Karaoke Forums

I am ready to get me a REAL karaoke setup. I have an el-cheapo system and I have crummy sound, blah- blah- blah.......  Thing is- I don't know what I need.

Okay- first of all- laughing at my current setup is NOT ALLOWED...... ,  so please don't cringe when you read this.

This is what I sing with in my living room:  :oops:

*(most likely 1910 era antique) karaoke machine:  Fleco Model CDG- 9A

* I run the "audio output" into my (mid 1800  era) stereo:  Aiwa CXNA508 (because the speakers I have wont hook up to my karaoke, wrong plugs)

* I don't use the given speakers, I hooked up these: (2) ASM 3312
 Here's what they say (& NO.... I don't know what it means):
        - max power: 125 Watt
        - min power handling:  5 Watt
        - nominal impedence:  8 ohms
        - frequency response:  35-22 khz
        - sensitivity:   92 DB per watt


That's it...... my whole setup.  Well, of course my "video out" on the karaoke goes into my TV. My mic is plugged into my karaoke, so the mic carries out to the stereo too, with the music.  I have a small echo knob on the karaoke, but no mixer hooked up to this stuff. (that's on my comp)  I know this is pretty corny, but you work with what you got if you wanna sing bad enough.

I'm ready to trash it all. Well, I think the speakers might be okay for what I do. And I have decent mics. (a Shure SM57 & a Shure SM58) I am not a KJ, never have been, and never will be. But I karaoke often at home with family/friends over, and I do take (yes- all of it) to different family gatherings a few times a year.

Problem is.... feedback mostly, can't get much volume without it. And- distortion if you're too close into the mic.

So, I know I need some shtuuuuuff- I don't have BANK..... I gotta go as cheap as possible. I don't need anything PRO.  But I want a decent sound. (and something that does not FILL my Suburban to take it somewhere else)

I don't even know how to setup a better system. I dunno what a mixer does (other than my little Behringer on my comp)..... I dunno what an "equalizer" is or does (do I NEED one?)

So, if someone can help me (here or PM) or point me to a thread that covers this. (in baby steps) I would appreciate it.

Thank you in advance.

_________________
♥ Laugh your heart out, dance in the rain. Cherish the memories, ignore the pain. Love and learn, forget and forgive. Because you only have one life to live. ♥

hey blue I record wearing a set of headphones like walkmans light ones that still aloow you to hear what your singing and hear the music that way you get no feed back from the speakers   and I now use a shure sm58 I got from ebay


I record everything on a laptop

I'm set for "recording" bornsaint........ I use my SM58 on my PC, with a mixer & CEP, and I have a pretty decent set of Pioneer headphpnes.

It's my set up to sing LIVE with that I need help on.  Lol, but I guess everyone else who has "viewed" this thread -but not answered- don't have any advice to give. I actually went out last night- and I talked to the KJ while I was there- he's gonna help me out with my set up. (maybe even sell me some of his stuff)

Thank you very much for answering, I appreciate it.

_________________
♥ Laugh your heart out, dance in the rain. Cherish the memories, ignore the pain. Love and learn, forget and forgive. Because you only have one life to live. ♥

FENDER PASSPORT P-80: Portable PA  $325 from pssl.com

The Fender Passport P-80 portable sound system is packed with easy-to-use features and an easy-to-handle price. With three inputs, 80 watts and the included dynamic microphone, it’s perfect for virtually any speaking engagement or small gig. Weighing only 27.5 pounds it's easy to carry and setup is a snap. Whether you are speaking at a tradeshow, holding a seminar or teaching in the classroom, the Passport P-80 provides dependable high quality sound so you can deliver your message to audiences of up to 150 people in size. The Passport P-80 is also completely compatible with all Passport wireless microphones, stands and portable DC accessories.

Features:
Completely self-contained portable sound system
16-bit digital pro reverb
Docking connector for passport wireless receiver
Speaker systems features tightly controlled coverage to minimize feedback
35mm (1 3/8´´) stand adaptors are provided
Includes one professional cardioid low impedance dynamic mic and 18 FT cable
Two 20 FT speaker cables
Detachable IEC power cable
Mic/cable storage compartment
V.I.P. (Vocal Input Priority) automatically lowers background music level when someone speaks into the mic
Unique one-touch controls
Sophisticated "system EQ" contour control
80 watts (mono) at 4 ohms
Each speaker cabinet has two 6 1/2´´ full range drivers
Mixer has three inputs (2 mic/line, 1 stereo) plus aux send/return
Mic/line inputs are balanced XLR, plus balanced/unbalanced 1/4´´ TRS
Input 3 has stereo RCA buffered to mono)
Tape out jacks and reverb footswitch jack
Size: 18´´h x 24´´w x 10´´d. Wt. 27.5 lbs.

