Multi-FX & Modelling Amps
It’s easier than ever to replicate your exact guitar tone from gig to gig thanks to modelling amps. No longer are guitarists burdened with hauling big amp stacks and mic’ing up speaker cabs. With a modelling amp, you get to design your tone before you even leave home – you know exactly what you’re going to get every time you play. When you get to the venue, simply plug the unit into the mixing desk and away you go.
Windy conditions can heavily impact the sound at an outdoor gig. It’s imperative you make use of FRFR PA speakers if they’re available. They rely less on the pushing presence of a speaker cabinet and focus a more direct sound towards the audience. If you are solely using an amp-to-cab setup, opt for a slanted cabinet to allow the sound to disperse slightly upwards, so you and your audience can hear what you’re playing as clearly as possible.
Modelling amps are incredibly popular and a lot of companies cater to the market. Check out the Line 6 Helix as an all-encompassing option for all the sounds you could ever want. The Kemper Profiler takes things to their intricate details and is the perfect choice for players who love to tinker with their sound. Meanwhile, the Boss Katana is the pick for guitarists after great tone out the box at a truly affordable price.
Wireless Connection
Cables are fine when you’re in an enclosed space because you’re less likely to stray far from the amp and knock them out. But if you’re playing outdoors, there’s a good chance the stage will be larger than what you’re used to. You’re in a sticky situation if you’re really stretching to just plug them in. This is where wireless systems come in handy.
Wireless guitar systems don’t require any cables, so you’re not going to accidentally tread on the lead and pull it out the socket. They also cover a massive distance, meaning you can keep your rig at the back of the stage in order to create more space for your performance.
Another invaluable wireless tool at your disposal is in-ear monitoring. Blustery open spaces can make it difficult to hear what you’re playing, and stage monitors don’t do much to combat it. They can also damage your hearing when cranked to ear-splitting levels. In-ear monitors provide quality audio, protect your ear drums from the high volumes required to reach the crowd and free you up to pull off all your best dance moves.