PA systems – Reliable sound reinforcement for every application
A public address system (PA system) is the heart of modern sound reinforcement and announcement infrastructure – both for everyday use and emergency situations. At RCS AUDIO-SYSTEMS, we develop and manufacture high-quality, standards-compliant systems that stand for maximum intelligibility, operational reliability and durability. Whether for schools, industrial facilities, hotels or public buildings, our PA systems combine precise technology with the highest level of reliability.
The advantages of an RCS PA system
Our PA systems use proven 100 V technology – ideal for long distances, cost-effective cabling and flexible volume adjustment for each individual speaker. By transforming the signal to 100 V, long cable runs can be implemented with minimal loss, and each speaker can be individually adjusted to the required level.
What is a PA system and why 100 V?
A PA system – short for public address system – is used to transmit speech, music and signals in buildings or across larger areas. It enables announcements, background music and safety-related alarm notifications. A PA system is designed to ensure clear and intelligible reproduction even in challenging acoustic environments.
100 V technology is what makes commercial sound reinforcement economically viable in the first place: by transforming the amplifier outputs up to 100 V, significantly lower currents flow at the same power level. This reduces cable losses, allows longer cable runs and keeps the required conductor cross-section moderate.
Three main components of a PA system
PA vs. VAS – What is the difference?
The terms PA and VAS are often mentioned together, but there are important differences:
PA (public address system)
Primarily used for general sound reinforcement. This includes music playback, announcements, zone control and everyday information transmission.VAS (voice alarm system)
A specialized PA variant for emergency situations. It is tested in accordance with relevant standards, such as EN 54-16, and designed to transmit evacuation announcements automatically or manually in the event of fire or danger.
A VAS is therefore always a PA system – but not every PA system is a VAS. The key difference lies in the safety requirements, certification and emergency functionality.
Typical functions of a public address system (PA system)
Individual call
Targeted communication to a specific zoneGroup call
Reach multiple zones simultaneously
All call
Address all speakers simultaneouslyForced reception
Prioritized messages that override volume controls
Pre-chime
Attract attentionPriority switching
Important announcements automatically interrupt background music
Areas of application for PA systems
Our PA systems are used wherever people need to be specifically informed, guided or entertained:
- Schools, universities and educational institutions
- Office and industrial buildings
- Hotels, shopping centres and event halls
- Sports arenas, theatres, museums and cinemas
- Train stations, airports and hospitals
Service and consulting for planners & installers
Planning a PA system requires expertise and experience. At RCS, you get both directly from the manufacturer. Our support for planners assists you from the first sketch through installation to acceptance by experts. We focus on transparent communication and practical solutions that meet your requirements precisely. We also offer training courses and seminars to help you make the best possible use of our systems.