Always Double-Check Your Work When Installing Audio Equipment

Today, I saw a post on the A/V Nightmares Facebook group page.

Here is the picture that was posted. 

Can you spot the problems with this audio rack installation? Take a closer look.....

Did you see the problems with this installation?

1. The dbx EQ is mounted upside down meaning that all the frequencies are upside down and backwards. If you pull down to cut a frequency, you would actually be boosting the frequencies causing more problems.

2. Both the Peavey and dbx EQs are mounted with only two rack screws each. It is always better to mount each piece of rack gear with the maximum amount of rack screws to make everything completely secure.

3. The Peavey EQ appears to be mounted crooked in the rack. This is the result of using the wrong holes in the rack rail to mount the gear.

All these problems are simple fixes for a person installing the gear. It is better to double-check your work to make sure you have not made any mistakes. Take pride in your work and it will show in your results!

Reality Check Diagram of the Costs of a PA System

Found a great diagram that showcases the costs of PA system from the various viewpoints of each person involved with the production. (ie: the FOH mixer, the accountant, the artist, etc.)

Here is the diagram for everyone to enjoy!

Here is another version of the same diagram:

Throwback Thursday - Mackie 32-8 Bus Mixing Console

Back in 1995, I used to work as the Head Theatre Technician at Victoria Playhouse - Petrolia, Ontario Canada. During my time at the VPP, the theatre made a purchase of the Mackie 32-8 Mixing Console. This console was the only one with 32 channels that would fit into the small control room space. I really enjoyed working with the Mackie 32-8 bus console. These days, many of them are for sale online because, everyone  is going to digital mixers.

Tips On How To Generate Funds To Purchase A Sound System

My work as a sound technician has mostly revolved around bands with their own sound gear and in-house sound systems in performance venues. Occasionally, I have rented gear from my local music store for some gigs however, I have always wanted to purchase my own sound rig.

My biggest obstacle has always been lack of funds. I work a full time day job to support my family but, there is never much leftover for purchases like sound equipment. I need to find a way to generate supplemental funds to allow me to start purchasing sound equipment for my system.

My wish is to purchase the required gear for a 16 channel system to allow for live mixing of the standard 4 piece rock band. Along with enough loudspeaker coverage for a crowd up to 500. My system needs to be portable enough so that I can transport it with my van and set it up by myself.

Digital mixers and powered speakers quickly becoming the norm for most professional shows however, analog gear is still a viable option for basic shows like I work. There is so much great analog gear available for sale now that it is possible to piece together an awesome rig for a reasonable price. Personally, I learned sound mixing on analog but, I would like to try and incorporate both analog and digital technology into my proposed sound rig.

When I work sound gigs for bands and at venues with house systems, I make some good cash money for my efforts. Only problem is that I work infrequently and those monies made usually end up paying for living expenses after I work the gig. I need to find a way to start putting away the money I make from a gig and using it to eventually purchase the sound gear I want.

Here is where I am asking for help. I would like to know if there is anyone out there that would be able to give me pointers on how I could start the process of generating funds to buy sound gear without going broke at home. I would also like some help with ways to market myself better as an individual, freelance sound technician. I figure the only way I am going to make the extra money outside my day job is to work as many gigs as possible on the weekends and in my free time.

If you are reading this entry in my blog and you have any ideas of suggestions for me then, please contact me via email.
rgbehro@hotmail.com

Thanks for your time.
Cheers!
Ron

WANTED: Component CD Recorder

Looking for a component type, CD recorder for a small sound system setup. Would like to find a decent unit in good working order including remote control. Some of the brand names I like are: Tascam, TEAC, Yamaha, Sony, JVC, and Denon.

Here are some examples of the type of CD recorder I am looking for:

If you have a CD recorder like this for sale, please contact me by email at: rgbehro@hotmail.com