipment Rentals

Every successful event shares a few similarities. Today, we’re talking about the importance of appropriate music selection and a quality sound system to support it. San Francisco is one of the world’s fastest-paced markets where competition for attention is fierce. The impression your event’s music imparts on attendees can help bring them back again next year.

Whether you are booking a charity function for a non-profit organization, having a gathering for colleagues and employees, or treating investors to a memorable evening, corporate functions require a special touch. Music is one of the most evocative elements that you can offer.

In fact, the right music can sway opinions, put your guests in a particular mindset, and even inspire them. Don’t overlook the power of this tool. It isn’t simply background music.

Furthermore, having great music isn’t the only important facet of corporate sound. Every event and venue holds different secrets that the right technician can unlock. Their experience helps them deconstruct the puzzle to ensure your event sounds as good as it looks. The equipment they bring supports both their song choices and their technical expertise.

Where To Rent A Sound System In San Francisco

We get it, it’s hard to know where to begin the task of finding good sound equipment for an event. This is an area where most event professionals need guidance from professional technicians. Most simply don’t know what they need, and that’s perfectly normal.

The right type of corporate sound vendor will not only have a wide range of equipment suited to different size venues, but they’ll have knowledgable staff. You can ask detailed questions and provide crucial information that results in a perfect fit. Your technician will help guide you.

Even though you start your search with a trip to Google to find San Francisco corporate sound equipment rentals, make sure the vendors you speak with offer robust choices based on your needs. You should also feel confident that they sound knowledgable about the necessary equipment and skill required to handle the sound at any size event.

Do They Have Brand Name Tools?

Your sound vendor should have well-assembled, high-quality components that appear in great working order. Ask them why they choose the brands they use to glean whether or not they’re using respected names in the world of sound.

Do Their Components Look Sleek?

If your sound company will have their equipment out where guests can see it, are you satisfied with its appearance? This isn’t the most important factor to consider, but you also don’t’ want a company rolling in with shoddy looking components. It looks unprofessional to your guests.

Sound Equipment Best Practices

Now, for a quick tutorial about some specifications.

Each speaker must accommodate between 800 to 1500 watts of power load. Speakers must have high sound clarity with a wide field of dispersment. Ask your potential technician why they recommend certain speakers for certain size venues.

The speakers themselves will all connect to a sound mixer or soundboard. This is a unit that controls the fine details of live sound levels. It must have at least 4 channels (inputs) to accommodate different devices including speakers, media players, and microphones.

Professional Sound Technicians

We’ve already mentioned that you should feel confident with the knowledge your sound tech displays, but their appearance matters as well. Corporate events require a certain level of professionalism, so discuss this with potential vendors. Let them know about the dress code at your event and ask if they can comply.

Hire A San Francisco Corporate Sound Equipment Vendor

We think you’ll find that all of the technicians at Diamond Sonic meet and exceed these requirements. If you need sound equipment rentals in the San Francisco area for your next corporate event, call us!

Blog / Corporate - 06/19/2019

A Day In The Life Of a Corporate Event DJ

They say if you find a job that you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. We take that to heart at Diamond Sonic. Each of us values the time we spend with clients, and most of all, on the job at events. We have a passion for music and helping a plan come together.

These qualities serve us well and we hope they help you also. In an effort to give you a better understanding of what we do, here’s a day in the life of a corporate event DJ.

Task #1 As a Corporate Event DJ: Intake

We spend a lot of time talking with potential clients and answering queries that come into the website. When you request a quote or reach out to us, we have some follow up to do.

The more information you can give us, the better. From this, we put together a quote, check our calendar to make sure we’re available, and reach out to you to keep the conversation going.

Task #2 As a Corporate Event DJ: Preparing The Quote

If you let us know your budget when you first reach out, we’ll try to meet you where you are. However, if our number is higher than you can accommodate, it’s always smart to tell us! We may be able to suggest a different approach or lighten our proposal to get you the essentials at a cost you can afford.

