Lesson 1Signal chain fundamentals: microphones, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, multicore, and FOH inputsSee how audio moves from stage to console, covering mics, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, and FOH inputs. Grasp analogue vs digital paths, impedance, and how each affects signal quality.
Dynamic, condenser, and active DI rolesSnakes, stage boxes, and multicore layoutsBalanced lines, impedance, and noise controlFOH input lists and channel allocationLesson 2Microphone types and placement: handheld wired, headset/wireless lavalier, instrument mics, and on-stage placement for vocals and instrumentsStudy mic types and spots for vocals and instruments, like handheld wired, headsets, lavaliers, and instrument mics. See how patterns, distance, angles impact tone, gain, and isolation.
Choosing mics for vocals and instrumentsPolar patterns and rejection on stageHandheld, headset, and lavalier techniquesDrum, guitar, and keyboard mic placementLesson 3Wireless mic systems: frequency planning, channel names, antenna placement, gain structure, and battery checksBuild skills with wireless mics, including frequency plans, channel names, antenna spots, gain setup, and battery checks. Manage interference and sync with other RF in the venue.
Scanning and planning RF frequenciesCoordinating channels and naming micsAntenna placement and diversity useWireless gain staging and pad settingsBattery types, checks, and change cyclesLesson 4Troubleshooting common issues: hum/ground loops, RF interference, bad cables, and rapid mic swap proceduresDevelop quick fixing for hum, buzz, ground loops, RF issues, bad cables. Learn tracing, isolation, and safe fast mic swaps to keep the show smooth and performers steady.
Tracing signal path and fault isolationIdentifying hum, buzz, and ground loopsFinding and replacing bad cables quicklyRapid mic swap and backup strategiesLesson 5Patching workflow: stage labeling, channel naming, color coding, and patching to console inputsCreate repeatable patching using clear labels, channel names, colour codes. Map stage sources to console inputs, document, and adjust fast for lineup or plot changes.
Creating stage plots and input listsLabeling stage boxes and cablesConsole channel naming conventionsColor coding for quick identificationLesson 6Monitor mixes: setting up 1–3 monitor mixes for cast and band, aux send uses, and monitor check proceduresSet up 1-3 monitor mixes for cast and band with aux sends. Covers pre/post, wedge vs in-ear, and step-by-step checks with good communication.
Pre-fader versus post-fader aux sendsBuilding cast and band monitor mixesGain structure from aux to amplifierMonitor check flow and talkback useLesson 7Gain-staging and headphone/monitor checks: setting input trim, preventing clipping, and setting monitor sendsSet input gain, stop clipping, build steady headphone/monitor levels. Practical console steps to guard headroom, boost clarity, keep performers comfy onstage.
Setting input trim and digital headroomUsing PFL and meters to verify levelsBalancing FOH and monitor prioritiesChecking headphones and cue bus routingLesson 8Basic EQ and feedback control: high-pass filters, notch EQ, and monitor equalization strategiesMaster basic EQ and feedback fixes. Use high-pass, parametric/graphic EQ, notches to clear mixes, protect speech clarity, stabilise monitors on loud stages.
High-pass filters on vocals and instrumentsIdentifying problem frequencies by earUsing parametric and graphic EQ cutsMonitor ring-out and notch techniquesLesson 9Soundcheck procedure: step-by-step cast and band check order, talkback protocols, line-check checklistRun structured soundchecks from line check to full run-through. Learn order, talkback rules, note docs for efficient, repeatable show tweaks.
Planning line check and input orderCast and band soundcheck sequencingTalkback routing and etiquetteDocumenting notes for each channelLesson 10Expected equipment list: small digital mixing console, stage snake or audio multicore, wedges/in-ear options, power amps, active mains, DI boxesCheck key gear for small shows: digital consoles, snakes, wedges, in-ears, DI boxes, power distro. Adapt list to venue, band, stock.
Digital mixer features for small showsStage snakes and multicore optionsWedges, in-ears, and amplifier choicesDI boxes, power, and backup items
