Stage Equipment

Im trying to figure out exactly all the things that are used onstage, as far as equipment goes. so far i think it goes like this-
Guitar>Effects>Amp>Mic'd to Mixer>Monitors/speakers.

Anyone tell me if that sounds right?

Also, anybody try "In-Ear" Monitors?

When playing in a live situation, of possible...say 400 people, would you need all of that stuff? I can afford alot of stuff, just want to know what you guys do.

Hey you forgot nose ring and tatoos! Yeah you are going to need a PA, it's about the only way to balance out the sound of a band and have any kind of dynamics in your sound, you also want to be able to spread the sound out as evenly as possible, when you start cramming people in a room it's not real good for the accoustics of the room, what may sound loud onstage might be inaudible at the back of the room.....

I've been looking into Carvin sound systems, very affordable (because its factory direct), and very high quality, at least from what i hear.

alot of equipment, definitely alot of equipment.
Instruments
Amps
Mics
Mixer
Monitors
Speakers
-

What should I expect to have, and what should i expect the gig place to have?

obviously, Instruments/Amps is a gimme...

Most venues have at least a basic sound system in place.

For practices, just cobble together anything that works, and go from there.

You should have your own mics and stands, to keep your sound consistent. Most places have mics, too, but you never know what kind of quality to expect. I find I need a lot of room between me and the vertical part of the stand, so I like to have an adjustable boom, and they're not always available. After that, you might consider getting a mixer, again to improve your chances at repeatable sound quality.

I think you should get a band together, play a few open mics, and maybe land a couple of gigs before you get into a sweat about buying a bunch of touring sound equipment, yes?

sounds good, im just looking into the future like i always am.