How to set the volume while rehearsing with the band ?

PhMarne

As I'm intending to (re-)form a rock band, I'm wondering how to make sure I won't kill myself trying to be heard over the band. Back in the time when I used to play bass in a rock band, I remember the lead singer's efforts to be heard cost him his voice. I sincerely regret it went that way but I don't want it to turn true for me too.
So how do you make sure you're not straining to much on rehearsal and get your bandmates turn down the potentiometers ?
Thanks

Klaus_T

you just need to be louder than all of them, and i mean because of the amplifier, not because of you screaming! or, they all need to be softer than you

sjonrokz4u

Make them turn down to wherever you are comfortable

tsterle

I've had this issue as do many rock singers. With a full acoustic drum kit, most drummers do not have the ability to play anything but very loud. One solution is to build a plexiglass partition around the drummer, or have them use sticks that soften the sound. You can also try to stand as far away as possible and have a monitor, on a stand, at ear level right next to you so you can hear yourself well. But the best is either electronic drums or an in-ear monitor system. You can get a good one for $200. While the band needs to hear you somewhat, it's much more important for you to be able to hear yourself well, so you don't over-sing and damage your voice.

tsterle

I should add, when the drummer plays very loud then that makes everyone else turn up their amps. It can get stupidly loud in the room to where your ears are ringing afterward and that will lead to tinnitus and hearing loss eventually. So the IEM helps protect your hearing as well. But ear plugs are another option. Sometimes it's enough to just hear your voice inside your head.

PhMarne

Thanks, guys!

codeowl

@PhMarne,

I jam with a couple of guys at work, a drummer and bass player, (I play guitar and sing), our drummer actually has an electronic kit so he can turn down :-). I had the same concerns as you and in this post I talk about my solution for it:
https://forum.kentamplinvocalacademy.com/discussion/comment/84476/#Comment_84476

Regards,

Scotty