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
Backline
The backline is all the instrumental equipment needed for a concert or musical performance. This includes amplifiers, drums, keyboards, and sometimes guitars or basses. This equipment is often provided by the organization to simplify the logistics for the artists. In short, it is the musicians' sonic toolkit, without which the stage would be very silent.
Balance
Soundcheck is the crucial step before a concert, performance, or recording. It involves individually adjusting the volume of each musical instrument, voice, and audio source, then blending them harmoniously to achieve a balanced and enjoyable sound for the audience. Proper balance is essential for an optimal listening experience.
Beam (effect)
Unlike the wash effect, the beam effect generates a narrow, intense beam of light with well-defined contours. It is mainly used to create striking effects in space, such as columns of light passing through smoke, or to draw attention to a specific element of the stage. Perfect for dynamic shows!
Brief
The brief is your event's roadmap. An essential document that clearly and concisely summarizes all the key aspects of your event. It details the objectives, target audience, allocated budget, desired atmosphere, technical constraints, and more. It's the crucial starting point for ensuring everyone is on the same page and ensuring the service provider offers a tailored and effective solution.
Catering
Catering refers to the organization of catering at an event. It is much more than providing meals: it is ensuring that participants, speakers, or technical teams are well fed and hydrated. From gourmet buffets to simple sandwiches, catering greatly contributes to the comfort of guests and the success of the event.
Cluster
In sound reinforcement, a cluster refers to a grouping of speakers to produce a more powerful and homogeneous sound over a large area. It is usually suspended above the audience. Properly placing a cluster requires technical know-how, as poor positioning can cause echoes or poorly covered areas. It is essential in large events to ensure an optimal sound experience.
Congress
A conference is a formal gathering of professionals or experts around a common theme. Over several days, the conference combines lectures, workshops, and networking. The main objective of conferences is to exchange knowledge, present the latest advances, debate important topics, and develop professional networks.
DMX
DMX (Digital Multiplex) is a communication protocol used to control lighting and special effects. By pushing the faders (the famous straight control buttons used to adjust the level of an electronic signal) on a console , you can mix and orchestrate a synchronized light choreography. For the uninitiated, it's a bit like a digital conductor, except that the musicians are projectors.
Event planner
The event planner is the person responsible for organizing an event, from the initial concept to the big day. The event planner manages the service providers, the schedules, the unforeseen events, and makes sure that everything goes perfectly. Without an event planner, events would often be a joyful mess.
Gaffer
Gaffer tape is a super strong adhesive tape, ideal for fixing cables, decorations, or even repairing objects in an emergency. Highly prized by technicians, it is known for its stickiness and its ability to leave no residue. An essential that saves days, even events.
Geyser
In events, a geyser is a pyrotechnic effect produced by a machine that projects jets of dense smoke or sparkling sparks vertically (or horizontally). The geyser is used at key moments of your event (the arrival of a speaker, the climax of a show, a sporting celebration), creating a strong and memorable visual impact for your audience.
Gobo
The gobo is a metal or glass disc, used in projectors to project patterns, logos or shapes onto a surface. Ideal for personalizing a stage or a wall, the gobo is the ally of organizers looking to make an impression with a unique luminous touch.
Grill
A grill is an openwork metal structure typically suspended above a stage or event space. It serves as a support for hanging and positioning lighting projectors, sound systems, projection screens, and other technical elements needed for the smooth running of the event. It's ideal for securing the installation and freeing up floor space.
Hazer (Fazer)
A hazer (or fazer) is a machine that diffuses a light, even mist into the air. Its role isn't to mask anything, but to make the projectors' light beams visible, creating spectacular, three-dimensional visual effects that enhance stage lighting. A guaranteed wow effect for your audience... without filling the space with smoke!
Icebreaker
An icebreaker is a fun and friendly activity that breaks the ice and lightens the atmosphere. Held at the very beginning of an event or during a work session, an icebreaker encourages participants to interact and feel more at ease. Games, questions, and challenges help create a relaxed atmosphere and encourage discussion.
Incentive
An incentive is a corporate event designed to maintain engagement and loyalty. A trip, a unique activity, a quality gift... Rewards or activities can boost performance and strengthen cohesion. Perfect for thanking and retaining your team, clients, or partners, and creating a positive and memorable experience!
Keynote speaker
A keynote speaker is the main speaker at an event, often invited for his or her expertise or ability to inspire. He or she is the headliner of a conference, the one who captivates the audience with striking ideas and an impactful speech. In short, he or she sets the tone for the event.
Kick off
The kick-off is the official launch of a project or event. It can take the form of a meeting, a ceremony or a speech to mobilize participants and set objectives. It is a key moment that provides the energy and momentum needed for what comes next.
