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Whether you need a TV for your home, want to hire a TV for an event, or are hosting a corporate presentation, you will need the right TV to suit your purpose. Options include plasma TVs, LCD TVs and LED LCD TVs. But with all the jargon, it’s confusing. And it can be difficult to know which screen type is best for you. But fear not! Here, we have deciphered the lingo and explained the true differences for you!   Plasma TV Screens Truth be told, plasma TVs are old technology. Samsung, LG and Panasonic stopped producing plasmas in 2013/2014. So, if you are looking to hire a TV screen for an event, we wouldn’t recommend hiring a plasma – LCDs and LED LCDs are the way to go. How Do They Work? Essentially, the plasma TV consists of cells and inside each cell are two glass panels. A neon-xenon gas is injected and sealed within the gap between the glass panels. When using a plasma TV, the gas generates red, green and blue light which creates an image on the TV screen. Key Features Pro – Flat and thin Pro – Good colour accuracy and saturation Pro – Cheaper than LCD or LED TV screens Con – Not as bright as LCD or LED screens Con – Use more energy compared to LCD and LED screens Con – Shorter display life-span Con – Screen-burn of static images Con – Not suitable for rooms with ambient light (screen glare) Con – Heat generation due to the burning of phosphors (gas)   LCD TV Screens You will likely be most familiar with these TV screens – you may even have one in your home, courtesy of JB Hifi or Harvey Norman. LCD screens are still popular both for household and commercial use. However, not all TVs are created equal. The type of LCD screen in your home (a ‘domestic’ or ‘consumer’ screen) should be different from the type of LCD screen used for events, digital signage, or corporate applications (for these applications you would need a prosumer, semi-commercial or commercial screen). So, keep this in mind when buying or hiring your LCD screen – make sure it suits your purpose. How Do They Work? LCD stands for ‘liquid crystal display.’ It consists of two layers of polarizing film and a layer of liquid crystals between the two films. These liquid crystals allow light to filter through when electricity is passed through them. The crystals do not produce light on their own however – there are millions of fluorescent lights at the back of the screen to produce the light, as well as shutters to control the passage of light through the liquid crystals. Key Features: Light and thin Does not emit harmful electromagnetic radiation Fluorescent lights to illuminate the images on-screen More energy-efficient than plasmas Does not generate a true-black colour No burn of static images Cool running temperature   LED LCD TV Screens  Essentially, an LED LCD TV is a type of LCD screen, it just uses LEDs instead of fluorescent lights. Technically you could call them ‘LED-backlit LCD TV’ screens, but mostly they are called LED LCD screens. How Do They Work? LED stands for ‘light emitting diodes’. LED screens are very similar to LCD screens, except that they use LEDs instead of fluorescent lights to illuminate the images on screen. LEDs can be placed at the back of the screen (known an ‘backlit LEDs’ or ‘full array lighting’), or around the edges of the screen (known as ‘edge lighting’). Key Features: LEDs to illuminate the images on screen Slimmer than LCD screens Much better image quality Sharper colours and more realistic images Very energy-efficient Very bright Great viewing in a room with ambient light Produce a better picture than LCD screens   So, this gives you an overview of the different kinds of TV screens commonly available.  Whether you are considering buying one for your home or hiring a TV screen for an event, make sure it fits your purpose!   What You Need to Remember Whether you are buying or hiring a TV screen, you need to consider: 1). where the TV will be located; 2). the amount of ambient light in the location; 3). what size of TV will be most suitable in the location; and 4). what content will be displayed. If you are wanting a TV for a professional or commercial application, we would recommend a semi-commercial or commercial TV screen. Think of it this way, you wouldn’t drive a Mini across the Nullarbor Desert – you’d need a good SUV which has the power and performance to ‘do the job.’ This analogy applies to TVs – don’t hire a ‘domestic’ TV screen if you are using it for a high-profile event or corporate presentation, trust us, the difference is obvious. For all your screen hire needs, contact the experts at Mega Vision today!

