prosound and stage lighting

prosound and stage lighting

Whether or not your need a sound guy for your shows or if you can do it yourself depends on a few factors.

First, the size of the venue you are playing. If you are performing in a small 100 seat bar or venue and the PA required is not huge, you can easily mix the sound yourself. It is best to have the mixer on the right side of the stage. If a guitarist or bassist is right handed it is easier to do it on the right side as the neck of the instrument will point away from the mixer and it easier to remove your right hand than your left in mid song if something goes wrong.

If however you are performing some large venue (500 people up) or outdoors it is probably best to hire a professional who can supply all the gear and operate the sound and lighting for you as you will need more

Secondly, the mixing ability of the band members. This would include knowledge associated with amplifier wattage, speaker impedance, graphic and parametric equalisation, compression, effects, and locating troublesome frequencies that will create feedback (squeal or hum) as well as basic knowledge of dynamic levels, microphone polar patterns, and overall mixing of the sound levels. If your band members don’t know this, you should hire a professional.

Moreover, what is the size your band. If your band is bigger then the average five piece all playing a variety of instruments then it is better to have a sound guy who knows what he is doing. Also the requirement for microphones, cabling, DI boxes, stands etc would be huge and possibly too much to do yourself.

Finally, what is your budget? You need to decide whether to invest in a sound system of your own or continue to hire and pay out ‘dead money’ in hire fees. You can virtually buy a good basic PA system for the costs of hiring for year or so if you are playing a few nights per week every week and earning some money. Remember you have to buy many accessories in PA systems but if you are mostly doing small venues and you have someone who can setup and mix your band, you will save a bundle by doing it yourself.

Always try to listen at another venue to anyone you may hire prior to them mixing for your band. Some so called PA/sound guys are atrocious at mixing and have no clue what they doing even though they may tell you they do. I have heard some awful mixes by so called pro sound guys. Don’t be blinded by guys who sound technical and speak in numbers and frequencies and ‘shop talk’ babble.

Hiring a sound guy depends on a number of factors. You’ll need to discuss with your band if you think it is right for you. Discuss all the factors involved and see if hiring someone is better than doing it yourself. If you play a large number of big venues and have a lot of equipment, hiring someone will probably be beneficial for your band.

RRCFX20 $189.99 "Created for the Pro?s, the RRCFX20 mixercase is made for the journey and built tohold strong in high stress situations.Designed to fit the Mackie CFX20 Pro Mixer,the RRCFX20 features a heavy-duty,removable cover crafted with our nopressuredesign to protect your mixercontrols. Our unique low profile base allowsyou to access your mixer?s rear connectionpanel without removing your mixer from thecase...

Shadow Dancers Vol 5. The Modern Day Lava Lamp $9.99 SHADOW DANCERS:MODERN DAY LAVA LAMP - DVD Movie...

Ultimate Beginner DJ's Guide to Scratching (DVD) $8.22 P-Love stars in this instructional film imparting his special knowledge of the turntable arts and its culture. Learn the vocabulary, the equipment, and how to do the thing from this Montreal master. Great shots of P-Love at work, spinning, scratching and melding beats and grooves. Includes interviews with other DJs too....

VJWorld Visuals Starter Pack $4.26 VJ WORLD VISUALS STARTER PACK - DVD Movie...

Eliminator Lighting Black Lights Black 24 Black Light Bulb $14.94 The E-123 is great for clubs, DJs, bands & special effects productions. Each Black Light comes complete w/a tube & fixture & features a hanging bracket, a reflector for optimum output of lamps, a six foot power cable & quick start electronic ballasts. Dimensions: 5"H x 3"W x 25"D, Weight 2 lbs. Specifications subject to change....

Eliminator Lighting Black Lights Black 400 Black Light Bulb $459.95 The EBK-400 has a 400W black light bulb that is perfect for large venues. Hanging bracket included. Dimensions: 21.5" x 10.5" x 6" Weight: 24 lbs. / 11 kgs. Lamp: EL-400 BLK...

