Too much hiss with Yamaha 860st power mixer and 2 yamaha 12 inch monitors

[jalexquijano]

I currently have my nord stage 3 plugged to a Yamaha 860st power mixer and two 12 inch speaker monitors. However i experience two much hiss in this configuration. Would better speakers be recommended? Or should i use another stereo configuration for a more pristine and cleaner sound?

[cphollis]

Try turning your NS3 volume up, and your speaker volume down. Alternatively, you can get a small mixer to boost the signal of your Nord.

The hiss results from the amplifier amplifying background noise. The stronger the signal you feed the amplifier, the less hiss you'll get.

[jalexquijano]

So you think its okay to use this 24 year old mixer and speakers with my nord stage 3 or should i purchase some better 12 inch speakers?

[Mr_-G-]

As cphollis says. Is there a pot for "gain" in that mixer? If so increase it and reduce the final output volume (also in the mixer).

[jalexquijano]

Would better 12 inch passive speakers give me more fidelity than these Yamaha monitor speakers?

[Klondyke77]

Would better 12 inch passive speakers give me more fidelity than these Yamaha monitor speakers?

To get more 'fidelity' you should first forget this old power mixer. Go for a pair of 2 ACTIVE Speakers (e.g. QSC).
There are loads of discussions here about amplification.

[jalexquijano]

So which qsc model active speakers should i purchase and do i still need a passive mixer for them? The yamaha emx 860st power mixer has the right channel damaged so i will have it fixed and then sold.

[Klondyke77]

I have one QSC CP8 which I use mostly as monitor wedge on stage and sometimes as second (stereo) Speaker together with my JBL PRX ONE. I'm quite happy with it.
It depends on your needs if a passive mixer is needed. The QSCs are active speakers and can be connected directly to your Nord.
You will need a mixer if you want to tweak EQ or if you have additional sources (e.g. mic) that need to sound on both speakers.
In my opinion the CP8 is a solid and affordable speaker. There are always better ones, but for higher price.
Please keep in mind: That's my personal expierience and no recommandation! Search the forum as there are loads of discussions on amplification.

[Normski]

As you only intend using at home and not for gigs.
I would recommend getting a quality mixer and a pair of studio monitors.
You really should go to a music shop and listen to a selection.

You have been asking this question for a year and a half so clearly there isn’t an urgency.
(Oct 2022 Regarding a suitable audio setup for home use, I have a 20 year old Yamaha EMX 860ST power mixer and 2 Yamaha 12 inch monitors)