Here are some interesting videos related to PA and sound reinforcement systems. Wikipedia defines that a public address system (PA system) is an electronic system comprising microphones, amplifiers, loudspeakers, and related equipment. It increases the apparent volume (loudness) of a human voice, musical instrument, or other acoustic sound source or recorded sound or music. The term, sound reinforcement system generally means a PA system specifically for live music or performance. A sound reinforcement system for a rock concert or other large event in a stadium may be very complex.
A brief history of live sound reinforcement
Stage Left Audio – Event Video 11
Dave Rat about his sound engineering for the Red Hot Chili Peppers live tour 2016
LIVE SOUND SUBS SUBWOOFER PLACEMENT & CONFIGURATION: LR, Center, Cardioid, End Fire (Pt1)
Look inside D&B, L’Acoustics and MicroWedge Monitors
DJ Sub and Speaker Placement For Dummies
Cardioid Subwoofers and Nexo Technology Part 1
Time Lapse of a Large PA Audio Sound System Setup for Rock & Roll
#38 – Arena line array system walk-through
How to Set Up a Simple PA System
Sound System Tuning Step-by-Step using TRACT and Smaart
Audio 101- How to do a pro sound check.
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Tomi Engdahl says:
From Line Source to Point Source – How the KS AUDIO VC LINE works
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RNlG4dWtxk
KS has established a reputation as a producer of excellent line array systems for professional users. With the C LINE, KS sets the benchmark in compact Line Array systems, a system that meets the highest requirements for both high sound quality and simple handling.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Generators
https://www.sgs-engineering.com/help-advice/power-soundsystem-using-generator/
https://globotools.com/best-generator-for-live-sound/
https://www.mspot.com/what-size-generator-do-i-need-to-power-dj-equipment/
https://soundforums.net/community/threads/how-powerful-generator-is-needed-for-this-pa-system.10978/
https://gearspace.com/board/live-sound/941712-powering-pa-generator.html
https://www.reddit.com/r/livesound/comments/cmnmlw/generator_requirements_for_a_small_pa_system/
https://gearspace.com/board/live-sound/941712-powering-pa-generator.html
https://www.mspot.com/what-size-generator-do-i-need-to-power-dj-equipment/
https://www.harmonycentral.com/forums/topic/198036-pa-off-electric-generator-inverter-required/
https://forums.prosoundweb.com/index.php?topic=171016.10
Tomi Engdahl says:
11 Ways How Recording Studios Bait New Clients
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULLAtaFIYGA
Tomi Engdahl says:
https://www.dcsoundop.com/
https://www.youtube.com/dcsoundop
Tomi Engdahl says:
Analog Mixer Basics (How to Use An Analog Mixer)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1y8cjigI4Y
A basic walk through of an analog mixer, mixing desk or mixing console commonly found in live PA systems, church systems, podcasting, broadcasting and recording.
Specifically, the Behringer Xenyx QX2442 USB.
Mic Used: Sennheiser e835
Interface: Behringer UMC 404 HD
Camera: Canon SL2
FINALLY, a video on how to use a mixing board where the audio quality actually sounds like….God forbid someone who knows how to use a sound board.
Tomi Engdahl says:
How To Solder XLR Microphone Cables [Step-By-Step Tutorial]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk1B42c3kNk
In this video, you’ll lean how to make your own XLR microphone cables! I’ll show you what materials and tools are needed and I’ll walk you step-by-step through the process of making an XLR cable.
View the full list of materials and tutorial for making XLR microphone cables here:
https://audiouniversityonline.com/diy-xlr-microphone-cables/
Tomi Engdahl says:
https://www.panasonic.com/global/olympic/us/athens/support/ramsa.html
Tomi Engdahl says:
Basic Event Rigging Techniques and Equipment
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=eDMdbx0K6QQ&feature=youtu.be
SXS company director Johnny Palmer explains some of the basic principles of event rigging and the equipment we use at SXS. Topics covered include: Truss and connections, electric motors/chain hoists (unbraked and braked), manual lifting, self-climbing towers, and overall general rigging considerations.
