Best AV Equipment to Support Your Emcee, DJ or Host

When you bring in an emcee, DJ or host for an event, you’re putting a lot of trust in their ability to keep things running smoothly. Even the most skilled professionals can struggle if the AV setup isn’t designed to support them. The right gear doesn’t just make the event sound better; it makes their job easier, helps them stay confident and prevents unnecessary stress.

In Nashville and across Middle Tennessee, expectations for high-quality production are higher than ever. If you want your event's host to succeed, here’s the equipment they’ll truly appreciate having on stage.

Confidence Monitors

Confidence monitors are screens placed on the floor or stage sides facing the presenter. They mirror slides, timers or notes so your host doesn’t have to turn around to look at the main display. This helpful piece of equipment keeps them connected to the audience and on schedule.

They’re especially useful at events like:

• Corporate expos

• Fundraisers

• Weddings

For example, an emcee can glance at key names, timing notes or sponsor mentions without shuffling papers or forgetting their lines. Wedding DJs can follow timelines for first dances, toasts and special announcements.

Stage Monitors and In-Ear Monitors

Main speakers face the audience, not the stage. Without audio returning to them, your host may talk too loudly, speak over the music or misjudge their timing. Stage monitor speakers and in-ear monitors solve these potential challenges by sending a clear audio feed back to the presenter.

In large reception halls, outdoor venues or echo-heavy ballrooms, stage monitors and in-ear monitors help the host hear exactly what guests hear, keeping delivery smooth and natural.

Cue Systems

Cue systems allow the AV team to send silent visual signals to the host. These can indicate when to begin, pause, transition or wrap up a segment. A typical system includes a small light, screen or LED panel placed at the edge of the stage where only the presenter can see it. It may use simple color signals like green to begin, yellow to wrap up and red to stop or pause. Some systems use a wireless remote or foot pedal so the AV tech can trigger cues at the right moment.

They’re ideal for events like:

• Auctions

• Award shows

• Corporate meetings

• Live broadcasts

Instead of waiting for someone to wave from the back of the room, your host receives a clear signal and keeps the program moving confidently.

Redundancy and Backup Audio Sources

Nothing creates panic like a frozen laptop or a skipped music track during an important moment. That’s why backup audio systems are one of the best ways to support your host or DJ. Having a secondary device ready to go makes all the difference when technology fails.

A redundant setup might include backups of:

• Laptops

• Tablets

• Audio players with the same playlists or cues preloaded.

You should connect both systems to the mixer so switching is seamless and instant if needed. This equipment comes in handy for first dance songs, corporate walk-on music, awards stingers and video playback. Your host or DJ won’t have to stall or apologize while someone scrambles to fix the main source. Redundancy keeps the event stress-free and professional.

Wireless Microphones and Backups

Wireless microphones give presenters the freedom to move naturally. There are several types of wireless microphones that each serve a different purpose, such as:

• Handhelds

• Lapels

• Headset mics

Additionally, having a backup microphone ready to go is vital. Batteries can die, signals can drop and interference can happen when you least expect it. Keeping a spare mic powered on and nearby ensures the show keeps moving without awkward silence or panic on stage.

Wireless Clickers

A wireless slide clicker lets your host control presentation slides without being stuck beside a laptop, keeping their energy focused on the audience instead of the podium. Some clickers also include built-in timers or vibration alerts, helping hosts stay on track without looking at their watch or phone.

Lecterns and Microphone Stands

A stable setup on stage makes a big difference for anyone hosting an event. A quality lectern gives emcees a steady place to keep notes or a tablet without fumbling. DJs need the same reliability from a solid table or booth that can support equipment securely, such as:

• Mixers

• Laptops

• Controllers

The same idea applies to microphone stands. If a stand wobbles, sinks or shifts, it pulls attention away from the audience and onto the interruption. When all the staging gear is sturdy and dependable, your host can stay concentrated and poised with an engaged audience.

Stage Layout and Cables

Even with great equipment, a messy stage can cause difficulties. Loose cables, unclear walking areas or crowded workspaces create unnecessary stress for your host.

Clean cable management and organized stage layouts also help presenters move comfortably and stay engaged with the audience rather than watching their step, a detail we proudly prioritize at Channel Audio.

Stage Timers

Keeping time is one of the hardest parts of hosting. Stage timers give your emcee or DJ a clear countdown so speeches, transitions and performances don’t run too long or too short.

Stage times are especially useful for events with detailed schedules, including:

• Corporate sessions

• Auctions

• Wedding receptions

  
  

Crew Communication Accessories

Even though the host may not wear one, crew headsets are a big part of supporting them. When sound, video and stage teams can communicate in real time, they can resolve issues quickly and quietly.

These key accessories may prevent delays and stops the host from having to fill time or improvise through technical problems.

Why This Gear Matters

When you support your host with these tools, they focus on connecting with their audience instead of worrying about AV equipment or timing. They speak more confidently, transitions feel smoother and events feel coordinated and professional.

Great AV isn’t just about sound systems and screens. It’s about creating an environment where your emcee, DJ or host executes their job flawlessly without distraction.

Book Your AV Support Near Nashville, TN, With Channel Audio

At Channel Audio, we provide full-service AV rentals across Middle Tennessee, including Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and the surrounding areas. Our team handles setup, sound checks and on-site support so your talent feels prepared and confident.

Reach out today to get a custom quote and secure your AV setup.