Do you run the prx 715s on 180 phase ? Because that's what I have to do to get them to sound loud. However if I seperate them about 10 feet apart I need to play the prx on 0 degrees instead. Even though it sounds louder, the prx and vrx sound like they are out of phase. I'm so confused..
@@djk.i.d392different boxes will cause phase issues n result cancellations on certain frequencies. Even if they are clustered together in a line. Unless you run an actual audio analysis like Smart or Open Sound Meter you wont actually know. Must dj’s dont actually care enough about these issues to optimize their sound.
Great video, but something worth mentioning that I didn't hear you mention. You should never use more than 80% of the total AMPS for the breaker. Meaning that you should never draw more than 16 amps on a 20 amp breaker. And 12 amps on a 15 amp breaker.
excellent point. When you review a new venue, you should always take this into consideration. You will need to know where all the outlets are and which ones you will be using. Good to ask what others will be using. For instance at a high school dance: where will the popcorn machine be plugged into.
@@DJRickWeb good point to mention? I should say more likely A CRITICAL point to mention since if the power goes out there’s nothing left to play with and we are screwed until we switch that break back on from the breaker box… thank you for giving the time and effort of showing us this crucial important information though, Rick. 🙏
Wow, your video it’s probably the only video on the TH-cam website that educate people on the types of extension power cords to use For music and audio equipment. Thank you.
@16:34 Amp do NOT amplify the power thats fed into in via an outlet. Put a sine wave on those subs, take it to right below clipping and it will draw a constant 10-12 amps, the reason it draws less is because music is dynamic, lots of ups and downs on the current draw, another main reason is that amps have huge capacitors inside that can store and discharge energy on peaks. But amplifer can not and does not amplify the power from the outlet.
Make sure your sound and mixer are on different circuits??? Yeah if you want a ground loop issues, probably suggest some hum eliminators if you are suggesting using different circuits :)
Your legit the best Dj on TH-cam you cover such a huge variety in equipment, lights, sound etc helpful tips and you actually read and respond to questions all my respects to you 👍.
Best information I've ever heard on this topic from a Dj perspective. I'm sure there are electricians that have videos on this here on TH-cam but I've never seen one. Never thought to look. You just gave me one hell of an education. Thank you!!!
Too long Nothing against long videos But they don’t suit me , people don’t have 20 mins to watch a video on how gear draws power ,unless your a kid Yes he explains everything but there is a summarized version surely
Rule of thumb: don't rely on minimum - up the gage so that you don't damage your equipment. (uping means going from 12 gauge to 10 gauge.) Also, use Watts law: P=VI (watts = current times amps) The watts is the power you units need to operate and are listed on each piece of equipment. Your voltage should be 120 in the USA, and you circuit should be listed in the panel box.
My Intellabeams have 700 watt bulbs so takes one 20 amp breaker to run 3 of them. I like to have 5 breakers whenever possible but had to use 6 when we used 8 subwoofers, 6 Intellabeams, fog machine, black lights, strobes, lasers, police lights, spinners, egg strobes, and 6 light towers. I may get my electrician to set up a snake that I can run from the panel with 6 breakers for our larger setups.
Hate ro say this, Rick but just because a device has a notch next to it does not mean it's always going to be a 20amp circuit. As an electrician, I come across this a lot especially in remodels. Building maintenance will sometimes use what is available. Though it's code, they will sometimes use what they have available to get the job done. Not trying to be mean or anything, just giving some information as an electrician. But the Kill-A-watt tool is really good tool to have for sure!
@@DJRickWeb your correct. But al lot of maintenance guys don't even know about code. We did a small install of a new Coke machine in a Wendy's restaurant and they left a live or (hot) MC whip laying on a stainless steel table. They didn't even use wire nuts to "cap off" the wire. It was just taped with duct tape. Another one they just stuffed it into the wall. Trying to figure where it went was a chore lol. When I found it and pulled it out I was just amazed by it. Lucky they didn't start a fire or someone got hurt. Just goes to show it's always good to check. That's why the Kill-A-Watt tool is a good thing to have no doubt!
Great helpfull video Rick! I was looking for a video that analyses drawn power this is amazing. To start I have 2 HK subs brand claims 1500W each, plus 4 tops (2 Alto of 2000W + 2 Mackie of 1400W), numbers from equip. specs. I wonder how much power my PA draws from source...
Hey thank for the video it was very helpful, I am Photographer and I am planning use constant lights but there are hard wired so I most proablly need to buy extensions cords to power them. So my questions was can I plugin to 2 50ft cord and combine them togather and use as 100ft? Also, what is surcate which you mention in the video like using different surcets for speakers and lights?
Awesome video. How do you find where the circuits start and stop? At events, I rarely find anyone who even knows where the panel is, let alone which outlets are controlled by which circuits. Knowing how to determine this would be a game changer.
Great video! Thanks for the info and I’ve been looking for a product like the kill a watt. Cables and understanding power is such an important part of our job as DJs that not many fully understand it. Keep up the great work!