We talked about budgeting in a recent article and recommend that to anyone searching for a corporate event DJ.

Task #3 As a Corporate Event DJ: Equipment Maintenance

Some days, we have to go over our equipment and perform regular maintenance. This keeps it in top condition. Because we do this regularly, it cuts down on last-minute problems. We know you don’t want last-minute problems at your event and neither do we!

Task #4 As a Corporate Event DJ: Education

We also stay up to date on the latest tech news in our field as well as advancements that help us elevate your event. This way, we can improve our services and help innovate for you. Maybe we can suggest something fun you haven’t thought of!

We think that’s part of our job as entertainment professionals.

Task #5 As a Corporate Event DJ: Preparing Playlists

Part of that education factor is being immersed in the music itself. We try to always know what the hottest tracks are and keep in mind what goes over best at which types of events.

With that in mind, we can prepare meaningful playlists that are tailored to your event. This helps everyone have a good time and makes your event music a supporting environmental factor and not just background noise.

Task #6 As a Corporate Event DJ: On The Job

If we’re lucky, we get to go out and play some music! We show up early for set up and a soundcheck. This ensures that everything is ready to go when you are.

Sometimes we’re handling lights, photography, and videography as well as your music. If so, we coordinate all the techs on site so everyone is on the same page.

Hopefully, we get a few minutes with you to go over the game plan again and adjust to any last-minute changes. Keeping those to a minimum really helps!

Task #7 As a Corporate Event DJ: Follow Up

We love to talk with clients after the event to see how we did and if we can offer any services after the fact. If you booked us for an annual event, this is a great time to let us know the next date so we can pencil it in for you.

Corporate / Uncategorized - 04/08/2019

San Francisco Area Sound Equipment Rentals

San Francisco Area Sound Equipment Rentals

Diamond Sonic has a long-standing history of affordable, cutting-edge sound equipment rentals in San Francisco and the surrounding area. This experience backs up our tips in this article, which cover what you need from your equipment rental company.

We hope you’ll think of us for your rental needs. Even if you don’t call us, we hope this article helps you choose a reliable and skilled rental company for your next event.

San Francisco Area Sound Equipment Rentals: Why Rent Equipment?

It simply isn’t a good idea to rely on your venue to supply sound equipment to you. It can also be tricky to figure out what equipment you’ll need without the opinion of a skilled technician. That’s why meeting with a rental company and discussing your needs is the right way to do things.

Some rental companies have special packages that include both the rental and the services of sound technicians. These sound engineers know how to set up and run the equipment. They’re very handy to have around during your event!

San Francisco Area Sound Equipment Rentals: What To Look For From Your Rental Equipment

Don’t go blindly into your rental agreement. Here are some things to look out for. Feel free to ask questions to make sure all of these bases are covered.

Is your sound rental equipment well assembled? If any corners get cut you may have technical difficulties down the road.

What brand of equipment are you renting? Is the brand respected in the industry and trusted? It pays to do even a quick Google search to check this out. Feel free to talk to your rental company about this as well.

How old is the equipment and when was the last time it was serviced? Ask these questions, and find out if the rental company stands behind the equipment. They should perform a top to bottom check to make sure all components are in good working order before it leaves their place of business.

How does the equipment look? You want all of the sound components to look like they’re in good condition. This is important because it helps you rely on their performance. It’s also important to know that your rental will look good to your guests.

San Francisco Area Sound Equipment Rentals: Technical Specifications

These general guidelines will help you select your rental equipment.

Each speaker should feature 800 – 1500 watts of power capability. Speakers must have high sound clarity and the ability to project into your venue.

The mixer is the component that basically steers the ship. The number of channels a mixer has indicates how many components can be run through it. You should look for a mixer with no fewer than 4 channels. This is a basic, bare minimum, that allows iPods or mobile devices, turntables, CDs, and microphones to all run through this central point.

