Gig in a Marquee - Considerations

[WWDJ]

OK ... so i've been asked to do a gig in a marquee.

It's being arranged for an 18th/21st birthday, by the now 17 yr old that has got in touch through another DJ mate who likes what I do and doesnt have his own equipment.

Here is what I know ...
* It's in a marquee in field near their house
* 3am finish, although it looks as though the nearest village is a few miles away so is noise an issue ?
* Music will be Rnb, Dance, Dubstep, Dnb.
* Guests 200, what size sound system needed ?
* July 2nd so weather likely to be good.
* Budget unknown but I would be following a band. Looking at the house(s) in the area and her facebook, they look to be loaded so I think this may be about getting the right thing as opposed to cheap is best....

Should I be afraid, very afraid.

Who would take on this type of gig and if I decide to, what are my considerations?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Should I be afraid, very afraid.


Yes, because...



* Budget unknown

:sj:

[Kernow]

OK ... so i've been asked to do a gig in a marquee.

It's being arranged for an 18th/21st birthday, by the now 17 yr old that has got in touch through another DJ mate who likes what I do and doesnt have his own equipment.

Here is what I know ...
* It's in a marquee in field near their house
* 3am finish, although it looks as though the nearest village is a few miles away so is noise an issue ?* Music will be Rnb, Dance, Dubstep, Dnb.
* Guests 200, what size sound system needed ?
* July 2nd so weather likely to be good.
* Budget unknown but I would be following a band. Looking at the house(s) in the area and her facebook, they look to be loaded so I think this may be about getting the right thing as opposed to cheap is best....

Should I be afraid, very afraid.

Who would take on this type of gig and if I decide to, what are my considerations?

No neigbours living between them & the village ?
To my mind a 3am finish, in what is effectively 'outdoors' could easily lead to allegations of 'rave' :(

[WWDJ]

Ahem yes ... but the way I see it, is that I would want to double head this with someone who can provide the necessary equipment and I can take care of most of the music they want ...

There is no way i'm off loading out of a marquee on my own a 3am, not unless it pays for my summer holidays ;-)

[Danno13]

I could help with the PA side of things :) (and lighting if needed) Probably go with a 4 bin, 2 top system totalling around 4k with maybe a bit of fill further down the marquee.

Oh, and if they haven't arranged things like generator, dance floor through the marquee then I can do that too.

[DAVESOUNDS SERVICES]

Make sure youve a real power supply (no generators)

take at least 4 speakers and at least 2 amps

If they want a night clubby thing take bass bins

outside gigs eat up your power

I love the challenge of outside gigs

Take bin liners in case it gets wet

Dont use powered speakers

Dave

Ps sorry for short reply im gigging using pubs free wi-fi

[WWDJ]

Approx location ...
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?client=safari&q=sarsden+oxfordshire&oe=UTF-8&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Sarsden,+Chipping+Norton,+Oxfordshire,+Unite d+Kingdom&gl=uk&ll=51.91002,-1.578684&spn=0.029863,0.077162&t=h&z=14
It looks like the 'substantial property' might be people who have contacted. The nearest village looks to be about 1m.

[Corabar Entertainment]

Make sure youve a real power supply (no generators)
Can you expand a bit on that one, Dave. In a marquee, in a field, 1m from the village, what other power could he have other than a generator? :confused:

[Excalibur]

OK ... so i've been asked to do a gig in a marquee.

It's being arranged for an 18th/21st birthday, by the now 17 yr old that has got in touch through another DJ mate who likes what I do and doesnt have his own equipment.

Here is what I know ...
* It's in a marquee in field near their house
Oh goody
* 3am finish, although it looks as though the nearest village is a few miles away so is noise an issue ?
How long is a piece of string?
* Music will be Rnb, Dance, Dubstep, Dnb.
Don't ask me for help then. ;) :(
* Guests 200, what size sound system needed ?
About a couple of Megawatts should cover it. :D
* July 2nd so weather likely to be good.
In this country? :eek: I suppose you believe in the Tooth Fairy, and Santa as well.
* Budget unknown but I would be following a band. Looking at the house(s) in the area and her facebook, they look to be loaded so I think this may be about getting the right thing as opposed to cheap is best....
Four figures? ( and not £99.50 )
Should I be afraid, very afraid.
No, but be wary. Take nothing for granted.
Who would take on this type of gig
Most of us, if the money and conditions were right.
and if I decide to, what are my considerations?

