Here's an update on our powered sub experiment.

We tested our two 700w Carvin subs outside last weekend with great results once again. We routed the V-Drums throught the subs first, using the onboard 120hz crossover for each sub, but then sent the full range signal to Ch1 on the PAS. We adjusted the sub input level by striking the bass drum at full output level on the V-drums, then carefully increased the input level on the subs until we started to hear them buckle, backed off a bit. This way you can control the volume from the v-drum master out, anything from low level practice to full-on show volume.

*Reminder - Running the subs from the PAS bass line out did not give us the results we wanted. That output uses a limiting circuit, and messes with the attack quite a bit.

Both inside and outside tests left the L1 sounding thin to us, so we tested every preset to see which one would fatten it up. Number 57, the 'low level music' preset, worked really well for this, and we were able to tweak in all the drum sounds with minimal adjustments to the V-drum EQ. Heads and mic placement settings are really important, we barely had to use Eq settings when these were properly chosen.

Outside, we found that the L1 balanced well with the subs when it was about half way up on both Ch1 and Master level. Inside, we had to turn up the L1 more, probably due to sub reinforcement from the space itself.

Translation was good even 100 feet back from the stage area and the subs seemed to keep up well with the L1 as we moved away.

To sum up, if you've hesitated buying a PAS due to the 'more kick' comments peppered through the forum, this is a real solution. As for the L1/PS1, nothing sounds sweeter, covers better, or is more portable, so jump in and get one.

- AndyM, March 15, 2006 -

full thread here