Connect your current karaoke player to the stereo input plug you mic in the input and you are ready to go, you can even run a stereo out to your pc to record.

or

SQUIER 4-10 PA System by Fender Audio: Dual 10-Inch 2-way Speakers & Powered Mixer $229.00 from pssl.com

This compact system includes a Squire-4 4-channel powered mixer and two Squire 10´´ 2-way speakers.

Mixer Features:
4-channel mixer with four XLR mic and four 1/4´´ line inputs
3-band EQ on each input channel
Phantom power
Reverb
Individual channel effects controls
Patch points for outboard gear
Footswitch jack for reverb on/off
80 watts mono output @ 4 ohms
1/4´´ outputs
Speaker Features:
10´´ 2-way speaker system
Dual piezo compression driver
160 watts power handling (320 watts peak power) at 8 ohms
Black vinyl covering
1/4´´ input jack
Pole socket for speaker stand
70° x 25° dispersion
Frequency response: 75Hz to 20kHz
Size: 20.5´´h x 15´´w x 12.25´´d. Wt. 27 lbs.

You can connect you karaoke player into a channel mono via an adapter you can purchase at radio shack for a few dollars.

I would not consider these great but would not be a bad option for something on a buget, definatly decent for a home system, and much better than a stereo.

Wow- thank you. That's pretty detailed, specific, & informative.

So....... (realllllllllyyyyy trying to remove the great big "L" from my forehead here)...... you plug your mics into the PA....... not the karaoke machine? The K machine is just there to read the cdg's only? And your effects come from the PA too?  That sounds much better, mine is such a weaky-squeaky little thing, I think I might still try to pick up another. (It takes a long time to read burned cd's too....... that gets irritating)

That's WAY less $$$ than I thought I would end up paying for something to give me better sound. I just wasn't sure WHAT it was I needed. This crazy plug-this-into-this-then-out-to-that crum I did was just to be able to SING........ but it really sounds bad.  And, yes- it's just for home use, and the occasional family gathering where I would take it.  

Thank you for taking the time to relay all of that liquiddye, I really appreciate it. Gonna go check out that website now. TYVM

_________________
♥ Laugh your heart out, dance in the rain. Cherish the memories, ignore the pain. Love and learn, forget and forgive. Because you only have one life to live. ♥

If you don't mind spending the money, I'd consider the PD-125.  The speakers for this unit were designed by Bose for Fender.  It's basically a trimmed down version of the PD-250 I'm using now.

You'd plug the mics into the main unit.  Same for the karoake machine.  You can then adjust the levels seperately as well as adding echo to each of the inputs.

It's a little pricier but the PD series is excellent and strong enough to do karoake shows in small venues.

Hi Charmin

Let's start of at the beginning. How much do you have to spend on a system. By saying not too much does not help much unfortunately. You give us a good estimate and we'll see what we can recommend as the most bang for your $$$.

An all Behringer home karaoke set: here goes:

1 Mixer; UB 1204FX-Pro $189.99
http://www.behringer.com/UB1204FX/index.cfm?lang=ENG
   
Ultra low-noise ULN design, highest possible headroom, ultra-transparent audio
4 new state-of-the-art, studio-grade IMP “Invisible” Mic Preamps with:
- 130 dB dynamic range for 24-bit, 192 kHz sampling rate inputs
- Ultra-wide 60 dB gain range
- Lowest possible distortion 0.0007% (20 Hz - 20 kHz)  
Integrated 24-bit digital stereo FX processor with 99 great-sounding VIRTUALIZER presets including reverb, delay, chorus, compressor, tube distortion, vinylizer and more plus 1 kHz test tone generator
Effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ plus switchable low-cut filter on all mono channels
8 balanced high-headroom line inputs with +4/-10 level selection on stereo channels
State-of-the-art 4580 operational amplifiers provide lowest noise and distortion—better than 4560 op amps
2 aux sends per channel: 1 pre/post fader switchable for monitoring/FX applications, 1 post fader (for internal FX or as external send)
Peak LEDs, mute/alt 3-4, solo and PFL functions on all channels
2 subgroups with separate outputs for added routing flexibility
2 multi-functional stereo aux returns with flexible routing
Balanced main mix outputs with gold-plated XLR connectors plus separate control room, headphones and stereo tape outputs
Control room/phones outputs with multi-input source matrix
Tape inputs assignable to main mix or control room/phones outputs
Switchable +48 V phantom power for condenser microphones
Long-wearing 60 mm logarithmic-taper ALPS® faders and sealed rotary controls
Internal switch-mode power supply for maximum flexibility (100 - 240 V~), noise-free audio, superior transient response plus lowest possible power consumption for energy saving
Extremely rugged steel construction ensures long life even under the most demanding conditions
Rack mount brackets included
Conceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany

