What is a volume limiter and why do I need to know about it?

A volume limiter is a device installed in certain venues that caps the maximum volume at a set decibel level. It uses a built-in microphone to measure the loudness in the performance space and signals when it is reaching it’s capacity (usually using a traffic light system).

Volume limiters are often in venues that are surrounded by residential areas, and having a volume limiter can protect the venue from complaints, fines or closures.

The band’s music equipment gets plugged directly into the volume limiter, and in most cases if the band exceeds the volume limit for a prolonged period of time (in some cases 10 seconds) then all the gear get’s automatically shut down.

It’s not the end of the world, and the band can easily get plugged in and go again, but to make sure your event runs smoothly and without interruptions, make sure you book a band that bring a sound engineer with them.

Bands without sound engineers will often be looking at the volume limiter to make sure they don’t exceed the limit, which can detract from their performance and engagement with the crowd.

A band with a sound engineer means that the band can do what they do best which is perform and engage with you and your guests!

We might know the perfect band…