We are currently running a pair of Peavey Hisys 3s sitting on a pair of matching Peavey Hisys XT115 subs - this arrangement is bi-amped and controlled by a dbx Driverack.

Everything i.e. guitars, bass & electronic drum kit + vox is slung through this system which handles it remarkably well in pubs and small venues, although we've also done some work in marquees and it still sounded OK, albeit perhaps a bit light on the low freq. end? with the bass amp beginning to red-line.

The band is now morphing from guitar based rock ensemble into a wedding/function band and with the addition of a couple new personnel, we are thinking about options to upgrade this FoH system for the larger venues we anticipate we'll be playing.

I certainly like the sound of the Hisys 3s, which although are probably 'short-throw', do sound sweet. So I'm thinking the subs might be the first area to look at (we don't have lot's of spare £ks or the inclination to replace the whole system complete).

So here is the question, should I:-

1. replace the Peavey Hysis 115 subs with Hysis 118 subs (or similar cabs with 18" drivers) to increase bottom-end performance (I've used Peavey 118 subs before to good effect).

or,

2. add another pair of Peavey Hysis 115 subs to the existing pair to provide a 2 x 15" sub-end?

I like the prospect of option 2 for several reasons:-

- transport easier as cabs slightly smaller and can be divided up between band members
- our sub-amp will work @ 2ohms (900w + 900w) so plenty of power available
- cone area of 2 x 15" is greater than 1 x 18" speaker so more air will be moved?

I appreciate Peavey might not be to everyone's taste, but we are generally happy with it, save the low-end as explained.

Any comments/observations/views very much appreciated.

Feed.

Just get the extra pair of 15s - you'll have all the advantages you listed, plus for weddings, it's what you play and how well you play it that matters (including how you get sets together to keep everybody on the dancefloor). In fact, you probably don't need extra bass anyway - it'll annoy all the oldies sitting at the back of the room who won't be able to get away from the noise. A well-balanced full-range sound with al the EQ substantially flat is going to be your friend here - use EQ to tackle gross deficiencies in the room rather than dialling in chest-thumping bass. And you'll sound a lot more alive than the disco that's filling in the gaps (fortunately most wedding discos sound awful).

Thanks tacitus.

Ditto on the running order etc. = snap, crackle & pop is order of the day @ such events - we have experience in this area and you make a very valid point.

Interestingly, I've found the Driverack to be exceptional on the few occasions I've used it to help sort out a good EQ with its on-board RTA input/analyser, but so few venues allow the opportunity to blast pink noise for several minutes, it is usually unusable - if only it could be done in 20 secs

Couldn't agree more on the Driverack issue - occasionally I get to a gig in time to blast through the set-up, but usually I don't bother taking it now precisely because I seldom get the chance to run it properly.

I do think it's worth training your ears to an essentially un-modified sound. I can hear a smiley face EQ the minute the music starts - it just sounds like two different systems that don't join up in the mid frequencies to me. Mind you, I'm pushing 60 so my HF response is tailing off a bit now and I've always hated excessive bass, so if the mids are missing there isn't much there for me ...

I used to use the peavey 115's and found that they weren't the most efficient cabinet but for £150 for a pair, were very cost effective. it will cost you very little to try adding another set and you would more than likely make your money back if you buy some and don't like the idea.

I used the RTA on the drive rack once........never again

I know of a pair of 115's that are for sale depending on where you are. We area in north yorkshire but the guy who owns them works in London during the week.

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I eat kebabs when i'm sober!