Sunday, June 30, 2019

Getting Backline Equipment Set Up For A Concert

By Thomas Phillips


Going to and playing in concerts is a blast. Large and small named bands draw different crowds to different venues. The type of venue will determine the set up that is needed for each concert. Having the right system can make a huge difference in how the bands sound to the crowd. There are two basic systems that are set up. Frontline and backline equipment setups vary based on the bands and the venues.

The frontline equipment usually includes a PA set and monitors so the band can hear themselves. These are placed in front of the band playing. The rest of the equipment, including the amps and instruments to broadcast the sound, are either with or behind the band. This gets the music out to the crowd. Since it is usually behind the band, it takes the name backline. Some bands provide their own, but in many cases, the venue will provide them as well. Checking with the venue is important when the band is booked for a show to know what will be needed.

It is critical to be sure the equipment setup is right for the venue. Having speakers that are too small for an outdoor concert will end up with sound wafting in the wind. Bands cannot be expected to have a different set of systems for each type of venue. Thus, the discussion needs to be done prior to the concert to make sure the venue has whatever the band needs ahead of time.

Most bands have their own setup. This doesn't mean they have what is needed for every venue. They often have enough for a decent small concert or practice session. However, in a much larger venue, the smaller amps and speaker systems may not be able to broadcast loud enough, leaving the crowd straining to hear the music.

Larger venues often have permanent setups. Some may even have instruments like drum sets available, though their quality may be lower and definitely used. Bands can't be expected to have a setup for each different size of the venue. If the system is not available, there are options for renting what is needed, but this needs to be done well in advance.

Smaller bands that are just getting started often need to rent what they need. This can save on the expense of buying the expensive systems up front and paying to transport them along with the band. Well established bands often have two or three buses, one of which contains all the systems they need. For those on a budget, having the venue rent specific speakers and systems is typical in a contract. The venue manager may already know what size is needed.

Sound checks are performed prior to the concert. With several bands playing in a single night, they will do setups and sound checks in reverse order. Once the last band is done getting set and checked, the next to last will set up. Once they're done, they will keep going until the first band to play is done. This allows each set to be pushed back so the first band has theirs ready to go at the beginning of the concert. When each band is done playing, they'll remove their equipment and the next band will push theirs forward on the stage so they can be ready to go quickly.

Having the right equipment for each venue is impossible, even for the biggest bands. Renting what you need based on the size and setup of the venue is often the best choice for traveling bands. Some venues will already be set up with most of what is needed, but this should always be worked out when the group is booked for a concert.




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