Coming Soon....

A professional audio rack for live sound is the "brain" and "powerhouse" of a PA system. While digital consoles have integrated many of these features, a dedicated rack is still essential for power, connectivity, and specialized processing.

Here is what you typically need in a professional live sound rack:

1) Power Management

Power Conditioner: This is usually the first item at the top. It protects your expensive gear from voltage spikes and filters out electronic noise from the venue's power lines.

Power Distro: For larger setups, a distribution block is needed to manage high-amperage feeds and provide multiple outlets for all components.

2) Signal Processing (Drive Rack)

Even with a digital mixer, "drive" gear ensures the speakers perform safely and accurately:

System Processor (LMS): A Loudspeaker Management System (like a DriveRack) handles crossovers, system EQ, limiting (to prevent blowing speakers), and delay times for time-aligning speakers.

Graphic Equalizers: Used for "ringing out" monitors to prevent feedback or adjusting the final tone of the front-of-house (FOH) mix.

3) Audio Inputs & Connectivity

Wireless Receivers: If the band uses wireless microphones or instruments, the receivers are racked here, often with an Antenna Distributor to ensure a clean signal without dropouts.

I/O Patch Panel: A custom-labeled panel that brings all the inputs and outputs from the back of the gear to the front. This prevents wear and tear on the actual equipment ports.

4) Monitoring

In-Ear Monitor (IEM) Transmitters: If the performers use in-ears, the transmitters live in the rack, sending the monitor mix wirelessly to their belt packs.

5) Amplification (If using Passive Speakers)

Power Amplifiers: If your speakers are not "active" (self-powered), you will need heavy-duty power amps. These are usually placed at the very bottom of the rack because they are the heaviest and generate the most heat.

6) Playback & Recording

Media Player: For "walk-in" music (Bluetooth, USB, or CD).

Rack-mount Recorder: For capturing a high-quality stereo archive of the performance.

7) Utility & Protection

Rack Drawers: For storing essentials like adapters, sharpies, board tape, and spare batteries.

Cooling Fans: If the rack is packed tight, thermal management is vital to prevent gear from thermal-shutting during a show.

Shock-mount Case: Professional racks should be "shock-mounted" (a box within a box with foam or springs) to protect the electronics from the vibrations and impacts of touring.