A Tidy Setup
is a Safe Setup

When you set up your hired PA system, it’s tempting to just plug everything in and let the cables fall where they may.

A messy "cable spaghetti" setup isn't just unprofessional—it’s a serious safety hazard and the #1 way equipment gets damaged. Here are 5 simple tips to manage your cables for a safer, cleaner, and more successful event.

1. Run Cables Around the Edges, Not Across the Middle

This is the most important rule of cable management. Never run a cable directly across a walkway, doorway, or any high-traffic area.

• Do this: Take the extra 30 seconds to run the cable along the wall, around the edge of the stage, or under a table. It's the cleanest and safest path, even if it's longer.
• Why? A cable across a walkway is the ultimate trip hazard. Someone will eventually catch their foot on it, potentially injuring themselves and violently pulling your hired mixer or speaker onto the floor.

2. Use the Right Length Cable

We supply cables in various lengths for a reason.

• Avoid Long Runs: Don't use a 20-metre microphone cable to connect a mic that's only 2 metres from the mixer. All that extra cable has to go somewhere, creating a messy pile that's easy to trip on.
• Plan Ahead: Think about where your speakers and mixer will be. Ask us for the right cable lengths for your setup (e.g., "I'll need two 10-metre speaker cables and one 3-metre cable for my laptop").

3. The Magic of Gaffer Tape

If you must run a cable across a floor, you must secure it.

• Use Gaffer Tape: Gaffer tape ("gaffa") is the industry standard. It has a strong adhesive that holds cables down flat, but it's designed to be removed without leaving a sticky, damaging residue on the cable or the venue's floor.
• Never Use Duct Tape: Duct tape will leave a sticky mess that is difficult to clean and can permanently damage the hired cables.
• Taping Technique: Run the tape over the cable at a 90-degree angle, or for a long run, lay the tape down alongthe length of the cable.

4. Bundle Cables Together

If you have multiple cables (e.g., power and audio for a speaker) running in the same direction, keep them neat by bundling them.

• Use Cable Ties: Our cables come with Velcro cable ties. You can use these to not only keep the coiled cable tidy but also to "loom" two cables together at a few points along their run.
• What this does: It turns three messy, individual cables into one single, neat "line." It looks far more professional and is easier to manage.

5. Coil Correctly When You're Done

At the end of your event, a good pack-up is essential.

• No Elbow Wraps: Please don't wrap cables tightly around your elbow and hand. This method twists and damages the internal wires.
• The Right Way: Use the "Over-Under" method (the "Roadie Wrap"). You can find simple videos online. This coiling method prevents twisting, stops tangles, and is the single best thing you can do to look after the gear.
• Secure the Coil: Use the attached Velcro tie to secure the coil before placing it in the bag.

A few minutes spent on cable management will make your event look more professional, prevent a dangerous accident, and ensure the hired equipment is returned in perfect condition.