Are you a solo act ready to start booking gigs at local cafes, restaurants, or bars but not sure where to start? I’ve got you! It’s very common with these kinds of gigs that the artist will need to supply and manage their own sound gear. So before you start seeking gigs, make sure you have all the gear to set yourself up for success!
With so many different options and plenty of hefty price tags, audio gear can be hard to navigate. That’s why I put together an introductory and relatively budget friendly gear list to help get you started for under $500. Even though 500 bucks still isn’t pocket change, these are on the low end in the grand scheme of live sound. Consider it an investment into your art and a necessary step towards booking cafe style gigs.
This list is everything you NEED for a gig. This is for the solo singer songwriter type act that is either self-accompanied or singing along to tracks.
Gear Checklist:
- Surge Protector
- Extension Cable (15 amp or higher)
- PA System
- Dynamic Mic (recommended Shure SM58)
- XLR Cable (at least 15ft)
- Mic Stand
- Other cables (depending on the PA System and accompaniment style)
- Phone mount (optional)
Check out my Amazon Idea List here: https://a.co/dbwSVsn
POWER:
SURGE PROTECTOR: Use a Surge Protector to keep your gear safe from spikes and surges. APC is a great brand with good reliability. This one in particular has a 15ft cable, which definitely comes in handy. Price: $17 | Link: APC Surge Protector
EXTENSION CABLE: You may find that you’ll also need an additional Extension Cable depending on where the outlets are located at the venue you’re playing. It’s always better to be prepared, just in case! Any length extension cable will do, but make sure it’s at least 15 amp. Price: $22 | Link: Indoor/Outdoor Extension Cord
AMPLIFICATION:
PA SYSTEM: The PA System is where things get a little pricier. You may want to consider the size of the rooms you’ll be playing in and how much gear you want to lug around. Here are 2 different options for introductory sound systems with simple mixing capabilities. Pick the one that feels right for you.
1. Mackie SRM150. Compact, easy to carry and easy to use. Very plug and play. Does not come with any accessories. Price: $300 | Link: Mackie SRM150
2. Behringer Europort PPA200. This is more like a bundle option because it comes with a mic (not the best quality so eventually you may want to upgrade) and it comes with the basic cables that you need to plug and play. This option will require a little more set-up time. Price: $329 | Link: Behringer Europort PPA200
ACCESSORIES:
MIC + XLR CABLE: The industry standard for a solid mic is the Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone. It’s durable, sounds great, and will run you about $100. You’ll also need an XLR Cable to go along with it. Amazon has a nice deal for both. Price: $98 | Link: Shure SM58 & XLR Cable
MIC STAND: A boom Mic Stand is super convenient, and can also be used as a stand for the Mackie SRM150. OnStage MS7701B is usually my go-to. However, the AmazonBasics brand will save you a few extra bucks. Price: $32 | Link: Boom Mic Stand
RCA to AUX CABLE: If you’re singing along to tracks from your phone, you’ll need a long RCA to AUX Cable. Make sure it’s long enough to plug into the PA System and have it next to you as you perform, 15ft should do the trick. Price: $11 | Link: 3.5mm to 2-Male RCA Adapter Audio Stereo Cable
PHONE MOUNT: If you need your phone for lyrics, chord charts, or accompaniment tracks, be sure to grab a Phone Mount that connects to the mic stand. This is going to make your life way easier. Make sure to check phone size compatibility. Price: $19 | Link: Crescendo CR-30
That’s it! You’ll definitely want to test run all your gear at home to make sure you’re comfortable with the new setup. Now, go get those gigs!