We are often asked what the difference is between these three special effects machines. So, we thought we’d put together this quick guide to explain what the key differences are & which machine you should use to create the effect you want. SMOKE MACHINE Smoke machines, also referred to as fog machines, use special fluid to produce thick white smoke to create an impressive visual effect. They often come with a remote control to control the volume of smoke produced as well as the duration.  Smoke machines produce a similar effect to low fog machines, however the heated smoke produced by smoke machines rises and dissipates around the room, whereas low fog machines produce cold liquid particles and the fog remains close to the ground. Input: Smoke fluid Output: smoke Particles: smoke Use smoke machines for: shows, concerts, parties, spooky effects. Use when you want the whole room to be smoky, rather than just on the ground (low fog machine). LOW FOG MACHINE A low fog machine (similar to dry ice machines) produces a thick, opaque fog that remains close to the ground to create a ‘walking on air’ effect. Fog machines create this effect by cooling fluid to liquid particles. A low fog machine usually creates an intense burst of fog rather than a subtler diffusion, like a hazer. The effect of a low fogger is similar to that of a smoke machine– they are both designed to create a visual effect / impact, whereas a haze machine is designed to emphasize other effects such as lighting beams or lasers. There are two main types of low fog machine: A dry ice machine – this uses solid dry ice and water. It is a simpler method but does not have the length of run time as the cryogenic machine. A cryogenic machine – this uses a liquid such as liquid CO2 gas and has a longer-lasting effect. Input: Dry Ice or Liquid CO2 Gas (depending on the type of machine) Output: low lying fog Particles: liquid droplets Use a low fog machine for: weddings (especially for the first dance), shows, theatres, Halloween parties. HAZE MACHINE Haze machines, also known as ‘hazers,’ can be oil-based or water-based and are used to complement lighting effects. Haze machines create a fine and subtle haze with a long ‘hang’ time – the particles linger in the air for a long time before dissipating making them ideal for use at shows and concerts. They produce a much finer and less noticeable effect than smoke or low fog machines, as they are designed to emphasize the effects of lighting allowing you to see rays and patterns you would not normally see. Input: Haze fluid Output: fine mist / haze Particles: liquid droplets Use haze machines for: shows, concerts, festivals and anywhere you want to emphasize light effects or create a misty atmosphere. Perfect for when you don’t want the thick, opaque effect of a smoke machine or low fog machine. For any of these machines, there is a big difference between the cheaper versions and the professional-grade machines. If you want a quality and reliable performance at your event, make sure you go for the latter. This does not necessarily mean that you need to pay more, but you will definitely get better value for money. Professional-grade machines usually have a continual automatic cycle, meaning that they can operate continually, without needing to stop. For more information on smoke, low-fog or haze machine hire, contact our friendly team today.

The success of any event is partly determined by the suitability of the space or venue itself. Get it wrong and it could be a disaster, but get it right and your event could be a cracker! Drawing upon our many years of experience in events management and AV installation, we have compiled a list of top tips for choosing a space to suit your event. 1. Budget Be clear on what the budget is from the outset. Although you might want the river-front, roof-top space with free-flowing Pol Roger, the budget might not (and probably won’t) allow for it. You can create a fantastic event without spending a fortune. For example, lighting and special effects can transform even the ugliest of spaces. If you have a clearly defined budget from the get-go, costs won’t spiral and you won’t be left feeling bankrupt. 2. Know Your Guests A key part of choosing an event space is knowing who your guests will be and how many you expect to attend. The number of people will definitely influence your choice of event space so make sure you have an estimate in mind (e.g. 50-65 or 200-250). The guests you are inviting will also influence the type of event space – a small hen’s party and a 50th birthday bash for 150 guests will require very different event spaces and styles. 3. Event Days and Times Check the school holidays calendar as well as public holidays as this may affect the desired date for your event (and if the event space is available). Very often, you might get the event space you want, but not the date, or vice versa. Try and be flexible where possible and have 2 or 3 potential dates in mind. 4. Scope Out Once you have the event date and guest list narrowed down, you need to have a look at the potential locations. List down 3 or 4 criteria that are important for your event (e.g. sea views, accommodates 300 people, in-house catering, etc.) then search for event spaces that might match these and do a site visit. Don’t be afraid to scope out a few different venues before deciding which one to go for. A hotel or function space are very popular for weddings and corporate events, but a winery cellar, modern warehouse or museum hall can be really fun alternative options. When scoping an event space, consider also: Event theme Location – is the event indoors, alfresco or a combination of both? Venue fees – what are they and what is included? Space – is there enough for the type of event you are planning (including a dance floor)? Parking – is there enough and is it