Hey doods!
So last weekend I mixed a couple bands at an outdoor show. I do NOT own a large, outdoor P.A. system, and haven't done an outdoor show in years, so I cobbled together the following:
* QSC K12's x4 (2 per side). Speaker drivers were meticulously aligned. Both speakers faced forward about a foot forward of the front line, perfectly parallel to one another (not splayed), with about 1/4" of space between speakers. Is this the best way to maximize efficiency?
* JBL SRX728s x2 (3600 watts each for a total of 7200 watts) (love these subs - best ever).
* FOH was set up roughly 60' forward of center stage.
Now, I realize that K12's are not long-throw speakers, and therefore not really great for outdoor shows. But I have to say that I can't believe how short the throw of these beasts really are. From FOH it felt like I was pushing about 104dB, which is a comfortable mix for me. A mere 20' closer and one could hear that the speakers were louder than F***! Wow...I can't believe the difference 20' makes! Clearly, I was pushing the top boxes to their absolute limits, and, other than that 40' bubble around the front of the stage, it was NOT that loud. The Subs didn't complain at all and were run well within spec. So here I am asking for advice again...
I don't have a huge budget, so buying a real array is not an option. Would adding another pair of K12's help? The K12's are 1000watts each, so my highbox/sub ratio was 4000:7200, which seems good to me.
At this point I'm merely looking to get a little more out of the mains. I'd like to use existing gear or gear that's not specific to this one situation. That's why I like the K-series because they can be used for a myriad of situations. So I don't mind buying more of them.
In the old days I used my SRX712m speakers for mains @ 1800 watts/each, and they seemed to do a lot better than the K12's. I still have 4 of those JBL's, but like the active speakers. Might have to go back to those JBL's. Just spit ballin' here....
Thanx in advance for any help or advice.
Regards,
Donnie
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