Ultimate Support JSKC90 Karma Pro Adjustable Cart - Medium $229.99 (Inv Code: W04)...

Ushio 1000671 - HPL-575/115X+ JS115V-575WX Projector Light Bulb $12.95 575 watt 115 volt T6 Medium Bi-Pin Heat Sink (G9.5) Base 3,050K Clear HPL-575/115X+ Projector / Stage / Studio Halogen Incandescent Ushio Light Bulb...

Blue Microphones Icicle XLR to USB Mic Converter/Mic Preamp $59.00 The Icicle is Blue's new stylish USB converter and mic preamp combo that allows you to connect any XLR microphone directly into your computer via USB. The Icicle features a studio quality microphone preamp, 48V phantom power, fully balanced low noise front end, analog gain control, and driverless operation. Connect any XLR microphone directly into your computer via USB. Click to...

Arriba Cases LS-520 Wheeled Backpack $79.95 High Quality Wheeled Backpack. Made by Arriba.The Arriba LS520 is an affordable, wheeled backpack that is great for transporting clothes for an overnight gig, props, party supplies, and necessities! The LS-520 can be used as a backpack with should straps or can be pulled as a wheeled bag with it's pull-up handle....

Slappa METRO Laptop Case -Materials: Suede...

American DJ Protective Soft Bag for Midi Controllers + 1 Laptop - American DJ VMS4BAG $69.95 American DJ Protective Soft Bag for Midi Controllers + 1 Laptop - American DJ VMS4BAG....

Shure PG24/PG58 Wireless Vocal System, H7 $245.00 The Shure PG24/PG58 Wireless Vocal System includes a PG4 Diversity Receiver with PG2/PG58 Handheld Microphone Transmitter, tuned to accentuate the clarity of lead and backup vocals....

Audio-Technica 700 Series Unipak Frequency-agile Diversity Uhf Wireless Systems $429.95 Audio-Technica's 700 Series Freeway wireless delivers professional features and sound quality unheard of in its class. These easy-to-use wireless systems feature eight selectable frequency-coordinated channels, diversity operation for increased range/reliability, automatic frequency scanning, Tone Lock squelch and more. The ATW-701/L comes equipped with a lavalier microphone for public speaking, t...

Fender 950815100 FA-100 Acoustic Guitar Pack, Natural $129.99 With the Fender FA-100 Acoustic Guitar Pack, you get value, affordability, and Fender quality. This big-sounding acoustic guitar sports a spruce top and agathis back and sides, and the slim agathis neck and rosewood fretboard are easy to play. Ideal as a first guitar, the FA-100's dreadnought body gives you room-filling resonance and projection. This pack is completed by a padded gig bag, electron...

Pyle PDBT28 1-Inch Heavy Duty Titanium Super Tweeter $25.37 1'' titanium super tweeterDiamond chrome cutting finishDie-cast aluminum frame1'' high temperature Kapton voice coil30 oz mag structure150 watts RMS and 300 watts peak powerFrequency response: 2kHz - 20kHzIncludes Mylar crossover capacitor...

Vaultz Locking Media Binder, 200 CD/DVD Capacity, Black with Chrome Accents, 14 x 4.5 x 12.75 Inches (VZ01076) $48.47 Vaultz Media Binders offer the ability to customize your contents. Since these sturdy units contain a standard three-ring binder mechanism, they accommodate binder insert pages that hold CDs, DVDs, Diskettes, business cards or just paper. Your contents stay safe and secure with tumbler or key locks, and the aluminum and steel reinforcements offer protection. The nylon shoulder strap and smooth chr...

Pioneer CDJ-850 Professional Multi-Format Media CD/MP3 Player With USB $781.99 Pioneer Performance Multi Player - Pioneer CDJ-850....

Loops and Grooves: The Musician's Guide to Groove Machines and Loop Sequencers $12.53 Loops and Grooves is an overview of the technology and art of making music with loops by a nationally recognized expert on music technology. The book surveys the fundamentals and evolution of loop-based composition and explores in depth the power of curre...