free or paid? Unique features of the space that meet your criteria for the event 5. Audio-Visual Unfortunately, AV is often on of the last things considered when it comes to event planning. And yet it is one of the first things your guests will notice if it is not working properly! Make sure you use quality AV equipment from a reputable company to ensure quality sound and lighting for the duration of your event. Things to consider include: Audio – are you delivering a speech? Is there going to be dancing? You will need to ask the venue if you can use their audio system, or arrange to hire your own. Vision – are you delivering a PowerPoint? You will need to connect your laptop to the venue’s projector or TV. Are you hosting a sports night? Make sure you have enough big screens to broadcast the game. A big LED screen provides a ‘wow’ factor and is the best way to watch the game. Lighting – this will depend on the theme of the event. There is a huge range of lighting that can create any colour or effect you want, including lighting with a company’s logo or a person’s initials. Staging – do you need a low riser for the wedding table? Or a high catwalk stage for a fashion event? You may be able to use the venue’s staging if available or arrange to hire some. Special Effects – if you want to add some extra intrigue and excitement, look at hiring a dry ice machine, bubble machine or snow machine, depending on your event theme. 6. Restrictions Some venues have a preferred supplier list, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to use them. Very often, sourcing outside suppliers can be less expensive. These might include: security, audio-visual, catering and furniture hire among others. Don’t be afraid to shop around for different suppliers. 7. Other Events If you are having your event in a hotel, function space or hospitality venue, it is highly likely there will be other events or at least other people there at the same time as your event. Make sure there is sufficient signage for your guests to follow so they don’t get lost (including signage for the toilets). Keep in mind the noise factor – if you are having speeches, you don’t want there to be lots of noise from the room next door disrupting your event. So whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or an intimate cocktail party, the event space has the power to define the experience your guests have. You only have one chance to make a good impression on your guests – so make it a great one!

One of the best ways to ensure that your guests enjoy your event is to make your event look and feel inviting. Nothing ruins a party mood more than really harsh lighting or it being so poorly lit they cannot see the party in front of them. So how can you achieve perfect event lighting? Well, you need to make sure you get the perfect lighting hire equipment to compliment the style of your event. 1. Event Style There is nothing more disappointing than having lighting that completely mismatches the event style. Think glamourous gala dinner with psychedelic 70s disco lights. Or a winter wonderland themed party with orange flashing lights. It just doesn’t work. Whether you’re going for elegant or big and bold, make sure you really think about the style of the event. The lighting equipment needs to compliment it. 2. What do you want to achieve? Do you have an idea in mind of the effect you are wanting? If so, be sure to tell your party lighting hire company. They will be able to recommend the right light for the night. If not, don’t worry, that’s what they are there for! Popular lighting options include LED Par cans, LED FX lights, water effects lights and pinspots for mirrorballs. If you want to hire lighting equipment, these are just some of the many options that will be available to you. 3. 5 or 50? When it comes to choosing lighting hire equipment, be sure you choose the lighting that suits the age of people attending your party! 80 year olds most likely won’t want strobe lighting (!) and teenagers may want cool coloured FX lights at their party. So keep your guests in mind when you want to hire party lighting! 4. Old school or high-tech If you want an old style lighting look, then par can lights might be the way to go. They are a cheaper option and provide a soft edged, unfocussed area of light that can be coloured with the use of coloured gel sheets. These might be good for a vintage style wedding. If you want more vibrant colours, then consider LED lights. They have much less power consumption and are more visible than conventional lighting under daylight. 5. Mood Lighting Be sure you can control your lighting so you can control the level of illumination as the natural light changes and the evening progresses. 6. Add flair Add flair to any celebration with exciting special effects (FX). There is a wide range of special FX machines to hire and these will create a seriously impressive impact on your guests. Why not hire a smoke machine? You will be able to see the rays of coloured light through the plumes of smoke which creates a real ‘wow’ effect. So to really enhance your guests’ experience, add flair with some innovative lighting and special fx! 7. Customise If you are having a corporate event, consider using lighting as a way to incorporate the company’s brand colours and logo. Gobos can project the company’s logo and LED uplighting can be used to colour theme the walls. For a wedding, consider customising gobos with the initials of the married couple and have these as a slow moving projection around the room. There are so many ways you can customise so don’t limit yourself. Lighting is a great way to transform your event space into something special. Good lighting can often make or break the atmosphere of your event. So be sure to use these 7 top tips when you need to select the best lighting hire equipment!

