Karaoke Forums

Hi all,

I am quite new to the Karaoke scene, I've been singing in Karaoke's for a couple of years now and have recently started to run one at my local pub.

I am thinking about getting my own equipment so I can get more money and enjoy the show with a bit more sound quality as my pub's system is not very good.

Basiclly what I'm after is a really basic starters guide/list of what is needed to host my own Karaoke, what are the best options and if I can fit them into my budget!!!

Hopefully you experts on here will be able to help!

So if you could list it out for a newbie like me that would be brilliant..

ie: Speakers - Yamaha 15'' - £150

(or any other info you can help with - Thanks!)

Welcome.

I don't know if you can get pound or Euro prices here, I think we have a few Brits but not too many.

It would be helpful to know your budget in $USD equivalents. I know that equipment is generally more expensive in the UK, but dollar figures will give you an idea, especially with the strong pound.

So the more info you can give on the size of your venue, your budget, what kind of karaoke music and equipment you have already, the better we can help.

I can tell you several items you can't go wrong on to begin with:

     - Supercore Starter set $80 or less -- 400 songs of good quality
     - SM58 wired mic, Live Wire or Hosa XLR cable to match, 8 meters. The good cables have a lifetime guarantee, and last a long time. Cheap ones go out all the time.
   
If I had a $3000.00 budget to start (recognizing you can't get much music for
that) I would buy:

        B52 Matrix 1000 powered speaker system ($850)
        Yamaha MG124CX mixer ($320)
        Behringer EQ3102 graphic eq ($130)
        BBE Sonic enhancer ($99)
        CompuHost software ($180)
        A recent laptop ($600)
        SM58 Mic for main mic ($99)
        2 XM8500 Mics for duets and announcements ($40)
        Cables (XLR for mics, patches, etc.) ($200)

That leaves $480 for music. Not much, but you can get Supercore, Dangerous, and SGB For that and still have some money to buy 200 recent and classic tracks at Tricerasoft.com.

That gives you a reasonable setup with some pretty kick-butt sound.

Thanks for that - I will look into that more tomorrow (it's getting late here in sunny England).  :D

I think my budget would be about £1500 ($3000) possibly stretch to about $3500.

I would like to have a good selection of songs and I think that is a vital for Karaoke.

Any more ideas welcome from everyone!  :whistle:

Now that's the mckyj57 we all know and love! Great answer. I'll guess I play the bad guy. There is a ton of info on this site footie, and I'll be the first to admit I don't use the search function as much as I should. Simply because it's just easier to get direct answers from online people, but as you get more involved with setting things up you will have many more questions and many of them have been answered already. Sometimes you can get an answer faster this way.

Just a tip, not a criticism, I wish you the best of luck on your venture.

                                                Rudy

The following considerations which I am bringing to your attention will not be found in any of the "old' threads, not that you should ignore those threads.  Your basic question requires that one put on additional "hats" in order to make a sound business decision, and you are most definitely starting a business.  In order to come to the best conclusion regarding what your budget should be and what sound equipment to purchase, it would be most prudent to first determine:

 are you planning to have a computer based system or run off of discs?
 how much do you know about sound systems, in general?
 what types of sound equipment (mixers, equalizers, amplifiers, compressors, limiters, etc) are you knowledgeable about and experienced with?  are you familiar, for example, with the differences between powered speakers and passive speakers?
 do you know what a "sonic enhancer" is and whether you absolutely need/want to have one (in the short or long term)?
 do you want or need a subwoofer (the Matrix comes with one)? One reviewer, who loved this unit (see Musicians Friend website) noted that it took two people to load it into his van. As a self-contained unit it does weigh 180# (us pounds)
 do you have a large enough vehicle to cart around everything that is on the previously recommended list?
 what specific equipment is at your current "gig"
 do you like that equipment?
 how does that equipment compare to the type and quality of equipment being used at other local venues?
 how big are the venues where you would typically be working?
 how many people are, typically, in attendance at these venues during karaoke?  how many singers will be in attendance, typically, at these venues for karaoke?  how much does the typical karaoke job pay?
 how much of your future earnings would you be willing to invest in future equipment purchases?
 how comfortable will you be with the purchase of said recommended equipment if your venture fails and you have all of your purchased equipment in your possession?
 have you considered buying second-hand; there may be dj's, kj's or bands getting out of the business in your area or who are upgrading their equipment?

Please note that if you purchase the previously recommended equipment the residual funds left from your budget would not allow for the purchase of enough material for a decent sized, professional library of songs.  And you will run into other costs, such as for printing song catalogs, a monitor, a stand for your monitor, perhaps a folding table?  So, you could easily find yourself "all dressed up, with no where to go" because you do not have a real library of songs.