Power supply!!

[WWDJ]

I could help with the PA side of things :) (and lighting if needed) Probably go with a 4 bin, 2 top system totalling around 4k with maybe a bit of fill further down the marquee.

Oh, and if they haven't arranged things like generator, dance floor through the marquee then I can do that too.


Make sure youve a real power supply (no generators)

take at least 4 speakers and at least 2 amps

If they want a night clubby thing take bass bins

outside gigs eat up your power

I love the challenge of outside gigs

Take bin liners in case it gets wet

Dont use powered speakers

Dave

Most of the above had sprung to mind ;-) Danno this might be one for you to lead on :D

I'll find out more. I might need a PM with ball park info.

[DAVESOUNDS SERVICES]

Cause generator (even good ones )
are brilliant at killing our delicate PA
equipment!

Beware!

And id certainly take it on!

[Corabar Entertainment]

Cause generator (even good ones )
are brilliant at killing our delicate PA
equipment!But I repeat....
In a marquee, in a field, 1m from the village, what other power could he have other than a generator? :confused:

[DAVESOUNDS SERVICES]

Quote
* It's in a marquee in field near their house
use a couple of extension leads

D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I thought the longest extension lead you can get is 50m?

[Excalibur]

Quote
* It's in a marquee in field near their house
use a couple of extension leads

D

Well since my other suggestion is a non runner, I'd vote for the genny, but it would need to be about the size of my van. ;) :D :D


I'm touching wood Dave, but with a suitable genny, I've never lost any gear. ( Mind you, I've never lost any with an unsuitable genny either. ):D :D :D

[Vectis]

use a couple of extension leads


NNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! :eek:

[Excalibur]

use a couple of extension leads

D


NNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! :eek:
Well of course, he'd have to uncoil them this time. ;) :D

[DAVESOUNDS SERVICES]

As an Electrician
if the choice was either 2 long leads and a bit of volt drop OR
an unknown dodgy genny i still would opt for the cable
(suitably protected by an RCD of course)
Dave

[Excalibur]

As an Electrician
if the choice was either 2 long leads and a bit of volt drop OR
an unknown dodgy genny i still would opt for the cable
(suitably protected by an RCD of course)
Dave

Much as I hate to disagree with a professional, I have to make a couple of points.
The cables would have to be something more substantial than your average Focus/B&Q/Homebase offering, and nowadays Arctic cable is not regarded as up to the job. Small diameter cheap cables are not only unsuitable, they're positively dangerous.
Define "Long". Over 50 yards wouldn't fill me with confidence. Also, these two leads would have to be exclusively for the disco. I don't like sharing in this case.

I love to hear pic1 gently purring away at the corner of the Marquee.
Pic2 , and I'm worried!



I thought the longest extension lead you can get is 50m?
Errrr, no. That's the short answer. The long one may be along soon, and I seem to remember Crazy has one longer than 50m

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Errrr, no. That's the short answer. The long one may be along soon, and I seem to remember Crazy has one longer than 50m

I'm pretty sure you cannot buy them longer than 50m - I didn't say anything about making your own.

[Excalibur]

I'm pretty sure you cannot buy them longer than 50m - I didn't say anything about making your own.

In which case, I sit corrected, and humbly apologise. :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o I shall go and consider the error of my ways.


Except for the fact that one's available here.;)

http://www.tmx-electrical.co.uk/product/113-16a-240v-25mm-Arctic-Grade-Ceeform-Extension-Cables.html

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

In which case, I sit corrected, and humbly apologise. :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o I shall go and consider the error of my ways.


Except for the fact that one's available here.;)

http://www.tmx-electrical.co.uk/product/113-16a-240v-25mm-Arctic-Grade-Ceeform-Extension-Cables.html

Yeah, but that is Ceeform, 16amp. I assumed we were talking domestic rather than 16amp.

[Excalibur]

Yeah, but that is Ceeform, 16amp. I assumed we were talking domestic rather than 16amp.

