Scott's PA Tutorial Logo Welcome

        One of the most common assumptions in the world of live music is that a sound engineer can either make or break a good performance. Strangely enough however, the PA system and the knowledge to use it effectively is usually the first place where musicians are likely to cut corners. This is a terrible mistake. Even Freddie Mercury or Celine Dion would sound bad through a PA that was constantly feeding back or distorting, and a big booming 24 inch kick drum isn't worth much if the PA system makes it sound like you're beating on a tupperware bowl. The problem is that learning all the ins and outs of setting up and running a sound system can be nearly as complicated and time consuming as learning to play an instrument in the first place. This can be doubly difficult since there are very few simple to-the-point references out there that can help you learn how to get it all working without bogging you down with a lot of unnecessary details and technical jargon.
             Scott's PA System Tutorial was created as an effort to fill this void by explaining in layman's terms how to hook up and use a variety of different PA system configurations. On this web site, you will find diagrams and directions on hooking things up from the smallest one-microphone one-speaker system all the way up to a large stereo tri-amped system. Also included is advice on how to operate the system once it is all hooked up and running. In addition, there is an entire section dedicated to tips and tricks. These range from making do in a pinch to saving money on equipment to creative ways of hooking things together. Also, there is a glossary of terms you are likely to hear (and use) when working with your sound system. After all that, if you still haven't found the answers you were looking for, you can post a question on the Message Board (very active), or you can check out some other PA System related sites on the links page. And of course, don't forget to sign the guestbook before you leave.

Enjoy your stay,
Scott L. Hysell


            

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Send comments or suggestions to ScottH@pasystem.us
Post your PA questions (or any equipment/band question) on the PA Tutorial's Message Board.


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Introduction · System Setup · The Powered Mixer (combo) · Stereo to Mono · The Small Practical PA · Effects (loops) · Monitors · Multiple Effects · Crossovers · Tri-amp Systems · Diagram (Large PA) · Multiple Effects Loops (revisited) · Compressors · The Snake · Running Sound · Turning It On · Testing(Powered Mixer System) · Testing(Single-amp System) · Testing(Multi-amp System) · Signal Adjustment (Input/Output levels) · Equalizing(EQ)/Feedback Control · Words to Know · Tips and Tricks · Message Board · Home Recording

All material on this URL is the original work and exclusive property of Scott L. Hysell.
Copyright ©2003.