Can you help a technical numbnuts

[seanieboy]

I am currently looking at ways to perform (singing) in pubs and clubs.
I wish to use backing tracks, most providers will sell MP3 downloads but , how do I play the downloaded material through a P.A. system.

[markysngc]

Any laptop will have a 3.5mm jack plug that will give a standard audio line output suitable for playing through an amp. or any MP3 player will so the same cheaper but probably not so easy to use. or for the cheapest way burn the mp3's onto cd or dvd and use a cd/dvd player that supports MP3 playback

[ACtheTROLL]

if you have a local PA or DJ equipment shop go see them

you want an interface that will protect your Laptop (or mp3 player) from potentially damaging (to your equipment ... oh and you!) voltages - (some sort of preamp) ... if you are flush you could consider a small mixing desk (needn't cost the earth ... but that way you can make sure that the levels are spot on http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Absolute-Music-Soluti ons_Mixing-desks_W0QQcolZ4QQdirZ1QQfsubZ4QQfti dZ2QQtZkm

It's far easier if you can talk to someone ... and get a demo before you buy

you also need some sort of backup so that if you drop your PC (or get it nicked) ... the show can go on

[markysngc]

ha ha, oh yes AC makes a very good point, some sort of backup in case laptop goes fails in some way!! I got caught once by that years back when used to run a mobile disco largely from MP3's..... only got caught out the once mind you!

[seanieboy]

Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I kinda knew that I might be able to plug a laptop into a P.A. but wanted to be sure before I go looking at equipment and sounding like the technical dimwit I feel!
Excellent point about backing up - didnt even think of that one - have been in live band too long and would probably have relied on this "new" technology to work without flaw at the touch/click of a button 100% - once again,
Thank you.