Hey I saw in the video you said you used 12 gauge power cables, but the ones linked are 14 gauge? Do you have a recommendation for 12 gauge? Been looking for some 12/3 edison 25ft power cables but haven't found any I liked.
I think I've made this mistake. One of my srx812p's has started making intermittent popping sounds. I basically run my entire setup off an extension reel and a few multi socket extension leads. But I've never checked amps & power limits.
I had to keep it simple for the beginners. I took multiple electrical engineering courses so we could have got way more detailed. But it be over 90 percent of the audience heads
@@DJRickWeb Absolutely. Your marketing is fantastic. I like how you list every item from Amazon - I'm sure you get ad traffic / affiliated pay too! Looks like you're doing very well!
So , the speakers are drawing about 100 wats each at high level? Probably 18 sub draws litlle more.. On how many power consumption in your specs are rated your speakers?
I have a PDU that is designed for server rooms, changed all my plugs to IEC and have a box under the DJ booth that everything is self contained and powered from. Lights are all daisy chained in a L+R fashion similar to how you Dmx, speakers are on their own circuit L+R and the controller and booth power is too. Takes minimal time to set up and cabling is relatively easy...
Nice setup and get info on the power break down...Keep on doing what you're doing a lot of DJ's do not take out the time to break down there setup power out.
What’s up Rick, if an outlet is providing clean power , can it cause speakers to not perform well? Or can power fluctuate causing speakers to go up and down with volume ? Hope to get some help. Thanks!
A 20 amp Circuit actually max allowable usage is only 80% of 20 making that circuit is actually 16 amps. A 15amp circuit is actually 12 amps of use. Distance is referred to an electrical field as voltage drop. So yes the longer the distance the bigger the wire gauge.
Great video, something to watch over when building your setup. We do a lot of out door venues that require generators and power distribution box’s. #nextpower
Aaaand this is why I much prefer having 240v in the UK, we can use the same amount of watts with half the amps, and a thirteen amp rated 100 foot extension lead which is the highest current rating we're allowed only costs about half what your one did.
in the uk we do not have to worrie about that as all our sockets are all thirteen amp and they will be on a 20a for radial and and 32a for a ring so if you are in the uk my top tip would be to go to the consumer unit and work out if the room you are in is a ring or radial and then if it trips you know were it is
Technically a 20 amp outlet DOES NOT automatically guarantee it’s on a 20 amp circuit. If the outlet was broken or if it became worn out from repeated use, a 15 amp outlet could have been replaced with a 20 amp outlet and no longer be on code. Building inspectors could miss this. A 15 amp outlet should ALWAYS be treated as if it’s on a 15 amp circuit since that is all the outlet is rated for even if it’s actually connected to a 20 amp circuit. Pulling 20 amps through a 15 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit can lead to fires.
I purchase 12/3 SO or SJ service cord by the roll and make my own. I have a lighted plug on pigtail on the end to see the circuits are up. That industrial service cord is awesome stuff nice and flexible and easy to roll up. I get compliments on them believe it or not. Use them mostly for trunking my power to my setup. Then it is the premade Hosa iec cables after that. I like the harbor freight idea on the long 10AWG yellow cord though.
@@DJRickWeb I have a question, if you a gig in a party hall or venue and theres no wifi,what can one do to have its own wifi for your laptop and equipment
Typically not. The furman power strips I use have some conditioning properties which is normally enough. Bigger gigs when I use big amps then yes I use an actually conditioner
I suggest being careful about making guarantees. Don't based the size of the circuit on the plug on the wall. There are plenty of DIY folks out there (some that absolutely know what they are doing). Figure out which circuit the outlet is on, what else is also on that circuit (don't assume it isn't shared), and CHECK the size of the breaker. I have been in plenty of locations where, what was on the wall, did not necessarily reflect what was actually connected in the panel. Electricity is no joke, and a breaker doesn't trip on power is trips on heat. Point, be careful, and do you due diligence. Doing it this way, and insisting upon it will make you successful and safe everytime. Also, know what your equipment draws. Everything.
I use 10 gauge or 8 gauge all the time, no need for using lighter cables, it’s always better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it .!.!. Lol
Quick Question, How do you set up your power conditioner for your entire rig? Do you just use for your sound or your entire set up. I would greatly appreciate your help.
Just the computer electronics normally. Speakers and lights normally go straight into the wall. Mixing boards and computers go through the conditioner. Really depends on the venue sometimes I have to run the tops through it as well if the electric is dirty causing too much buzz
I noticed that you used the SRX728s. Have you tested the draw for those? Also, when you use your Drive Rack, how did you chain your speakers? I have a similar set up but haven't used my drive rack with this system (SRX728 (4 of them) an SRX725 (4 of them). I also have 4 of the VRX928LAP but haven't paired them with the SRX subs yet. I generally use a live mixer (mackie DL-1608 and have been happy with that). Nice work on your videos!
