I've experimented with a three-speaker setup for a few of my live performances, and while it does bring some advantages, there are a few things to consider. In venues with irregular shapes or outdoor spaces, a third speaker can definitely help in addressing coverage issues. By placing the additional speaker strategically, such as in the middle of the venue or aimed towards an area that's not well-reached by the main speakers, you can achieve a more balanced soundscape that envelops the audience more effectively.
One noticeable benefit I found was that the sound felt fuller and more immersive, which is fantastic for drawing the audience into the music. However, it does take some time and attention to get the balance right. You'll need to consider the delay and phase alignment carefully. Often, in a three-speaker setup, time alignment and phase cancellation can become a challenge. A delay on the third speaker might be necessary to ensure it syncs properly with the main left and right ones, particularly if it's set further back in the venue.
For live sound, I've often followed some advice from industry experts like Bob McCarthy, who emphasizes the importance of phase alignment in multi-speaker setups. Implementing these suggestions, I've used digital signal processors (DSPs) to control and fine-tune the delays and EQ settings to make sure everything blends seamlessly.
One downside is the extra complexity and setup time, which can be a hassle if you’re short on help or under tight time constraints. It also means carrying an additional speaker and stands, which can be burdensome in terms of transport and stage space. Soundcheck might take longer than usual, so allocating additional time for that is wise.
If you're considering trying this out, I recommend starting at a venue where you have ample time to experiment. Perhaps a backyard gig or a rehearsal session could be a good testing ground.
Have you tried any specific positions for the third speaker, or considered different configurations like an L-C-R (Left-Center-Right) setup? It’d be interesting to hear if anyone else has insights or tips from their experiences!