Sound System Purchases: How to Identify a Sound Contractor You Trust

• you should ask yourself
• you should ask the contractor
• the contractor should ask you!

Ask Yourself:

What do we need to accomplish? First, talk to key individuals for input. Then answer this question with a list of problems or obstacles to overcome. It's also a good idea to include a list of specific tasks that the sound system needs to fulfill, especially if this is part of a new construction project.

How soon do we need a new operational system? Give yourselves reasonable time to accomplish this task. If there is a specific event motivating the project, you may need a temporary system until the permanent one is complete.

Are there renovation plans that may affect the usefulness of a new sound system? Changes such as modifying the size and/or shape of a room alter the acoustics. Such change may mean the system would not be appropriate for the facility anymore.

Which individuals in the school are the most qualified to provide information regarding building conditions such as wire conduit pathways and electrical circuit wiring? It's useful to have these people available when a site evaluation is done. If it's a new construction, be sure to have the name, address and phone number of the architect, general contractor and electrician.

Who will be responsible for making the decisions involved in this project? It is essential to include these individuals in the initial meetings and discussions.

Is the school looking for an entirely new system? A new microphone, tape deck or mixer may be all you really need.

Does the school have a specific budgetary amount set? Some customers are cautious revealing what funds are available for their project. However, it is important for the sound contractor to know a general amount you expect to pay. This helps the contractor design a system that you can afford.

Ask The Contractor:

You've decided to get started! What first? Flip through this newsletter, find our phone number and call us. When you call, ask the following questions:

With whom do I speak to schedule an on-site evaluation of our existing facility and sound system? Be prepared with several dates and times that are favorable with everyone involved.

Is there a cost involved in this initial evaluation? Some contractors may charge based on travel time and/or information provided during the evaluation.

How soon should we expect to receive a proposal after the initial on-site evaluation? Allow a reasonable amount of time. A quick turnaround often reflects a lack of time and thought put into the proposal.

Would you send us an information packet about your company now so that we may review the materials before the on-site evaluation? Ask for the following information:

• Primary markets in which the contractor is active.
• How large a geographic territory the contractor covers.
• Number of employees in the contracting portion of the company.
• Number of years in contracting business.
• Process used to determine loudspeaker selection.
• Comprehensive list of similar installations.
• Who in the company performs the actual design work?
• Background, training, education and experience of design people.
• Who in the company will act as the project manager?

The Contractor Should Ask:

During the on-site evaluation, listen and observe while the contractor asks questions and gathers information.

What are your primary concerns and problems? Be sure to note how responsive the individual is to your input and questions. Beware of the contractor who is hasty to proclaim that he has the exact solution, especially if he immediately proposes a list of equipment. Sometimes a seemingly minor detail can determine the maximum gain from a system.

Do you have an accurate inventory list of existing equipment? Oftentimes most of the existing equipment can be used in the new system or transferred to another area of the facility (i.e. the music room). Inquire about the contractor's willingness to determine the condition of the existing equipment, but expect to pay a reasonable shop labor cost for this service.

What types of events take place in the facility? What types of instruments or sound sources will be reinforced with the system? A very specific analysis of the intended use of the system is vital to determine what types of loudspeaker components, mixing electronics, microphones and other accessories will best fit the school needs. Mentally note whether or not the contractor actually takes the time to listen to the existing system. Sometimes it is unnecessary; but, in most cases listening to the system provides insight otherwise overlooked.

It may be necessary to measure the existing acoustical characteristics of the room, including reverberation time (RT60). Please make certain that the facility is empty and quiet for at least an hour while the on-site evaluation is conducted. If the contractor does not suggest measuring the RT60 of the room (the time it takes sound to fade by 60 dB), he should clarify how he intends to determine the loudspeaker components necessary to produce intelligibility (sound clarity). The contractor should also be concerned about flutter echoes or other acoustical anomalies created by hard reflective surfaces. If the contractor suggests the installation of acoustical materials, make certain he has some form of credible experience or training, including other client references. Without the knowledge and expertise needed, damage can be done if the wrong materials are used.

Will there be events, such as a weekend function, when a hands-on sound system operator will not be available? In those situations, how many microphones will be needed? Note whether the contractor asks how you intend to use the system. If the contractor designs a new system that requires an operator and you intend to use the system in a hands-off mode on a semi-regular basis, problems will be unavoidable.

Five Important Questions For You To Ask:

1. What are the specific terms of payment?
2. What type of guarantees apply to the sound system work provided?
3. What type of final system documentation will be supplied? Will a system block diagram be included?
4. What type of training is included with the purchase of a system? Will the cost for this training be listed separately?
5. What other training or seminars does your company recommend?

A Final Word:

This information is intended as a guideline for effectively choosing the best contractor for your sound system needs. If a serious effort is made to ask the right questions, your chance of success is greatly improved. Call us! We'd like the opportunity to show you what we offer. Our reputation is our best advertising!!

by Travis Ludwig © 1996 Internet Sound Institute (www.soundinstitute.com). This article is for personal use only. Any commercial reproduction is not permitted without permission. To obtain permission, contact ISI at hopi@soundinstitute.com

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