If you do not computerize, you can knock $800 off of the previous estimate for expenses directly related to doing so.  However, figure you'll need $200 for a Disc player (preferably one that also plays MP3's, DVD's, VCD's)  If you do computerize, there maybe some software you want.  BTW the Matrix, which sounds real nice, would require that you purchase speaker stands (est $99) for the "satellite" speakers.

IMHO, without the answers to these questions, any response to this type of query would lack enough insight in order to make a good business decision.  I don't believe in the "one answer fits all" approach that is so often used herein when newbies ask what to buy.  Of course, it's always easier to "spend" someone else's money.

PS:  After researching the answers to the above questions for myself, I had everything in place that I needed in order to get into the business last year for less than $2000 (regarding equipment).  I had already owned several hundred karaoke discs (as a hobbyist), which I needed to add to.   Now most every "dime" I make goes back into the business.  And consider, for one, few venues that I have played in have room for or can handle a subwoofer.  I've been in small venues where the KJ tried (in the short term) to use a sub which couldn't help but detract from the sound because of all of the things in the (small) venue that it got vibrating (harmonics and all).  In short, there are few regular shows in my area that utilize subs, and no one's complaining!

Rudy –

I apologize if it seems I am asking the same question, I am really new to forum’s, in fact this is the first forum I have ever signed up for.

I have since posting been searching around other topics and discussions; I have also been asking friends for any opinions/advice that could help get me started.

Ericlater – wow, thanks! Lots of questions looks like I need a SWOT analysis.

- From what I have seen/know so far I think a computer based system is the best option for me. I have lots of experience with computers so would be able to pick up programs/skills easily. (Strength)

- I don’t know a lot about sound systems/equipment at all really! I could probably tell you what different things were but linking them all together would be a new thing for me. Powered speakers, passive speakers, eh? (Weakness)

- Subwoofers – I think it would be good to have a subwoofer; I would like to have good quality sound, as I can’t stand good singers being muffled by a cr@p system. Though probably nothing as hefty as your two friends have to lug about!!! Any recommendations on whether you would think one is needed for me personally though would be helpful? (Opportunity)

- The pub where I currently run the Karaoke has a really old load of speakers, I think the amplifier is on the blink and the Karaoke system is MediaTheme and no I don’t like that equipment. The system is manageable but not very flexible. (Threat, if I were to continue with it)

- Not too sure about equipment at the other venues, but I don’t think there is a really big Karaoke in my area, so maybe something I can capitalise on. (Opportunity)

- I haven’t checked all the dimensions of the stuff recommended above, but my car is of a reasonable size (big boot), so I imagine I could fit most things (just have to leave the girlfriend at home ). (Strength)

- Not sure what the going rate around here is for Karaoke, I have only just started to think about setting up my own Karaoke so hadn’t looked into it. Also I think from the money I would be making I would like to make a good profit for myself and reinvest a bit as I go. (Threat)

- Failure – don’t know the meaning of the word! I really do think there is a market for a good Karaoke around here so I would like to think it would go well. If not the girlfriend is good on Ebay, so I’m sure I could sell up on there if need be!!! (Opportunity)

- Second hand kit; I wouldn’t have a problem with this, but I do not know enough about sound systems to know if there are problems with it, so would probably start from new where possible. I was planning on taking a look at some music stores around. (Threat)
- Printing I can get done cheap through some pals. (Strength)

Obviously the less money I can spend on good equipment is better! But hopefully this may help for my quest for starting up my own Karaoke.

In its simplest form hosting a Karaoke show is broken down into 2 parts =
A) Your Music Library : CDG or MP3+G or similar format
B) Your Pro-Audio Set up - From what I've seen and experienced you need to VISION where you see yourself in 3 years. Don't get a system that won't allow growth ,expansion and flexibility.  Get "pro" brands but you DON'T have to spend a fortune to have a great sounding quality system. - Building from scratch I would suggest

SPEAKERS:  YAMAHA SV115 CLUB SERIES - I have owned these in the past and will again in the future, arguably one of the Best Speakers for the Money you will find. They are not LIGHT but compact and sound great with enough bass without a sub for small to medium rooms.

AMP: Just learned ideally you need a power amp pushing 500watts per channel at 8ohms to be the most efficient to power these speakers.  In this case look at amps from Crown , QSC, Peavey, Behringer.

MIXER: I suggest getting a rackmountable mixer with built in effects, I use a Behringer 1222FX and has all the channels ,inputs , effects, 7 band EQ  you'll need to start and to GROW with later.

MICS - definately suggest the SHURE Sm58 wired ( no switch) . I have one with a switch and its just one more thing that can break ! .  There are many 2nd and annoucement mics availlable  for a little less SHURE PG48 is one , Senheisers has some etc etc.

