What equipment is needed to start a band? And how much will it have to cost me for the equip.excluding guitars?

Question

I want to start band, but I don't know what's completely needed. I know you need guitars, bass, microphone, drums, and amps. But what else is needed? We plan on doing Rock music/pop rock. And how much would you estimate that we would have to spend on equipment? We already have the Bass, and 4 guitars, 2 acoustic-electric, and 2 just normal acoustics. We also have 2 amps, and I plan on buying another one

Also, I would appreciate it if someone would give some tips on how to get this running, and an idea how to keep things running.

Answer 1

At a bare minimum, you'll need mic stands and a PA system. Ask at your local store for specific setups. Later on you'll probably want to get a mixer that's big enough for you to plug everyone into (and you might want to hire/coerce a sound guy). Also consider getting a purely electric guitar...while acoustic-electric can work, electrics might be able to give you a different sound. On the other hand, you might not want/need that sound...but if you seem to be missing something, that's something to consider.



To get it running, I'd recommend starting with covers of bands/artists that you want to sound like. This will help you guys get used to playing/practicing together without worrying about originals, and will also help you develop your own sound. If you have original ideas already, that's fine, but don't fret about writing your own songs until everyone's comfortable with the band as a whole. To keep it going, just keep it going! Try to find a regular practice time once or twice a week that everyone can make it to on a regular basis. And if one person quits...don't give up! Keep working, and see if you can find a replacement.



EDIT: What Tom said is true, most venues will be able to provide their own PA and mics, but it's good to have a basic one of your own in case they don't, and so you can hear the singers during practice. It also allows you to get used to your own setup, so you don't have to figure out new equipment every time you do a gig (unless they insist on using their own equipment, which they might).

Answer 2

This question... It doesn't really make sense. When you form a band, you get people that play certain instruments to join your band, everybody brings their instrument to a certain place, and then the band practices together. From your question, it seems like you and a few people are making a band for the sake of making a band, and none of you know how to play any instruments? Are you seriously? just buying all the equipment needed for a full band?



If that's the case, seriously don't form a band. It's going to end in misery. Buy an instrument you like, practice it, practice it some more and then get good at it. Then when you think you are ready to team up with other musicians, find other people who play other instruments and are good at a particular instrument and then group up to form a band. In a band, everyone should be using their own instruments.. You're doing it all wrong i'm sorry.

Answer 3

A way to get the equipment is pawn shops and even your locsl music store. I was in a band when i was 13, so i know how jard it is to get equipment and a band name. Go with your gut on the band name, or look up unused names online I hope this helps

Answer 4

You just need enough to play- all of the production equipment (soundboard, mic, stage amp) will mostly be provided to you. Attend battle of the bands (not just school ones) there are ones held all the time for various lvls of skill. Sometimes you win "contracts" with local bars and clubs to play there.