In professional sound reinforcement, whether for live events or fixed installations, two system configurations dominate the field: line array systems and point source systems. Both approaches have clear advantages, but their effectiveness depends entirely on the acoustic context and the correct application of design criteria.
What is a Point Source System?
A point source system radiates sound from a single point, creating a spherical dispersion pattern. This natural propagation can be beneficial or limiting, depending on the space and the required coverage.
Point source cabinets are particularly effective at short to medium distances, where controlled coverage is less critical and a compact, easy-to-deploy solution is required. They are widely used in clubs, small theatres, conference rooms, and corporate events, where precision and sound quality are essential but large-scale coverage is unnecessary.
Technically, point source cabinets tend to be lighter, easier to handle, and deliver a coherent frequency response as long as they are used within their optimal coverage range. In permanent installations, they provide clarity and consistency without the need for complex rigging or acoustic prediction tools.
What are the advantages of a Line Array?
A line array consists of multiple loudspeakers arranged vertically, designed to work together as a single coherent source, creating a cylindrical dispersion pattern. This configuration allows precise control of vertical dispersion, delivering consistent SPL and intelligibility over long distances.
Line arrays excel in large venues, outdoor concerts, stadiums, auditoriums, and festivals, environments where sound must cover hundreds of meters and reach thousands of listeners. With proper design, they minimize unwanted reflections, extend coverage uniformly, and control SPL attenuation in far-field zones.
However, line arrays require meticulous planning, Rainbow 3D acoustic prediction software, and accurate rigging systems to perform correctly.
The new LAIA series from Lynx Pro Audio represents a significant step forward in line array design. With integrated Rainbow 3D, our acoustic prediction software, optimized rigging, advanced DSP, and coherent response across large venues, LAIA provides scalability, precision, and reliability for demanding sound reinforcement applications.
Choosing the right system
The decision between line array and point source is not about which is “better,” but about which is better suited to the application.
Point source systems excel in smaller or medium-sized spaces where simplicity, portability, and high-quality sound are the priority.
Line arrays dominate in large-scale environments thanks to their extended reach, controlled dispersion, and intelligibility at distance.
Both are essential tools in professional audio, and each achieves optimal results when applied with a clear understanding of the acoustic environment and system design objectives.