The Definitive Stage Monitors Buying Guide
What are Stage Monitors?
Stage monitors are speakers that are placed on stage and are aimed towards the performers. They are used to help the performers hear themselves and each other during a live performance. This is especially important in larger venues where the sound of the audience and the instruments can make it difficult for the performers to hear themselves.
Why are Stage Monitors Important?
Having a good set of stage monitors is crucial for a successful live performance. Without them, the performers may have difficulty hearing themselves and each other, which can lead to timing issues and poor overall sound quality. In addition, stage monitors can help the performers to feel more confident and comfortable on stage, which can help to improve their performance.
Things to Consider When Choosing Stage Monitors
When choosing stage monitors, there are several things that you should consider. These include the size of the venue, the number of performers, and the type of music that will be performed.
Size of the Venue
The size of the venue is an important factor to consider when choosing stage monitors. In a small venue, a smaller set of monitors may be sufficient. However, in a larger venue, you will need larger monitors with more power in order to ensure that the performers can hear themselves properly.
Number of Performers
The number of performers on stage is another important factor to consider. If you have a large number of performers, you will need more stage monitors in order to ensure that everyone can hear themselves properly.
Type of Music
The type of music that will be performed is also an important factor to consider. If you are performing music that has a lot of bass, you will need monitors with a good low-end response in order to ensure that the performers can hear the bass properly. On the other hand, if you are performing music with a lot of vocals, you will need monitors with a good mid-range response.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right stage monitors is important for a successful live performance. Consider the size of the venue, the number of performers, and the type of music that will be performed in order to choose the best stage monitors for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the purpose of stage monitors?
The purpose of stage monitors, also known as monitor speakers or floor monitors, is to provide musicians or vocalists with real-time feedback on how they sound to the audience. These loudspeakers are aimed at the performers on stage, enhancing their ability to hear themselves and the overall sound of the live performance.
2. What can I use as a stage monitor?
There are a few options for stage monitors. In-ear monitors are a popular choice as they deliver sound directly to the performer's ears. Alternatively, you can use floor monitor speakers or an amplifier as stage monitors.
3. What is the difference between a studio monitor and a stage monitor?
The main difference between studio monitors and stage monitors is their sensitivity. PA speakers, which include stage monitors, typically have high sensitivity, requiring less input power to produce a given output SPL level. On the other hand, studio monitors have lower sensitivity and are designed for critical listening in recording studios.
4. What is the difference between stage monitors and speakers?
Stage monitors and FOH (Front of House) speakers serve different purposes. Stage monitors are designed to reproduce midrange frequencies and help performers hear themselves on stage, while FOH speakers are meant to project sound over distance for the audience. This difference in design allows stage monitors to cut through the mix and provide clear sound to the performers.
5. Can you use regular speakers as stage monitors?
While it is possible to use regular stereo speakers as stage monitors, it is not ideal. Stage monitors are designed specifically for their purpose, providing clear and accurate sound for performers. Using regular speakers may result in suboptimal sound quality and performance.
6. Are stage monitors necessary?
While it is ideal to play without any monitoring on stage, stage monitors can be necessary in certain situations. They help performers achieve the desired on-stage balance and ensure they can hear themselves and the overall performance clearly, especially in larger venues or situations where the stage sound needs to be controlled.
7. Can you use passive speakers as stage monitors?
Yes, it is possible to use passive speakers as stage monitors. However, they need to be connected to a power amplifier, which receives the signal from the mixer's aux or bus outputs. Active monitors, on the other hand, can be directly connected to the mixer or stage snake without the need for a separate power amplifier.
8. Can I use PA speaker as a stage monitor?
PA speakers, which are aimed at the audience, are not suitable for use as stage monitors. Stage monitoring requires dedicated monitors that are designed to provide accurate sound to the performers on stage. If you are responsible for your own PA gear, having separate stage monitors is essential for a successful live performance setup.
Editor's Notes
During our stage monitor research, we found 24 stage monitor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 8,129 customer reviews through our big data system to write the stage monitors list. We found that most customers choose stage monitors with an average price of $238.33.
The stage monitors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of stage monitors, including Roland, Galaxy Audio, JBL, Sound Town, Behringer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.
