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How to Setup Band Speakers

Setting up band speakers in the proper location is vital to good sound. It is helpful to think of speakers as a human voice "speaking" to the listener. When we speak to another person, we generally direct our voices in the vicinity of the person's ears---not to his feet, side, over the head or through obstacles. In addition, speakers must be placed pointing as close as possible to a 180 degree angle away from the microphone front to realize the greatest volume without microphone feedback. Every venue is different, but by following a few general rules, you'll be able to set up your band speakers for the most efficient sound.

Things You'll Need

  • Main speakers
  • Speaker stands
  • Monitor speakers
  • Speaker cables
  • Duct tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the main speakers (also called FOH, or "front of house") on the speaker stands on both sides of the stage at least 6 feet apart, and adjust the stands so the bottom of the speaker is about 5 to 6 feet off the ground.

    • 2

      Point the main speakers toward the audience area, and away from obstacles such as walls, partitions or support columns. Speakers must not be angled toward the stage to avoid microphone feedback, but may be angled slightly away from the stage. Speakers must be set for at least a 90 degree angle from the stage front to maintain a 180 degree angle from the microphones.

    • 3

      Set up the monitor speakers on the stage in front of the performers. It is extremely important that monitors as close as possible to a 180 degree angle opposite the front of the mic. Most monitor cabinets are designed to sit at your choice of two different angles. Use the angle that provides the closest 180 degree speaker-to-microphone setup.

    • 4

      Connect all speakers to the amplifiers with speaker cords. Coil extra speaker wire neatly, and tape down with duct tape if necessary to avoid accidental trips and cord pulls.

    • 5

      Turn the sound system on and check operation of all speakers. Speakers may be moved and adjusted slightly for optimal sound and feedback avoidance.

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