Planning a wedding is a huge task – and if you’re in Wedmin mode (that’s wedding admin, if you’re new here), there’s one key question that’s worth asking your venue as early as possible:
“Do you have a sound limiter?”
While it may not seem like a big deal at first, sound limiters can have a significant impact on the kind of live music you’re able to have on your big day. In fact, if you asked a group of professional musicians whether they’d book a venue with a limiter for their own wedding – the answer would almost always be no.
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What is a Sound Limiter?
A sound limiter is a device that monitors the volume of music in a venue and keeps it within a set decibel (dB) level, often to meet local council noise restrictions. If the music exceeds the limit, the limiter may reduce the sound automatically – or in some cases, cut the power completely.
Not ideal on your wedding day.
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Why Do Venues Use Them?
After the pandemic, we saw a sharp rise in noise complaints from local residents who had grown used to quieter weekends. As a result, more councils enforced noise regulations, and more venues were required to install limiters.
Whereas once it was rare for venues to have them (around 10%), now it’s rare to find a venue without one.
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What Can Bands Do About It?
The good news? Professional bands have plenty of tricks up their sleeves:
• Electric drum kits – volume-controlled, so no more mic’d up acoustic kits rattling the rafters.
• Hot rods or muffled drum heads – for quieter acoustic drumming.
• Brass with mutes – reducing their powerful punch.
• In-ear monitors – allowing a completely silent stage.
• Direct input (DI) – bypassing amps entirely, and running instruments straight into the venue’s PA.
This setup means the musicians hear everything through their ears (like headphones), and the audience gets clean sound out front – keeping within the decibel limit while maintaining vibe and clarity.
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But Still… Choose Your Venue Wisely
While bands can adapt, it’s worth considering your crowd. Ask yourself:
• Are we party animals who want a full-on live band experience?
• Do we have kids or older guests who might appreciate a more chilled vibe?
• Do we want a big band with brass, full drums, and high-energy music?
Then check:
• Does the venue have a limiter?
• What kind is it? (Does it cut the power or just squash the sound?)
• What’s the decibel limit? (This matters.)
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What Do Decibel Levels Actually Sound Like?
• 85–90dB – A lawnmower or blender
• 92dB – City traffic from inside your car
• 95dB – A busy bar or loud radio
• 100dB – A typical rock concert or nightclub
If your venue’s limiter is set below 92dB, we recommend keeping your band size small and acoustic-style. Between 92–98dB, most bands can perform comfortably, with a few limitations. But if you’re expecting a wild party atmosphere, aim for a venue with no limiter or one with a limit closer to 100dB.
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Final Thoughts
Venues often say, “We’ve had bands before and it’s been fine” — but not all bands are the same. Some are 3-piece acoustic trios. Others are 10-piece powerhouses with brass, drums, and electric everything.
Do your own research. Ask the right questions. And if music is a top priority, prioritize the right venue.