Leatherman
The Leatherman is a multi-tool that is highly regarded by event technicians. With its multiple blades, pliers and screwdrivers, this Swiss Army knife can solve a multitude of small technical problems. In short, it is the pocket superhero of professionals in the field.
Line array
A line array is a system of identical speakers arranged in a vertical line and suspended vertically in a column. This network configuration allows sound to be projected more evenly and over a longer distance than a traditional speaker. Ideal for large indoor and outdoor events.
Livestream
A livestream is a live broadcast over the internet, allowing a remote audience to follow an event in real time. Concerts, conferences, or even weddings, everything can be shared thanks to this technology. A good internet connection is however essential to avoid "frozen moments".
Lumen
Lumens measure the amount of light emitted by a source, such as a projector, a video projector (https://www.solutions-evenements.com/location-video-videoprojecteurs,s386,l.html), or a light bulb. The higher the lumens, the more intense and brighter the light produced. This is an essential criterion to consider when choosing lighting that is suited to the size of your space and the visual ambiance you want to create.
Lyre
The lyre is a motorized stage lighting projector capable of pivoting on two axes. Versatile, it allows you to create dynamic and precise lighting effects. The lyre is capable of changing color instantly thanks to filters, projecting various shapes and patterns (called gobos), and moving quickly in all directions thanks to its integrated motors. A very creative lighting device!
Madonna Microphone
The Madonna microphone is a headset microphone that attaches discreetly around the head. It allows you to keep your hands free while offering optimal sound quality. Very popular among speakers and stage artists, it owes its nickname to the famous singer who made it essential.
Mapping
An innovative video projection technique, projection mapping adapts and projects images and animations onto 3D surfaces (building facades, decorative objects, statues, or any other artwork) to create visual illusions. The results are often spectacular, creating striking optical illusions and a unique immersive experience for the viewer.
MICE
MICE is an acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. It refers to the professional events sector focused on tourism and hospitality (business meetings, incentive trips, conferences, trade fairs). A key area for creating collaborative experiences or promoting brands.
Oriflamme
A pennant is an elongated vertical advertising banner, often shaped like a drop or feather. It is an effective visual communication tool for announcing an event, promoting a brand, indicating a location, or simply attracting visitors' attention thanks to its constant movement in the wind.
Pax
In event jargon, PAX is a term that simply refers to the number of people expected or present at an event. It is often used by service providers to estimate logistical needs: "How many PAX for the buffet?" A quick way to talk numbers without getting bogged down in details.
Photobooth
The photobooth is the star of the party! Also called a selfie terminal or photobox, this interactive terminal allows guests to take pictures of themselves, often with fun accessories. The photobooth allows for instant prints with customizable backgrounds and various print formats. But they also allow you to save photos digitally or send them online. Ideal for capturing crazy memories and sharing memorable moments on social media!
Photocall
The photocall is the famous image wall where your guests and visitors pose in front of a personalized backdrop adorned with sponsor logos or the name of the event. Like the famous red carpet, it's the strategic place to immortalize arrivals and generate visibility for your brand and your partners. Perfect for official photos and photo albums!
Pipe and drape
Pipe and drape is a modular system made up of poles (pipes) and curtains (drapes). Used to create separations, hide technical areas or transform a room, it is essential for arranging space in a flexible and aesthetic way. Practical, elegant and easy to assemble: the magic tool of scenographers.
Pitch
The pitch is the art of convincing in record time! A concise presentation to sell an idea, a product, or a project. It's a bit like speed dating for ideas: you have to capture your audience's attention in the first few seconds, pique their interest, and make them want to know more, all within a limited time frame. The pitch must be clear, impactful, and memorable.
Plenary
A plenary session is a session where all the participants of an event gather in one room. Conferences, opening speeches or important presentations usually take place in a plenary session. It often marks the key moments of an event and allows a common message to be conveyed to all the guests.
PMR access
PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) access refers to all the facilities that allow people with disabilities or reduced mobility to easily access a place or event. This includes ramps , elevators, adapted toilets, and reserved spaces. It is an inclusive and mandatory approach in many countries, which guarantees everyone the same experience.
Pop-up event
A pop-up event is a temporary and often ephemeral event organized in an unexpected place. Improvised showroom, tasting workshop or artistic performance, these events rely on the element of surprise and rarity to create excitement. A real powerful marketing tool to create buzz!
POS
POS (Point of Sale Advertising) includes all promotional materials used directly on an event or commercial site: panels, totems , posters, displays, kakemonos , roll-ups, Xbanners , arches or interactive screens. It is a formidable weapon to capture the attention of visitors and highlight a brand or product.
Powercon
The Powercon is a professional electrical connector used to power equipment such as lighting or sound systems. The robustness and safety of a Powercon cable make it a must-have on technical platforms, allowing you to plug and unplug without the risk of cutting.