2. Power Amp :EUROPOWER EP1500 US$ 309.99 http://www.behringer.com/EP1500/index.cfm?lang=ENG

2 x 700 Watts in 2-Ohm/1400 Watts in 4-Ohm bridged operation
2-channel, parallel or bridged mono operating modes for flexible application
Independent limiters for each channel offer dependable protection against distortion
Precise signal and clip LED indicators to monitor performance
Selectable low-frequency filters (30 Hz or 50 Hz) remove distracting infra-sound frequencies
Professional connectors compatible to Neutrik® Speakon® and "touch-proof" binding post loudspeaker outputs enable secure operation
Balanced XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs
Connection option for extra amps in parallel operation
Ultra-reliable TOSHIBA®/FAIRCHILD® high-power transistors
High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction for long life and durability
High-current Toroid® toroidal transformer for absolute reliability and lowest noise emission
“Back-to-front” ventilation system including air filter with automatically adjusting fan speed for smooth operation
Independent DC and thermal overload protection on each channel automatically protects amplifier and speakers
Conceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany

3 Speakers set EUROLIVE PERFORMER E1220 US$219.99 http://www.behringer.com/02_products/pr ... ENG&cid=US


Professional 400-Watt loudspeaker for use as PA speaker or floor monitor
Extremely powerful 12' long-excursion driver provides incredibly deep bass and acoustic power
Proprietary 1' HF driver for exceptional high-frequency reproduction
Ultra-wide 55 Hz - 20 kHz frequency range (-10 dB), impedance 8 Ohms
Extremely high sound pressure level (93 dB full space 1 W @ 1 m)
Versatile enclosure profile allows different positioning:
- 10 & 35 degree cluster and stacking mode
- stand mounting with 35-mm pole socket
- floor monitor wedge
Proprietary horn design for ultra-wide sound dispersion
Overload-protection circuitry ensures optimal HF driver protection
Ergonomically shaped handles for easy transport
Rugged steel grill for optimal speaker protection
Professional speaker connectors, compatible to Neutrik® Speakon®  
High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
Conceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany

Assume you have mics, player, and TV

Total cost       mixer  US$ 189.99
            power amp  US$ 309.99
         Speakers set  US$ 219.99
              Total cost  US$ 719.99

But you may want to have some thing better

_________________
I can neither confirm nor deny ever having or knowing anything about nothing.... mrscott

My 2 Cents

I Agree with the Fender Passport series. I have a 150 watt Fender passport Ive had it for several years now and still use it. I use it for smaller shows. I just used it yesterday at a nursing home I do once a month (sing sinatra for them) free.

Quick set up within 5 minutes, plenty of power and so easily transported cause the speakers attach to the main head.
Very durable and dependable as well as affordable.

also they come with a P-51 (i think it is) Mic which is an excelent microphone I use this mic more than my SM58 Or SM57.

turn the speakers slightly away from the singing area and I never get feedback.
I use it for house parties too when the set up area is limited.

atleast look into the Passport series you wont be disapointed.

Michael

TONY.......... You know me- as cheap as I can get it, .

What I have found so far is pretty much out of my price range. I was thinking I'd do this Johhny Cash style and get it all "one piece at a time".... but then I got to thinking maybe I didn't need everything I think I do.  When I've went searching the net, it seems the "kits" they sell include everthing you need to start being a KJ..... the TV, the stands, the mics & cords, the speakers. And I just need a system, I have the "extras". I really like my mics-  if a kit came with a new one, I'd probably set is aside. Same with my speakers, there not "the best" but they did cost me $175, and it would be a waste to buy more. (then what would I do with these ones.....)

Most "kits" I find are along the lines of $2000 (atleast) .........well, Charmin don't have THAT much money to spend. I was hoping to stay more around $500. Less would be better. Way less would be way better.

So, to answer your question Tony...... $500 or less.  And my karaoke machine (about 7 years ago) was $400. I realize that due to competition they have gotten cheaper, and mine on the market now would be less than what it was then. And it's way outdated anyhow. I really want to replace that, not just hook a PA or something up to my current one. And I know that is where I will probably run into the $$$. Mine might be okay- but one of the mic jacks has gone kaput.... so only one can be plugged in. And that one has a 'dead spot'..... half way up the vocal cuts out. And to turn it up just a BIT more, I get feedback. And it's all KNOBS.... nothing is digital. To change keys, it speeds the tempo too. I want to get away from that.  And for effects I have one little echo knob.

Thank you for responding- I'll check back to see if you have any suggestions. (or if you think I'm crazy for thinking I can do anything with $500, haha)

Mr. October........ I looked at that one, and I think it would be fine for me. It's nice to get another person's input saying what they think of it too.

karaokemeister,  badsinger......... same to you, thank you- I'm looking up every suggestion you all give me. Every brand listed I'm checking for on Ebay too, so even if it's a bit high $$ for me, it's nice to hear you're input on systems. TY

BTW.......... wasn't there once a board here where members advertised stuff for sale? Cause I would be open to that too, since I'll be paying shipping from gosh knows where anyhow.

