How to set up sounds for a big garden party?

[nick s]

Hi guys,
I know there are some experts on here, so was wondering if you could help.
We have a big summer garden party at my house on Saturday and i'm in charge of providing the music. We don't need anything really fancy. Just a decent set up that will be loud enough for everyone to have a bit of a dance and to be heard well over about 100 mingling guests.
I've got a playlist set up on my itunes, and was wondering what the best way to do this is? Will any computer speakers wiht a sub be up to the job? And if i want to run more than 2 speakers am i going to start needing things like an amp?
I was thinking maybe putting the playlist onto an ipod and using a home cnema surrond sound speaker system, or would this not be good enough? Just after some ideas really please guys! And also where is the best place to buy speakers etc from?

much appreciated!!

[nick s]

would something like this be decent enough?


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Pair-Ekho-BBX-15-Inch-DJ-Dis...

[Trustmeimadoctor]

it will work it will ps off anyone within driving distance but it wont sound great but your out side so not a lot will

[Bullett]

Go to your local PA/Disco place, tell them what you want and they will hire it to you.

[coach]

^^^^ this. But I would invitevthe neighbours. If you annoy them it's bad form at best, no party at worst

[B16JUS]

Do you know anyone with a guitar amp ?

You could borrow it and just buy a 3.5mm to 1/4" amp lead which will cost approx £5

[Willber]

Hire a small PA setup, anything else will sounds gash.

[Dave 500]

Don't know where in Berkshire you are but Langley sound and light hire PA's for parties and discos.

Probably around £100.00

I don't know what the stuff like but its the only company I know who will hire to the public.

[Dr John]

Don't use a guitar amp or computer speakers, it will sound crap.
Hire a decent powerful PA. A high powered system running quietly will be MUCH better than small system running flat out.
If you have time, and might use again, there are some great bargains on eBay.