Ultimate DJ : Berklee in the Pocket Series $6.80 In this book, author/DJ Stephen Webber traces the history of the DJ's art, exploring the DJs' craft and tools, and discusses hip-hop culture. From the traditional turntablist to the digital DJ, this book is the definitive guide and reference for everyone...

DJ Mixing and Remixing (DJ Styles) $8.99 The DJ Styles Series covers three of the most important techniques and skills today's DJs need to learn to stay on top of the music. Featuring the industry's top working DJs -- DJ KNS and DJ Gerald, with a special appearance by UCADA -- these titles will...

Pace iLok 2 $38.60 The iLok2 from Pace is smaller, stronger, customizable, and has a much higher capacity than the original making this portable software license solution better than ever before. iLok 2 is small enough that you can fit two of them side by side in adjacent USB ports, and the sturdier USB connector and solid body makes each one tough enough for constant usage. Best of all, thanks to the latest in tech...

Pro Tools MP 9 - Professional Music and Audio Creation for M-Audio Interfaces $119.99 The perfect path into the intense world of Pro Tools! Pro Tools MP is a version of the world's leading recording and editing software, Pro Tools, and it's made to work with M-Audio interfaces. It puts much of the same rocking recording, editing, and mixing features of Pro Tools into your studio, at knockout value. Don't be fooled, though. Pro Tools MP isn't some "ultra-light" version. It's got a s...

Ableton Suite 8 Full Version Audio Software $799.00 Ableton Suite 8 is a software package that gives you a rich world of sound, perfectly complementing the music production tools and features in Live 8, including 10 virtual synthesizers and a huge collection of multi-sample instruments and drums. These include Sampler (sampler), Operator (frequency modulation synth), Electric (classic electronic piano emulator), Collision (physical modeling instrum...

Sennheiser HD201 Lightweight Over-Ear Binaural Headphones $19.50 A universally compatible enrty level earbud. Key Features:Basswind system Outstanding wearing comfort Availalable in white or black Asymmetrical cable eliminates cable clutterGeneral Description:The MX 460 are the perfect entry-level earbud featuring Sennheiser's innovative "Basswind" system, offering the best sound for your ears at this price. Additional Features: Ideal for use with all MP3, CD, ...

Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone $146.00 The Shure SM57 is a fixture in the music business. You see it everywhere. In small clubs and 100,000 seat stadiums. This renowned mic is used by legendary performers and the latest up-and-comers. What you may not have seen are the thousands of SM57s at work behind the scenes in professional recording studios around the world. In fact, you'll probably find it in more studios than any other mic. Not...

Alesis iO DOCK Docking Station $399.00 The world's 1st pro audio dock for iPad connect microphones and instruments; including guitar studio monitors PA speakers headphones and MIDI controllers Musicians can perform craft create and play back music in virtually any conceivable manner or location Universal device works with virtually every audio and MIDI app in the App Store; Core MIDI pliantVideo output for connection to TVs and project...

Sennheiser HD 202 II Professional Headphones (Black) $19.19 The HD 202-II is a closed-back, around-the-ear stereo headphone featuring powerful bass reproduction. FeaturesClosed,dynamic, semi-circumaural stereo headphonesEarcups can be removed from the headbandSpecially designed damping material ensures powerful bass responseLightweight turbine diaphragms for low bassHigh levels and crisp bass for modern rhythm-driven musicExtremely comfortable to wear due ...

Sennheiser RS120 Over-Ear 900MHz Wireless RF Headphones with Charging Cradle $79.99 SENNHEISER RS120 -- Now you can enjoy complete freedom of movement when listening to music or using your computer! This open, supra-aural wireless RF ( Radio Frequency ) headphone system delivers transparent, balanced sound with outstanding bass response. Transmitter can be wall mounted Very lightweight headphones, extremely comfortable to wear Frequency response - 22Hz - 19500Hz Rechar...