We're soon going to be splitting the few remaining hairs I possess mate. ;) :D :D :D :D :D :D

Start at the 13a wall socket with
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-elec/is1053/16a-240v-socket-to-13a-plug/dp/PL09459?in_merch=Featured%20Products&MER=e-bb45-00001001
connect that to the ceeform cable, terminate with
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-elec/fl1613/16a-plug-to-13a-socket/dp/PL11217
and we have the exact solution advocated by the sadly absent Tony A1, for this problem.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

We're soon going to be splitting the few remaining hairs I possess mate. ;) :D :D :D :D :D :D

Start at the 13a wall socket with
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-elec/is1053/16a-240v-socket-to-13a-plug/dp/PL09459?in_merch=Featured%20Products&MER=e-bb45-00001001
connect that to the ceeform cable, terminate with
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-elec/fl1613/16a-plug-to-13a-socket/dp/PL11217
and we have the exact solution advocated by the sadly absent Tony A1, for this problem.

Fair enough, but I was just talking about buying a cable reel and as far as I know you can't get longer than 50m at 13amp.

[Excalibur]

Fair enough, but I was just talking about buying a cable reel and as far as I know you can't get longer than 50m at 13amp.

13 amp, 2.5mm diameter, 50m, 75m, and 100m, available in single or twin socket. The good cable as well, not arctic.

http://www.tmx-electrical.co.uk/shop/75-13a-Extension-Cables.html

Sorry I can't find your netbook one though.

[Andy Goodtimes]

I do loads of marquees and have never had any problems with a generator but have had problems with extensions being ran from the house.

I don't agree that marquees swallow sound, its easy to think that as they don't reflect sound like a proper room. I also don't agree not to use active cabs, what difference does it make which box the amp is in?

Danno says a 8 box system of 4k and maybe some extra cabs too so that's at least 4.5k and then lighting and if that's going to be discharge or halogen it could easily run into 6k...how much can you draw off a 13amp cable? If you run a lead through the kitchen window what happens when Granma makes a cup of tea or puts her sausage rolls in the microwave and the rest of the older members of the family have the TV and maybe some heating on too? In my experience most houses have one ring downstairs and one upstairs so best to draw from upstairs if possible as there is less likely to be large power draws from up there than downstairs. You also need to think about if there is a bar and what they might be drawing and from where, also outside lighting and methods of keeping food hot etc.

I wouldn't worry too much about taking it on but if you are unsure then for power I think its best not to take any responsability for it. Tell the organisers what you need and where you need it and let them provide it for you. For that number of guests and the type of music you might just manage with 13amp solely for your use but personally I would ask for 2 x 13amp supplies whichwill give you 6k.

I have done loads like this and they are usually fantastic nights, depending on the local communitty you may end up with lots of extra guests and you might possibly have a bit of trouble but its usually sorted out quickly.

If its a good party it might well go on much later but make sure you price to a certain time and have a clear understanding of extra prices for extra hours or part hours after the agreed time. I normallly give 15 minutes courtesy then £100 per hour or part hour after i.e. if we agree 3am then 3.15 - 4.15am = £100 and so on.

My advice is provided you have the correct music and knowledge and at least 3k sound with decent bass and some effective lighting then to not worry and go and enjoy it.

[Corabar Steve]

Cause generator (even good ones )
are brilliant at killing our delicate PA
equipment!


Well, if you will use valve amps :sj:

[woody2]

As an Electrician
if the choice was either 2 long leads and a bit of volt drop OR
an unknown dodgy genny i still would opt for the cable
(suitably protected by an RCD of course)
Dave

and what about exporting earth? :eek:

[TONYTIGER]

Sounds like a run of the mill job to me,in fact doing one this Saturday for 500 ,marquee & generator from me do around 15 -20 of these a year never a problem.
I will take some pics and post next week.

[WWDJ]

Sounds like a run of the mill job to me,in fact doing one this Saturday for 500 ,marquee & generator from me do around 15 -20 of these a year never a problem.
I will take some pics and post next week.

How do you deal with noise, especially for the events that go on late ?

(Thanks for all the good advice above everyone! ... i know i'm definitely not equipped to this myself, but good to know that many of you are and would be prepared to take this on ... (at the right price))

[yourdj]

Sounds like a run of the mill job to me,in fact doing one this Saturday for 500 ,marquee & generator from me do around 15 -20 of these a year never a problem.
I will take some pics and post next week.

i was thinking that. I have done load with a generator without an issue?