@@DJRickWeb Hi Rick, I think you had shown the macrotech Ma9000i? I think the draw can be over the capacity of the killawatt that was in the link and in seeing some of the photos from the Amazon product (melted), I'm guessing it might not be a good idea to use this product for those amps. So, I was wondering if you did measure the draw and if so, with what? I was also wondering how you had your drivedrack and the SRX728 with VRX set up in the video? I currently have the crown xti-4000 bridged mono that I'll be using for each of my 4 SRX-728s. It's a bit easier to find outlets for the maximum draw of the xti-4000 than the ma9000i (according to the specs). However, if it turns out that the actual draw is less than what's in the manual, I think I'd much rather go with the ma9000i and not have to bridge.
Rick, let me get this straight… ok, so you’ve got the 100ft 10gauge 20amp yellow power extension cord coming from the power outlet on the wall… but, I’m not understanding couple of things here… 1. When you said to make sure to run different circuits if I’m pulling 8 to 12 amps on each circuit and distribute the sound and light on each circuit to make sure if one of the circuits goes out we don’t lose full sound… ok I understand that part BUT, when you say different circuits do you mean each power cable/ line of 12gauge 25-50ft referring each circuit/ each power cable/ each line coming out of the 3 outlet power source (the 10gauge 100ft 20amp yellow power cord cable)? Or do you mean to say that by a circuit you mean each circuit being another 10gauge 100ft 20amp? … and 2. Question that doesn’t add up to me… if you’re saying in your video that your set of lights (the whole light bar) is pulling about 9amps when at full throttle and each line of 12 gauge each coming from one from the 2x 15 inch subwoofers and the other 12 gauge power cord going into the 18 inch subwoofers and you’re saying that each line (power cord of 12 gauge to each subwoofer line) is pulling about 7-8 amps… that means that together 8amps coming from the 15 inch subwoofers plus 8amps coming from the 18 inch subwoofers and 9 amps coming from the lights and 1-2 amps coming from the Top speakers is a total of about 27 amps altogether that means your pulling more than the 20 amps that that 100ft 10gauge yellow power cord is giving you… so how do you manage to make it work without getting it really hot or the breaks shutting off from the wall outlet because you’re pulling more than 20amps that the wall is able to provide you.?? Or like I said before… do you need to run 2 or 3 of those 100ft 20amp 10gauge power cord cables? So you can connect each line to each one of this 20 amp cables to not overload them? … please explain 🙏🙏 … thank you 🙏
Thanks for the video, I found the chart very helpful. Quick question (and no I'm not the hundredth person to ask how you can tell if an outlet is on the same breaker!): How can I tell what gauge the extension cords that I already have or that I'm thinking of buying are? There's writing on a lot of them but I'm not sure what it actually means... and a lot of extension cords for sale online don't clearly say what gauge they are but instead have a series of numbers in the description.
All cords when first bought have a at least a sticker indicating gauge. Typical gauges are 16, 14, 12, and 10. If it doesn't say gauge it may also same like 14 AWG. Some extension cords have the gauge printed along the cord as well. Look for writing or for stamping on the cord. And good rule of thumb if they dont list the gauge done but it
This just seems wierd. When we do big gigs, we use 12A at 230V at one single amplifier - and we use a lot of thoose to drive our Audio One or Meyer system. We normally use a 64A or 120A at 380V three phases here in Denmark.
This was driven on 1 64A and 1 32A back in december 2015. This is a normal Danish school dance, most schools do this once a month here - some are bigger than others, this one was rather big. th-cam.com/video/BbtCYxMVeRo/w-d-xo.html
Great tips! I recently purchased the QSC K2.2 speakers and purchased extension cords to match the 18 gauge power cables that came with speakers. Should I have purchased a thicker gauge extension cord for them? Also, which brand power outlets are you using?
Not really. What matters in the relation to power draw and length vs the gauge. If all your powering is a 12.2 off that extension cord and 18 gauge will be plenty. The speaker only draws around 1 to 2 amps. And the plugs are furman
@@DJRickWeb Thanks for responding! I found this website called badassextensioncords.com. They make custom cords in many different colors, lengths & gauge. I was able to find black extension cords that come with lighted ends, plus they'll print your name on it.
Very true. But peak power is not likely to pop a breaker. Moat breakers require over the amp level for a certain number of seconds before tripping. So small instant spikes wont cause too much of a problem unless it significantly drops the voltage.
My power supply is as follows. Honda 2200i, 20 amp 10 gauge 4 wire (for future 30 amp), Furman Pro dmc SIde chain Furman 8x2 to avoid signal pop when the power is turned on. thinking about getting a ups for clean power and to avoid voltage drop. The pro dmc is nice as it has a volt and ammeter. i thought that splitting power source can create ground loops
Hey Rick... How did you know you were on 3 separate 15 amp plugs in the gym? Were you able to confirm all three plugs were on separate breakers? Usually half the gym is on one breaker and the other half is a on a another.
