Using MainStage(Logic) live

[wishtheend]

Yo JMJ -

I recently got involved in a project where I will be playing equal amounts of guitar, bass and synth and the concept of not having to haul around a rig for each has really got me interested. I know your bass rig was pretty traditional, but can you give me your thoughts on what it was like using MainStage in NIN? Is it something you could ever see yourself adopting in other live band situations, or was it something that just lent itself to NIN?

Also, could you give a rundown on what that type of rig was? Like which specific interface, where you using any DIs going in and I guess I assume output was to a speaker emulator sent to FOH?

With so many people using PodXTs and AxeFxs, the computer route really has me interested as I'd rather haul just a full range amp setup, a midi controller for synth and then just my gtrs and bass rather than 3 amps. Just looking for feedback from someone who got to use it extensively and what major PROS and CONS jump out.

[jmjbassplayer]

As you alluded to, I didn't use MainStage personally. I used SansAmp PSA1.1's and Palmer Speaker Simulators, with lots of various stuff in front of both to modify the tones as well. Anyway, I can certainly see MainStage being attractive in certain situations outside of NIN. It worked flawlessly as my keyboard rig, Trent's keyboard rig, and Trent's guitar rig. Interface-wise we were using RME stuff, and it would go straight to FOH w/o DI's at line level. I'm pretty sure. No speaker simulator. Not sure what DI if any for TR's guitar.

I think in your situation, with three instruments going, MainStage is totally worth a look. The pro's are many. The cons are kind of obvious, but I'll state the ones off the top that I can think of anyway:

- computer crashes
- lack of amplifier "feedback", both literally and figuratively.
- doesn't "read" as authentic or cool as regular ol' amps and effects, though that might depend on the eye of the beholder.

Hope that helps a bit.
JMJ

[Broadbent]

Just make sure you have good plugins. The Ampeg SVT plugin I used with mainstage left something to be desired. but sounded pretty good for guitar. although if you've got good subs int eh Pa system, you should be fine for bass guitar and keyboard. Logic is fantastic if you've recorded in Logic too. just pull your pataches and plugins right over.