Sound is slowly taking over my mind… I sit here with headphones on, and I’m not even listening to anything…
But I feel like I’m lacking. I’ve put together some (I think) good mixes (not of the DJ type) and a few CDs, but I can’t quite get that sound live or on recordings. Part of it, to be sure, is a lack of experience… but I’m wondering if some of it is my gear.
So I’ve got two general realms of questions: one, I’m asking for hints or tips; two, I’m asking about tools.
The first pretty much speaks for itself. I’d love to know any little thing you’ve found helpful - or any little thing that irritates you - in regards to live sound/sound reinforcement. What’s the minimum I should be doing? Is setting up a simple sound system good enough, or should I perform rigorous testing and employ various techniques? Should I learn more about fancy signal processors, or is EQ and an all-in-one FX box good enough? Will that damn guitarist ever turn down? 
Second, I’m looking to expand my collection of sound reinforment tools (ok; they’re toys, really) but I don’t have much spending money. I want to expand my collection of mics, for example; I’ve only got the standard dynamics (SM57s and 58s) and am unsure of what to look for in an affordable condensor.
I’m particularly wondering about Behringer products. I see them a lot. I hear about them a lot, too - but half the time it’s bad. What’s your take?
Thanks!