A key component of a good PA system is the use of stage monitors which is often called “foldback”. Stage monitors are important to professional bands as well as decent amateur performers. As opposed to main speakers and subs which are directed at the audience, stage monitors always face the band.

The main function of foldback is to provide musicians with “live” sound so they don’t have to rely on the reflected sound from the back of the venue. This sound is distorted as well as being delayed. In addition, stage monitors enable performers to hear a mix which is free of effects. This is a useful and necessary function as bands will often play a mix through the main speakers which is full of echo and reverb making it difficult to remain in tune.

The same sound console can be used to run different mixes. As an alternative,a sound engineer can be used to provide a seperate monitor system mix.

Foldback allows musicians to remain in tune and in time with one another much more easily.

There are all sorts of stage monitor makes and models available. There is a huge variety in performance and price. Some are fairly inexpensive but perform well and provide great value for money. The Yamaha SM15V is an example. Generally you will get what you pay for and a prime example of a genuine high performance stage monitor is the JBL SRX712M.

If you are considering investing in any PA sound, be sure to do a little research before you buy. When choosing what to buy, user reviews can be a great help. Yamaha monitors are an ideal place to start looking if you don’t want to spend too much cash straight away. Find a Yamaha monitor review here.

db technologies dvx DM28′s stage monitors

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