San Francisco Area Sound Equipment Rentals: Hiring Technicians

While many rental companies will let you run the equipment yourself, is that really the best option for you? If you understand how to run your own sound, this is an ok place to save money. However, if you have a complicated setup or many variables, a technician is really helpful. Furthermore, if you have never run event sound in your life, we highly recommend finding a little room in your budget for a professional to help.

If you need equipment rentals or professional sound technicians during your upcoming event in the San Francisco area, please give us a call! You can reach us by phone or through the website’s contact form.

Blog - 03/07/2019

Does Your Special Event DJ Have These Essential Skills?

Does Your Special Event DJ Have These Essential Skills?

It’s hard to choose the right special event DJ. There are some obvious things you’re looking for, like a bonded, insured DJ. It’s also apparent that you need a DJ who has good reviews from clients. But choosing a really great DJ means considering a few things outside the obvious.

Many clients make assumptions about professional DJs that seem like essential qualities, but you can’t just assume your DJ will be professional, on time, and fun to engage with. In addition to these qualities, there are some other tips we want to share about finding the right special event DJ.

Hopefully, these will help you in your search!

Essential Special Event DJ Skills: A Keen Musicality

Your special event DJ doesn’t just need a great catalog of music to choose from, they need a keen sense of musicianship. That means they understand music, how to flow songs together, and even how to make their own mixes. You may think these things are ‘a given’ for all working DJs but that’s sadly not true.

You can find out if your DJ possesses these skills by talking to former clients or reading reviews. You can also tell your DJ what types of music you and your guests prefer, and ask if they have any suggestions that spring to mind.

They should be able to offer at least a few suggestions!

You can also ask for live footage of them working an event because that can tell you quite a lot!

Essential Special Event DJ Skills: Easy Communication

Good communication is truly the first ingredient for a successful relationship with your vendors. Is your DJ easy to talk to and engaging with you? Do they seem excited and as if they enjoy their work?

While it’s never a great idea to change the game plan as you go, how does your DJ react to this when it has to occur? Do they prompt you with questions to find out the information they need?

All of these things are good signs that your DJ has experience, enjoys their work, and isn’t an unpleasant control freak. Music is supposed to be fun, after all! Although events are stressful, a professional DJ with good experience can roll with some changes without coming off as rude or distant with clients.

Essential Special Event DJ Skills: Engaging Stage Presence

If your DJ is enthusiastic and positive when they speak to you, it’s a good sign that they’ll also be good on stage. Are they gregarious? Do they seem like a natural performer? These are qualities that are going to make a difference on the day of your event!

If you’re booking a DJ to play ambient music for your corporate event, this may be less important. If you’re looking for a wedding DJ, however, choose one who can get the crowd engaged and dancing!

Essential Special Event DJ Skills: Professional Appearance

Your DJ needs to be clean, presentable, and professional looking. That doesn’t mean they should be stuffy, but they have to make a good appearance for your guests. Thankfully, this is something you can tell right away. But don’t be afraid to ask some questions about their staff and techs.

You have a right to get to see anyone who may attend your event to help the person you’re making the arrangements with.

Essential Special Event DJ Skills: Flexibility

We like to stress to clients that the more we know, the better we can help them. This is always true and to accomplish it, you want to keep changes to a minimum. That said, they do happen and your DJ should understand this.

Flexibility isn’t just about changes, either. Sometimes it’s about the size of the venue or unique challenges to running sound in the location you’ve chosen.

Do yourself a favor and pick a DJ who can handle these issues with aplomb. It goes back to that communication issue!

Of course, we’re available to work your event in the San Francisco area and would love to help you. If you need a trustworthy, pleasant presentable DJ who knows how to have fun while being professional, contact us!

Blog / Corporate - 03/01/2019

Music Matters: How The Right Event DJ Can Elevate Your Event

Music Matters How The Right Event DJ Can Elevate Your Event

Music is one of the most memorable parts of any event, however, it’s often overlooked. First of all, you want the sound equipment at your event to be suitable for the space. This is something an event DJ can really lend expertise to.

