Do I actualy need my bass rig?

[4 Strings]

Just by a Midget. Almost all I ever use regardless of gig size

[Telebass]

Nobody should be using multi-kW PAS in small venues. Even one with a really loud drummer doesn't need more than 300W per side, no point in DI-ing below about 200 capacity venue. Never understood why people lug such mounds of kit about.

[Conan]

[quote name='Telebass' timestamp='1400220528' post='2451881']
Nobody should be using multi-kW PAS in small venues. Even one with a really loud drummer doesn't need more than 300W per side, no point in DI-ing below about 200 capacity venue. Never understood why people lug such mounds of kit about.
[/quote]

The whole point is that the drummer ISN'T loud as he is using an electronic kit! So the on-stage volume can be kept very low. On the other hand, a decent PA with plenty of headroom will allow the drums to sound good out front...

It also means that on-stage monitoring can be far quieter - whether that be floor wedges or backline.

So as long as the OP has reasonable monitors, a large bass rig on stage may well be superfluous.

It all comes down to what kind of monitors the drummer is using. If he uses IEMs, then the stage volume will be virtually nothing (except guitars). But if he likes to hear himself LOUD, through a big monitor, then you are back to square one really - and the bass rig becomes vital.

[EBS_freak]

[quote name='Telebass' timestamp='1400220528' post='2451881']
Nobody should be using multi-kW PAS in small venues. Even one with a really loud drummer doesn't need more than 300W per side, no point in DI-ing below about 200 capacity venue. Never understood why people lug such mounds of kit about.
[/quote]

*snigger*

If mixed properly and you let the PA do the work, the FOH will sound a lot better through backline alone. Every time. It's not about power, it's about balance and control of the mix.