Stage monitor speakers

1. What is the difference between stage monitors and speakers?
2. Are stage monitors necessary?
3. Can I use PA speakers as stage monitors?
4. What is the purpose of a monitor speaker?

What is the difference between stage monitors and speakers?

Monitor speakers are speakers that play the plain sound without distortion through the frequency range. They are designed to allow you to hear exactly the electronic sound. "Monitor" is a specialist type of loudspeaker. Most loudspeakers do not provide such a uniform frequency response.

Are stage monitors necessary?

Musicians need to be able to play in time. It is a skill many struggle with and is essential for a tight performance. To do this you must be able to hear the music as it is being played.

Can I use PA speakers as stage monitors?

Your PA speakers are aimed at your audience, so they will not serve double duty as monitors. If you plan to play venues where you provide your own PA gear, stage monitoring will be an essential part of your setup.

What is the purpose of a monitor speaker?

Monitor speakers are designed to provide a flat frequency response so that that the audio signal is reproduced faithfully, within the budgetary constraints of the speaker.