Whenever bands have part of their sound emanating off the stage acoustically (usually the drums), and part of their sound directed through the primary PA system (typically electronic instruments and vocals), problems inevitably arise. Drummers have to play sufficiently loudly to keep pace with the PA system, which is inaudible to them. This results in an overpowering volume on stage that is too much for the venue. To reduce the noise of the drums, plexiglass drum shields are often employed as a cost effective solution. The plexiglass deflects most sound, stopping the noise from reaching the audience.
