All Event and "Bar Night" Organizers Only!!

[Ravaana]

get something like this, it's a fairly cheap Distribution box, but it works.

I am sure there are better ways, but this is definitely better than a ton of splitters.
http://www.amazon.com/AV-400-Composi...0790443&sr=8-1

[LiquidKourage]

Currently, I only run a 2-screen setup, so a simple Y-adapter works just fine. However, I'm REALLY intrigued at this VGA setup being hinted at...

[Zoologico]

Can you link to examples of what you would need for a VGA setup?

This is what I will be running in a couple of weeks.

You will need an XBOX 360 VGA cable:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/pr...seq=1&format=2

Into something like this:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/pr...seq=1&format=2

Then just send the signal to the different screens (projector, drum screen, main screen) using regular VGA cables.

The advantage is that they are easier to come by and are relatively less expensive (cables, splitters, monitors).

[Jerrid_DOMN8R]

I have a very impressive setup - total of about $5000 into my setup - this doesn't include xbox OR my massive song library.

I can answer many questions, as I am also responsible for Mega setups like the Spike Video Game Awards >> PICS HERE

my business is legit, and now that my license/tax/insurance has all gone through, business is kicking.

I have created direct mail postcards, and put together a terrific mailing list - created rock posters, etc.

If you are SERIOUSLY looking to do this, it will take time, effort and require ambition. $$$-wise, this is a very low cost way to start up a business that has a good chance of succeeding if done properly.

My website is: www.rockoutproductions.com

I use 4 LCD monitors, the ION kit with monitor attached right to drum rack, Plexiglas cover for monitor on drum rack to prevent "accidents", VGA outputs (via 8-port splitter), JBL 15" G2 EON speaker system w/stands (when not plugging into house audio system), Mackie 1202 Mixer board, I DJ music via PCDJ software and laptop between songs to keep the party bumpin', I have created a hole package of song catalogs, one-page inserts of "what Rock Band Karaoke is" and "how do i do it" - as well as an appendix of POPULAR Karaoke pics AND all the Country songs in one spot (lots of people want to play these, as much as i hate country, they are good for business), Song Request slips, i use a professional XLR Microphone to emcee the entire night, I use a portable scan converter to convert one the VGA signals to composite (BNC or RCA) - which I then run into a DA (distribution amplifier - or a splitter that amps the signal) - then out to the house projectors/tvs/monitors, I have very specific billing, that is competitive and fair, and offer prizes. I personally think my setup is one of the most professional, visually stimulating, and best sounding out there.

Tips:
This is STILL karaoke, and the focus, believe it or not, for most people that aren't die-hard RB players like us - are the vocals.
SO - go into your options, and you should turn DOWN the other instruments to around 70% as well as background sounds, crowd, etc.
THEN, you should turn the vocal track WAY DOWN - i use about 20% or so, while maxing out the in-game mic volume - this way, the singers voice registers loud and clear, and is not drowned out by the game vocals.

Also, I use the vocalist's controller to control the entire song setup.

I'm not going to post pics (of the specific gear - but can tell you where i got it all from), my excel file (which is a very nice layout for a karaoke book - which i show in my catalog Alphabetically by BAND first, then i show it all again Alphabetically by SONG), song selection slips, or marketing pieces - but i have quite a bit of info on the website.
If you already do this biz like a few of you on here (gj btw!) OR if you want some help from a Audio/Video specialist, Please contact me via the email on my website, REFERENCING THIS THREAD.

Thank you,
Jerrid Thomas
Owner: Rock Out Productions / A Karaoke Revolution

[Zoologico]

I have a very impressive setup - total of about $5000 into my setup - this doesn't include xbox OR my massive song library.

I can answer many questions, as I am also responsible for Mega setups like the Spike Video Game Awards >> PICS HERE

Nice post and congrats on your success.
Can you share any details regarding what kind of stands you are using?

I can make out Dell monitors, some sort of VESA mount custom mounted on the stand. What stands are you using and how did you get the VESA mount on there?

[Jerrid_DOMN8R]

The monitor mounts were tricky.
I actually removed the plastic from the necks of the monitors - and found there were holes - so i went to the hardware store, and got some square metal tubing with holes (think street sign post) - i got some long bolts, washers, and some wing nuts and just bolted the monitor necks right to that square tubing.

I bought just regular tripod mic stands, removed the smaller pole and adjuster, and slid the square tubing monitor mount right over the tripod.
bam.

Once i get more money to throw at this, I'm going to create more of a coroplast cover for the neck and to cover the stands - so i can affix vinyl graphics/lettering for more advertising/better look
maybe the attached pic with help

[theRealDarkFact]

I am trying to find if there is a standard for how events like bar nights and tournaments should be setup. I have a friend whom is looking to switch from kareoke to rock band. Any information would be appreciated.

[Zoologico]

I am trying to find if there is a standard for how events like bar nights and tournaments should be setup. I have a friend whom is looking to switch from kareoke to rock band. Any information would be appreciated.

You should start by having him or her read this entire thread.
It has a lot of good information.

[LiquidKourage]

@theRealDarkFact:

That's one of the purposes of this thread-- to discuss and determine a set of standards for successful event hosting.

The problem is, there aren't any standards. Everyone basically does what is best for their situation, and if people want ideas or tips for improving their process, they can come here and look over our suggestions and discussions.

Oh, and personal pet peeve: it's spelled "karaoke"

[Jerrid_DOMN8R]

Just incase you folks in this thread aren't included in this, but I was contacted by a gal from MTV (really.) who googled Rock Band Bar Karaoke, whatever, and found my website -
anyhow, we spoke on the phone, and here's the details:

>MTV wants to make an "Official" Rock Band Bar Nights type setup - complete with how to run it, what gear to have (suggested), how to do catalogs, requests, show the video feed to the bar...blah blah.

>She also asked if I would be in a 20-person panel/focus group to discuss these details.

>Conversation started primarily with asking me how I ran my show, what the turn-out was, age break-down of people playing, chance of repeat business, Specials that bar offers, What specials to offer, if i do my own marketing, if so -what kind.

....
Anyhow, I DO marketing - I compiled a huge list of colleges, universities, highschools, bars, clubs, etc. - Then created a 5x7 postcard direct mail piece - mailed it out, waited a week, called each place.
Told the gal that I also provided each venue with Full page fliers, and artwork to print out posters (should they choose).
Also, had ads put in local paper for more publicity.
....

Summary - YES, there will be an Official MTV guide to successful Rock Band Karaoke, or Rock Band Nights or whatever it'll be called.
Included will be details on what and how.
Discounts (possibly she said) on gear
Marketing support, which would be killer to get officially licensed stuff and support - so i can say, MTV SPONSORED.

I will post any news if/when it occurs for this, in mean time, like i said in my first length post - if you're serious, you can contact me through my website listed above. I'd rather not layout the land here.

There are a lot of good ideas and successfully running operations in this thread - and it could be lucrative - especially if you're in a place like me (South Dakota) - where NO ONE is doing this...
BE THE FIRST!

**PS, MTV gal (rather keep you anonymous) - if you read this, would you mind posting update in this thread?**