Organising a party or event is no mean feat. The planning that goes into making a successful event needs to be meticulous – no great party is ever thrown together at the drop of a hat. It takes careful consideration of all aspects of the event to ensure that all elements work in harmony with one another to creates a spectacular effect, leaving guests feeling like they’ve just experienced the best party in the world! Here are our top tips for how you can create the ‘‘wow’’ factor for your next party or event. Quality Sound System Every awesome party needs a high quality sound system. No-one enjoys an event with poor sound quality. If you don’t own a great sound system yourself, look at hiring some quality speakers or other audio equipment that will result in quality sound for the entire duration of your event. If you go with the cheapest available option you may find that the sound quality deteriorates after a few hours and that wouldn’t go down well with your guests! Choose Your Colours If you want to create the ‘‘wow’’ factor for your next event, think carefully about a colour scheme. This really helps to bring a room or venue together and can be followed all the way through from invitations to ‘thank you’ notes. If you really want to make a statement, choosing a single bold colour is very effective and memorable (and actually makes it easier to organise too!). Mood Lighting Lighting is essential to any successful event – whether it’s during the day or an evening function. From floodlights, to strobe lights and band stand lights, there is a myriad of lighting options to choose from for any event type. For that extra ‘wow’ effect, get a mirror ball for your dance floor – but check that it’s an appropriate size for the size of your venue or dancefloor. Lighting is essential in setting the mood for your event so make sure it matches the style of event you’re hoping to achieve. Harsh disco and strobe lighting won’t work well for romantic and low key events! Fun Photo Booth If you want to add an element of fun and hilarity for your guests, consider hiring a photo booth for the duration of the event. They’re a great way for your guests to create some awesome memories of the function and provide an excellent ‘mingling’ opportunity. You can also get some great props to go along with the photo booth to add an extra sense of fun. Special Effects Machinery For that extra special ‘wow’ factor, you can’t beat the use of exciting special effects. Depending on the theme and ambience of the event, you could look at options such as smoke machines, haze machines, dry ice machines, snow machines, CO2 jets, stage flames, search lights and much more. Take a look at our range of special effects equipment available for hire here. Hire A Marquee If you’re hosting an outdoor event but don’t want to worry about the weather ruining your plans, a marquee might be a great solution. They come in all shapes and sizes to fit your space and add an air of sophistication to any event. Don’t Forget the Dancefloor Do you want everyone to get up and dance at your party? After all, isn’t that what parties are for? Decide on a dedicated dance area and for that all important ‘wow’ effect, hire an LED dancefloor. Some are even interactive, which means that they are touch or sound sensitive, changing all the time to create stunning visual effects. If you’re looking for quality sound and lighting equipment in Perth for your next event or party, then look no further! Mega Vision Sound and Lighting have you covered with all the latest, high quality audio visual and lighting equipment to make sure your party has the ‘wow’ factor! Contact us today for some advice on how to create an event that’ll be one to remember!