Although the music genre and stop time could result in an illegal rave order if they do not own the field and people who live in villages are very moany.
I have had friend have their equipment confiscated as well which is well within the law.

[TONYTIGER]

How do you deal with noise, especially for the events that go on late ?

(Thanks for all the good advice above everyone! ... i know i'm definitely not equipped to this myself, but good to know that many of you are and would be prepared to take this on ... (at the right price))

I understand your concern re noise,if it is a proper organized event the client would normally inform the local residents and local police if you make inquiries and nobody knows about the event walk away.
Few other points if you are going to use a computer based playout system get your self a ups device as it will save your computer if you have power loss,also get your self one of those socket testers normally orange 3 pin with some leds that tell you that you have a safe power supply .Take a powerfull flash light or a flood light for packing up or if you loose power.
You need to look at the size of the marquee think of it as a room then double the size of your pa that you would use the canvas will just soak up the sound as there are no hard surfaces to reflect the sound.The one i am doing this Saturday i will use around 5kw for 500 people.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

13 amp, 2.5mm diameter, 50m, 75m, and 100m, available in single or twin socket.

Not cable reel though?

[yourdj]

Take a powerfull flash light or a flood light for packing up or if you loose power.

And a jumper. i always forget and freeze my butt off. :p

[Happy Jack]

I think what Peter and Darren are both alluding to in response to running extension cable as a 'proper' solution to supply, was discussed here.

http://www.forum.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/archive/index.php?t-27307.html

I won't re-write in my own words in order to sound clever, I shall just quote a few bits out wholesale from Tony -

With regards to certain cheap HO5VVF extension terminated to a 13a plugtop it is 'not suitable for professional outdoor use, the connectors are rated to BS1363 (whereas for professional outdoor use BS4343 (IEC60309) IP44 or higher rated connectors are required), their CSA is 1.5mm2 which is insufficient over said length for full current draw and as they are >25m, they should have an RCD plugtop hard wired where a BS1363 plugtop is fitted.

The 50m version undiesputedly encourages users to export a DNO supply beyond its equipotential zone, thus compromising effective earthing. I see the DIY stores sell them and suppose they are OK for cutting the lawn, where the appliance has a low current draw and does not depend on the PME as it is Class 2, but IMO that's about all they are any good for.'

Our present Tony's advice running your delicate equipment via a UPS for redundancy and protection is sound.

[Kernow]

. I also don't agree not to use active cabs, what difference does it make which box the amp is in?

None......... unless you get penetrating rain ;) :)

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

None......... unless you get penetrating rain ;) :)

So do separate amps have some kind of built in rain protection then? :confused:

[Kernow]

So do separate amps have some kind of built in rain protection then? :confused:

Nope, but they're usually flightcased and protected on their exposed side by the ample bulk of the DJ ;) :D
Speakers tend to be the furthest outposts of the 'rig empire', and unless left in their covers, must be considered vulnerable :confused:
However the designate to patrol the half-mile or so of extension leads and connectors could maybe keep an eye on them too ?

:D

[Andy Goodtimes]

Must be missing something, surely the speakers will be inside the marquee won't they? I do lots of marquee jobs and have never put speakers outside the marquee, they're waterproof, people eat in there and dress in all their finest and so on. usually they have starcloth all round the sides and nets of fairy llight sin the roof and illluminated dancefloors. Sorry don't see the relevance of powered cabs at all. Like the thought of a bulky DJ not being able to move all night in case water finds its way past to the amplifiers.

[TONYTIGER]

Must be missing something, surely the speakers will be inside the marquee won't they? I do lots of marquee jobs and have never put speakers outside the marquee, they're waterproof, people eat in there and dress in all their finest and so on. usually they have starcloth all round the sides and nets of fairy llight sin the roof and illluminated dancefloors. Sorry don't see the relevance of powered cabs at all. Like the thought of a bulky DJ not being able to move all night in case water finds its way past to the amplifiers.

Your missing something,so am i :confused: God the wedding cake is getting wet.

[funkymook]

Your missing something,so am i :confused: God the wedding cake is getting wet.

Wasn't there a song about that!

