Correct order?: Mixer>EQ>Crossover>PowerAmp(s)

[georgestrings]

Okay, I can't find a reference to this in the manual but...

If I'm using a single channel para EQ (e.g. Rane PE 15) and I have L + R main inserts available, which insert should I use? Or doesn't it matter? Please explain the proper config. as I'm sure I'm missing something.

Riis

I wouldn't use it in the mains, period - truthfully, you don't HAVE to have EQ for your mains - although it is nice to have...

I definitely wouldn't use it in one mains channel, and not the other - I suppose you *could* run your system in mono, and then use it...


- georgestrings

 

[greenboy]

Why run in stereo in the first place?

 

[GregShadoan]

I prefer to use the main inserts. If for some reason your graphic EQ cuts out you can un plug your inserted cable from the board and you are back up and running within seconds. If you are inline you need to get into back of your rack and repatch which will take more time.

Not in my case(s), its a quicker trip to the back of the rack, then the other side of the desk. Desk(s) are usually too big to reach over.

 

[modulusman]

Not in my case(s), its a quicker trip to the back of the rack, then the other side of the desk. Desk(s) are usually too big to reach over.

I am a bass player running sound from stage. Sometimes my board is sitting on my effects rack with the whole thing against a wall. So for me it is easier to unplug an insert than to move stuff, find a flashlight etc.

 

[greenboy]

Arguing on the merit of equipment failure. How novel. Amazing that I've had EQs with many decades of unfaulted use. Must be a special case ; }

 

[modulusman]

Whose arguing. Maybe it is time for you to buy some new EQs yours must be worn out they are so old.

 

[greenboy]

Actually I have a couple fairly new ones. DSP/SMS. And I know how everything works. I use them along with the old ones, and the fairly old ones that can store presets, or do feedback detection, or slice and dice ; }

 

[modulusman]

All my PA gear is active so they don't need much EQ if any. I have a DBX IEQ that is basically set flat. It does have a limiter and Feedback detection built in so I usually have it inserted.

 

[GregShadoan]

Why run in stereo in the first place?

Not to nit pick GB, but as a sound person, it is the bare minimum requirement.
Rider, audio requirements read something like:
"System shall be stereo, 3-way, 4-way, etc.. etc.. , capable of produceing XXX db X weighted, blah blah blah..."

I know this really doesn't apply to local weekend warriors, but it does in the real world of Live Sound. Plus the simple fact that most if not all pro audio gear comes in 2 channels configurations for mains. Honestly, in the last 35 years in this business, I cannot recall using a mono system for FOH.

 

[JPaulGeddy]

Just to throw another variable in the mix (since I just acquired that same crossover not too long ago), I'd recommend bridging your sub power amp, if you're not already. Made a huge difference. Still stereo mid-highs, but the thump is bridged-mono.

 

[RicPlaya]

Not to nit pick GB, but as a sound person, it is the bare minimum requirement.
Rider, audio requirements read something like:
"System shall be stereo, 3-way, 4-way, etc.. etc.. , capable of produceing XXX db X weighted, blah blah blah..."

I know this really doesn't apply to local weekend warriors, but it does in the real world of Live Sound. Plus the simple fact that most if not all pro audio gear comes in 2 channels configurations for mains. Honestly, in the last 35 years in this business, I cannot recall using a mono system for FOH.

Depends on the venue, most gigs do not warrant stereo mix, can't tell the difference anyway. Bass freq is mono, that's all that matters. Nothing wrong with panning channels eithier. Like I said all depends on the venue but to 99.9% of the population in most bar, festival, wedding type gigs it won't even be noticed. Now national acts in large stadiums..that's another story.

 

[RicPlaya]

Just to throw another variable in the mix (since I just acquired that same crossover not too long ago), I'd recommend bridging your sub power amp, if you're not already. Made a huge difference. Still stereo mid-highs, but the thump is bridged-mono.

Cause bass is mono..may as well give it al the juice it can take!

 

[modulusman]

Just to throw another variable in the mix (since I just acquired that same crossover not too long ago), I'd recommend bridging your sub power amp, if you're not already. Made a huge difference. Still stereo mid-highs, but the thump is bridged-mono.

That might not be a good idea. The OP never said what he was using for subs. Zooberwerx said he was using some 300 watt yorkvilles. If they are 4 ohm cabs you can't bridge them. And if they are 8 ohm you would be feeding 600watt speakers 1400 watts. :scowl: Sounds like a recipe for disaster if you don't know what your doing.

 

[Zooberwerx]

That might not be a good idea. The OP never said what he was using for subs. Zooberwerx said he was using some 300 watt yorkvilles. If they are 4 ohm cabs you can't bridge them. And if they are 8 ohm you would be feeding 600watt speakers 1400 watts. :scowl: Sounds like a recipe for disaster if you don't know what your doing.

You're spot-on, mm. The cheapo Yorkie subs are now 8 ohm and sport dual 1/4" and dual Speakon jacks. I use a QSC RMX 1450 in bridged mono for the juice. I balance the mains and subs using the output attenuators on the dbX Xover. Not perfect but suitable for the smaller venues we play. Should also mention that we're placing both subs side-by-side at center stage or thereabouts. We have the capability of placing the subs directly beneath the mains but I read somewhere this may result in some degree of "comb filtering".

Riis

 

[Zooberwerx]

Not to nit pick GB, but as a sound person, it is the bare minimum requirement.
Rider, audio requirements read something like:
"System shall be stereo, 3-way, 4-way, etc.. etc.. , capable of produceing XXX db X weighted, blah blah blah..."

I know this really doesn't apply to local weekend warriors, but it does in the real world of Live Sound. Plus the simple fact that most if not all pro audio gear comes in 2 channels configurations for mains. Honestly, in the last 35 years in this business, I cannot recall using a mono system for FOH.

Sonically speaking, what are the advantages of running stereo vs. mono? I would assume there's enhanced spatial definition but, as mentioned earlier, does it make a significant difference in the smaller venues? We're currently running mono but I believe we have the "technology" to cross into the realm of stereo operation: stereo mixing board, stereo effects processor, two channel dynamic processor, and a dbx Xover. I'll have to mothball the single channel para EQ (for now) or stick it between the Xover's low / sub output and amplifier to clean up the boom.

Riis

 

[GregShadoan]

Sonically speaking, what are the advantages of running stereo vs. mono? I would assume there's enhanced spatial definition but, as mentioned earlier, does it make a significant difference in the smaller venues?

No it does not make sence either sonically, or economiclly.

We're currently running mono but I believe we have the "technology" to cross into the realm of stereo operation: stereo mixing board, stereo effects processor, two channel dynamic processor, and a dbx Xover. I'll have to mothball the single channel para EQ (for now) or stick it between the Xover's low / sub output and amplifier to clean up the boom.

Riis

Try it if you have the gear, see what you think.