The event lexicon
Events are a world apart, with their own language! Between sound, technical video terms and logistics, it's not easy to find your way around. Thanks to this event glossary, you will master the key terms like a pro and know what you are talking about with your service providers. This is the tool you need to shine during your meetings!
Click on the letter of your choice
PMR access
Access for People with Reduced Mobility, essential so that everyone can enjoy the event, even on crutches or in a wheelchair.
Backline
Set of musical equipment (instruments and amplifiers) used on stage by musicians. The essentials so that they do not sing a cappella.
Tray
Electrical box with several power outlets that doesn't serve food but juice!
Catering
Catering for backstage organizers, the holy grail to keep vendors awake.
Cluster
A group of loudspeakers grouped together and generally suspended above the audience, forming a sound unit.
DMX
Digital Multiplex is a universal protocol for controlling lighting, because a party without lighting effects is just... dark.
Event planner
The one who manages everything, from the phone call to the client to the post-event clean-up… The conductor of the event.
Gaffer
The master of adhesive tape for fixing cables, stage accessories and set pieces. The technician's best friend.
Gobo
Magic metal disc to project light patterns, shapes or logos.
Keynote speaker
The expert speaker responsible for introducing and closing a conference.
Kick off
The official launch of an event, a project, a strategy intended to unite and boost teams.
Leatherman
Multi-function tool, the technicians' favorite Swiss army knife, always ready to save a set-up in an emergency.
Livestream
Streaming an online event, for those who prefer the couch to the plastic seat.
MICE
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions. Refers to the tourist and hotel activity linked to corporate events.
Madonna Microphone
Wireless microphone popularized by singer Madonna and used for conferences and one-man shows.
Pax
Term used in events to designate a person, a participant. Example: "We have reached our quota of pax. No one is coming in, it's full!"
Pipe and drape
Modular structures with curtains, practical for hiding everything you don't want to show.
Plenary
Large meeting or assembly where all members are invited...and where everyone is bored except the keynote speaker.
POS
Point of Sale Advertising. Refers to all advertising media (panels, totems, displays, etc.) that hypnotize you and make you want to take out your wallet.
Pop-up event
Pop-up event that emerges to create a buzz and a memorable experience aimed at a specific audience. In person or remotely.
Powercon
Lockable and secure electrical cable widely used by sound and event professionals. Very practical outdoors.
Pratos
Familiar term which designates a raised practical platform to create stages, podiums, platforms, stands, etc. Covered with a “skirt” to hide the feet, cables and electrical equipment.
Road
The superhero responsible for installing and managing technical equipment during mainly musical event tours.
Roadshow
Event tour for promotional purposes to meet customers and prospects without them having to move.
Schuko
It is THE most used power cable and plug in Europe to connect all your favorite devices.
Setup
Setting up all the equipment before the show is the moment when everything has to be perfect... before the doors open.
Spare
Generic term that includes spare equipment, workers available just in case, an unscheduled time slot left in reserve... Essential when something breaks down at the last minute.
Speakon
Special connector for speakers and audio amplifiers. Because your jack cables don't do everything.
Stacker
A logistics process that consists of stacking event equipment in order to optimize storage space and facilitate assembly and disassembly. Perfect for avoiding back-and-forth trips.
Tip
Tilting a flight case (the famous sturdy transport case on wheels used for audiovisual equipment) on its side to make it more stable and optimize storage and transport.
Truss
Aluminum stage structure for suspending screens, lights and speakers. It is the skeleton of the stage.
XLR
Cable used for professional audio equipment that ensures a robust and reliable connection. It is the king of cables in the world of sound reinforcement!