In the Netherlands we have 230 volts on our standard circuits, with standard 16 amp breakers I can pull 3600 watts. my smaller gigs are always done on just one circuit. if I need 3 phase it is 380 volts with a 16 or 32 amp breaker. so actually power is not really as big of an issue as in America.
Damn good video! I been curious of outlets and what cables to use now I know! And do power conditioners help your gear keep cool?.....Or is it just a fancy power strip
Would you rely on the manual/specs or would you more recommend the Kill A Watt over the manual? Also, I've set up an Excel spreadsheet for planning circuits according to equipment I'm taking out. It has specs for each equipment and calculates based on how many of each item I am taking.
Would you recommend using surge protectors and or conditioners? What would you recommend? I just have the SRX815Ps and will purchase SRX818SP X 2 hopefully in the future sometime.
Surge protectors are always good. I use furman strips. And I rarely use the furman power conditioner unless I am running super high power stuff like a crown amp
Or go to the panel and read what circuits is what and turn each one off and see if the outlet has power or no and that’s how u can tell which one is that circuit
It’s not the color of the extension cords that’s important. The pro’s use the black cords because the jacket material is rated for extra hard use. Look for SOOW or SOW rubber extension cords if you want to be safe and in code. If you want your cords to be more protected from tripping or vehicle traffic you need cable ramps and those are high $
I think the 1000watts rating is not how much it draws but the amount the amp outputs to the subwoofer. How much it draws doesnt matter for knowing how much it out puts
It honestly not that easy. But normally the easiest way is to ask someone in charge of the venue or someone that works there. Or a good rule of thumb in most banquet halls is that different rooms and different walls tend to be on different circuits. On a more complicated route there are tools you can buy but you also have to have access to the circuit panels to observe them.
![[MV] A leap of faith...ความเชื่อใจครั้งสุดท้าย (From "Petrichor the series")](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/U1piZH2CNXA/mqdefault.jpg)
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DJ Rick, have you ever had problems with your subs cancelling seeing that you're using prxs and vrxs in a straight line ?
Haven't had an issue yet
Do you run the prx 715s on 180 phase ? Because that's what I have to do to get them to sound loud. However if I seperate them about 10 feet apart I need to play the prx on 0 degrees instead.
Even though it sounds louder, the prx and vrx sound like they are out of phase. I'm so confused..
I have to check honestly
@@djk.i.d392different boxes will cause phase issues n result cancellations on certain frequencies. Even if they are clustered together in a line. Unless you run an actual audio analysis like Smart or Open Sound Meter you wont actually know. Must dj’s dont actually care enough about these issues to optimize their sound.
The most informative explanation on power for sound. Great job! Thanks.
Great video, but something worth mentioning that I didn't hear you mention. You should never use more than 80% of the total AMPS for the breaker. Meaning that you should never draw more than 16 amps on a 20 amp breaker. And 12 amps on a 15 amp breaker.
Wasnt mentioned but also a good point to mention
excellent point. When you review a new venue, you should always take this into consideration. You will need to know where all the outlets are and which ones you will be using. Good to ask what others will be using. For instance at a high school dance: where will the popcorn machine be plugged into.
@@DJRickWeb good point to mention? I should say more likely A CRITICAL point to mention since if the power goes out there’s nothing left to play with and we are screwed until we switch that break back on from the breaker box… thank you for giving the time and effort of showing us this crucial important information though, Rick. 🙏
Good video. Too many DJs don’t know this info!
Wow, your video it’s probably the only video on the TH-cam website that educate people on the types of extension power cords to use For music and audio equipment. Thank you.
Thank you!
@16:34 Amp do NOT amplify the power thats fed into in via an outlet. Put a sine wave on those subs, take it to right below clipping and it will draw a constant 10-12 amps, the reason it draws less is because music is dynamic, lots of ups and downs on the current draw, another main reason is that amps have huge capacitors inside that can store and discharge energy on peaks. But amplifer can not and does not amplify the power from the outlet.
This makes total sense, thats why the brand claims a Wattage number but in practice, the out put is much lower... Thank you!
Make sure your sound and mixer are on different circuits??? Yeah if you want a ground loop issues, probably suggest some hum eliminators if you are suggesting using different circuits :)
Your legit the best Dj on TH-cam you cover such a huge variety in equipment, lights, sound etc helpful tips and you actually read and respond to questions all my respects to you 👍.
Thanks man spread the word
Best information I've ever heard on this topic from a Dj perspective. I'm sure there are electricians that have videos on this here on TH-cam but I've never seen one. Never thought to look. You just gave me one hell of an education. Thank you!!!
You've helped us tremendously bro. Thank you and we appreciate your time and efforts with us.