Tomi Engdahl says:
What does “backline” mean in the context of a DJ setup?
https://www.reddit.com/r/livesound/comments/cizttt/what_does_backline_mean_in_the_context_of_a_dj/
Ever wondered why Dimmer Beach is called Dimmer Beach? I have!
https://www.reddit.com/r/stagehands/comments/ch5wxf/ever_wondered_why_dimmer_beach_is_called_dimmer/
Tomi Engdahl says:
Optimize Pro Audio Gain Structure
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RXlnVDVLrc
In this video I discuss setting gain structure to optimize the four fundamental goals of avoiding overload, minimizing hiss and noise, avoiding extreme fader and knob positions and achieving fader positions that are visually desirable.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Silent Plug, ConvertCON & more from Neutrik | First look + a quick 2021 Channel update
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uky-nFIOxe8
Tomi Engdahl says:
One Man’s Dream – Ken Fritz Documentary about the world’s best stereo system
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b2IOOhJmxw
Tomi Engdahl says:
Make Your Voice Sound Better – Vocal EQ Zones
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjMCyLsRNig
This video is an in-depth look at post-production EQ for dialogue. This could be for a podcast, voice over or YouTube video where you want the audio to sound professional. I will be breaking down the frequency spectrum into 6 zones to keep the video focussed. These zones should be used as a guide only and will have to be adjusted to your dialogue or voice. I would never suggest copying exactly what I do and I hope you use your ears to guide your final EQ choices. These techniques work with condenser and dynamic microphones and with all room sizes.
Tomi Engdahl says:
BEGINNER HOME STUDIO SETUP (and why every musician needs one)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWjfYvf0fsw
10 things to fill your home studio with! Essential for recording guitar, making and producing music, and so much more!
Tomi Engdahl says:
How to Set Up a PA System for a Band
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Shtwr8-P0zs
Mitch Gallagher shares some expert advice on setting up a PA for a typical band performance.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Church Media/Sound setup (including Covid19 adjustments) – Small Church
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgV8tD_7OW0
This is our church’s Media and sound set up. We have also made some adjustments during the corona virus pandemic.
Tomi Engdahl says:
How to Setup a Sound System – Sound: As Fast As Possible
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53l_AfyHubY
Learn how to set up a sound system for church, in this episode of Sound: As Fast As Possible.
Tomi Engdahl says:
How To Set Up A Sound System For A Live Event [PA System Setup Tutorial]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Avaa4_702eM
How do you set up a PA sound system for a live event? This video will help you to hook up your sound system for a band, a concert, a wedding, or a DJ gig. By the end, you’ll have a great-sounding PA system.
0:00 – Introduction
0:15 – Step 1: Room Layout
0:33 – Speaker Placement
1:18 – Mixer Location
1:50 – Cable Pathways
2:15 – Step 2: Power
2:39 – Step 3: Set Mixer To Default Settings
2:52 – Step 4: Connect Mixer To Speakers
2:57 – Main Speakers
3:27 – Stage Monitors
3:44 – Power On Speakers & Mixer
3:54 – Step 5: Connect Inputs To Mixer
3:56 – Line Level Source (Smartphone, Laptop, etc.)
4:28 – DI Box (Direct Box)
5:06 – Dynamic Microphone
5:15 – Condenser Microphone
5:32 – Step 6: Test System & Set Up Gain Structure
7:49 – Audio Mixer Tutorial
7:57 – Subscribe To Audio University!
AUDIO MIXING CONSOLE BASICS | How to Operate a Mixer for Live Sound & Studio Recording
https://audiouniversityonline.com/mixing-console-tutorial/
Tomi Engdahl says:
Mastering Kendrick Lamar’s ‘HUMBLE’ with Mike Bozzi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBcAwVrX5GQ
A sneak peek of Mike Bozzi’s ‘Mastering Workshop’ series in which he explains the techniques he used to master Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy-winning song, ‘HUMBLE’.
