Guide for choosing the right megaphone

Megaphones and Bullhorns are basically interchangeable terms these days, but originally old-style megaphones were basically large cones that could amplify your voice. Most of today's megaphones and bullhorns are amplified with electric power and can amplify and project your voice much more than the old-style type. When purchasing a megaphone you need to consider a few things to make the best choice.

Most indoor applications will not require as large a unit as an outdoor use would unless you would be in a very large indoor space such as a large auditorium or arena. For many indoor uses the Champion MP4W or the Fanon MP-5 would be sufficient. If the space is large and noisy then the Champion MP12W, MP16W or the Fanon MV-16S or Fanon MV-20S would be recommended.

If you are outdoors in a small area that is not very noisy then the MP4W could work, but if the area has a lot of  background noise such as a city street then a megaphone that is more powerful would be needed such as the MP12W or MV-16S

 

Megaphones with batteries installed can be a bit heavy to hold up in front of your face for any extended period of time. Some of the larger units can weigh 4 lbs or more. It can be like holding a brick in front of your face for 10 minutes. If you will be speaking for any longer periods then you should consider the detachable mic model such as the Champion MP16W or Fanon MV-20S;These megaphones will hang from your shoulder or they can be placed on a table or on the ground. No need to hold a big heavy unit up in front of your face when speaking, and it allows for easy eye contact with your audience.

 

The loudest megaphone available in the Champion line is the MP16W and in the Fanon line is the MV-20S. The detachable microphone allows for louder volume because the mic is separate from the speaker unit which helps to control feed-back. Feed-back squelch is a common problem with all megaphones, but it can be minimized with this detacable mic feature.