Sonic Maximizers-

[jonas_24112]

I have a Sonic Maximizer for my live PA at my disposal. I can use it or not. My question is where to use it in the chain of sound. Ideally, I've been told you should place it after all other devices just before the amplifers. For what I am wanting to do with my rig, I really want to place it before my EQ, then run the EQ to the amps (EQ has active crossovers and subwoofer outs.)

So must I put it after the EQ, will it help or hurt to put before the EQ?

Thanks in advance for the input......

 

[robd]

as a rule they go last, try both and see which one sounds better to you

 

[Bassamatic]

Just be aware that the Sonic Maximizer can add 20 dB of peak level, so be sure to place it where it cannot cause clipping in the following item.

 

[Zooberwerx]

as a rule they go last, try both and see which one sounds better to you

You have a few options:

*You can place the SM in your board's main(s) insert (if available) which would effectively place it before the EQ. Somewhat limited by the EQ as it functions as your crossover.

*If the SM has two channels with separate process and low contour controls for each (some models are "ganged" where a single set of controls is used to manipulate both channels), you can place it after the EQ using one channel for highs / mids and the second for the subs. This will only work with a mono configuration, though.

Riis

 

[walterw]

as a rule they go last, try both and see which one sounds better to you

"as a rule", they go under the edge of the door when you're loading out. avoid otherwise

 

[lowfreq33]

These are the audio equivalent of snake oil.

 

[TimmyP]

If there's a channel that you just cannot get to sound good, try the Maximizer on that. Otherwise sell it. I've yet to hear one fail to make a system sound worse.

 

[T-Bird]

Hi.

"as a rule", they go under the edge of the door when you're loading out.

Those gadgets can be nice if used as an effect, but on their "intended" use, next to useless.

Jonas, if You really want to improve the overall sound, spend the money you get from Sonic The Hedgehog on a loudspeaker management system or a compressor or a two.

Just my 0.02€ as usual.
Sam

 

[jonas_24112]

Thanks for the feedback. I'll tinker with it. If I do not notice an improvement, then it will go under the door.

I will be using my extra pay for use of the PA to save for a loudspeaker management system. That is the goal.

 

[badstonebass]

Sonic maximizers DO help low end equipment IMO. They are also great on the monitors for clarity.

They are not necessary though.

 

[Session1969]

"as a rule", they go under the edge of the door when you're loading out. avoid otherwise

LOL !

 

[Zooberwerx]

Sonic maximizers DO help low end equipment IMO. They are also great on the monitors for clarity...

True on both counts. I use an aux output to feed my monitor amp and 3 beat-to-hell Fender PA enclosures. No EQ other than the channel strips and a Sonic Maximizer in-line. Works well provided you keep the low contour <4 and process <3....that holds true for any application.

Riis

 

[walterw]

the cliche comparison is that maximizers on PA are like salt or ketchup on food; if the food's crappy, salt and ketchup make it edible, but if the food's good, salt and ketchup ruin it.

 

[MNAirHead]

There are some applications that they do make things easier. .. I'd put it last in line.

 

[Moosehead1966]

There are some applications that they do make things easier. .. I'd put it last in line.

I find the BBE Sonic Maximizer helpful within our worship context as : Poor P.A. with inexperienced but well meaning people manning the sound board. In this case, helpful to us..

Also I have one in my rig, tightens up the low end. I'll keep it!

Just my $ .02..

Marc