Tomi Engdahl says:
How To Use Compression – Detailed Tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi0J9JsRdI4
Tomi Engdahl says:
Times Square Sound System Walkthrough – NYE in NYC with Maryland Sound 2019
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4A2Tvlevqa0
Happy New Year & a huge thanks for all of your support over the past year. I was very fortunate to be able to stop in to visit the crew at Maryland Sound this weekend in Times Square, to bring you a behind the scenes look at what goes into doing sound for one of the worlds biggest events. Thanks to Maryland Sound for making this possible. I can’t say enough how much I appreciate their willingness to share their work with us & I hope you enjoy this very special look behind the scenes for NYE in NYC.
#40 – Presidential Inauguration – Live sound system for a million people
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e71idYwFrLM
2017-01-20 In this video we take a look at what goes into a PA System built to cover a million people.
Tomi Engdahl says:
EEVblog 1416 – Random TEARDOWN: Sennheiser EW100 True Diversity Receiver
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sREAh14_K0o
Random teardown from the lab, a Sennheiser EW100 true diversity wireless microphone receiver.
Plus an explanation of how antenna diversity works.
Transmitter and camera receiver teardown:
EEVblog #571 – Sennheiser EW100 G3 Wireless Microphone Teardown
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFvN04Woihk&t=0s
Tomi Engdahl says:
Double hang PA
https://youtu.be/ALU6hitx1xU
Tomi Engdahl says:
How to Tell a Loved One They’re Coiling Cables Wrong
https://thehardtimes.net/blog/how-to-tell-a-loved-one-theyre-coiling-cables-wrong/
Coiling cables is an everyday part of live shows. When done incorrectly, however, it can be heartbreaking to watch a loved one, or often time a bandmate, make the same mistakes over and over again. Know that you are not alone and help is available.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Universal Studios Sound Department Tour – SoundWorks Collection (2010)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyXPI7kpJko
Take an exclusive tour of the Sound department at Universal Studios located in Universal City, California hosted by Chris Jenkins, Senior Vice President of Sound Services at NBCUniversal.
Tomi Engdahl says:
CATEGORY 10.0 POWER AMPLIFIER SOUND CHECK W/ P-AUDIO HALIMAW BOX,IMIX CA9, SUBSCOOP BATTLE 15,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaJ2J2lEx_k
LIVE CATEGORY 10 version 2. Srp 88,000 with case n caster
https://www.facebook.com/MaciasElectronic/videos/live-category-10-version-2-srp-88000-with-case-n-caster/305086040557164/
Tomi Engdahl says:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_amplifier_classes#Classes_G_and_H
Tomi Engdahl says:
https://mynewmicrophone.com/full-list-audio-amplifier-brands-manufacturers-examples/
Tomi Engdahl says:
https://mynewmicrophone.com/the-ultimate-power-amplifier-buyers-guide/
Tomi Engdahl says:
HiFi speakers are designed to make one person happy listening to recorded music in a listening room. PA is designed to make thousands of people happy listening to live music in an auditorium.
Tomi Engdahl says:
https://www.hoistmagazine.com/features/hoisting-upside-down
Tomi Engdahl says:
Midas M32 Vs Behringer X32 Sonic Differences (Public)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKfhsPhZPmM
Null and noise tests on the Behringer X32 and Midas M32 with pink noise and music.
00:00 Intro
02:24 Connector differences
03:24 Gear setup
04:17 Sound sources and connections
05:32 Null tests
08:40 M32 clipping
09:28 Clipping X32
10:20 Background noise compare
11:23 Expectations vs tests
12:27 Music null below clip compare
15:21 Music null M32 against X32
17:06 Source of hiss
18:18 Output noise compare
19:14 Compare specs
22:40 Outro
Viewer comments:
Having had an X32 open a few times I would say the noise floor issues are lack of isolation / shielding from the digital components and that digital noise is being induced/picked up by the output devices. There is virtually no shielding / isolation of various sections within the case
Any interesting feature of the X/M 32 is the floating point processing, once an audio signal has been converted into the digital domain within the console the potential gain structure is basically infinite. I tested this one time using some Potomac audio generators, analyzers, and a scope. As long as you don’t clip the A/D you can i.e. keep cranking up the buses, DCA’s, effects, etc. and as long as it’s then brought back down to a normal level so you don’t clip the D/A converter it won’t distort.