[TONYTIGER]

Wasn't there a song about that!

Mac Arthurs Park song about leaving cakes out in the rain Donna Summer if i recall,a classic i think not.

[Excalibur]

I do loads of marquees and have never had any problems with a generator but have had problems with extensions being ran from the house.
Oh don't get me started about that, Andy. One day when I've got a couple of hours to spare, I'll recount a tale or two. ;) :D :D


Not cable reel though?
You're pushing it to the limit, aren't you? :p :D :D :D :D

To be serious, I don't use reels for the disco, I much prefer a loose cable with a double socket at the end. I don't want something the size of a vehicle spare wheel hiding under the deckstand. My cable is put away neatly into the cable box when finished. Another reason for a loose cable is that it avoids anyone using it while still coiled. I've seen reels welded together before. ;) ;)

So do separate amps have some kind of built in rain protection then? :confused:
Yes. The top shelf on my deckstand. :D :D


Must be missing something, surely the speakers will be inside the marquee won't they? I do lots of marquee jobs and have never put speakers outside the marquee, they're waterproof, people eat in there and dress in all their finest and so on. .
Here I beg to differ. They're supposed to be waterproof. It won't be the first time I've had to cope with an ingress of aqueous substances, and I don't suppose it will be the last. :( :(

[Kernow]

. It won't be the first time I've had to cope with an ingress of aqueous substances, and I don't suppose it will be the last. :( :(

You back on the E45 Cream Peter ? ;) :D

I'm glad that I'm not the only one who has seen a 'dancefloor', even a layed one, rapidly become a simulation of the Somme trenches. I recall the worst leakers were the old type canvas marquees. Modern plastics and the introduction of LED lighting has certainly improved things, but a heavy downpour coupled with a brisk south-westerly has the formidable penetrative nature of a pressure wash. :)

[Twinspin]

Take a powerful torch if you have one. So if you loose power and everything goes dark you can see what your doing.

[Chris1984]

Make sure youve a real power supply (no generators)

Take bin liners in case it gets wet


What are the bin liners for???


Cause generator (even good ones )
are brilliant at killing our delicate PA
equipment!


Interesting - as a site electrician professionally providing, installing and managing generators for various events i have never seen this happen.
I looked after a job in trafalgar sq a week or so ago and both the gen sets i had we outputting cleaner electric than the mains.


Quote
* It's in a marquee in field near their house
use a couple of extension leads
D

and what about exporting earth? :eek:
Beat me to it!
Bad idea - Im sure the average DJ wont be aware what sort of RCD to use for this type of job or have the distro to provide it.


We're soon going to be splitting the few remaining hairs I possess mate. ;) :D :D :D :D :D :D

Start at the 13a wall socket with
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-elec/is1053/16a-240v-socket-to-13a-plug/dp/PL09459?in_merch=Featured%20Products&MER=e-bb45-00001001
connect that to the ceeform cable, terminate with
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-elec/fl1613/16a-plug-to-13a-socket/dp/PL11217
and we have the exact solution advocated by the sadly absent Tony A1, for this problem.

Yes this would work but neither of the mentioned adapters use the industry standard HO7RN-F 2.5mm cable which would be the best suited for the job.
They also both use cheap connectors which can pose a problem in its self.

I cant believe that we are still having the same discussions about generators and running extension leads all over the place.

[Excalibur]

What are the bin liners for???
Oh come on Chris, get with the program. The Wombles are headlining at Glastonbury this year. :D :D :D :D




Interesting - as a site electrician professionally providing, installing and managing generators for various events i have never seen this happen.
I looked after a job in trafalgar sq a week or so ago and both the gen sets i had we outputting cleaner electric than the mains.

Have you ever read what the Electricity supply companies actually guarantee to supply? :eek: :eek: Blimey, but they set the bar pretty low. :( :( :(



Beat me to it!
Bad idea - Im sure the average DJ wont be aware what sort of RCD to use for this type of job or have the distro to provide it.

And neither would I. :o :o :o :o :o



Yes this would work but neither of the mentioned adapters use the industry standard HO7RN-F 2.5mm cable which would be the best suited for the job.
They also both use cheap connectors which can pose a problem in its self.
Guilty on both counts.Point taken without any argument. I believe the cunning plan with this rig is that the ceeform connectors allow the use of heavier gauge wires to help on long runs, and the only lighter gauge cables are very very short.



I cant believe that we are still having the same discussions about generators and running extension leads all over the place.

Oh I can Chris, I can. ;) :(

[WWDJ]

I thought I would re-open this as I have a gig with a generator in 2 months time. I have got the details which she describes as 3KDA which I assume is 3KVA power for the generator.

Is this likely to be enough, given that they will want to be lighting the marquee too. I haven't even asked how they might be doing catering and what their needs and whether I could run background music at the same time?

Thoughts and help needed.

EDIT: 150 people and 3.5K RCF being used, plus 2 x EFX500, laser and uplighters ....

[Danno13]

There's no way would I share catering, lighting and PA system over a 3K genny, unless the caterers are using manily gas and even then it'd be iffy. Most marquee events use 20KVA as a minimum.

[katman]

3KVA power for the generator.

Is this likely to be enough

150 people and 3.5K RCF being used, plus 2 x EFX500, laser and uplighters ....

Just your rig alone exceeds the capability of the generator !!!!

[JAMdisco]

Just your rig alone exceeds the capability of the generator !!!!

Agreed, I think you want to be looking at least a 6KVA genny at least (and that's just for the disco - don't share it with anyone). Also keep an eye (or get a friend/colleague to keep an eye) on the fuel gauge.

Although you haven't said how long this one is, the one in the original thread about running until 3am or later, you would probably need to top up the genny with fuel at some point unless it has a BIG fuel tank.

By the way - good luck :)

[spin mobile disco]

For safety I would arrange your own generator andpass the cost on that way you protect yourself. I agree with the 20kv most marquees I have used have the big ones that look about the same size as a skip.
I remember when I used to Dj with vinyl playign in a marquee nd whenever lights flashed or somethign electrical would go on / off the decks would speed up or slow down it was a nightmare. Amps over heating as well due to voltage drop.

I have always gone on rule of thumb by wrking out the maximum I would draw with all equipment on including inrush. Then double the figure and present it to client as my requirments.

If they dont meet the demand then I dont do the gig im not risking my gear on a dodgy generator.

Oh not only rcd's but surge protectors or power smoothers are a must especially on generators. Good ones have them built in but you can never be sure if its a good one till something goes wrong or not.

[Excalibur]

There's no way would I share catering, lighting and PA system over a 3K genny, unless the caterers are using manily gas and even then it'd be iffy. Most marquee events use 20KVA as a minimum.

Agreed with every word.

As Katman says, even allowing for the fact that your PA will not be pulling maximum current all night, once you add on your Wizards and uplights, you'll need the full capacity of the genny just to power your rig. Add in marquee lighting, a few catering ovens, a few big halogen floods to light the outside, and you've got no chance.

[Shaun]

Here's a copy and paste of my marquee requirements...


MARQUEE REQUIREMENTS
* If the marquee is located on a grass area there must be adequate hard flooring or stage on flat level ground area for setting up of the entertainment equipment (approx 3m Length, 2 metres Depth, 2m Height).

* Minimum of 7kva generator [This is in addition to any generator/s to be used for any other aspects of the marquee]. This generator will be solely for the DJ's use.

* Diesel generator required with AVR (auto voltage regulation), plus the necessary distro & ceeform cabling that will be required to plug in multiple 13 amp sockets.



So far I've never had a problem. I really don't like marquee gigs though. Give me a nice warm hotel any day.

[WWDJ]

Thanks all (sorry not to do individual responses ...)

I'm right in that the alarm bells were ringing in my head then :D

The event by the way is from about 2pm until 1am because they want background music and speeches so the genny will be running all day, so they will need to top it up.

Writing back to her as we speak ...

[CRAZY K]

OK ... so i've been asked to do a gig in a marquee.

It's being arranged for an 18th/21st birthday, by the now 17 yr old that has got in touch through another DJ mate who likes what I do and doesnt have his own equipment.

Here is what I know ...
* It's in a marquee in field near their house
* 3am finish, although it looks as though the nearest village is a few miles away so is noise an issue ?
* Music will be Rnb, Dance, Dubstep, Dnb.
* Guests 200, what size sound system needed ?
* July 2nd so weather likely to be good.
* Budget unknown but I would be following a band. Looking at the house(s) in the area and her facebook, they look to be loaded so I think this may be about getting the right thing as opposed to cheap is best....