Nady MPF-6 6-Inch Clamp On Microphone Pop Filter $12.99 6" CLAMP ON MICROPHONE POP FILTER WITH BOOM & STAND CLAMPUPC : 634343001655Estimated Shipping Weight : 0.95...

RRCFX20 $189.99 "Created for the Pro?s, the RRCFX20 mixercase is made for the journey and built tohold strong in high stress situations.Designed to fit the Mackie CFX20 Pro Mixer,the RRCFX20 features a heavy-duty,removable cover crafted with our nopressuredesign to protect your mixercontrols. Our unique low profile base allowsyou to access your mixer?s rear connectionpanel without removing your mixer from thecase...

Shadow Dancers Vol 5. The Modern Day Lava Lamp $9.99 SHADOW DANCERS:MODERN DAY LAVA LAMP - DVD Movie...

Ultimate Beginner DJ's Guide to Scratching (DVD) $8.22 P-Love stars in this instructional film imparting his special knowledge of the turntable arts and its culture. Learn the vocabulary, the equipment, and how to do the thing from this Montreal master. Great shots of P-Love at work, spinning, scratching and melding beats and grooves. Includes interviews with other DJs too....

VJWorld Visuals Starter Pack $4.26 VJ WORLD VISUALS STARTER PACK - DVD Movie...

Eliminator Lighting Black Lights Black 24 Black Light Bulb $14.94 The E-123 is great for clubs, DJs, bands & special effects productions. Each Black Light comes complete w/a tube & fixture & features a hanging bracket, a reflector for optimum output of lamps, a six foot power cable & quick start electronic ballasts. Dimensions: 5"H x 3"W x 25"D, Weight 2 lbs. Specifications subject to change....

Eliminator Lighting Black Lights Black 400 Black Light Bulb $459.95 The EBK-400 has a 400W black light bulb that is perfect for large venues. Hanging bracket included. Dimensions: 21.5" x 10.5" x 6" Weight: 24 lbs. / 11 kgs. Lamp: EL-400 BLK...

Ultimate Support JSKC90 Karma Pro Adjustable Cart - Medium $229.99 (Inv Code: W04)...

Ushio 1000671 - HPL-575/115X+ JS115V-575WX Projector Light Bulb $12.95 575 watt 115 volt T6 Medium Bi-Pin Heat Sink (G9.5) Base 3,050K Clear HPL-575/115X+ Projector / Stage / Studio Halogen Incandescent Ushio Light Bulb...

Sennheiser HD201 Lightweight Over-Ear Binaural Headphones $19.50 A universally compatible enrty level earbud. Key Features:Basswind system Outstanding wearing comfort Availalable in white or black Asymmetrical cable eliminates cable clutterGeneral Description:The MX 460 are the perfect entry-level earbud featuring Sennheiser's innovative "Basswind" system, offering the best sound for your ears at this price. Additional Features: Ideal for use with all MP3, CD, ...

Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone $146.00 The Shure SM57 is a fixture in the music business. You see it everywhere. In small clubs and 100,000 seat stadiums. This renowned mic is used by legendary performers and the latest up-and-comers. What you may not have seen are the thousands of SM57s at work behind the scenes in professional recording studios around the world. In fact, you'll probably find it in more studios than any other mic. Not...

Barndoor Accessory by Tech Lighting $60 Add the Tech Lighting Barndoor Accessory to a MR16 lamp for adjustable lighting with a Hollywood aesthetic. Using the same barndoor function seen so often in stage lighting, the Barndoor Accessory features four adjustable barndoors in the traditional Black finish. Includes a Louver Lens Holder that can hold up to two lenses or louvers. Tech Lighting, located in Skokie, IL, develops lighting under the belief that the latest and best new product innovations are the result of quality craftsmanship, attention to even the smallest design detail and drive to consistently bring you something new. The Tech Lighting Barndoor Accessory is available with the following: Details:4 adjustable barndoorsIncludes Louver Lens HolderBlack finishUse with MR16 lampETL ListedShipping: This item usually ships within 3 to 5 business days. Dimensions: Item: Width 7 In.

