Not sure I can do this!

smokeandmirrorsband

I just bought a DRPA and I am picking up tonite for a gig tomorrow nite. I was confident the wizards would get me through but since my system is not JBL/Crown, I am getting nervous.

I have the following equipment:

a pair of EV Sx 500 Mains powered by a Mackie FR1400
a pair of EV Force Subs also powered by a Mackie FR1400
a mackie board
a BBE Sonic maximizer 882i

I am concerned about getting the custom setup just right. Can someone guide me exactly just how to do this as quickly as possible so the sound for the gig will be amazing???

I am beginning to panic!

Dra

Welcome.

First off, don't get fancy on short notice. Let's go bare bones here to begin.

You are severly under powered. These amps can deliver 310w to a speaker that wants at least 800w (top) and 700w (sub). If you run a mono mix, then bridging is an option. This would offer 700w per speaker. if the amps can hold up at it's min load .

Setting up the gain structure is of utmost importance (especially, especially if you opt for the 310w set-up). Instructions are in the back of the manual and all over this site and the former forum above.

You will either set up a 1 x 3 (mono 2-way), 2 x 3 (Ste 2-way, w/ mono sub), or 2 x 4 (Ste 2-way) crossover.

Go here. http://www.dbxpro.com/Download/pdfs/DR% ... 02-Way.pdf

Crossover settings might be something like...

Lo- Hi-pass (45 - 50hz) because you are under powered.
Low-pass 100hz LR24 Gain 0
Hi- Hi-pass 100hz LR24 Gain 0

AFTER DOING THE GAIN STRUCTURE NOTED ABOVE. You can balance the system by increasing or decreasing the crossover gains, or by LOWERING ONLY the louder amp.

Whether you choose mono or stereo as your input, select stereo linked for your EQ. Don't use the compressor. The limiters should have been set at the conclusion of the gain structure setting. DO NOT USE THE AUTO EQ. But if you do, use one stack only, and flatten all frequencies below160hz and above 700hz then tweek them by ear. If you use the Auto-EQ with the result given, you'll regret buying the PA, because your sound will suck. Use the sub-synth only if you feel you must.

Help this has helped. Feel free to follow up.
If a guy name Gadget replies as well, listen to him. Even if he contradicts me.

Dra

Gadget

smokeandmirrorsband

Thanks DRA, I appreciate the advice. Gadget, I assume the smiley is your seal of approval to DRA's advice. Would the recommendations be the same if we ran both amps bridged mono? I am thinking this would be the way to go until we can beef up the power.

Mike

Dra

If you do go bridge mode be sure to follow the manual instructions. Some manufacturers have different knob control requirements (Yorkville for example requires both attenuators to be used and set the same for some of their amps). Since you are closer to the recommended power for the tops you may consider dropping the x-over point to 90hz since you have 15's in the tops. Try it both ways, if you have enough time. Good luck tonight and welcome to the family. You do need to get a $20- $30 UPS backup (computer). The DRPA doesn't like power failures or unplugs, breaker trips, etc, and it will let your speakers know it. An ounce of prevention.....
Oops, your subs hi-pass filter (low cut-off) should be a BW type. If you notice little red lights on the sub amp flickering, raise this filter some and/or steepen the slope. Note - changing the slope gives a cut-out effect as it changes, so avoid that while performing. If yours tops amp is peeking then raise the x-over point some. It's all trade offs.
DON'T FORGET TO SAVE YOUR PROGRAM AFTER YOU SET IT UP.
I hope you have played with it already. If not, DO! Plug it in, sit down at the kitchen table and poke around.

Dra