First of all glad it wasn't us (we didn't play last night). Clarity is key. That's why I use EV's. I play through the pa and actually bought the system after hearing a friend use it. He plays a t-2 and runs the bass through a separate channel into his mixer. But you have a point. I have lost work at a particular venue because the "other guys" jump around the stage, hoot and holler, and have lights flashing all to engage the crowd. Musically and vocally they are way off. But some club owners want the show and not the go.Nothing you can do unless you can do both...oh, and they were cheaper than us too..

Chas- Don't knock the festivals, or the music, or the musicians- I make money there...and we don't drink on the gig....everybody does their own thing and I don't begrudge anyone their style of music as I would not want them to do the same. I have an excellent group of musicians; we have been playing music for 40+ years since we were kids (not together ). My trumpet player also does classical and has traveled all over the world performing both that and German folk music. My bass player has played for several professional touring bands over the years ,etc. You do yours- we do ours..........