Ampless Rig a.k.a. using IEM and a DI

[SteveC]

However if I were playing traditionally "quieter" music, I could see my self going dry D.I. only and possibly using one IEM. But its hard rock.. so half stacks, monitors, and stage volume it is. To me, it adds to the feel and the vibe of the gig.

Many people feel this way. I guess it may be a valid point. But I also think the days of needing stage volume to "rock" are behind for most people. The effect on hearing and health is pretty clear. Many "rockers" use IEM and find a way to rock.

 

[BassGuyFL]

Mixing for IEMs is still a bit of an unknown, even for mixing engineers who have been in business for years. I have done a lot of research and experimenting in this time and have found that creating a good mix for IEMs takes a degree of skill and understanding of what can make or break an IEM mix - including aspects of stereo mixing, proper reverb choices and proper compression and limiting. In my experience, most people/engineers are under the impression that creating an IEM mix is simply a question of raising the levels of different instruments in the individual mix (no wonder such mixes make you feel disconnected from the stage/people).

That's the one thing that people that don't use them get that unless the mix is just right it's an annoyance. My singer is constantly peeved because I need to make minor adjustments to mine I'm the only one that used them the rest use wedges. I say well it was good until one of the guitars turned up a little and then the drummer always sandbags the soundcheck so when we start playing he's too loud. They don't realize is the sound is constant in your ears you cant just take 2 steps over and oh now the guitar is ok. I like to have a nice even mix of everything in mine.

One thing I did is take the receiver out of the rack and put it on my pedalboard at my feet that way when I need to change the overall volume it's easily accessible and I don't have to dodge everyone to turn up or down.

 

[Jamesray740]

@Jamesray740 I understand your point. Only would like to remind you that many hard rock musicians use IEM onstage.

Im aware, I used to run monitors at a venue that hosted a variety of national hard rock acts. Just personal preference for me. I know many who find IEMs to be a dream come true. But, also know alot of guys like me who like to the feel of onstage amps and relying on open stage volume to hear. Just comes down to what you like. IEMs have their advantages. but for me personally it feels like the band is jamming inside my brain when i wear them.
Plus even if you prefer to wear IEMs, its nice to have a wedge mix going in case something goes wrong with them.