I’m a beginner and I learn a lot from your videos thanks bro 👍🏽
I’m beginner so late to this video but thank you so much for all this information!!!!! Very helpful!
very helpful video. Had trouble researching power draw on equipment. Too many sites went into too much depth and was too technical for us DJs
Why would anybody downvote this video!? Everything he said was completely true
Too long
Nothing against long videos
But they don’t suit me , people don’t have 20 mins to watch a video on how gear draws power ,unless your a kid
Yes he explains everything but there is a summarized version surely
Out of all your videos I watch, this was most informative for me. Thanks
Rule of thumb: don't rely on minimum - up the gage so that you don't damage your equipment. (uping means going from 12 gauge to 10 gauge.) Also, use Watts law: P=VI (watts = current times amps) The watts is the power you units need to operate and are listed on each piece of equipment. Your voltage should be 120 in the USA, and you circuit should be listed in the panel box.
Nothing but great gig logs and very useful information from your channel! Thank you for everything :)
My Intellabeams have 700 watt bulbs so takes one 20 amp breaker to run 3 of them. I like to have 5 breakers whenever possible but had to use 6 when we used 8 subwoofers, 6 Intellabeams, fog machine, black lights, strobes, lasers, police lights, spinners, egg strobes, and 6 light towers. I may get my electrician to set up a snake that I can run from the panel with 6 breakers for our larger setups.
Can you make a video about ground loops and various ground loop isolators?
Oh man that be a video over the heads of a lot of people. Ill consider it
Great education Rick!
Definitely great video .
Thank u for the info, very helpful!
Excellent Video!!! Thanks!!!
Hate ro say this, Rick but just because a device has a notch next to it does not mean it's always going to be a 20amp circuit. As an electrician, I come across this a lot especially in remodels. Building maintenance will sometimes use what is available. Though it's code, they will sometimes use what they have available to get the job done. Not trying to be mean or anything, just giving some information as an electrician. But the Kill-A-watt tool is really good tool to have for sure!
True but in that case it would be a code violation which would be some fun to deal with lol
@@DJRickWeb your correct. But al lot of maintenance guys don't even know about code. We did a small install of a new Coke machine in a Wendy's restaurant and they left a live or (hot) MC whip laying on a stainless steel table. They didn't even use wire nuts to "cap off" the wire. It was just taped with duct tape. Another one they just stuffed it into the wall. Trying to figure where it went was a chore lol. When I found it and pulled it out I was just amazed by it. Lucky they didn't start a fire or someone got hurt. Just goes to show it's always good to check. That's why the Kill-A-Watt tool is a good thing to have no doubt!
Great helpfull video Rick! I was looking for a video that analyses drawn power this is amazing. To start I have 2 HK subs brand claims 1500W each, plus 4 tops (2 Alto of 2000W + 2 Mackie of 1400W), numbers from equip. specs. I wonder how much power my PA draws from source...
Great video Rick! Going to buy some new cables from your links!
Hey thank for the video it was very helpful, I am Photographer and I am planning use constant lights but there are hard wired so I most proablly need to buy extensions cords to power them. So my questions was can I plugin to 2 50ft cord and combine them togather and use as 100ft? Also, what is surcate which you mention in the video like using different surcets for speakers and lights?
Yes you can plug two together just be cautious of power load and the gauge of the extension cords.
You need a black extension cord a green one and a yellow one. All heavy duty. Extreme case running subs from generators.
Awesome video. How do you find where the circuits start and stop? At events, I rarely find anyone who even knows where the panel is, let alone which outlets are controlled by which circuits. Knowing how to determine this would be a game changer.
THANK YOU!!! so much useful information...
Great video! Thanks for the info and I’ve been looking for a product like the kill a watt. Cables and understanding power is such an important part of our job as DJs that not many fully understand it. Keep up the great work!
Great video Rickey. It's crazy how you find the time to make such great videos keep it up. Thanks.
Its not easy
One of your best vids yet Rick! In terms of teaching us something (In my opinion). Definitely a banger 🔥🔥
Hey I saw in the video you said you used 12 gauge power cables, but the ones linked are 14 gauge? Do you have a recommendation for 12 gauge? Been looking for some 12/3 edison 25ft power cables but haven't found any I liked.
Did the link have an option for other models? In general i just looked on amazon for one with the lowest price but good reviews
Greatly appreciate this video Ricky! Learned a ton!
I think I've made this mistake. One of my srx812p's has started making intermittent popping sounds. I basically run my entire setup off an extension reel and a few multi socket extension leads. But I've never checked amps & power limits.
Although a lot of things were not "accurate" or using the correct technical terms... He's absolutely right!
I had to keep it simple for the beginners. I took multiple electrical engineering courses so we could have got way more detailed. But it be over 90 percent of the audience heads
@@DJRickWeb Absolutely. Your marketing is fantastic. I like how you list every item from Amazon - I'm sure you get ad traffic / affiliated pay too! Looks like you're doing very well!
Really great stuff Rick, thanks for the info!
Great and informative video. Very helpful. Thanks
Dj Rick, how to check the additional load on a circuit?
Hard to do honestly
Important news in this movie. You could spend 3 times time more on this topic. It could save you a loss of damage to your equipment.
