A couple of days ago, I posted to the list asking about the '59 Bassman RI. Thanks to all those that replied, both on and off-list.
Now after reviewing those messages and giving the matter some further thought, I'm looking for some more help and advice from our harp community at large.
First, let me back up and explain the motivation behind the Bassman questions. At band practices (at home, in my basement), I play through a SF Champ using a Green Bullet with volume control. With the mic full open and the amp set at 4, I'm plenty loud enough. However, this coming Thursday night, our fledgling "band" will be going to a local open-mic blues jam to perform a few tunes. I'm concerned that when we go to the jam, I won't have the volume I need to be heard above our guitars and the din of a noisy bar. Thus, I figured that I needed a Bassman -- or some other amp of equivalent power to cut through.
Now I'm thinking that I can save myself several hundred dollars (or buy a back-up to the Champ), and still achieve the volume I need by mic-ing the Champ through the house PA. I have the requisite equipment: a small mic stand, an SM-58 knock-off, and the proper cord(s). What are your feelings about this approach?
I'm concerned about feedback. When practicing, I never have a feedback problem with the Champ. I've cranked it up to 8 using each one of my mics - -- the Bullet, a 707A, a crystal JT-30, and a ceramic JT-30 -- and had virtually no feedback problems whatsoever. What should I expect if I mic the Champ through the PA? Just because I haven't had any problems with the Champ alone, can I expect the same results when mic-ing through the PA? Or, is it a whole new ballgame?
What would you recommend as a starting point for mic volume, Champ volume, and PA volume? For example, should I start with the mic at low volume, the Champ at mid-volume, and the PA at low volume, then dial in my sound accordingly. When I start to make adjustments, where do I begin -- with the mic, the Champ, or the PA?
I apologize for the length of this message. Also, for many of you, I'm sure this is old hat. But I'm hoping that at least a few of you will take the time to reply. It is because of your patience, insight, instructions, and helpful hints that I have gone from struggling with "When the Saints Go Marching In" to feeling comfortable about playing for a packed bar (even though it will only be 3 - 5 well-rehearsed songs) in two "short" years. Plus, I had absolutely no prior musical experience. THANKS, Harp-l!
Sincerely, Steve Gilliland ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com
