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Read on a thread that compressors are used to absorb the burst of volume or noise that comes from improper control of the mixer at the begnining of a song by a loud person after they were set previously to a meeky person. Other instances can set the burst off also, but I'm just using this scenario as an example.
If this is true, I have the RSQ MV-333 that does not have any compressors built into it, but my Yamaha mixer has compressors built in the front for microphone purposes. Is it correct to assume that I have "protection" from the burst of a loud person by using the Yamaha mic connection versus the MV-333 connection? I don't want to blow these speakers and others will be eventually KJ'ing also to help out on days that I am not able to KJ. I will instruct them to use the Yamaha mic inputs only if this is the case.

As always, thanks for the feedback...

                                                                               bigjim56

THe compressors that are generally built into mixers are usually of the lowest minimal grade just to give SOME kind of protection.  I would not rely on it as a sole source for compression.  Outboard compressors will yield much better results placed through the insert points on the mic channels.  A limiter is good on the overall mix as this will stop the volume from getting any higher than a preset point - necessary in karaoke, eh, probably not as a rule as most aren't pushing their systems to the limits to begin with.  Good compressors on vocal mic though are important.

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Thanks Lonman,

A limiter used for overall mix...compressors reccomended for vocal mics.

Is the limiter set by what I set it at..so the operator that operates when I'm not there does not go above my preset limit? (Possibly blowing my speakers) This sounds like a worhtwhile investment...saving my speakers from unneeded abuse.

The vocal mic compressors go directly into the line of the mics...where's the limiter plug into?

                                                                           bigjim56

Like I stated, a limiter is generally not needed for karaoke.  I do have one on mine, but I tend to run at higher volumes as well so I have one inserted on the main output of the mixer - I can say that it's never even hit a level that it's ever needed to engage, this is more for live music situations.  If you mixer doesn't have a main output 'insert', then I wouldn't really bother, you more than likely won't need it especially if you have compressors on the vocal mics.

The vocal compressor should be plugged into the 'insert' jack of the vocal channel mics via a send/return cable.  
What mixer are you using now?

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I plan to eventually run CD's also for KJ/DJ nights, so the volume could get pretty high. So its placed on the main output of the mixer. Outputs to the speakers, or is there a pre-output output?!    LOL  

I'm using the Yamaha EMX512SC 2x500W 8-channel mixer. I believe it has a "main output insert" in the front (besides the speaker outputs in the back), but I thought this front output was to be used for the purpose of sending a signal to the other side of the bar...to a second amp that's running my 6 surround sound speakers. If that's the case, there's no need for a limiter on this output because that signal will not need much volume due to the secondary amp that will do the amplifying and sound distribution.

Hopefully I'm not confusing you. Just want to get this straight.


                                                                                  bigtjim56

DO NOT hook anything other than speakers to the speaker output!!!!!  I know people that have tried  :no:

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Use the compresssor for the vocals only.

OK, this is something I have wondered for a while too. I have a Mackie DFX12 mixer and wondered how and where I would use a compressor. For my wired mics I use XLR and for my wireless I use 1/4" inputs. The mixer is not racked.

Thanks for the 'input' in advance.

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I've got the mixer hooked up right. Nothing going to the speakers but just the mixer speaker outputs in the back. I'm just trying to figure where the limiter gets hooked into. CD nights will bring out the LOUD music down the road and I want to protect my system for nights that I'm off working my F/T job. (Water Treatment Plant Operator - rotating shifts)  I'm reading and heeding the owners manual religiously.

On the setting up page there's a main out L/R in the front panel that shows those leads going to a second amp (my surround sound on other side of bar)...volume output to those leads are controlled by the master knob right above. Not much volume needed due to being run to second amp for ampiflication and distribution control.

There are compressor knobs on the front for each channel, 4 total. But like you said, they are of lower minimum grade, so in line compressors on the mics would be an improvement. These are at the insert points on the mics I understand. I will be adding these as there is a regular that has a caustic voice...sounds somewhat like Rod Stewart, but its the type that pushes the limit on sound distortion to where you would want to lower the mic volume. Kinda like fingernails on a chalkboard.  :)

Thanks,

                                                                                        bigjim56

dbk1009 -  check out this thread for the answer to your question: http://www.karaoke-forum.com/viewtopic.php?t=7748

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Compressors work but it is still a good idea to learn the limits of your system.. In the good old days the distortion caused by a torn speaker cone or the bond coming loose from the coil was branded in ones memory. Listen to the speakers at close range... If the bass is starting to loose the "ohooomp" and is starting stop early then the limits are being approached If it is popping it is at a critical level if not ruined already. It is the same with the highs Clipped audio causes distortion.. It can range from very very minor to to red line critical..  Learn to listen for distorted sound esp when crowded and the volume is cranked. If you are reaching the point when it is distorted alot then you need more watts or more speakers. Good speakers will tolerate a small amout of distortion but over a period of time they will distort more with less clipping.. If they are popping at medium levels they are broke...

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The mic channel 'insert' jacks via a send/return (insert) cable.

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Thanks again.....we can all learn something- even us 'hacks'

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