I play most gigs at small venues, where I only use one or two 10 or 12 inch speakers (db), but I'm always finding it struggle to get myself a good mix (I play with a violinist), but at the same time hearing what the audience hears, and at the same time giving the audience a good sound.

Usually I try to put a speaker which is for the audience behind me, so that I hear exactly what they hear very well, but it doesn't always work. I've seen someone using earphones, but I would never do that because it looks outright weird...

Is it worth bringing a dedicated monitor for such a small venue?

Zalmi

Monitors play an intregal role controlling the overall volume when there's more than one performer, particularly if you're the person controlling the levels. If the voilinst is mic'd, but you are both going through the same PA system, a small monitor could improve your ablility to maintain good balance between the two instruments and vocalists. It will also add some volume to the room as well, especially in smaller venues.

Cheers,

Gary

Bose, baby. Bose.

Bose has got ya covered with the tower system. However, it isnt the cheapest thing ever. I agree with the headphones, that doesnt look very good.

Phil

Uncle Dave,

I would definitely give the Bose PAS a chance if I could try it in a showroom in the UK. If I really liked it and its as good as you say, I would definitely consider the investment (I think its about £2000 in UK)
Too bad...

Actually I have some Sennheiser earbuds that I use occasionally and they are almost invisible to the audience. Sounds like you're in a recording studio.
DonM

$33.94 from amazon, free shipping
http://www.shopping.com/xPF-Sony_Sony_MDR_EX71SL_EAR_BUDS_STEREO

[This message has been edited by Vquestor (edited 02-16-2005).]

Every Sunday I play brunch for a restaurant that has a small corner for me setup in. Volume is a top concern, but so is good sound... I use my Motion Sound KP-100s stereo keyboard amp and it works perfectly. It sits behind me on an amp stand. The KP-100s is my fav go-to amp for small rooms now - it's very portable and has never failed to get positive customer comments.