PA SYSTEM:
If there is any singing or acoustic intruments in the band you'll need a PA (Public Address) system, with microphones (mics). Start with a small system, and future gigs will dictate how you upgrade. Begin with one just big enough for rehearsals and small rooms. There are many 4 to 8 channel powered mixers on the market that are perfect for this application. You'll need a powered mixer, two speakers, mics with cables and mic stands. You can upgrade at any time to get seperate amps, mixer, monitors, effects and other more advanced gear.
GUITARISTS:
You'll need a guitar, strap, tuner, guitar stand, amp (if electric guitar), case, accessories, cables and any effects needed.
BASSIST:
You'll need a bass guitar, guitar stand, strap, tuner, amp, case, cables and any effects needed.
DRUMMER:
You'll need a drum kit, cases, sticks, cymbals, a throne (seat) and all nesccessary stands.
IF KEYBOARDS:
You'll need an electronic keyboard, keyboard stand, cables, keyboard amp and seat. The amp could be replaced by running the keyboard signal into the PA.
This is all that's needed for rehearsals and small gigs. Make a demo tape of two or three songs, distribute cassette duplicates to solicit gigs. If bigger gigs develope, you may need to upgrade the PA with more power and added speakers, a monitor system so the singers can hear themselves, and perhaps bigger amps for the individual musicians. For a one-time event, this stuff can be rented. NOTE: Most small clubs have their own PA system, so the band just uses the "house system", but inquire ahead of time. You may need to provide the mics and stands.
HINT: A great thing to help the band start out is a recording boom box, to record the rehearsals and for reference. Cassettes tapes of rehearsals are great for making refinements in your band's sound. After time, If you get hooked on recording and want to get better gear, upgrade to a better cassette deck or reel-to-reel machine with seperate condenser microphones, or a DAT recorder, hard disc digital recorder or other format. Many bands record their own high quality demo tapes, and some even purchase enough pro-quality gear to record their first CD. We are currently researching products and consulting pro studio owners about a future wing for this site outlining RECORDING.
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