Whether you’re planning a small conference or a large music or entertainment event, it’s imperative your audio visuals are in check. Quality audio and visuals is one of the first steps to creating an event that’s full of energy and impact and helps to deliver a message that’s effective and memorable. Great event planning is about crafting the perfect atmosphere for guests and potential clientele, but if you don’t find the right audio visual supplier match for your corporate needs, it could end up as a disaster! The right sound and lighting is the most important aspect of an event or function because of the visually unforgettable impact it creates. Audio visuals give depth and ambience to an event space and plays a massive role in tying everything together. The power of great sound and lighting is often underestimated – so make choosing a reliable AV hire supplier a priority for your next event to give it that ‘wow’ factor it deserves. Do Your Research Not every audio visual provider is going to provide the best service for your event so it pays to do your research first. Quality is key to ensure you get the best sound and lighting experience so choose a supplier that has the best equipment for the job. It’s essential you find an AV hire company that has experience in the type of corporate event you’re planning to run and offers a service that’s reliable, accommodating and creatively inspiring. Make sure the supplier you choose provides the highest quality equipment too – you don’t want your microphone to fail midway through a speech, or no visuals showing up on the TV fopr your presentation. Don’t just look at the dollar value and go for the cheapest option – remember, you get what you pay for. You will find companies charge similar rates for equipment but the variation in quality can be dramatic. For reliability and quality assurance, go for suppliers who provide commercial-grade equipment as this quality will really shine through. Determine Your Event Needs What event are you actually running? Small business conferences will have very different sound and lighting needs to live music events or corporate functions. Some events will only require a small sound system and LCD projector, whilst other higher-profile events thrive off special effects, large LED video screens and extensive staging, audio, visual and lighting equipment. You’ll need to weigh up whether you’re just hiring the equipment for the event or if you need a AV technician to operate everything on the day too. Using an outside provider with a qualified technician on hand will ensure the event runs smoothly, and keeps someone on site to prevent and attend to any problems that may arise. Event production and operation can be all the difference between a function that is good to one that’s impressive and memorable. Know What Essentials to Look Out For After you determine your event needs, you’re in a better position to find a AV hire company that has all the essentials for the job. Maybe your event requires the latest innovations like digital cinema installations for a highly creative project, production services or digital tools like presentation management and webstreaming services. A great AV company will offer onsite support, exceptional sound quality and a high level of creativity. They will be able to professionally turn your vision for the event into a reality, offering insight and tips along the way. Their sound and lighting equipment will be of the highest quality and fit for the job. If you require an onsite technician, they will be qualified and able to tackle any problems. Using a good, reputable AV company means havingqualified AV technicians who have extensive experience. There are lots of cowboys out there so be sure you have done your research! A good AV company will be able to provide advice and  suggest an option that is customised to match your specific event needs. Great customer service and 24/7 support is essential too. Ask the Right Questions Think of your AV supplier as an investment towards a successful event. Thus, you want to ask the right questions to guarantee you’re getting the best bang for your buck. A reliable company will be transparent in all areas. Ask to see a profile of previous events they have supplied audio visual equipment and services too and check referrals and social media channels (such as Facebook reviews) to find out what other customers have said too. Find out if the company will be sub-contracting any parts of the provided services and don’t be afraid to ask about the staff’s training, experience and qualifications. Ask to check all equipment before hiring to test everything is in proper working order and whether there’s any cancellation charges or additional fees you need to know about. Finding the Best Supplier to Leave a Lasting Impression Hiring the right AV company will do more than create a smoothly running event – it’ll ensure your guests and potential clients leave with a positive lasting impression. Very often event companies sub-hire equipment from AV companies, so why don’t you go straight to the source instead? A good AV company will often be the one-stop-shop you need for small-medium sized corporate events.  Vision, sound and lighting should be thought about as a branding opportunity for your business. No matter what the event size or style, you want people to leave talking about how fantastic the full experience was. For your AV needs, contact us today to find out how we can help!