Saxophone PA Systems: A Complete Guide

Saxophone PA Systems

Introduction to Saxophone PA Systems

Electric saxophone players face unique challenges when it comes to projecting their sound. Without the natural volume of an acoustic sax, electric saxophonists rely on amplification to ensure they’re heard in various performance settings. Whether you’re playing in a jazz band, an electronic fusion group, or on a large stage, the right amplifier can enhance your performance and deliver the sound quality you need.

Why Saxophonists Need Amplification

Competing with Loud Instruments

In band settings, electric saxophonists often perform alongside instruments that produce significantly more volume, like drums and electric guitars. Amplification levels the playing field, allowing saxophonists to cut through the noise and make their presence known without straining.

Enhancing Sound Quality

Electric saxophone amplifiers do more than just increase volume. A high-quality amplifier enhances the tonal clarity of your instrument, providing a richer and fuller sound. Amplification can also bring out subtleties in your performance, whether you are playing smooth jazz or high-energy electronic music.

Types of Saxophone PA Systems

Dedicated Saxophone Amplifiers

Dedicated saxophone amplifiers are designed specifically for woodwind instruments. They cater to the unique frequency range of saxophones, ensuring that the highs and lows of your playing remain crisp and clear. These amps often include built-in features that enhance saxophone tones, making them ideal for players who want maximum sound accuracy.

Multi-Purpose Amplifiers Suitable for Saxophones

Many saxophonists opt for multi-purpose amplifiers, commonly used for guitars or keyboards, because they offer flexibility. These amps provide broader frequency responses and can handle a variety of instruments. While not custom-tailored for saxophones, they often include features that make them effective for electric sax amplification, such as equalizers and built-in effects.

Key Features of Saxophone PA Systems

Power Output

The power output of an amplifier determines how loud it can get. For small venues or practice settings, an amplifier with 10-30 watts may suffice. However, for larger venues or outdoor performances, you’ll want an amplifier with higher wattage, typically 50-100 watts, to ensure your sound fills the space.

Frequency Response

Saxophones produce a wide range of frequencies, so it’s crucial to select an amplifier with a frequency response that can accommodate these. A good saxophone amplifier should capture both the deep lows and high notes of your playing without distortion.

Portability

Musicians on the go need equipment that is easy to transport. Portability is especially important for electric saxophonists who often move between gigs. Look for amplifiers that are compact yet powerful, so you don’t sacrifice sound quality for convenience.

Built-In Effects

Many electric saxophone amplifiers come with built-in effects, such as reverb or delay. These effects can add depth and texture to your sound. If you enjoy experimenting with your tone, an amplifier with built-in effects offers added creative flexibility.

Top Electric Saxophone Amplifier Brands

Several well-known brands produce amplifiers suitable for electric saxophones. Let’s look at some popular models and their specifications:

  • Roland Cube Street EX: Known for its portability, this amplifier delivers 50 watts of power and features a wide frequency range. It includes built-in effects and runs on both battery and AC power, making it ideal for busking or small performances.
  • Yamaha StagePAS 400i: This amplifier offers 400 watts of power and includes a built-in mixer, making it a versatile choice for saxophonists who need more control over their sound.
  • Fishman Loudbox Mini: Though primarily designed for acoustic instruments, this amplifier works well with electric saxophones. It has 60 watts of power and built-in reverb and chorus effects, making it a solid choice for jazz and folk musicians.

Microphones for Electric Saxophone Amplification

Clip-On Microphones

Clip-on microphones attach directly to your saxophone, capturing the sound at the source. These mics offer convenience and freedom of movement, making them a popular choice for live performances.

Stand-Mounted Microphones

Stand-mounted microphones allow more control over sound capture. While less mobile than clip-on mics, they provide greater precision, especially in studio settings or when you want to maintain a consistent distance from the mic.

Wireless Options

Wireless microphones give saxophonists complete freedom to move on stage. These systems transmit sound wirelessly to your amplifier, eliminating the hassle of cables while ensuring consistent sound quality during performances.