Sealy Cotton Bliss 2 -Stage $249.99 Sealy Cotton Bliss 2 -Stage

Clarity Pendant by WAC Lighting $240.3 Though petite, the WAC Lighting Clarity Pendant offers plenty of stage presence. Its clear mouth-blown glass appears smushed and molten, giving the pendant a certain visual movement and unique shape. Choose from several finish options to best complement the space. WAC Lighting, founded in 1984, has developed a strong reputation for high quality decorative and task lighting. Based in Garden City, New York, WAC Lighting is a leading manufacturer of low voltage, line voltage and LED lighting, including track systems, transformers, lamps, cabinet lighting and recessed downlights. The WAC Lighting Clarity Pendant is available with the following: Details:Clear mouth-blown glass shadeMetal supportsRound ceiling canopyIncludes integral electronic low voltage transformer (1W min. load, 50W max.)72" field-cuttable braided cable with 12" removable hang-straight tubeLow voltageDimmable with electronic low voltage dimmer (not included) UL ListedOptions:Finish: Brushed Nickel, Chrome, or Dark Bronze.Lighting: One 50 Watt 12 Volt Bi-Pin Low voltage Halogen lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Overall Hanging Length Adjustable to 78.38 In. Shade: Width 6 In., Height 5.38 In. Cable: Length 72 In. Ceiling Canopy: Height 2.75 In., Diameter 4.5 In.

Theatre Stage $24.95 It's show time! This soft and colorful finger puppet theater includes stage curtains that can be opened and closed and two large pockets for puppet storage. Theater also features a handle for travel ease. Dimensions: 14" Age: 3 years + Gift Wrap not available. Shipping Note: This item ships via UPS Ground within contiguous United States only. Cannot be shipped to AK/HI, PO boxes, US territories, or APO/FPO addresses.

Galactic Explorer Semi-Flushmount by Landmark Lighting $84.6 Blast off to the outer space of imagination with the Landmark Lighting Galactic Explorer Semi-Flushmount. Great for the nursery or game room, this colorful fixture will set the stage for many adventures into the unknown. Features a double-thick galactic explorer glass shade with a textured design. Based in Pennsylvania, Landmark Lighting was founded in 1996 to create quality lighting fixtures--in styles ranging from restoration to transitional to contemporary--that will enhance the home and be enjoyed as prized possessions for generations. Landmark Lighting is a division of ELK Lighting. The Landmark Lighting Galactic Explorer Semi-Flushmount is available with the following: Details:Bowl-shaped double-thick galactic explorer glass shade with textured designDecorative accent on center of shadeMetal supportsRound ceiling canopyUL ListedLighting: Three 60 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 5-7 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Diameter 17 In., Height 6 In.

Prince Lionheart Two-Stage Seatsaver In Black $21.99 Prince Lionheart Two-Stage Seatsaver In Black

Prince Lionheart Two-Stage Seatsaver In Grey $21.99 Prince Lionheart Two-Stage Seatsaver In Grey

Summer Infant 3 Stage Super Seat $59.95 Summer Infant 3 Stage Super Seat

LEGO Friends 3932 Andrea's Stage $9.99 Make Andrea a superstar with her stage! It's time to shine on Andrea's Stage as she puts on a show for all of Heartlake City with the spotlight, piano, boom box and microphone! 87 pieces. Ages 5 to 12.

WeeGo Nipples - 2pk - Stage 2 $4.49 These nipples were made specifically for the WeeGo glass bottles. They are silicone nipples, made in France and are sold as a 2pk. Stage 1 - Slowest flow for ages 0-3 months Stage 2 - Medium flow for ages 3-6 months Stage 3 - Fast flow for over 6 months Y-cut - Fastest flow for cereal and thick liquids