Mariano´s Tips on Getting a BIG Live Sound

It happens many times that people from the audience approach me after our concerts asking for advice on how to get such a big keyboard sound.
You need to consider three key factors in order to achieve a balanced, cutting and well integrated keyboard tone:

STEREO COVERAGE
Stereo is fundamental in adding drama and credibility.
You can accomplish stereo sound either by using two amps or through the front of house or PA. Your own two amps add flexibility, while the PA approach integrates better and more predictably with the mix and the venue´s acustics.

DEEP, DEEP BASS
Deep bass is esential in getting and organic keyboard sound. Low frequencies act like a foundation for the rest of the sound spectrum, modulating how the midrange and treble will be perceived. Even sounds that appear to have less bass content rely on a solid bass rendition to develop harmonically. If you are going through the front of house as would typically be the case for medium to big venues, most likely the speaker array provides enough low bass energy to achieve balance. Alternatively you can add a subwofer to your keyboard rig, allowing you to control how much low bass "thump" you will get and how it balances with the rest of your sound. The subwofer´s cab can be placed conveniently in the stage, as low frequencies are mostly non-directional.

DYNAMIC RANGE:
Make sure that all your gear is up to the task of handling complex signals with lots of dynamic range. Powerful amps and efficient speakers are major players in this area.