Line out versus mic the amp
I am managing the musical entertainment for an outdoor festival at work. One responsibility is working with the sound guy we have hired to provide audio. In addition to hosting the show I will also be playing a few tunes. I will be bringing my Fender Super Champ X2 with a wireless Ulitmate SM57 mic. I am used to having my amp mic to the PA. However the sound guy prefers to use the line out function. I have never used it and do not know what it will sound like. Any recommendations or things to watch for.
Thanks
Brian
Skip:
I have played direct to the PA at jam sessions with my SM57. That sounded pretty good to my ears. So if this will be similar I should be all right. For this show I am not going to fuss over it. I cannot bring "certain" beverages due to this being a work related event held on company grounds. Because I am managing the entertainment I will be there early for all set up and sound checks. Since I am running the entertainment this year it should be a good learning experience for me. Hopefully I can learn more on the sound set ups.
Thanks
Brian
Skip:
We just had our outdoor festival this past week. The line out function worked well as I had a chance to evaluate it through the PA during sound check. The blazing sun caused momentary equipment issues for some of us. However they were minor and we got through it. My monitor became a bit loud during the show so I could not fully hear my playing on the PA, but apparently I must have come through clear due to many favorable comments after the show from those in audience. The sound guy did a great job for all the musicians. Overall the entire show was a hit based on the feedback we received.
Thanks
BC
Hello Brian- Good question! The line-out has the advantage of consistency and ease of set-up, but a careful micing job can sound even better. Notice I said a careful micing job, which takes some time and experience to set up properly for each instrument. That said, I would strongly suggest doing it the way the sound guy wants in the interest of gig harmony. Believe me, what the audience will notice is your playing and over-all groovy demeanor, not whether you are using a line-out or mic on the amp. Show up early, bring the sound guy his favorite beverage, and maybe he'll let you practice with his set-up a little before the show.
Skip Simmons