06/08/2026
Some grassroots venues can’t afford the sound system their shows deserve🎚️
Operating costs are up 30% since pre-pandemic = rent, energy, staff, suppliers, all rising. Meanwhile grassroots venue profit margins average just 2.5% and over half record no profit at all (MVT Annual Report, 2025).
For a venue doing an average 3 shows a week without its own PA, that’s potentially £46,800+ a year spent on kit they don’t even keep. With margins this thin, that’s not a line item. That’s existential.
But owning the right system flips it. Premium kit lasts years and with financial tools to manage the cost, can come in cheaper than hiring for every show.
d&b audiotechnik are the Liveline Official Audio Partner, offering with free consultations and venue health checks for grassroots venues:
No d&b kit? → Free consultation, just provide your room dimensions and a few photos
Already running d&b? → Free health check to get the most from your system
🔗 To get started with d&b
