Re: What to do when it's too loud

[Howard Chandler <chandler@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Just to clarify, the point that I was all too subtly trying to make 
about the earplugs was that folks will often turn down (and that 
includes the guy running FOH) when they realize that the dB's are 
causing someone pain.  My not too subtle hint is the yellow plugs 
sticking out of my ears.  Most of the time I don't have to even get em 
out though cause I haven't been hanging at bars in a while. 

Seriously though, there are a number of stratagies that could be 
employed to get the average SPL reduced.  First is to sensitize the acts 
and the folks that run the PA.  Let 'em know that there will be a 
significant number of old farts (I'm including myself) who've already 
fought the dB wars, or who just think too much of their aural faculties 
to subject themselves to the possibility of permanent hearing damage.  
Another way might be to go out and buy a case or two of the yellow 
earplugs (1 case = 200 pair/$25 - available at Home Depot) and pass them 
out (or have them available in conspicous places.)  The sight of a few 
dozen harmonica wielding martians might drive the point home.

 From a techniclogical perspective,  there is really no need to have 
these kind sound levels on stage or on the dance floor.  A lot of the 
guys I know who are working steady gigs are using in ear monitors and 
direct boxes/modeling amps etc. so that the levels on stage are low 
enough to hold a conversation without yelling.  Each player can have 
their own monitor mix, which is real nice.  Often its the bar owners who 
insist on the high SPL's to get the crowd into a frenzy to get them to 
drink more.  My wife suffers tinnitus from exposure to a PA main. at a 
local bowling alley and nightclub.  Take my word for it, you don't want 
to mess with tinnitus.

Regards,

Howard Chandler
Mandeville, LA

BassHarp wrote:

>
> I think most everyone participating in this thread is missing the 
> point. Anyone interested in preserving their hearing will 
> automatically have earplugs with them when they attend a blues concert 
> - or any venue where "loud" is the order of the day.
>
> However, we are talking SPAH Conventions here. How many people stop to 
> think to bring earplugs with them when they leave home for a SPAH 
> gathering? I never do! Maybe most people do, but I sincerely doubt it. 
> And if our intent is to encourage "everyone" to witness the great 
> shows at SPAH, which includes the blues ahows and jams, I think SPAH 
> is one place where consideration for all needs to be given.
>
> But that's only my assessement.
>
> Danny
>
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