THE MODERN VOCALIST

vocalclaire wrote:

Would VERY much appreciate some advice and reviews on a P.A package that has nice crisp sound. I have a Zoom effects unit, so looking for P.A, and monitor.

What exactly do you want to do with it?
To me, "PA" means anything from a single 6.5" speaker suitable for about 50 persons up to systems like the huge meyer sound that metallica use :-)

For now just some general advice: Don't buy pre-made packages from your local music shop. Go for the good stuff and don't buy cheap or you'll buy twice...

Some general questions:
- How big an audience do you have to cover?
- How many channels do you need on the mixer?
- What kind of gear/instruments will be connected to the system?
- Do you prefer active speakers (speakers with built-in amplifiers) or a passive system with seperate power amps?
- Do you need sub lows or is it just vocals?
- What is your budget for the whole thing? Don't forget cables, cases, stands etc.

Sebastian

vocalclaire wrote:

I am basically looking fo a P.A that can be used firstly  for myself and backing tracks so CD/Minidisc but that would be powerful enough to be used with a small band (drums/bass/keys or guitar). Audience wise needs to be loud enough to cover venues for 300+ people

So you'll need a minimum of 8 or 10 channels (bassdrum, snare, one overhead, bassguitar, guitar/keys, vocals, playback).
A good choice, depending on how many effects- and monitor-sends you need would be:
Soundcraft EFX 8 or 12, Yamaha MG 166CX, Allen&Heath PA12 or Wizard 16:2³DX.

As for speakers, I would recommend an active system.
Listen to the speakers before you buy!
A good choice, again depending on the budget:

RCF ART 310 AI: Sounds nice, is easy to handle and provides enough output for smaller venues as long as you don't need to have a lot of kick drum or bassguitar in the mix.

QSC HPR 122I

If you want to have extended low-end (i.e.: bassdrum, bassguitar), you'll have to have a subwoofer to cover more than ~100 people.

HTH
Sebastian