What I run: Yamaha MG32/14FX board into a couple different EQs (Alto dual 15 for monitors, Behringer dual 31 for mains). From there into Samson S1000 power amps for mains and a Yamaha EMX660 that's been reassigned to monitor power amp duty. FOH speakers are old EV Eliminator 3-way folded horn cabs for instruments and lows, Yamaha SE15 2-way cabs for highs and vox. Monitors are Squier and Nady. Why I run it: a) It works for everything my band's done to date. For anything bigger, we'd have to rent a much larger system anyway. b) I'm a sucker for inexpensive gear that works well. Which brings me to.... What I think of it: I'm happy with all the components in the system except the Nady monitors. They work, but are kinda harsh. I have yet to decide whether I want to sell them, or use the cabs but load them with higher-quality components. I've found that graphic EQs, if you don't boost frequencies, are all good if they are quiet. So both the Alto and Behringer units are doing the job - no need for anything else. The Yamaha board I did spend a bit on (though I got a special deal on that too), and it's worth every penny. The EMX660 is a great little powered mixer, and does a good job as a monitor amp for us. In general, my system is simple and effective. Just the way I like it. My background: I've been in bands for over 25 years. Played drums & percussion professionally, played guitar in both pro and original bands, played bass in a couple projects, have been playing keyboards in prog-oriented situations for 3 years now. Have performed live on all the above. Have always sung backing vox. While I've often thought my own performances were sub-par, I've always gotten requests from people in other bands who hear me play to come join them. And while I'm not a stickler for detail, I have a rep among those who know me for having an ear for sound. Consequently, I've been drafted many times to do sound for other bands. It usually works out well.