_________________
♥ Laugh your heart out, dance in the rain. Cherish the memories, ignore the pain. Love and learn, forget and forgive. Because you only have one life to live. ♥

Oh........... and the KJ I talked to- that is NOT going to work.  He's offering me the whole she-bang. He wants to sell it all as a set, NOT what  I'm looking for. (and it wont fit my budget anyhow)  Just thought I'd throw that in since I made that earlier comment about maybe having found something. (I'm still looking......)


This is WAYYYYY off topic, but (hey, it's my thread)

I'm at work, where I work on a laptop. Maybe it's the different screen, but good god my pic looks distorted and UgLy.......... so to any of you who are on laptops...... I don't really look like that, .

_________________
♥ Laugh your heart out, dance in the rain. Cherish the memories, ignore the pain. Love and learn, forget and forgive. Because you only have one life to live. ♥

BTW at Musicians Friend dot com they have Fender p-150's on sale for $499.00
and Im on a laptop now aned my dear it would be impossible to look any better than the picture I see of you here...simply Impossible.

get the fender hook up your old Karaoke out puts to the fender plug the mic's into the fender and sing ....hold a karaoke party and put a jar out for donations maybe 50 cents per song and start saving for a new CD+G Player,
Just a thought....one piece at a time is a good Idea.

Lol @ the money jar. My dad had a band in Texas for years, he played with his brothers. Then here in Oregon they did alot of gigs, and rather than being paid by the management like in the past, they would play for drinks only and set out a "kitty". He said they actually made more that way than what the place would have paid them. So......hmmmmm...... I could do a "jukebox" type thing and charge people to sing. Otherwise, they listen to ME all night.........

Just might work.

Yeah, if I could find something where my mics would go into something other than my karaoke, and where the effects could be added elsewhere- it would work for now. I really need more than one jack. Big problem with the way it is now (one mic) ..... my guitar is an accoustic/electric and I like to plug it in. So, if I do, I have no mic jack. And if we're doing guitar/fiddle/singing, one mic jack does NOT do the trick for me. And I play music alot more often than I karaoke actually. I usually do it "unplugged" but it's nice to be able to amplify too. Especially when at a family gathering where we rent a hall or something.

Any-who, I'm starting to ramble now.

Thank you Mr. October for the compliment. (maybe your laptop screen is different, I sure look kinda smudgy on this on, haha) But TY anyhow.

_________________
♥ Laugh your heart out, dance in the rain. Cherish the memories, ignore the pain. Love and learn, forget and forgive. Because you only have one life to live. ♥

That's my gal.
Now, you have speakers (don't know what) but you can stick to those for now. Also, nothing wrong with your mics.

Powered mixer
Save up your money and get the EUROPOWER PMH518M (Available 3d quarter 2005). Estimated price 189.99 USD @
http://www.behringer.com/PMH518M/index.cfm?lang=ENG

Then the karaoke machine. I suggest the JVC 22 Karaoke CD+G Player). Estimated price 209.00USD @
http://www.expresskaraoke.com/store/sea ... =hwps&di=7

Now you have good mics, speakers, powered mixer and CDG player.
Your total 399USD

Naw, you're still as hot as ever!

I'm with Allstars suggestion and you could also in the future, buy the powered monitors from Behringer, the truth B2031A, so this way, you can use them for PA's at home of course, use them for doing all your mixes and they come with 150 watts per channel!  This should give you a pretty good system!

Oh, late me warn you, some people will discourage you from buying Behringer, all I can say, is that when you're talking about their mixers or monitors, NO PROBLEMO, it's a BEST BUY that creates some jealousy in the industry, you'll need to spend a lot more to get the same and I really mean the same, not better!![/b]

That would Be $398.99

Sorry my friend, but I cannot agree with you. The EUROPOWER PMH518M is a powered mixer, so you cannot really upgrade with powered monitors, unless you bypass the build in power amp, and use the un-amplified outputs (e.g. headphone outputs)



Now I agree (kinda). Of course there will always be better on the market, but we have to remember the value for money issue, bang for your buck. I have Behringer's myself, and am as happy as a pig in mud. Sure, Mackie is good, at 2 or 3 times the price. As Charmin said

The PMH518M is a good buy cos you save on the power amp. It have effect and you have 5 mic inputs which mean you can have your band playing bluegrass song all mic'ed-up into the system: other than it being used as karaoke.

_________________
I can neither confirm nor deny ever having or knowing anything about nothing.... mrscott

Allstar:

Didn't think you were talking about a powered mixer, didn't read correctly!  Than, I would still recommend the same monitors but with out the amp, the B-2031.  Or, why not get a non powered mixer with the powered monitors instead, always better this way, isn't it?