Since Kitty mentioned the long forgotten HVS I ought to make one of my rare mudcat appearances.

As many have said it's horses for courses. PA has its place but isn't always appropriate. It depends on the singer, the state of their voice, the room acoustics, the type of event and more. I'm all for acoustic sessions (it's where you will usually find me) but in a large concert (and they have to be large to pay for the big names) I want to hear the performers.

I recall putting a notice backstage at the Tithe Barn in Lacock (those were the days!) saying that the PA was provided for those who wanted to use it but there was no obligation. Only a couple of artists chose to use it - notably Jim Mageean and Johhny Collins whose voices were suffering after a long weekend. No reason that approach shouldn't be used today.

Let's not forget why PA was introduced at festivals. Back in the 70s I stood about 2/3 of the way back in the Neeld Hall at Chippenham - couldn't here a thing! I mentioned it to Dick and got to provide the PA the next year. Many venues had the same problem at that time.

The sound level could be much lower for most PA today though. "Sound reinforcement" is all that is needed. There is still a lot of poor PA around (not Ralphie or Graham of course)

And like Ralphie I could tell stories of the flak we take. Maybe another thread there!

Bob