When to sacrifice sound quality for easier gigging: and when not to
Every gigging musician eventually faces the same question: Should I prioritize the best possible sound, or should I make my setup smaller, lighter, and easier to manage?
I’ve asked myself that question many times, and still do. A while ago, I wrote a post where I talked about the differences between point source and column PA speakers. In that article, I highlighted my preference for standard point-source PA speakers for my band, Pacific Bullets. We play retro covers of songs from the fifties and sixties – rockabilly, surf, soul, and swing – and for that kind of music, I wanted warm-sounding speakers.
We tried out a couple of column PA systems, but they were either older models or ones that didn’t satisfy our needs. They sounded good, but too clean, like a colored hi-fi system.
After a back problem I had last year, again, I had to make some changes, or my work as a professional musician would suffer. Column PAs have changed, and so have I.
Are column PA speakers worth it for live music?
Column PA speakers are a game-changer for frequent giggers thanks to their portability, even sound coverage, and the all-in-one concept. They deliver excellent clarity for smaller venues with minimal setup. Standard PA speakers have that punch, which is better suited for large stages where high volume and low end are needed.
The case for convenience
This summer, actually, in the middle of our summer season gigs, we started using the JBL PRX One column PA for almost all of our gigs. I love it – it transformed our gigging experience in every way.
Portable column PA speakers have evolved. They are lighter, sound better, and even have integrated mixers. Instead of lugging heavy 12” wooden speakers, monitors, stands, and cables, we now only have to carry a compact PA that you don’t even notice in the car. It sets up in two minutes and projects an even sound throughout the venues we play. The difference in effort is like night and day.
I have concluded that column PAs are better for our gigs because the visitors at the places we play are scattered all around the place (camps, restaurants, with lots of children), so a wider horizontal and further-reaching sound is actually a huge plus. People in the front rows now experience pleasant volume, rather than louder volumes from point source speakers, which lose volume much faster.
The meaning of “sacrifice”
Did we “sacrifice” sound quality for convenience? First of all, if there is any difference, I wouldn’t call it a sacrifice. Column PAs in no way lack sound quality compared to standard PA speakers; they sound “different” and project sound in a different way. So, when I say sacrifice, I don’t mean that column PA systems sound bad; they only sound different. Sacrifice, as a word, is here used more as a subjective term.
Sound quality: Is it really a sacrifice?
Vintage music enthusiasts could say that there is a difference in warmth, but is it audible to other people? I don’t think so. Let me put it this way: if we were to measure both types of PAs, the differences would be 5-10 percent in some aspects. Does this matter compared to all the benefits of a column PA?:
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Fast and easy setup
- Less gear: no monitors and a separate mixer
- Saves your back
For what we do, the audience doesn’t notice or care, to be honest, about the subtle nuances in our sound. What they do notice is how we sound clear and even across the venue. I was a bit skeptical at first, but with minor EQ tweaking and some gating, we managed to get a well-balanced sound that is very warm.
When to use standard point source speakers?
While column PA systems are perfect for many small to mid-sized gigs, there are still situations where standard PA speakers are needed.
Large venues and outdoor stages are typical places where a standard PA system is used. These gigs usually are shows where you have a road crew that handles all the heavy equipment, which changes the priorities. The setup time and weight aren’t your concern when playing this type of gig.
Point-source PA speakers deliver punch, massive projection, and low end needed for large concerts.
Where can we draw the line: Quality vs convenience
As I mentioned before, some tonal characteristic differences could be measurable between column and standard PAs. Perhaps even heard. But when does it matter? Here’s how I see it:
- If you are more relaxed because your setup is easier and faster, convenience wins all the time
- When the audience can’t tell the difference, and you keep getting compliments on how good and clear your band sounds, you’re doing something right, for sure.
- But if you feel something’s not right, if the groove your band usually has is lost, or your crowd isn’t dancing like before, change the convenience for standard gear.
Ultimately, your bandmates and your audience should have the best possible experience. But don’t push it if it affects your health! If there is no room for compromise, consider a roadie for the hard work. Your health is more important than a percentage of your earnings.
Final thoughts
I haven’t completely changed my mind, don’t get me wrong. Standard speakers have that warmth, which is hard to beat, but column PA systems for live music are getting very close to their sound.
Now that the summer gig season is over, and I’ve played well over 40 (out of 70 total) gigs with my new column PA, I have learned that the convenience and sound coverage far outweigh the minor and inaudible tonal differences.
The key to successful gigging is balance. Choose the PA type that makes your gigging easier for you. And if your audience is happy, go for it.
FAQ: Column PA systems vs standard PA systems
Yes. Modern portable column PA systems offer great clarity, sound coverage, and are extremely easy and fast to set up-ideal for solo performers and small bands playing bars and other small venues. If you handle your own gear, they are a must for small to mid-sized gigs.
They sound different. Column speakers deliver a clean tone with wide dispersion, while point-source speakers tend to sound warmer. With proper EQ-ing, any good-quality column PA system can sound great.
Generally, yes, but to a certain point. It depends on the venue’s size and what type of music the band plays. Bands that play genres like jazz, pop, or simple rock can use column PAs for small to mid-sized venues, but larger venues and loud bands will need a standard PA with subwoofers.
Yes. Most column PA systems let you connect an additional subwoofer if needed. Adding a separate sub can largely improve low-end response, which is needed for larger bands.
Absolutely yes, especially for musicians who seek portability, easy setup, and consistent sound. Column PAs reduce the physical strain associated with transporting, load-ins, and load-outs-without much compromising sound quality.
