Tuesday, June 25, 2019

Setting Up Backline Equipment For Concerts

By Thomas Phillips


Concerts are fun and exciting times for the band and the crowds. The size of the venue and type will determine the systems that need to be set up. How it is set up and the type of backline equipment can determine the difference between a successful concert and a bust. The systems are sometimes provided by the venues and sometimes by the bands. Neither can be expected to have everything needed.

The frontline equipment usually includes a PA set and monitors so the band can hear themselves. These are placed in front of the band playing. The rest of the equipment, including the amps and instruments to broadcast the sound, are either with or behind the band. This gets the music out to the crowd. Since it is usually behind the band, it takes the name backline. Some bands provide their own, but in many cases, the venue will provide them as well. Checking with the venue is important when the band is booked for a show to know what will be needed.

The systems are extremely important and matter greatly to ensure good sound quality. Bands have shown up for concerts only to find that the venue had no equipment at all and was expecting the band to provide everything. Without the proper power, amps, and other systems, the concert may have to be canceled.

Most bands have their own setup. This doesn't mean they have what is needed for every venue. They often have enough for a decent small concert or practice session. However, in a much larger venue, the smaller amps and speaker systems may not be able to broadcast loud enough, leaving the crowd straining to hear the music.

Permanent systems are common for larger venues. If they have concerts all the time, they've probably invested in a pretty nice system. Some will even have used drum sets and other instruments in case a band is in a bad spot. The parts that are not available at the venue can usually be rented prior to the concert date.

Smaller groups usually rent what they need. They'll usually have their instruments and a few amps that they use for practice or playing on the street. However, the cost is pretty high for a bigger system, so they can rent them from local music shops. Larger and well-established groups may have an equipment bus that holds all the speakers, amps, boards, and other equipment needed, along with a sound technician.

Sound checks are critical before each concert. The last band to play usually sets up first. They'll finish their sound check and slide the instruments and amps towards the back. Going in reverse order, the rest of the groups will do their checks and push their equipment back. This gets every band set up with the systems in order. As each band is done playing, their systems are quickly pulled off stage and the next set is pushed forward to make for a fast change between bands.

Having the right equipment for each venue is impossible, even for the biggest bands. Renting what you need based on the size and setup of the venue is often the best choice for traveling bands. Some venues will already be set up with most of what is needed, but this should always be worked out when the group is booked for a concert.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment