Rack mount or modular on stage?

[jlb]

Hi,

I seem to be going around in circles and thought I'd ask for help.

I have a Nord Stage 88 and a Korg M50 on top. I currently mix them on stage through a small mixer - a Soundcraft EPM6.
I use a scissor stand with a 2nd tier, and the mixer has been sitting in a guitar stand I happen to have - not so professional.
I have bags for the KBs and throw everything else in a plastic crate.

Joining an alt/prog-rock band now, I have decided to add an analogue sound module. I haven't finished comparing yet but it'll probably be a DSI prophet 08. The Prophet is a table module but you can put rack mount ears on it.

So now I have another bit of gear and it is kind of time to tidy everything up. I am wondering if it is time to go rack mounted.

The prophet takes 6-7RU if you rack mount it. It also doesn't have any effects - so maybe I'll end up with a multi-effects unit like a dmx200. The mixer is little - 16" tall by 10" wide.

So if I go for a combined rack mount unit with a mixer top I am up to a 10RU box like this - - Cases Com Au Shopping Cart Administration - weighing 45lb and getting big, also mostly full of air if I mount the prophet vertically.
Is this the right solution?
Or should I get a flat case for the synth module and the mixer and use it as a table on stage, maybe with a small rack case for effects if necessary?
Or get a small mixer case and a 3rd tier for the KB stand?
Or replace the EPM with a rack line mixer?

My head hurts. Has anyone been down this path?

Thanks in advance,
John

 

[b3maniac]

John, until about 2003 I used two racks to hold my modules,
midi program manager units, mixer for my stage mix, etc.
I was controlling the racks from three different keyboards.
I spent a lot of time thinking it through, and making changes
over time to get it all the way I felt confortable with it.

I think you shoud research as needed onthe operation
of your gear, and how you'll manage and control it
so that the set-up meets your needs and preferences.
What might work for me may not be right for you, etc.
There's also handling and transportation to consider....

PS I had a bid truck and road crew handle and set-up everything back then.
These days I use two keyboards, and two Emulator modules
with the audio into a Motion Sound amp. I move it
and set it up, and it all fits in my chevy malibu.
B3