So as an example if you see your GEQ clipping but you’ve brought your bus master or LR master back down where it’s not clipping on the output meter the signal will remain clean and unclipped due to the floating point processing. I did notice some ‘twisting’ of certain signals when severely overdriving some of the effects plug-ins so it’s possible that some of those don’t use the same floating point processing that the main console busses do.
I personally use an X32 with the Midas DL32 stage box, and noticed the noise floor difference when switching from the local preamps, to the stage box preamps. nice to see it confirmed!
I have used both consoles extensively in live settings, and don’t really notice a sonic difference at all.
aside from ergonomics, I dont find much at all of a “real world” difference between them
Tomi Engdahl says:
LEARN HOW TO MIX ON AN M32 X32 CONSOLE with Lee Fields | MxU NOW
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7YgcRl0vDU
Tomi Engdahl says:
Behringer X32 Mixing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSWw1qhdad8
Mulitrack mix on a behringer X32 mixer.
Mixed on behringer X32 with ollo audio headphones. Playback via tracks live.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Virtual soundcheck/mixing on Behringer X Air 18.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoNkkXOv1Dw
Tomi Engdahl says:
Optimize Pro Audio Gain Structure (Public)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RXlnVDVLrc
In this video I discuss setting gain structure to optimize the four fundamental goals of avoiding overload, minimizing hiss and noise, avoiding extreme fader and knob positions and achieving fader positions that are visually desirable.
00:00 Intro
00:36 The four challenges of gain structure
01:15 Setup description
02:16 The two level extremes – overload and noise floor
03:11 High gain hiss test
03:55 Sending too low of a signal
04:40 Sending at a higher level to reduce hiss
05:15 Fast setting input gains using clip light
07:23 Setting the output fader
07:45 Dealing with fader issues near the bottom of travel
09:47 Pulse, tone and music settings and differences
11:01 Solving undesirable fader positions
12:10 Dynamic vs continuous signals
12:40 Setting various signal type levels
14:32 setting amp levels early on
15:05 Getting the fader visual look
16:54 Distortion listen and test
18:23 Summary and outro
Tomi Engdahl says:
Sound Mixing Chili Peppers Time Lapse Public
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58HrvWPn5hY
Tomi Engdahl says:
Impact of In Ear (headphone) Latency upon Singers (Public)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APj0ZaMy4Xw
Discussion and demo of the impacts of latency and polarity upon the sound we perceive when listening our own voice with in ear monitors or headphones.
00:00 Intro
00:31 Description of internal body resonance and audio signal timing
01:32 Causes of latency
02:20 Other videos on the topic
02:50 The test setup
06:50 Mic’ing my ear canal and listening
08:15 Mic and ear canal sound mixed
08:35 Polarity reverse mic
09:15 Latency added to mic 1 to 10 ms
10:52 Latency plus polarity
12:12 0 to 10 ms with cow
12:44 10ms to 0 ms with cow
12:57 0 to 10 ms with cow and polarity reverse
13:22 Summary
Tomi Engdahl says:
Impact of In Ear (headphone) Latency upon Singers (Public)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APj0ZaMy4Xw
Discussion and demo of the impacts of latency and polarity upon the sound we perceive when listening our own voice with in ear monitors or headphones.