Should I be afraid, very afraid.

Who would take on this type of gig and if I decide to, what are my considerations?

1. Sound would need a set up with bass bins and tops--probably 1000 watts overall ( rms) at least and maybe driving tops and bass with separate amps.

2.Dont allow the Band to use your gear

3. Noise travelling distances in Countryside depends partly on weather --if you have no wind or a wind going in the wrong direction sound can travel a heck of a long way at 1am in the morning because there is little other noise to deflect it----i.e. everyone else is asleep and not working or driving. I well remember the Marquee job I did in Towcester when somebody said there has been a complaint from the next village about your Barn Dance calling--about 2 miles away--good old Peavey.;) yeah I know---they cant hear what im saying. :daft:

3. Alcohol After 1am the experience of my son ( who runs the Rodeo) is that people start to get aggressive and stupid:eek: This may be yours as well.

3am sounds a tricky one with teenagers--I would have some kind of security available--even if its a friend---qualities required--big and ugly.:D

4. Generator--yes well covered already--dont share with anyone else.

5.Access in and especially out--will there be dozens of drunks blocking your path---happens regularly when I go on Rodeo Bull bookings.

6. Room--is there enough to share with Band as well?

Theres a few to think about:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[Corabar Entertainment]

1. Sound would need a set up with bass bins and tops--probably 1000 watts overall.....
....Theres a few to think about:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :DAlan, the post you've quoted relates to the original gig in the opening post of this thread which was raised nearly a year ago. The gig that everyone is now discussing is from post #48:-

I thought I would re-open this as I have a gig with a generator in 2 months time. I have got the details which she describes as 3KDA which I assume is 3KVA power for the generator.

Is this likely to be enough, given that they will want to be lighting the marquee too. I haven't even asked how they might be doing catering and what their needs and whether I could run background music at the same time?

Thoughts and help needed.

EDIT: 150 people and 3.5K RCF being used, plus 2 x EFX500, laser and uplighters ....

[WWDJ]

Alan, the post you've quoted relates to the original gig in the opening post of this thread which was raised nearly a year ago. The gig that everyone is now discussing is from post #48:-

Maybe I should have raised another thread...

... anyhow, I have gone back to her with the problem.

I will pull if necessary as my Terms, which she has agreed to, state 2 x 13amp plugs at the working position.

[CRAZY K]

Alan, the post you've quoted relates to the original gig in the opening post of this thread which was raised nearly a year ago. The gig that everyone is now discussing is from post #48:-

:daft: :daft: :daft: :daft: :daft: :daft:

Just picked it up

Still, some good pointers there anyway.

:D :D :D :D :D

[Excalibur]

. I really don't like marquee gigs though. Give me a nice warm hotel any day.

From reading your requirements for power supplies, I'd never have guessed that. ( Can't do smilies with this dongle, so please take that as a sarcastic comment ).

Seriously, those terms should ensure you encounter few problems. Well done.

Down here in the real world.....................................

[Shaun]

From reading your requirements for power supplies, I'd never have guessed that. ( Can't do smilies with this dongle, so please take that as a sarcastic comment ).

Seriously, those terms should ensure you encounter few problems. Well done.

.....................................

I can't take credit. I just cherry picked information posted here on the forum in the past.

[WWDJ]

Just to round this off, spoke to the Marquee operator today and it turns out he is supplying 30 kva.

Thats more like it.

Glad I checked though

[marting]

I for one am glad you re opened this thread i have a party coming up in a few weeks time in a marquee only 60 people,

Have found the thread very helpful few things i need to speak to the planner about ie power supply

[CRAZY K]

Just to round this off, spoke to the Marquee operator today and it turns out he is supplying 30 kva.

Thats more like it.

Glad I checked though

Thats quite common if dealing with proper Contractors who have pro machines.

I guess that would drive all the catering equipment and have reserve for Lighting, Bands/Disco.

Unfortunately we seem to get regularly involved with idiots who know nothing and wonder why we need proper rated Generators.

We lost a Rodeo Bull booking due to this recently--no great loss as it would have been nothing but problems--