What is the difference between backline and PA?

When setting up for a live event, concert, or performance, two terms that often come up are "backline" and "PA." Although both are crucial elements for a successful event, they serve different purposes and are often confused by those unfamiliar with event production. At BNP Audio, we provide high-quality audio solutions for every aspect of your event, so understanding these terms can help you make the right choices when planning your next gig. Let’s break down the difference between backline and PA.

What is Backline?

The backline refers to the instruments, amplifiers, and gear that musicians use on stage during a live performance. This equipment typically includes everything a band or performer needs to play their music, except for their personal instruments. Here’s a breakdown of what is commonly considered backline equipment:

Common Backline Equipment:

Guitar and Bass Amps: High-quality amplifiers for electric guitars and bass guitars are a critical part of the backline. Musicians rely on these amps to project their sound.
Drum Kits: A fully equipped drum set, including cymbals, stands, and pedals, is often part of the backline, unless the drummer brings their own.
Keyboards and Synthesizers: Many events provide keyboards or synthesizers as part of the backline to accommodate the band’s needs.
Effects Pedals and Accessories: Sometimes, the backline can include effects pedals, microphone stands, or even tuning equipment.

The backline is generally set up on stage and is mostly used by the performers themselves. While it contributes significantly to the overall sound of the performance, it’s primarily meant for the musicians' use.

What is a PA System?

PA stands for "Public Address," and in the context of live events, the PA system is responsible for amplifying sound so that the audience can hear it clearly. The PA system is the main sound reinforcement system that takes the input from the backline, microphones, and other audio sources and projects it through speakers to the crowd. Here’s what makes up a typical PA system:

Key Components of a PA System:

Speakers: The main loudspeakers project sound to the audience, while monitor speakers allow the performers to hear themselves on stage.
Mixing Console: The mixing console, or soundboard, is where the sound technician adjusts levels, EQ, and effects to balance the audio coming from all the instruments, vocals, and other sources.
Microphones: Microphones capture the sound of vocals and instruments, which is then sent through the PA system.
Amplifiers: Amplifiers in the PA system boost the signal from the mixing console to a level that can drive the loudspeakers.
Monitors: Stage monitors or in-ear monitors allow performers to hear themselves and their bandmates clearly during the performance.

The PA system ensures that the audience can hear a balanced and clear version of the performance, regardless of their position in the venue.

Backline vs. PA: Understanding the Key Differences

The main difference between backline and PA lies in who uses the equipment and what it's used for.

Backline is mainly for the musicians on stage. It consists of the instruments and amplifiers they use to play and hear themselves. The sound from the backline may be fed into the PA system, but it primarily serves the performers.
PA system is for the audience. Its purpose is to take the sound from the stage, including the backline, and project it out to the crowd with the proper balance and volume. The PA ensures that everyone in the venue hears the performance clearly, from the front row to the back.

How Do Backline and PA Work Together?

In most live events, the backline and PA system work together to create a seamless audio experience. The sound from the backline gear (like guitars and drums) is often picked up by microphones or direct inputs and fed into the PA system. The PA system amplifies this sound for the audience, while stage monitors connected to the PA allow the musicians to hear themselves clearly.

At BNP Audio, we handle both backline and PA system setups, ensuring that not only do the musicians have the equipment they need to perform at their best, but the audience also hears every note clearly and without distortion.

Which One Do You Need?

Whether you need backline, a PA system, or both depends on the type of event you're hosting. If you're booking a band, you’ll likely need both. If you're organizing a speaking engagement or corporate event, you may only need a PA system to ensure speakers and microphones are properly amplified.

At BNP Audio, we specialize in providing tailored audio solutions for any type of event. From supplying high-quality backline equipment to setting up full PA systems for concerts, conferences, and everything in between, we ensure your event sounds perfect from start to finish.

Need help with your next event? Contact BNP Audio to discuss how we can handle your backline and PA system needs!