What do I look for when shopping for a sound system/amplification for a rock band?

March 17, 2009 by admin · 2 Comments
Filed under: Other - Electronics 
shopping
Josh R asked:


I’m shopping for a sound/amplification system for a small band of me and my friends and I have no idea where to start looking or what to look for. Can anyone either link me to a shopping guide explaining what I’m shopping for or summarize basic specs/things to look for in a system?
I know I basically need a sound board, amplifier(s), and speakers, but beyond that, I’m basically lost.

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Comments

2 Responses to “What do I look for when shopping for a sound system/amplification for a rock band?”
  1. Randy K says:
    March 17, 2009 at 11:05 am

    This decision totally depends on your target venue. If playing in clubs or restaurants, you need less gear. Those places often have gear, and are so small that your guitar amps and the drums fill the room. In that case all you need is basic system to push vocals, keyboards and any DJ rigs or effects you may use. In this case you can get by with a small, powered mixed and a pair of speakers, or a small mixer and a set of speakers with built in amps. (Powered speakers)

    If you are wanting your own rig, like for the ability to set up and play in a park or something, or to provide a system for yourself as well as other bands, you need a more complete system. Speakers need to be supplemented with subwoofers if the system will be projecting the kick drum and bass guitar over distance. Speakers will need more power rating if they are gonna carry guitars as well as vocals.

    Message me if you want to discuss details.

  2. Daniel K says:
    March 19, 2009 at 7:23 pm

    Josh - Randy’s answer is good.

    You might want to consider finding a musical instrument store in your area that sells sound equipment. They can discuss with you your needs and all the options. It can get expensive, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to get started.

    There are also some pretty good PA system packages online that include pretty much everything:
    –PA-Systems–2746

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