How to Build a Complete Audio Strategy for Chicago Trade Shows and Conferences
Chicago events — especially those at McCormick Place and downtown hotel ballrooms — demand clear, controlled audio. These venues are large, reflective, and unforgiving. Without the right strategy, you end up with hot spots, dead zones, echo, or feedback. A strong audio plan ensures exhibitors, presenters, and corporate teams deliver their message with precision.
This guide breaks down how to design a clean, consistent audio strategy for Chicago events.
Determine Coverage Requirements
- Small booths need lightweight reinforcement.
- Breakout rooms require even coverage.
- Large sessions demand distributed audio.
Chicago’s concrete-heavy architecture requires wider audio dispersion to avoid reflections.
Speaker Selection for Chicago Venues
Best speaker types:
- 8-inch powered speakers for booth demos
- 10–12 inch speakers for breakout rooms
- Line-array speakers for larger sessions
Use directional speakers for show floors to avoid bleed.
Microphone Selection
Handheld wireless: best for Q&A
Lavalier: ideal for presenters who walk
Headset: best clarity in noisy environments
Gooseneck: for panel tables
Chicago events often require frequency coordination to avoid interference.
Mixing Strategy
Use a digital mixer for:
- Multi-input management
- EQ shaping
- Compression
- Scene recall
- Quick adjustments
Chicago rooms are reflective — cut low frequencies and avoid boosting high mids.
Distributed Audio for Large Rooms
For rooms larger than 60 feet:
- Use 4–6 speakers spaced evenly
- Avoid placing speakers too close to walls
- Use delay speakers to maintain timing
McCormick Place often requires distributed audio because of ceiling height and room scale.
Cable Management in Chicago Venues
High foot traffic demands:
- Secured cable runs
- Black cable ramps
- Velcro ties
- Truss or booth-frame routing
Audio failures often come from cabling, not equipment.
Sound Checks and Live Monitoring
Before doors open:
- Set EQ
- Balance mics
- Run video playback tests
- Check every wireless channel
During the event:
- Monitor levels
- Adjust gain
- Replace batteries
- Correct feedback instantly
FAQs
Q1: What’s the most common audio issue in Chicago venues?
Reflections from concrete and glass surfaces that cause echo.
Q2: Do I need a mixer for small booth demos?
Yes. Even a small mixer helps manage gain and avoid feedback.
Q3: Does AVR Expos provide onsite techs in Chicago?
Absolutely — full delivery, setup, tuning, and strike.
