andythemusician

Here's the low down: Yes you can pretty much do what you are talking about, but you aren't going to get the amazing sound out of it that you want.

http://www.customcovers.com.au/speaker_covers.html

If you mean powered speakers, I agree. They are the easiest way to go if you don't have the technical knowledge of passive PA systems. Even though they may be more expensive (or at least look more expensive, as usually similar speakers + amp + crossover + cable gets you at the same price or more) they would be a better choice until you learn more about PA systems. Nothing wrong with not knowing much about PA systems - no one is born with that knowledge, but you don't want to waste money burning out equipment when you could use a more user friendly version in the meantime.

Some songs use the stereo effect to a greater degree than others. Put on some Jimi Hendrix for example - some of the songs I have use stereo a lot, and by incorrectly running mono, you would not hear some things at all. By running mono correctly, you'd hear them, but not as intended by the recording artist. Seems like you could use that amps built in crossover, but personally, I steer clear of Behringer amps, as I haven't heard amazing things of them. I've also heard that their listed ratings are very generous to what the amps can actually handle. The limitation of the amp's inbuilt crossover is you can't fine tune it to what your speakers require, it is a simple high or low pass at a set frequency. Let me put it this way: if I were going to run my whole PA off one amp, I'd be looking at a QSC or Crown amplifier, possibly Australian Monitor, and it would be a big mother. As I said, its an important piece that you don't want to fail on you!

As you worked out, by adding two 8ohm speakers wired in series, you turn the load into 4 ohms. May I ask why? I recommend not for these reasons: 1) You can't run your tops in stereo, just mono 2) You'll need extra cables to convert your stereo signal into mono so you don't end up missing out on vocal tracks, guitar tracks etc that are only in one side 3) (The major reason) If your amp dies, you're up shit creek. At least if you have two amps and one dies, you can just ditch the subs and still get sound. Either way you decide to go, remember you'll still need a crossover.

I can guarantee 175 won't be loud enough for your sub. What kind of gigs are you playing? Because even if you get an amp to suit one or even two 200w subs, you're not going to be able to play to a big room. My tops are combined 400w apiece, and I would be pushing to get a good sound with more than 100 people (depending on the room and acoustics of course). When I get subs, they will be in the 500w - 1000w range to help me handle more. I can't tell you how your sub(s) are going to perform, because the website doesn't give an SPL measurement, but I could bet my right testicle that it isn't going to be amazing. I'd probably use these at house parties and nothing else. I don't mean to knock your choice or whatever, I'm just trying to illustrate problems you will have should you go down this path, so you can make an informed decision. If the reason for not buying bigger better equipment is "i don't have the money", then I suggest either hire in the meantime or go without, until you can afford it. Better to buy good once, than buy unreliable crap 3 times.

You'll need another amp and a crossover to do it properly. I don't recommend firing it all off the same amp - expect shit sound, and if you push the amp, you will be likely to start cooking voice coils.

+1

Can't remember how much, sorry. I made it a while ago, and got the pieces together over a length of time, so hard to say. Next time I create something I'll keep a record of the costs, and take photos during the construction process.

Thought someone might be interested in this. If not - oh well!! A little while back I made a case for my 12" mirror ball, as I was sick of the cardboard box, and it constantly getting damaged. So... Unfortunately, no pics of the build itself, but I'm very happy with the outcome. The side section is great for the motors (one on a hook, one on a hook clamp) and other various things I need a home for. It's a very sturdy case - I've used it to prop things up at the gig, as well as a step ladder!! Going to be building some more cases and things soon hopefully, so will keep you updated with how that all goes.

For $500 you won't get much, and you certainly won't get a sub. I paid $900 for my two Behringer powered speakers a few years ago, and that was a good deal. Try looking on eBay or Trading Post for some second-hand gear. I've heard good things about Mackie Tapco Thumps for beginners, but that is out of your budget. As ChevChelios said above, you might be better hiring until you can afford more. I certainly recommend you don't just go out and blow what you've got on a cheap pair, as they will die on you and sound crap. Better to wait that bit longer and get something that will last and you (and clients and patrons) will enjoy using.

Thanks all!

Head Office Address: ENTTEC Pty Ltd Unit 17/5 Samantha Court Knoxfield 3180 Australia Tel: +61 3 9763 5755 Fax: +61 3 9763 5688 Found that on their website: http://www.enttec.com/?main_menu=Contact I think I've seen the ENTTEC dongle on eBay too. A venue I work at got it as part of a full installation from Lightmoves in Noble Park, Victoria.

Hi all, Just joined the forum, but if you are a member on DJF, you may have seen me around the mobile DJ, lighting and speakers / amps section. I'm from Melbourne, based mainly in theatre gigs, as I am a lighting and sound technician. I DJ as a hobby and a job on the side. Hope to help people out with any lighting / sound queries! Catch you in the forums. Andrew

Bumping this thread as I only just saw it, and apologies for continuing the off topic discussion, but this bit got my interest: Can you provide a direct link to this on the APRA site? I'm not saying you're full of it or anything, I just haven't been able to find anything about it, and am curious as I like to keep my head above the legal waters! Besides, it seems more like something the PPCA would look after, since it is altering the recording rather than the intellectual property, if you will, of the song.

Pretty sure you need a license to operate them, from what I've encountered. Also why they are hard to obtain.