Setting Up Your Electric Saxophone Amplifier

Positioning for Optimal Sound

Place your amplifier on a sturdy surface, slightly elevated, and facing toward your audience. Keep it away from walls to prevent sound reflections that can cause distortion.

Avoiding Feedback

Feedback occurs when sound from your amplifier re-enters your microphone, creating an unwanted loop. To avoid this, position your microphone away from the amplifier and reduce gain or volume if necessary.

Saxophone PA Systems vs. Amplifiers

Many saxophonists wonder whether to use an amplifier or a PA system. Here are the pros and cons of each approach:

  • Amplifiers: Amplifiers provide direct control over your sound, especially when playing in smaller venues. However, they may not have the power needed for large venues.
  • PA Systems: PA systems are designed for larger spaces and can handle more complex sound setups. However, they often require a sound technician and can be harder to transport.

Are there any Specific Saxophone PA Amps that are Better Suited for Electric Saxophones

There are a few types of amplifiers that may be better suited for electric saxophones compared to standard PA amps:

  1. Keyboard amplifiers: These are often recommended as a good option for saxophones. The Roland KC350 is specifically mentioned as working well for saxophones.
  2. Acoustic guitar amplifiers: One commenter noted that they found an acoustic guitar amp (specifically the Crate Gunnison 60 Watt) to work very well for saxophone. They mentioned that acoustic guitar amps aim to reproduce sound as accurately as possible, which works well for horns too.
  3. Specialized saxophone amplifiers: While not as common, there are some amplifiers designed specifically for saxophones. The SD Systems LCM85 MKII is mentioned as an example, though it appears this may actually be a microphone system rather than a full amplifier.
  4. Multi-purpose amplifiers: Some amplifiers are designed to work well with various instruments, including saxophones. These often have features that can be helpful, like multiple channels, effects, and EQ controls.

Key features to look for in a good saxophone amplifier include:

  • Clean, accurate sound reproduction
  • Adequate power for your needs (60 watts or more for most situations)
  • Multiple channels (for mic and potentially other inputs)
  • Built-in effects and EQ controls
  • Feedback suppression features

Budget-Friendly Electric Saxophone Amplifier Options

For musicians on a budget, several affordable amplifiers offer great sound without breaking the bank. Consider the Behringer Ultracoustic AT108, which provides 15 watts of power and basic built-in effects, or the Pignose Legendary 7-100, known for its portability and simplicity.

Advanced Techniques for Electric Saxophone Amplification

Using Effects Pedals

Effects pedals allow you to shape your tone with reverb, delay, and more. Combining pedals with your amplifier can create rich, dynamic sounds.

In-Ear Monitoring Systems

In-ear monitors give you real-time feedback on your sound, helping you hear yourself clearly during live performances and make adjustments as needed.

What are the best Saxophone PA systems for live performances

Here are some key points about saxophone PA systems for live performances:

  1. Most PA amps and speakers can work for saxophone, but be cautious of systems with harsh high-end horns, which may produce unpleasant harmonics.
  2. Keyboard amps like the Roland KC350 are often recommended as they work well for saxophones.
  3. Acoustic guitar amps, like the Crate Gunnison 60 Watt, can be a good option as they aim to reproduce sound accurately.
  4. When choosing a PA system, look for:
    • Clean, accurate sound reproduction
    • Adequate power (60 watts or more for most situations)
    • Multiple channels
    • Built-in effects and EQ controls
    • Feedback suppression features
  5. Feedback is a major concern. To help prevent it:
    • Use a microphone with a tight pickup pattern (e.g. hypercardioid)
    • Position speakers and microphones carefully
    • Consider using multiple microphones
    • Use in-ear monitors instead of stage monitors if possible
  6. Some saxophonists prefer running through the main PA system rather than using a personal amp on stage.
  7. For personal monitoring, in-ear monitors are highly recommended to hear yourself clearly without excessive volume.
  8. Microphone choice is crucial. The Sennheiser 421 is often recommended, as are specialized saxophone microphones like the SD Systems LCM85 MKII.
  9. While there aren’t many “saxophone-specific” amplifiers, multi-purpose amplifiers designed for various instruments including saxophones can be a good choice.
  10. Ultimately, the best system will depend on your specific needs, budget, and playing situation. It’s recommended to try out different options before making a significant investment.