Pratos
Familiar terms, pratos are practicables , these modular platforms used to create stages, podiums or platforms. Adjustable in height and robust, they adapt to all terrains and configurations, from shows to conferences to fashion shows. Dressable with a "skirt" to hide the feet, cables and electrical equipment.
PTZ
PTZ stands for Pan Tilt Zoom. These are high-end motorized cameras capable of precise 360° rotation, tilt, and zoom. Flexible and remotely controllable, PTZ cameras are ideal for capturing dynamic events, day or night, from different angles without the need for multiple fixed cameras. Perfect for covering a large area.
Rack
In electronics, a rack is a metal chassis (or cabinet) designed to house and organize various equipment and machines, such as amplifiers, processors, computers, mixers, servers, and more, in an orderly and secure manner. Everything is neat and accessible. Racks facilitate maintenance, cabling, and equipment transportation.
Rigging
Rigging is the art of safely suspending stage equipment (lighting, screens, sets, speakers, structures). To avoid any incidents during your event, rigging is handled by qualified professionals from design to installation and dismantling. It's essential for optimizing space and creating spectacular displays.
Road
In the world of entertainment, the road is the superhero in charge of installing and managing technical equipment during mainly musical event tours (loading and unloading trucks, assembly and disassembly, inventories, etc.). Good physical condition is a major asset for a good road!
Roadshow
A roadshow is a tour of events organized in different cities to promote a product, service or idea. Imagine a traveling advertising campaign that comes directly to you, creating a strong impact on various audiences.
Schuko
This is THE most used power cable and plug in Europe to connect all your favorite devices. Unlike regular plugs, Schuko plugs provide an earth connection to the device. Perfect for preventing electric shocks and short circuits!
Setup
The set-up refers to the installation and technical preparation of an event. It can include the assembly of equipment, the positioning of sets or even technical tests. A good set-up is the guarantee that everything runs smoothly on the big day.
Spare
Generic term that includes spare equipment, workers available just in case, an unscheduled time slot left in reserve... Having spare equipment is essential when something breaks down at the last minute!
Speakon
Speakon is a specialized audio connector, used to connect speakers to amplifiers. Ultra secure, the Speakon cable prevents accidental disconnection and guarantees optimal sound quality. A classic on large stages because Speakon connectors lock and can handle high current levels.
Splitter
A splitter is an electronic device that duplicates and distributes a signal (audio, video, or light) to multiple outputs simultaneously. For example, a video splitter can send a laptop image to multiple projection screens, eliminating the need for multiple sources and simplifying installation. It's useful for synchronizing multiple devices!
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.
Subwoofer
The subwoofer (often abbreviated as "sub") is the king of bass. A specific speaker dedicated to the lowest frequencies, those that vibrate in your chest and give impressive depth and power to the music. Essential for a successful party atmosphere, an immersive experience during projections, or to fully experience the sound effects.
Symposium
More academic and specialized than a conference, generally focused on the in-depth study of a specific (often scientific) theme, the symposium is a conference of experts. It is characterized by presentations by recognized specialists, round tables, and in-depth discussions, promoting intellectual exchange and the deepening of knowledge.
Team building
In businesses, team building encompasses fun, sporting, creative, or intellectual activities organized in an informal setting to strengthen team cohesion, improve interpersonal communication, stimulate interdepartmental collaboration, and develop a sense of belonging within a group. Games, challenges, and workshops are perfect for building bonds!
Tip
Tipping is the act of 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.
Trade show
Trade show is the English term for a trade show (or trade fair). It's a B2B event that brings together players in the same industry and where companies showcase their products or services. It's an opportunity to network, meet potential clients and partners, discover the latest market trends, and do business.
Tray
In the technical world, a tray is not a food container but an electrical box, a power strip that can be waterproof, allowing several electrical devices to be connected safely.
Truss
The truss is the aluminum structure used to suspend lighting, speakers or sets. It is the skeleton of the stage. Light, solid and modular, it is a pillar of the event, which allows you to give height and style to your installations.
Wash (effect)
The wash effect is a type of lighting that produces a soft, diffuse, and uniform light, ideal for bathing a large area (a stage, a wall, an entire room) in a uniform color. This effect is perfect for creating a warm, intimate, or dynamic overall ambiance, depending on the chosen color.
Workshop
A workshop is a collaborative activity where participants work together to address a problem. It's a time when participants get hands-on, work in groups, share their experiences, and learn concretely about a given topic. The goal: to stimulate creativity and encourage the exchange of ideas. Forget boring presentations! With a workshop, active engagement is key.
XLR
The XLR cable is a must-have for transmitting quality audio signals, especially between microphones and consoles. Its locking design guarantees a reliable connection. It is the best friend of sound technicians looking for reliability and the king of cables in the world of sound reinforcement!