PA system, what do you need?

[mattsk42]

We're looking to possibly get a PA for our group. Most of the places have one (I'd think), but for practice and smaller bars that don't have it, we'd like to have something. We have an Alesis 8 channel mixer and will be getting mics. What else do we need?

It doesn't need tons of power, but I don't like to skimp on anything. The group is just 2 not so loud guitars, me on bass, and a quiet drummer. 2 or 3 will be singing. It's faster pop-country/rock.

I'm guessing a poweramp, and 2 2-way speakers. But which ones? I've heard good things from JBL, but do I need 500w per side? Or more like 250? Or do I really need close to 1000? Examples of yours or others would help. Thanks!

[mellofello]

some speakers these days are way overrated on power handling. for example Peavey SP-2's used to be rated at 150 watts (underrated) they really haven't changed much and now they are rated 500/1000. so don't let the ratings sell you. Also remember if you buy new as soon as you take them out of the store they will be worth approx. 1/2 what you paid. Also, good speaker cords, patch cords, mic stands, etc.. all add up fast. Usually if you watch your local classifieds you will eventually find a good deal on a complete p.a. with all the cords included. If you buy it right you will be able to use it for years and still turn around and get your money back if necessary. But basically I would look for mains with a 15" woofer and a horn. (Peavey, JBL, Yamaha) are all brands I would recommend. A power amp of 800 to 2000 watts will work fine(again, the power ratings don't mean alot) amps I am familiar with to recommend (Peavey, Crown, QSC, Mackie, Yamaha) Your mics will probably feedback before you ever use all the power anyway.

[arjosy]

If you like the Alesis and it has enough inputs for what you're doing then you have some options. You could go with a power amp and two passive speakers or you could go with active speakers.

1000 watts is not too much for smaller clubs/bars. Your going to want the extra headroom so you can cover a wide variety of venues and if you play an outdoor gig, you'll wish you had more. If you're miking kick drum and bass, you don't want to get anything less than 1000 watts to start. The hardcore sound guys won't leave the house without 5000 watts (that's a whole 'nother thread).

I would go with the power amp and passive speakers. This way you'll have the option of adding more cabs or driving monitors off the same amp (depending on the ohm rating, etc.) In short, your starting with a component system that can grow with your needs later (larger mixer without replacing amp, etc.)

For power amps, you can't go wrong with Crown and QSC. They're pretty much bullet proof and won't let you down.

For speakers, a pair of cabs with 15" drivers and horns from JBL, Yamaha, and Peavey are all good choices. Lots of people will post preferences for these, but bottom line, there is no wrong answer with these three.

If you want to travel lighter, the JBL and Peavey powered speakers are very good. Personally, I like passive speakers with a good 'ol power amp.

[IanStephenson]

While I wouldn't argue that you can't have too much power, just remember you have to carry it!!

As you're only talking about smaller places, we have a powerpod 2x220W which cost about £160. We mainly run vocals through it (with a tiny bit of other stuff) and we are LOUD!!! Sure something more powerfull would be great, it's mainly GASing on the part of the singer. Obviously it would be great to have a huge PA rack but who's going to carry it, and spend all ngiht running it.

I used to have a crown poweramp (it was stolen) and while it was nice, it was bigger, heavier and cost about the same used as a new Pod which includes a mixer and effects. While I'd recommend buying most stuff used, the new small power/mixer amps are so much cheaper, and lighter than the older amps, I'd probably buy new.

Don't forget monitors. We've got a couple of powered monitors, each driving a passive slave.

[mattsk42]

Interesting advice. I guess I should mention that only the singer and maybe one guitar will be going through it. So, 2 parts with a max of 3 if there's another singer I guess.