Good sound systems at stage shows and exhibitions

[fas42]

The number of PA systems that I have considered acceptable, at musicals, expositions and such like fit easily fit on the fingers of one hand. Forgetting about the issue of distortion )), I am curious what other people's experiences are here. I have to say I have gone to way less of such shows than probably most, firstly because the sound is often so off colour and unpleasant and I didn't want to risk another disappointment, and secondly because they are darn expensive!

What are other people's experiences and thoughts on this? Remember, I not talking about systems working at high end levels of performance, merely something that does the job and doesn't get in the way of enjoying the outing?

Frank

 

[Robh3606]

I never understood why everyone is so quick to blame the PA system. I have been to multiple shows in the same venue and the sound depended more on who was running the board that night than the system itself. In large venues it's the luck of the draw and in many cases where your seat is what determines how well balanced the sound is. Next time you are at a large stadium show take a walk. Some areas can sound quite good considering how hard it is to get it right with the time they have to set the system up and break it back down again and go to the next show and start all over again.

Rob

 

[fas42]

Here I am talking about musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera, where I spent a reasonable time clenching my fists, trying to absorb the onslaught of each musical crescendo. In these venues the sound should have been sorted out by day 1 to day 7 or so, and then locked in, and computer or whatever controlled. I can go to the movies where there is big, boisterous sound, and I have no troubles whatsoever. Not brilliant sound, but, again, it does the job and doesn't interfere with the tuning into what's on the screen. A big action sequence, lots of explosions, whatever, it all works.

But on stage, the chorus goes into a big number, and I think, let it be over soon, please, let it be over!!

Frank

 

[Mark (Basspig) Weiss]

Radio City Music Hall had a nice PA system that sounded neutral and relatively uncolored.

 

[JackD201]

I give a thumbs up to the show theaters in Las Vegas. I was particularly impressed by Ka. I've been told Love's is even better.

As far as tours. The best stacks I've heard are U2's.