Troubleshooting Common Electric Saxophone Amplifier Issues

Common issues include unwanted noise, feedback, or power loss. Always check your connections and ensure that your cables and microphones are functioning properly. If problems persist, consult the manufacturer’s manual or seek professional help.

Future Trends in Electric Saxophone Amplification

As technology evolves, we see more compact, powerful amplifiers and better wireless solutions for saxophonists. In the future, we may see more integration between amplifiers and digital effects, providing even greater control over tone and performance in real time.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Electric Saxophone PA System for Your Needs

Choosing the right electric saxophone PA System comes down to your personal playing style, venue size, and budget. Whether you need a portable amplifier for busking or a powerful PA system setup for large venues, selecting an amplifier with the right features will ensure your sound is always clear and strong.

 

Electric Saxophone PA Systems & Amplifers FAQs

Q. What are the most common issues when using a PA amp for an electric saxophone?

Here are some of the most common issues when using a PA amp for an electric saxophone:

  1. Feedback: This is one of the biggest problems mentioned. PA systems are open systems, which makes them prone to feedback, especially at higher gain levels.
  2. Harsh high-end sound: PA cabinets often use horn drivers for high frequencies, producing harsh harmonics that don’t complement the saxophone’s tone well.
  3. Limited gain before feedback: There’s often a disappointingly low maximum gain that can be achieved before feedback occurs in a given room/situation.
  4. Difficulty hearing yourself: It can be challenging to hear your full saxophone tone clearly through a PA system in loud band settings.
  5. Lack of saxophone-specific features: General PA amps may not have EQ or effects tailored for saxophone tones.
  6. Positioning challenges: Finding the right position for the amp/speakers to avoid feedback while still allowing you to hear yourself can be tricky.
  7. Microphone choice and placement: Using the wrong type of microphone or poor placement can exacerbate feedback issues and affect tone quality.
  8. Balancing with other instruments: It can be not easy to find the right volume balance with other amplified instruments, especially guitars and drums

To address some of these issues, saxophonists often use in-ear monitors, specialized microphones, or even dedicated saxophone amplifiers. Some also recommend using keyboard amps as an alternative to PA systems for saxophone amplification

Q. How can I prevent feedback when using a PA amp for my electric saxophone

Here are some tips to help prevent feedback when using a PA amp for an electric saxophone:

  1. Use a microphone with a tight pickup pattern, such as a hypercardioid microphone. This can help reduce feedback by focusing on the saxophone sound and rejecting ambient noise.
  2. Carefully position the microphone and speakers to avoid feedback loops. Try to keep the speakers in front of the microphone
  3. Use multiple microphones if possible. This can allow you to increase gain without as much feedback, as each mic receives a slightly different signal
  4. Consider using in-ear monitors instead of stage monitors. This allows you to hear yourself clearly without increasing the stage volume.
  5. Use a feedback suppression device or feedback eliminator, which can detect and notch out feedback frequencies automatically
  6. Adjust EQ settings to reduce problematic frequencies that tend to cause feedback
  7. Keep stage volume as low as possible overall. Ask other band members to reduce their volume if needed
  8. Use a high-quality microphone designed for saxophone, like the Sennheiser 421 mentioned in the discussion
  9. Consider using a clip-on saxophone microphone system, which can provide good sound while minimizing feedback issues.
  10. If possible, use an acoustic guitar amp or keyboard amp instead of a standard saxophone PA system, as these may be better suited for reproducing saxophone tones accurately.