Topic: ADVICE-mixing a band live..the taper becomes the producer!

[spybo]

Hi all,
My nephews band is starting to gig and he wants me to do the mix/board.
I've been to many shows and know what I like in terms of sound.
My question is where do I start to learn about the process of live mixing the band?

Any and all info would be warmly received and appreciated!!
Cheers
Spybo

[ScoobieKW]

http://www.amazon.com/The-Sound-Reinforcement-Handbook-Products/dp/B000VZTV2C

Great starting point. Bought my copy in 1994.

[spybo]

thanks!

[Phil Zone]

http://www.amazon.com/The-Sound-Reinforcement-Handbook-Products/dp/B000VZTV2C

Great starting point. Bought my copy in 1994.

One of my favorite books! It's got everything

[earmonger]

I don't know if the book suggests it--probably it does--but don't just listen from your perch at the soundboard. Go out to where the fans will be standing and see how it sounds from there.

Can't tell you how many shows I've been at where I'm back at the soundboard and it sounds well-balanced, but everywhere else in the room it's a sad joke.

[yltfan]

^ Speaking of location, I'd think the most important thing to do would be to listen to the advice of those in the front row yelling for "more vocals".

[Chuck]

http://www.amazon.com/The-Sound-Reinforcement-Handbook-Products/dp/B000VZTV2C

Great starting point. Bought my copy in 1994.

Another thumbs up on this recommendation.
I bought it in the early 1990's and it was one of the most useful books I've ever bought.

[2manyrocks]

The booger in mixing is to set the gain on the board so that you have the most available gain before feedback on the PA in the room where the band is playing.  It takes a while to get a feel for setting the system.  The more opportunity you have to practice with the band, the better your feel for what they are doing and how you can best serve them.