PA question?

[hardhitter]

I was just wandering what other bands are using(speakers,amps,mixer)? We have been looking at getting our own PA system.

[ToonaRockGuy]

What you'll need really depends on where you're playing. If you have a need for Full PA, it's rather expensive, so you may be better off just subcontracting out the sound. If you just need vocal PA, there are lots of low-cost options out there. More specific advice can be given when you provide more need analysis.

[floodcitybrass]

I have to agree with Toona. We need to know what kind of gigs you are playing? How many people? What kind of power is available.
AND.... Don't forget about some lighting too.

Here's some pics of the gear we use:
http://www.lhsoundandlight.com/pics/gea ... es-025.jpg


Our band plays many differnt kinds of events from weddings to outdoor conecerts. For the smaller stuff, we use yorkville nx55p powered speakers with 1 qsc HPR118 powered sub (1 total, not per side).
We always use 6 wedges on stage because we have 8 people.

For larger stuff we use an EAW rig with 4 KF650z on each side triamped with a driverack 260 dsp. Our subs are eaw LA 400 (4 total). We have a couple mixers. Most of our amps are qsc (mx,rmx, and plx).

We haul this around in a 1998 International 24 foot box truck.

We have a couple power distros for power. We can do 250v split phase or we can do 3 phase.

Our lighting consists of 2 multicolor wash lights that are dmx controlled and we also have a back truss with 8 scanners. Our lighting rig uses about 80 amps alone.

Here's some lighting pics:
http://www.lhsoundandlight.com/pics/new ... show20.jpg
http://www.lhsoundandlight.com/pics/new ... show04.jpg


My advice is not to get a big PA. You need to spend alot of money do it right. Don't forget about a trailer or a truck to move the stuff.

I would get a smaller PA that you can use in bars and such. I can help you spec something out that is a good value.
If you are doing a big outdoor event, call a professional.

[Hannibal]

If you are considering buying your own band PA system, look at the quality level of the gear you want to purchase. There is a lot of "less expensive" gear out there, but it may not have the quality you want. It might not hold up well over time. Look to a company who makes their living providing sound for both live events and installed systems. They will recommend gear that they use on a daily basis and that they know will work for you over the long haul. Consider more than just price. Consider service. You might be able to find it a few bucks cheaper in a catalog. Call them [the catalog folks] when you need help with your system on a Saturday and see if they answer the phone.

Yes, I sell equipment. Yes, I make my living full time providing rental and installed sound systems. You don't have to buy it here, but just think about what I am suggesting. If you do it right the first time, you'll save money over the life of the equipment.