Hi, this Mark Amundson, FOHmag technical editor and sometime wizard of knobs. Please feel free to continue this running dialog on my Theory and Practice topics, biz topics, or anything related to the live sound production profession. To kick things off, I am looking for your thoughts on the state of power distro gear used in our profession.
Why are sound companies compelled to make proprietary portable power distribution units? Most sound companies could be sold a common and adequate 3 phase, 200 Amp, 120VAC distro with cam-loks in and a mix of L14-30 and L14-50 twist-locs and edison receptacles for rack sub-distribution. When we use residental/commercial panels and breakers, you have to inspect things frequently, as they were not meant to withstand the bumps of road – portable usage. The smaller local/regional sound companies could survive with a standard single-phase, 100 Amp, 120VAC distro with cam-loks in and L14-30 twist-locs and edison receptacles for the racks. At least Peavey is ready to offer the weekend warrior club distro for the small gigs.
What "tricks" do you employ to keep your distros hanging together down the road? Ny-lock nuts? Lots of elephant snot? Foam? Prayer? Let's read your thoughts on the goods and bads of this topic.