[80B]

Originally Posted by AudioGremlin

I've been providing sound reinforcement (I hate the name PA) for an eight piece band for the last 25 years. We have three sax/clarinet, trumpet, trombone, keys, bass guitar, drums.
Many smaller venues don't need or require amplification apart from of course the keys, bass guitar and continuity announcements. I always feel that getting it as near right as you can during sound checks is essential and if necessary final small adjustments later.
I hate overly loud PA or bass that swamps everything.
You must if you can listen from the audience as thats what they are hearing.
Sound reinforcement is only required when audiences are large and it should maintain the balance and tonal character of the band. I'm not perfect but I do my best for the band.
https://soundcloud.com/user-26111423...-rye-selection

AudioGremlin, you hit the nail on the head. Just as it's an ideal not to hear our gear (i.e., very transparent), the minimum required level of amplification for a particular venue is generally the best, at least for the genres that my aging ears enjoy.

I enjoyed listening to the samples of your band. That must be quite fun working with them. Another reason to get over to Scotland!