sundance-communications.com Forums Telephone Services Security, Alarms and Paging Valcom or Bogen

I'll be quoting a paging system for a customer that has a warehouse/manufacturing facility (roughly 12 paging horns). I have worked on many Valcom and a few Bogen system, but I'm trying to think which product would best fit the needs and was wondering which way to lean for paging equipment.

What application best fits a Valcom system?
What application best fits a Bogen system?

I can't answer that accurately. Any suggestions? :shrug:

I found my answer on a previous post.

See! That's how good this forum is!

General rule of thumb for where I work:
Valcom for power supplies, Bogen for paging modules.

If cost is no factor always go with 70v/Bogen(?) system. Much easier to install, add to, troubleshoot, and change. If cost is a factor, 10 horns or less stay with 24v/Valcom(?) system. I have found that 10 horns is typically the break even point.

If cost is no factor always go with 70v/Bogen(?) system. Much easier to install, add to, troubleshoot, and change. If cost is a factor, 10 horns or less stay with 24v/Valcom(?) system. I have found that 10 horns is typically the break even point.

I agree except that there may not even be a cost difference between a 70v system and Valcom that uses powered speakers. With Valcom you have to contend with power supplies and power wiring to each speaker in addition to the audio. And since each speaker contains it's own amplifier they each are a maintenance issue that you don't have with a 70 volt system.

I've done 70 volt systems with just two speakers. I don't believe the cost was any more than Valcom and it was a hell of a lot easier. Not that I have anything against Valcom, I just don't see the point.

-Hal

With 70V systems you have a much wider choice of equipment and aren't tied to one manufacturer.

A good regulated voltage system will have much better quality sound is easier to install and maintain.

I did a job for Time-Life that was 600 amplified speakers! What a waste of money! And consistent maintenance issues with failing speakers.

Why use amplified speakers and not a constant-voltage (70 volt) system?

The consultant recommended it. Why? It was all he knew about PA.

I don't mind powered speakers when you're putting in 2 or 3 but even then, like Hal, I still prefer 70 volt. Just remember that unless the amplifier says "class 2 wiring acceptable" (usually the case with 50watts or less) you may have to run conduit or armored cable for a 70volt line.

Sam