monitar mixes

[drcmvalleycity.net]

i have been playing in my band now for about 2 years, and as always we are all trying to set the mix to our needs. the problem is we only have 2 channels for our monitors. i am wondering if it is best to have all vocals in both chanels to hear the full effect or to kept it at my own vocals and guitar. basicly, im asking what direction we should be moving in with this.

thanks drcm27

[InsightPro]

It really depends on the type of gigs that you are playing. If you are playing on a relatively small stage, you should be able to hear the guitar with little to none in the monitors. If you are on a bigger stage and the different players are spread out more, you might want some guitar in the monitors.

 

As far as vocals go, I always like to put all vocals in the monitors. It helps to solve two problems. The first thing is that it helps everyone because they can hear themselves. The second thing is that putting all the vocals in the monitor mix is a big help when it comes to harmonies. This allows the vocalists to tell if they are in tune with each other, thus producing a more pleasing sound to the ears for the audience. Hope this helps.

 

-Matt

[Guest]

We could give a more specific response if

we knew how your band was organized.I agree

that the vocalists should all be in the mon

mix. This is good for harmonies AND dynamics

of each singer. Players using stage amps

don't need to be in the mon mix, but to

avoid "amp wars", ask someone with a good

ear to listen from out front of your stage

setup for a balance between stage amps and

drums and the vocal level in the house

speakers. Drummers and bassists can easily

overload the "stage sound", requiring added

volume on the vocal monitors to compensate.

 

For my acoustic guitar I use one side of my

preamp stereo output into a Yamaha MS 101 II

powered monitor/speaker mounted on a mike

stand. I set it up to my left-front pointed

at my left ear, to keep it away from my

vocal mike. This leaves the main floor mons

for the vocals.

 

One last thought for the band: Everyone needs

to LISTEN while they play. To find that

elusive "blend", try practicing unplugged

with acoustic instruments or low volumes.

Good Luck! ......Bob Wood