Next is the music you’ll select. For weddings and parties, these choices are often deeply personal. For corporate events, the psychology and objectives behind musical selections are different but no less important.

Today we’re exploring some things you should think about on the technical side as well as why music matters for your branding during professional events.

Things To Consider And Discuss With Your Event DJ

The following consideration list will help you have a meaningful conversation with your DJ.

Type Of Event

Planning your wedding? You’ll have a list of songs that are special to you and important to include. Make sure to provide that to your event DJ. Corporate event? Talk to your professionals about their recommendations for engaging, soothing background music.

Venue Requirements

Is your event indoors or outside? This, and the size of the space makes a huge difference for your event professional. A professional DJ will have all of the necessary equipment to suit the space. This is a huge benefit to hiring a DJ in the first place. Many, like Diamond Sonic, also include event rental equipment to suit any needs. They can speak with the venue to find out exactly what’s provided and what you need to rent from them.

Matching Tempo To Tone

Background sound and music impact the mood of any gathering and may also set the pace for festivities. The right tempo can inspire people to dance or help them relax. Some music can even boost creativity and make people feel more social. Professional DJs can pick music that is best suited for the specific requirements of your event.

Themed Event Music: if your event has a particular theme, your music can reinforce this. Because event DJs are so experienced, they have a huge knowledge base to pull from and can help you identify an appropriate soundtrack.

How An Event DJ Can Help You Decide on Music For Corporate Events

Music for business events is largely something that goes unnoticed in the background, but there are moments when you want it to stand out. Furthermore, just because something isn’t standing out doesn’t mean it isn’t having a subconscious effect on your audience.

Corporate event music should include a mix of relaxing music, energizing but unobtrusive music, and tracks that hype up your audience for certain speakers or brand reveals. Music can help shape the energy of group meetings, business dinners, conferences and trade shows while giving these events an air of sophistication.

Instrumental music is often the best choice, but there are so many styles to choose from. Classical and house music, for example, are vastly different although often instrumental. Your event DJ can help you make the right choices.

Your Event DJ Is A Valuable Resource When Choosing Music For Weddings And Parties

Weddings, anniversaries and planned social gatherings give an opportunity for you to share your personality with your guests. You’ll probably have a list of songs you’d like to hear. If you are concerned that your choices won’t last from start to finish, however, your DJ can help. Once you provide them with your ‘must haves,’ they can choose complementary music to mix in, extending the right energy from the moment guests arrive until they leave.

You might think you want to choose every single song, but once reality hits you could soon find this more stressful than you expect. Let your DJ help with this and speak with them about accepting requests from your guests to keep the party going.

Whether you want to be very involved in your event music selection or prefer to hand those reigns over completely, the right event DJ is a valuable resource.

Blog / Corporate - 09/01/2018

3 Tips to throw the best office party

3 Tips to throw the best office party

Every once in a while, employees get together to celebrate. Whether it’s the annual Christmas party, or an important deal or promotion, we all know we’ll have to attend the office party eventually.

But what if you’re the one in charge? You would want everyone to have a good time and make the (usually boring) stereotype of the office party disappear. Scroll down to see how you can make your office party rock.

Corporate Event / Music / Venues - 11/28/2017

How to host the perfect themed Halloween party

With Halloween fast approaching, costume ideas are on everyone’s mind. You do not have to wait for Halloween to wear the perfect costume. Throwing a themed party is a great way to dress up all year round.

Themed parties may seem like a flashback to college days, but this type of party has grown in popularity over the past two decades, for all age groups. They are a great way to create a memorable and fun event while keeping the party planning stress free.

DJ / Music / Photography / Venues - 10/27/2017

How to make the Perfect Playlist for a Wedding

Getting married is an intimate ritual, so if anyone asks you to create a playlist for the special day – it’s an enormous honor!

But how does one make the perfect playlist for a wedding reception? You could always look for popular wedding songs online, but if you want to take this responsibility seriously, you need to keep reading.

DJ / Music / Venues / Wedding - 06/15/2017

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