Cables should never be considered cheap. Quality matters
So , the speakers are drawing about 100 wats each at high level? Probably 18 sub draws litlle more.. On how many power consumption in your specs are rated your speakers?
I have a PDU that is designed for server rooms, changed all my plugs to IEC and have a box under the DJ booth that everything is self contained and powered from. Lights are all daisy chained in a L+R fashion similar to how you Dmx, speakers are on their own circuit L+R and the controller and booth power is too. Takes minimal time to set up and cabling is relatively easy...
Do you have pictures of this set up?
@@bigjentertainment876 yeah of course!
Where can I see video/photos of your set up? From behind of course
@@bmwthedj lol, I don't do gig logs but I have plenty of photos
Nice setup and get info on the power break down...Keep on doing what you're doing a lot of DJ's do not take out the time to break down there setup power out.
What’s up Rick, if an outlet is providing clean power , can it cause speakers to not perform well? Or can power fluctuate causing speakers to go up and down with volume ?
Hope to get some help. Thanks!
Not normally it have to be a massive fluctuation. Speakers and amps have a lot of power storage which helps with fluctuations.
A 20 amp Circuit actually max allowable usage is only 80% of 20 making that circuit is actually 16 amps. A 15amp circuit is actually 12 amps of use. Distance is referred to an electrical field as voltage drop. So yes the longer the distance the bigger the wire gauge.
Great video, something to watch over when building your setup. We do a lot of out door venues that require generators and power distribution box’s. #nextpower
How did you find the circuits? Or how did you know that you had three separate circuits?
Asked the janitor.
Heavy guage black power leads are hard to find here in Aus. I think its something to do with safety or some rubbish. Great video
I have some dark green extension cords that look black in the dark. They are fantastic. Got them at Lowes and they are 12AWG and they wrap easily
Question Rick your tops are they 15” or 12” and do you have a preference in the size of your tops.
This is very helpful!! Thanks man!
I blew the Amp on one of my jbl srx828sp is there any type of equipment I can get to avoid it in the future?
If you hook the sub up to yoru computer you can set limiters to avoud this. Could also buy a driverack to set limiters as well
@@DJRickWeb thanks
How did you connect your sound system?
Aaaand this is why I much prefer having 240v in the UK, we can use the same amount of watts with half the amps, and a thirteen amp rated 100 foot extension lead which is the highest current rating we're allowed only costs about half what your one did.
in the uk we do not have to worrie about that as all our sockets are all thirteen amp and they will be on a 20a for radial and and 32a for a ring so if you are in the uk my top tip would be to go to the consumer unit and work out if the room you are in is a ring or radial and then if it trips you know were it is
We US people are beyond jealous
Technically a 20 amp outlet DOES NOT automatically guarantee it’s on a 20 amp circuit. If the outlet was broken or if it became worn out from repeated use, a 15 amp outlet could have been replaced with a 20 amp outlet and no longer be on code. Building inspectors could miss this.
A 15 amp outlet should ALWAYS be treated as if it’s on a 15 amp circuit since that is all the outlet is rated for even if it’s actually connected to a 20 amp circuit. Pulling 20 amps through a 15 amp outlet on a 20 amp circuit can lead to fires.
Yeah but again there is a code for a reason. If they did that and a fire happened it been on the venue for having an electric code violation.
I purchase 12/3 SO or SJ service cord by the roll and make my own. I have a lighted plug on pigtail on the end to see the circuits are up. That industrial service cord is awesome stuff nice and flexible and easy to roll up. I get compliments on them believe it or not. Use them mostly for trunking my power to my setup. Then it is the premade Hosa iec cables after that. I like the harbor freight idea on the long 10AWG yellow cord though.
So its best to use 12 guage power cable
14 or 12 us best. 12 for long runs
@@DJRickWeb I have a question, if you a gig in a party hall or venue and theres no wifi,what can one do to have its own wifi for your laptop and equipment
This was a very helpful video..Thanks alot. Do you use power conditioners? Would be good if you could do a video on that as well.
Typically not. The furman power strips I use have some conditioning properties which is normally enough. Bigger gigs when I use big amps then yes I use an actually conditioner
I suggest being careful about making guarantees. Don't based the size of the circuit on the plug on the wall. There are plenty of DIY folks out there (some that absolutely know what they are doing). Figure out which circuit the outlet is on, what else is also on that circuit (don't assume it isn't shared), and CHECK the size of the breaker.
I have been in plenty of locations where, what was on the wall, did not necessarily reflect what was actually connected in the panel.
Electricity is no joke, and a breaker doesn't trip on power is trips on heat. Point, be careful, and do you due diligence. Doing it this way, and insisting upon it will make you successful and safe everytime.
Also, know what your equipment draws. Everything.
I use 10 gauge or 8 gauge all the time, no need for using lighter cables, it’s always better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it .!.!. Lol
Here in the uk we have a very complicated power system with over 3 plug types for different amps
Cool man! Do you ever get any buzz in your system when running speakers on the same circuit as lighting?