00:00 Intro
00:31 Description of internal body resonance and audio signal timing
01:32 Causes of latency
02:20 Other videos on the topic
02:50 The test setup
06:50 Mic’ing my ear canal and listening
08:15 Mic and ear canal sound mixed
08:35 Polarity reverse mic
09:15 Latency added to mic 1 to 10 ms
10:52 Latency plus polarity
12:12 0 to 10 ms with cow
12:44 10ms to 0 ms with cow
12:57 0 to 10 ms with cow and polarity reverse
13:22 Summary
Tomi Engdahl says:
Impact of In Ear (headphone) Latency upon Singers (Public)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APj0ZaMy4Xw
Discussion and demo of the impacts of latency and polarity upon the sound we perceive when listening our own voice with in ear monitors or headphones.
00:00 Intro
00:31 Description of internal body resonance and audio signal timing
01:32 Causes of latency
02:20 Other videos on the topic
02:50 The test setup
06:50 Mic’ing my ear canal and listening
08:15 Mic and ear canal sound mixed
08:35 Polarity reverse mic
09:15 Latency added to mic 1 to 10 ms
10:52 Latency plus polarity
12:12 0 to 10 ms with cow
12:44 10ms to 0 ms with cow
12:57 0 to 10 ms with cow and polarity reverse
13:22 Summary
Tomi Engdahl says:
Impact of In Ear (headphone) Latency upon Singers (Public)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APj0ZaMy4Xw
Discussion and demo of the impacts of latency and polarity upon the sound we perceive when listening our own voice with in ear monitors or headphones.
00:00 Intro
00:31 Description of internal body resonance and audio signal timing
01:32 Causes of latency
02:20 Other videos on the topic
02:50 The test setup
06:50 Mic’ing my ear canal and listening
08:15 Mic and ear canal sound mixed
08:35 Polarity reverse mic
09:15 Latency added to mic 1 to 10 ms
10:52 Latency plus polarity
12:12 0 to 10 ms with cow
12:44 10ms to 0 ms with cow
12:57 0 to 10 ms with cow and polarity reverse
13:22 Summary
Tomi Engdahl says:
Live Sound Mixing Strategy – Updated
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5S34Hf95gI
Here is a setup/mixing strategy for large rock shows that helps keep your mix together I have been using since the late 80s.
00:00 intro
00:18 Mic chart
02:26 Routing
03:45 Compression
04:06 Compressor settings
05:33 Compressors vs maintaining mix
07:10 Using VCA’s
07:47 Pre and post compressor VCA’s
09:49 Compressors as metering
11:08 Routing effects
12:33 Focusing on the artist vs the console
14:21 Outro
Here is a link to the original video https://youtu.be/MMMmR1u0CFk
Dave Rat has mixed live sound for artists such as Soundgarden, Blink 182, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against the Machine and The Offspring throughout the world and shares some insights he has learned and figured out.
Tomi Engdahl says:
The same sound from multiple sources is an unnatural event
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHjdh-Vka-g
Demonstration of how to reduce comb filtering and audio interference issues from sound reinforcement systems.
00:00 Into
0037 Same sound from multiple points in space
01:40 Same signal vs different signal interactions
02:11 Multiple sounds from the same point in space
03:05 Unnatural sound assets and issues
04;05 Demo description
05:16 Single speaker pink noise
05:39 Same pink noise to two speakers
06:07 Same pink noise to two speakers with polarity reverse one speaker
06:26 Same pink noise to two speakers
06:32 Two different pink noise generators to each speaker
07:02 Two different pink noise generators to each speaker with one speaker polarity reversed
07:20 Summary
09:00 Multiple pink sources for measuring sound systems
09:26 Outro
Tomi Engdahl says:
$38 vs $2000 In-Ear Monitors – Part 1 of 3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHU5N4HMwmk
Tomi Engdahl says:
Sub on an Aux & Tweet on an Aux Emulation and Room Resonance
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1O6ti7Y7uUY
Subs on an aux is not always available, in this video I describe subs on an aux emulation as well as tweets on an aux and tweets on an aux emulation.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Making XLR Cables #4 – Quad Mic Cables (Public)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFcHe1ttrs0
In this video I terminate a quad conductor mic cable and discuss various aspects of making mic cables, tinning, shrink wrap tricks, and more
Tomi Engdahl says:
Nashville Studio Tour with Platinum-Selling Justin Cortelyou
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kTqQIVu7Jw
Today, we are so excited to join the wonderful Producer, Mixer, and Engineer, Justin Cortelyou, for a studio tour!
