Rufus8102 wrote:. . . has A/B'd the K8.2 with the K10.2. If so, is there much difference in sound especially with the APs?
I have not compared the K.2's to each other, but I first bought (and still own) the K10 prior to the K8. For the first gen product, I feel the K8 had an overall better sound than the K10. It just seemed a bit more natural, where the K10 has a slightly "honkier" quality. That's not to say it's bad, but I preferred the K8.
. . . I've been using a single K10 running mono, and I don't have any trouble keeping up with the volume of the band. I'd like to upgrade to the new QSC .2 series but I'm not sure if I should stick with a single K10.2 or go with 2 K8.2's and run stereo. I know running stereo is going to sound much better to me, but not sure if the audience will actually notice. I do send an aux send from my own mixer to our FOH board. I'm trying to get the best possible sound from the AP's which I'm sure everyone knows is a bit of a task.
I will certainly agree with Chuck that stereo sounds much better than mono, but that is the case for almost anyone trying to amplify an AP sounds (particularly Nord's). I took the pair of K8.2's out last week for a gig and the sound was incredible. I just did a big band rehearsal last night with a single K8.2 and, well, let's just say I need more time to dial it in. I wasn't very happy with what came out of the speaker. I had it up on a small pole (about 3' off the ground), and was waaaaay to close to it. I sounded alright, but I think it can be drastically improved.
If your sole purpose is to run it as a floor monitor for your own use, I think a single speaker would be plenty loud. If you want to haul a pair of speakers just to hear yourself, you need to determine if it's worth the expense and shlep.
. . . my question is whether the K10.2 will sound better than the K10 that i already have, and also, does the K8.2 sound better than the K10.2 for APs?
The K.2's have a smoother high end compared to the first gen speakers, which tended to get screechy. This is particularly evident when you turn up the volume. The new DSP gives you a choice of preset EQ curves, plus the ability to adjust the EQ to your taste. It opens up new vistas.
If my experience with the first generation is consistent with the new models, then the K8.2 should be fine. Otherwise you may have to go to a music store that has both and test it yourself. Or buy one of each from a retailer and return the one you find less suitable.
. . . do you think a single K8.2 will be sufficient since I do send a line to FOH and I'm only basically using it as a monitor?
I think the 10 vs. 8 decision and the mono vs. stereo decision can be considered separately. A single 8.2 will provide enough volume for your stage monitoring. My experience demonstrated a more pleasing sound out of the K8. The fact that the K8.2's can now be used as floor monitors is a big plus.
Regarding stereo vs. mono, you will certainly get better sound in stereo. You need to decide if it's worth the extra equipment you must purchase and bring with you to a gig.