Power conditioner solves that problem
Thats a ground loop issue. Like DJ Rick Web said, a power conditioner should fix that.
Quick Question, How do you set up your power conditioner for your entire rig? Do you just use for your sound or your entire set up. I would greatly appreciate your help.
Just the computer electronics normally. Speakers and lights normally go straight into the wall. Mixing boards and computers go through the conditioner. Really depends on the venue sometimes I have to run the tops through it as well if the electric is dirty causing too much buzz
@@DJRickWeb Thank you! Keep up the great content, I enjoy your detailed videos.
I noticed that you used the SRX728s. Have you tested the draw for those? Also, when you use your Drive Rack, how did you chain your speakers? I have a similar set up but haven't used my drive rack with this system (SRX728 (4 of them) an SRX725 (4 of them). I also have 4 of the VRX928LAP but haven't paired them with the SRX subs yet. I generally use a live mixer (mackie DL-1608 and have been happy with that). Nice work on your videos!
That comes down to what amp your using with the 728
@@DJRickWeb Hi Rick, I think you had shown the macrotech Ma9000i? I think the draw can be over the capacity of the killawatt that was in the link and in seeing some of the photos from the Amazon product (melted), I'm guessing it might not be a good idea to use this product for those amps. So, I was wondering if you did measure the draw and if so, with what? I was also wondering how you had your drivedrack and the SRX728 with VRX set up in the video? I currently have the crown xti-4000 bridged mono that I'll be using for each of my 4 SRX-728s. It's a bit easier to find outlets for the maximum draw of the xti-4000 than the ma9000i (according to the specs). However, if it turns out that the actual draw is less than what's in the manual, I think I'd much rather go with the ma9000i and not have to bridge.
Rick, let me get this straight… ok, so you’ve got the 100ft 10gauge 20amp yellow power extension cord coming from the power outlet on the wall… but, I’m not understanding couple of things here… 1. When you said to make sure to run different circuits if I’m pulling 8 to 12 amps on each circuit and distribute the sound and light on each circuit to make sure if one of the circuits goes out we don’t lose full sound… ok I understand that part BUT, when you say different circuits do you mean each power cable/ line of 12gauge 25-50ft referring each circuit/ each power cable/ each line coming out of the 3 outlet power source (the 10gauge 100ft 20amp yellow power cord cable)? Or do you mean to say that by a circuit you mean each circuit being another 10gauge 100ft 20amp? … and 2. Question that doesn’t add up to me… if you’re saying in your video that your set of lights (the whole light bar) is pulling about 9amps when at full throttle and each line of 12 gauge each coming from one from the 2x 15 inch subwoofers and the other 12 gauge power cord going into the 18 inch subwoofers and you’re saying that each line (power cord of 12 gauge to each subwoofer line) is pulling about 7-8 amps… that means that together 8amps coming from the 15 inch subwoofers plus 8amps coming from the 18 inch subwoofers and 9 amps coming from the lights and 1-2 amps coming from the Top speakers is a total of about 27 amps altogether that means your pulling more than the 20 amps that that 100ft 10gauge yellow power cord is giving you… so how do you manage to make it work without getting it really hot or the breaks shutting off from the wall outlet because you’re pulling more than 20amps that the wall is able to provide you.?? Or like I said before… do you need to run 2 or 3 of those 100ft 20amp 10gauge power cord cables? So you can connect each line to each one of this 20 amp cables to not overload them? … please explain 🙏🙏 … thank you 🙏
Cicuit as in the wall outlet going back to the cicuit panel. The panel determines which outlet is on which cicuit
Question please , do you recommend getting power from 2 different outlets instead of one
Thanks for the video, I found the chart very helpful. Quick question (and no I'm not the hundredth person to ask how you can tell if an outlet is on the same breaker!):
How can I tell what gauge the extension cords that I already have or that I'm thinking of buying are? There's writing on a lot of them but I'm not sure what it actually means... and a lot of extension cords for sale online don't clearly say what gauge they are but instead have a series of numbers in the description.
All cords when first bought have a at least a sticker indicating gauge. Typical gauges are 16, 14, 12, and 10. If it doesn't say gauge it may also same like 14 AWG. Some extension cords have the gauge printed along the cord as well. Look for writing or for stamping on the cord. And good rule of thumb if they dont list the gauge done but it
This just seems wierd. When we do big gigs, we use 12A at 230V at one single amplifier - and we use a lot of thoose to drive our Audio One or Meyer system. We normally use a 64A or 120A at 380V three phases here in Denmark.
This was driven on 1 64A and 1 32A back in december 2015. This is a normal Danish school dance, most schools do this once a month here - some are bigger than others, this one was rather big. th-cam.com/video/BbtCYxMVeRo/w-d-xo.html
Would have liked to see what types of power protection you are using for all your setup
Yep didnt cover that. Mostly cus it was more based on cables.
