Lesson 1Signal chain fundamentals: microphones, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, multicore, and FOH inputsSee how audio moves from stage to mixing desk, covering mics, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, and FOH inputs. Understand analogue vs digital paths, impedance matching, and how each part affects sound quality and reliability.
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 placement for vocals and instruments, like handheld wired, headsets, lavaliers, and instrument mics. Learn how pickup 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 checksGain hands-on skills with wireless mics, including frequency planning, channel labelling, antenna positioning, and gain setup. Learn to handle batteries, dodge interference, and work with other RF devices 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 proceduresBuild quick fixing skills for hum, buzz, earth loops, RF dropouts, and faulty cables. Learn signal tracing, isolation methods, and safe fast mic swaps that keep the show going with performers at ease.
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 solid patching routine with clear labelling, channel names, and colour codes. Learn to connect stage sources to console inputs, keep records, and adjust fast when lineups or stage plans 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 set up and run one to three monitor mixes for cast and band using aux sends. This covers pre/post fader settings, wedge vs in-ear needs, 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 sendsLearn to set input gains, stop clipping, and get steady headphone and monitor levels. Focus on console steps that save headroom, boost clarity, and keep performers comfy on stage.
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 strategiesGrasp basic EQ tools and feedback fixes. Learn high-pass filters, parametric and graphic EQ, notch filters to tidy mixes, keep speech clear, and 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 checklistFollow a proper soundcheck from line test to full cast and band run. Learn check sequence, talkback rules, and noting adjustments 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 the key gear for small live gigs, like digital desks, snakes, wedges, in-ears, DI boxes, and power distro. Learn to tweak the list for venue size, band needs, and stock on hand.
Digital mixer features for small showsStage snakes and multicore optionsWedges, in-ears, and amplifier choicesDI boxes, power, and backup items