Put those basics in a DJ BOXwith some quality cables and  you are all set.
Once you're on your way you can add PROCESSORS  - LIMITERS - ENHANCERS - EFFECTS UNITS  - 31 BAND EQ 'S or anything else you feel you need including another amp and a sub.  GOOD LUCK - Welcome and there are no dumb questions !!!!   The SEARCH feature is a great tool, but things suggested 6 months ago might not be the same today so never hesitate to ask something AGAIN.

If everyone used the search and no new topics were started ......We wouldn't have anything to do  LMAO

If you're intent on having a sub to start with, Mckyj57's proposal is worth considering.  That Matrix really seems good in that regard. The weight could be handled by one person if you take it out of your car in separate pieces and put in together again at the car, after the show, piece by piece.

You may want to hold off on the Sonic Enhancer initially, and use those funds for the speaker stands that will be required.  You can pick the Enhancer up after you're getting some cash flow.

If the venues in your area are typically small, that opens up a whole bunch of other possibilities (excluding subs).  And consider that Jamkaraoke made both a strong argument and recommendation for a rig without subs, to start with.

My real point about the printing costs for the catalogs was not so much about the actual cost of printing (which I didn't quote), but rather, how quickly you start to learn about other things you need after you get going.  My mentor told me from the get-go to figure $300 for electrical wiring (surge protectors, etc) and audio cabling.  So, in that regard, I have never been shocked; he was right-on!  

What do you plan to use for a backup system if the computer goes down?  I've been carrying my discs with me along with a deck player.

Please note the Mckyj57 is quite high on the Compuhost software for hosting at $180.  Search through as many threads as you can deal with regarding that subject.  I use Sax & Dotty!

Also, check the tech forum to get as much info as you can about equipment, including computers, and how best to use what you're getting.  If you go to that forum right now there is a very important and informative discussion entitled:  
"Back To Basics"

You'll need to make sure that you have a CD-ROM drive that is capable of ripping your CDG's to the computer.  Most people recommend drives made by Plextor in that regard, but not all Plextors will work, only specific models.  If you follow that recommendation, it will likely cost another $150!  

So, you have some more "bridges to cross" before you can determine if your budget will accomodate the type of rig Mckyj57 is recommending.  Of course, if you have additional funds or credit available, it may just be a matter of coming to terms with the fact that it's going to cost more than you thought to get what you want.  Many problems can be solved just by "throwing" more money at it.  I, on the other hand, get a great deal of satisfaction out of seeing if I can do it better for less.

See my pictures on this forum at:
http://karaoke-forum.com/viewtopic.php?t=13403&sid=21fcac10be22499e70bc938e9900a198

Footie, please, no need to apologize what so ever, sometimes people will answer curtly when they have been asked a question too many times and I was just trying to save you from that. Sorry if I came across wrong.

This forum is exactly the help you need to get things done right the first time, I am on a few forums and this one up until a few weeks ago it could be a little touchy at times. ( not that all can't be ) Seems like lately though things have been a lot better and I am happy to see that.

Keep asking questions and I am sure you will get all you need, I know I have. Now please excuse me whilst I go throw a few spirits down. Rudy.

[font=verdana] One thing you might consider that helped us get our first system together was the companies that offer you a 3 payment plan if your purchase is over a certain amount.  We did this with American Musical Supply, and Audio Lines or Audio Savings.  I’m not sure if it’s applicable in the UK, but worth checking into.  I also found due to the stiff competition on the web of different music companies they are very willing to deal.  It allowed us to put more of our capital into a music library and make the payments on equipment from the gigs we had.

http://www.americanmusical.com

http://www.audiolines.com

http://www.audiosavings.com

Good luck to you and your new endeavor!  


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_________________
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Dusty Rose
Blue Rose Classic Karaoke
More Sound! More Selections! More Fun!
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Bars and clubs that have their own systems, typically do not pay extra for KJ's having their own equipment.  They have invested the money into the system they have, even if the system sucks, and are not willing to pay for something they already have.

I have worked it to where I use my players and mixer, and plug into their amps and speakers.  I don't make what I would using my complete system, but make more than if I was using their system.  I play some Super-CDGs, and their system doesn't, so if I use only their system, I loose a good part of my collection.

I have 4 wireless mics, and my mixer has 4 inputs, so I need to have these to have the flexability to adjust the mics the way I want.

You get what you pay for when it comes to equipment.  If you get the best, you will always be happy.  If you settle for less, you will always be less than satisfied with your choices.  If cost is an issue, build the system a piece at a time as you can afford it.

You can see the choices I have made at http://felixthekj.com under system components.

hope this helps,
Felix the KJ