Great tips! I recently purchased the QSC K2.2 speakers and purchased extension cords to match the 18 gauge power cables that came with speakers. Should I have purchased a thicker gauge extension cord for them? Also, which brand power outlets are you using?
Not really. What matters in the relation to power draw and length vs the gauge. If all your powering is a 12.2 off that extension cord and 18 gauge will be plenty. The speaker only draws around 1 to 2 amps. And the plugs are furman
@@DJRickWeb Thanks for responding! I found this website called badassextensioncords.com. They make custom cords in many different colors, lengths & gauge. I was able to find black extension cords that come with lighted ends, plus they'll print your name on it.
Thanks bro, I had a serious power issue at a wedding this weekend..
I'm DJ Shawn youse black cords and extension cords
Unfortunately tge kill-o-watt will not give an accurate reading for peak power.
Very true. But peak power is not likely to pop a breaker. Moat breakers require over the amp level for a certain number of seconds before tripping. So small instant spikes wont cause too much of a problem unless it significantly drops the voltage.
Hi djrickweb brilliant video and thanks for explaining about Amps Watts for all the dj equipment and dose the killer watt has the UK plug output?
I only know the us one. They probably make one. It's just a simple electric measurement devices. Theres lots of models
Good tool to use when djinn
My power supply is as follows. Honda 2200i, 20 amp 10 gauge 4 wire (for future 30 amp), Furman Pro dmc SIde chain Furman 8x2 to avoid signal pop when the power is turned on. thinking about getting a ups for clean power and to avoid voltage drop. The pro dmc is nice as it has a volt and ammeter. i thought that splitting power source can create ground loops
Hey Rick... How did you know you were on 3 separate 15 amp plugs in the gym? Were you able to confirm all three plugs were on separate breakers? Usually half the gym is on one breaker and the other half is a on a another.
Maintenance staff was able to confirm. They make a tool to scan breaker boxs too
In the Netherlands we have 230 volts on our standard circuits, with standard 16 amp breakers I can pull 3600 watts. my smaller gigs are always done on just one circuit. if I need 3 phase it is 380 volts with a 16 or 32 amp breaker. so actually power is not really as big of an issue as in America.
Yeah you suck. I wish I had that power. A friend of mine in the UK always be joking about taking his distro to a wedding.
Damn good video! I been curious of outlets and what cables to use now I know! And do power conditioners help your gear keep cool?.....Or is it just a fancy power strip
Fancy power strips main reason for them is to remove noise from the power. You find this with hissing in your speakers when no music is playing
Great post!!!!!
great channel.. how to be a professional dj 101
Would you rely on the manual/specs or would you more recommend the Kill A Watt over the manual?
Also, I've set up an Excel spreadsheet for planning circuits according to equipment I'm taking out. It has specs for each equipment and calculates based on how many of each item I am taking.
The manual will give you the absolute max but you need to make sure you look at power draw not output.
Great vid!!!
Great vid.
Very helpful video
great video
Would you recommend using surge protectors and or conditioners? What would you recommend? I just have the SRX815Ps and will purchase SRX818SP X 2 hopefully in the future sometime.
Surge protectors are always good. I use furman strips. And I rarely use the furman power conditioner unless I am running super high power stuff like a crown amp
sorry I meant JBL SRX828SP, 818?? sorry I'm such a noob.
I use a power conditioner with the dual 18 for sure
fine reminders.. you get 4 gold stars 🙂
what im interested in is how you tell an outlet is on a different circuit?
Normally an event manager or janitor should be abl ed to tell you
Just like you
Might want to recommend a circuit breaker tracer to locate circuit breaker(s).
They are a great tool to have.
How do you know if 2 outlets in a room are on the same or different circuts?
Ask
Or go to the panel and read what circuits is what and turn each one off and see if the outlet has power or no and that’s how u can tell which one is that circuit
It’s not the color of the extension cords that’s important. The pro’s use the black cords because the jacket material is rated for extra hard use. Look for SOOW or SOW rubber extension cords if you want to be safe and in code. If you want your cords to be more protected from tripping or vehicle traffic you need cable ramps and those are high $
You can rent cable ramps if you need to run cables through a walkway or driveway. Just add in the cost to your estimate.
thanks brother
Are you running different polarity for each pair of subwoofers or are they all in normal polarity?
Normal
You can always cover black extension cords with yellow or orange gaffer tape.
I think the 1000watts rating is not how much it draws but the amount the amp outputs to the subwoofer. How much it draws doesnt matter for knowing how much it out puts
pov Europeans watching this and smiling that we have 16A 230V outlets in our homes
How do you know if you're on one/more than one circuit?
It honestly not that easy. But normally the easiest way is to ask someone in charge of the venue or someone that works there. Or a good rule of thumb in most banquet halls is that different rooms and different walls tend to be on different circuits. On a more complicated route there are tools you can buy but you also have to have access to the circuit panels to observe them.