I’ve been using the QC for recording into Ableton and I absolutely love it! However, I’d like to expand my use of it and use it for live performances. I know it can be connected to an AMP and Cab but I’d prefer not to if possible and connect to the venue’s PA. What is the best way to do this? Output 3 and an instrument cable or TRS? Or is the XLR out required, can it be mono or stereo? Please and thank you, its such a great tool and I want to take it out and leave my amp and cab at home.
If you want to use the house PA then the best way to connect is usually via XLR (‘Out 1’ or 1&2 for stereo). If you go mono, make sure your presets are optimized for mono. You can use 1/4" for shorter runs if necessary but not preferred. Then have your soundperson send your guitar back in your monitor. For FOH, ask them to start with a flat EQ setting (maybe a low-cut) and usually light on the reverb and delay if required at all. Keep in mind that now, without an amp/FRFR on stage, that your bandmates may also need to have you in their monitors or IEMs. And of course, you are at the mercy of the soundperson for your onstage guitar sound as well as FOH.
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Communication with the sound guy is always a good idea.
Ask them to let you run your QC into FOH at “gig volume” if there’s down time before a performance, just to make sure EQ and other settings are where you want them to be.
High frequencies above 6k or 7k tend to be harsh on the audience’s ears at that volume. Applying a lowpass filter with a cutoff there [whether globally or at the end of the chain in your preset(s)] is helpful. But again, communicate with the sound guy about this, as they may already have a habit of applying that kind of EQ on any guitar channel they use.
Also, be prepared to use your global EQ on the swipe down I/O settings page to adjust your overall sound if necessary for the room. When using the PA’s monitors for your onstage sound this will impact both FOH and your monitors.
Thank you friends! So helpful!
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Might be aware of this one already but if you get a chance during rehearsal, get as close as you can to performance volumes without endangering your band and your ears (ear plugs are your friend). Otherwise, you can get bitten by the deservedly oft mentioned Fletcher-Munson issue with the potential for tones to vary dramatically depending on what volume they are listened to. Tones that sound fantastic at bedroom/studio levels often need to be tweaked for the stage.