Lesson 1Signal chain fundamentals: microphones, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, multicore, and FOH inputsSee how audio goes from stage to console, covering mics, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, and FOH inputs. Know analogue vs digital paths, impedance, and how each bit affects sound quality and steadiness.
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. Learn how patterns, distance, and angles change tone, gain before feedback, and separation.
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 checksGet hands-on with wireless mic systems, including frequency plans, channel names, antenna spots, and gain setup. Learn to handle batteries, dodge interference, and team with other RF folks in the space.
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 proceduresBuild quick fix skills for hum, buzz, ground loops, RF hits, and dodgy cables. Learn tracing signals, isolating problems, and safe fast mic swaps that cut show hassle and keep 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 inputsBuild a steady patching flow with clear labels, channel names, and colour codes. Learn to match stage sources to console inputs, keep papers, and switch quick when lineups or plots change.
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 proceduresLearn to make and run one to three monitor mixes for cast and band with aux sends. This covers pre/post settings, wedge vs in-ear needs, and step-by-step checks with good talk.
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 sendsLearn to set input gain, stop clipping, and get steady headphone and monitor levels. This focuses on console steps that save headroom, boost clarity, and 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 strategiesKnow basic EQ tools and ways to fight feedback. Learn high-pass filters, parametric and graphic EQ, notch filters to clean mixes, guard clear sound, and steady monitor levels 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 checklistFollow a clear soundcheck from line check to full cast and band run. Learn order, talkback rules, and noting changes so fixes are quick and steady in the show.
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 live shows, like digital consoles, snakes, wedges, in-ears, DI boxes, and power sharing. Learn to tweak the list for space size, band wants, and what's on hand.
Digital mixer features for small showsStage snakes and multicore optionsWedges, in-ears, and amplifier choicesDI boxes, power, and backup items
