Hey folks- I've recently started playing larger and louder shows with a rock band. Previously, I'd been doing jazz and funk, so I'd had no problems hearing myself on stage. With the addition of loud distorted guitars, though, it's a whole new game for me. I'm running a Tech 21 Landmark 300, which has a great XLR out on it. One of the great things about it is that it's post eq, which is also turning out to be kind of a problem. Since we usually don't get a full sound check, I can set what I think is going to be good stage sound, and I'm frequently wrong. I don't really want to be fidgeting with my levels, since that is effecting what goes to the FOH. Other than trying to set better levels or getting better monitor mixes, what are my options for still getting the tone of the Landmark to the house PA, yet being able to fidget with my levels on stage if need be?
if the amp DI doesn't have a pre EQ option how about using a DI before the amp and mic the speaker as well? The FOH can mix both and you will have control of your stage sound. The sound guy can adjust your mic level while keeping your bass tone from the DI consistent. just a thought..
one certain advantage to DI before the bass rig is if the bass rig ever fails, you can still play the show through the monitors, and or side fills if you're lucky enough to have em. cheers!
+1 as the volume goes up, it becomes more impoirtant to have a stage sound and to let the FOH guy do his job.
As suggested with a minor tweak, I'd suggest finding a way to use a low cut (around 100hz works well IME) on the affected Sansamp XLR out, blended with a DI straight from the bass. After all, the Sansamp XLR is an emulation of a mic'd cabinet being driven by a tube amp, and it sounds pretty darned good but what you like on the low end on stage might just well muddy the house mix so let the engineer blend your DI into the signal.