Justin Cortelyou is a Grammy-award nominated, multi-platinum mixing engineer/producer. Justin started his career working with Chuck Ainlay at Soundstage Studios in Nashville before moving to Los Angeles to work with mix-master Mike Shipley at The Animal House. Justin teamed up with artist/producer Tommy Henriksen and in 2008, moved their operation back to Nashville and began working with legendary producer, Bob Ezrin.
Through the years, Justin has worked with artists Paul McCartney, Alice Cooper, Ke$ha, Taylor Swift, Jerrod Niemann, Phish, Chingy, Vince Gill, Andrea Bocelli, U2, Randy Travis, KISS, Will I Am, Lady Gaga, and many others.
Tomi Engdahl says:
How to EQ Live Sound Systems Tricks – Updated Version
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdnvhwWyPDs
in 2010 I released this video where I describe a method for EQing live reinforcement sound systems. The method is based on 3 EQs to optimize console recording, show to show consistency and logical organization to minimize redundant EQing.
I have found and added some additional footage discussing monitor system EQ and EQ cuts in general as well as cleaned up the audio and video.
An EQ method for achieving consistent sound. What do you EQ with the channel strips? What do you EQ with the system graphic EQ? What do you EQ with the system processor?
00:00 Intro
01:20 Where to EQ what
01:43 The channel EQ mic
02:27 System processor EQ
03:00 System processor/house EQ
03:14 Sonic Consistency
03:49 Recording outputs
04:35 Headphone reference point
06:00 System EQ
07:01 Comparative reference points
08:23 Channel EQs consistency and triangulation of sound
09:32 No system processer
10:12 Stage monitor EQ
11:12 Over EQ
12:37 Which EQ for what in monitors
14:10 Outro
Tomi Engdahl says:
2021 Studio Tour!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CfCBlKQX3w
Tomi Engdahl says:
How To Eliminate Microphone Feedback | 5 Must-Know Tips
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2ceO8D_MUw
What causes microphone feedback? How can you eliminate mic feedback to prevent the squealing, howling, or screeching sound of feedback from ruining your live performance? In this video, I’ll teach you how to set up your PA system and ring out stage monitor wedges to prevent microphone feedback before the show begins.
0:00 – Introduction
0:16 – What Causes Microphone Feedback?
1:03 – Tip #1
2:32 – Tip #2
3:19 – Tip #3
5:20 – Tip #4
6:26 – Tip #5
7:31 – Bonus Tip (Tip #6)
7:49 – Subscribe To Audio University!
Eliminate Microphone Feedback – Full Post:
5 Steps to Eliminate Microphone Feedback
https://audiouniversityonline.com/5-steps-to-eliminate-microphone-feedback/
Few things are capable of ruining a live performance like the screeching sound of microphone feedback. Not only does microphone feedback disrupt the audience and the musicians on stage, but it also presents the risk of hearing damage. For these reasons, it is imperative that you learn how to prevent microphone feedback on stage. In this article, you’ll learn a quick, 5-step method to eliminate feedback before it occurs during a live performance.
What Causes Microphone Feedback?
Microphone feedback is the product of a microphone and a speaker that form a closed feedback loop. The microphone signal is amplified through the speaker, the sound from the speaker is picked up by the microphone and then amplified through the speaker again. The howling, squealing, or screeching sound becomes louder each time it is amplified.
Maximum Gain Before Feedback
Any time signal from a microphone is sent to a speaker in the same room, there is a risk that a feedback loop will be created. This image might help to visualize this type of feedback loop.
Sound from the vocalist enters the microphone. The microphone signal is sent to be amplified through speakers. The signal can only be amplified up to a certain point before feedback will occur. This is because some of the sound from the speaker enters the microphone and is amplified again.