Lesson 1Signal chain fundamentals: microphones, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, multicore, and FOH inputsExplore how audio travels from stage to console, covering microphones, DI boxes, snakes, stage boxes, and FOH inputs. Understand analogue versus digital paths, impedance, and how each device shapes signal 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 microphone types and placement for vocals and instruments, including handheld wired, headsets, lavaliers, and instrument mics. Learn how polar patterns, distance, and angles affect tone, gain before feedback, 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 checksGain practical skills with wireless mic systems, including frequency planning, channel naming, antenna placement, and gain structure. Learn to manage batteries, avoid interference, and coordinate with other RF users 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 a fast troubleshooting mindset for hum, buzz, earth loops, RF hits, and bad cables. Learn signal tracing, isolation techniques, and safe rapid mic swap procedures that minimise show disruption and keep performers confident.
Tracing signal path and fault isolationIdentifying hum, buzz, and ground loopsFinding and replacing bad cables quicklyRapid mic swap and backup strategiesLesson 5Patching workflow: stage labelling, channel naming, colour coding, and patching to console inputsDevelop a repeatable patching workflow using clear labelling, channel naming, and colour coding. Learn to map stage sources to console inputs, maintain documentation, and adapt quickly when lineups or stage 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 design and operate one to three monitor mixes for cast and band using aux sends. This section covers pre/post settings, wedge versus in-ear needs, and step-by-step monitor check procedures with clear 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 gain, avoid clipping, and build consistent headphone and monitor levels. This section focuses on practical console workflows that protect headroom, improve clarity, and keep performers comfortable 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 equalisation strategiesUnderstand basic EQ tools and feedback control strategies. Learn to use high-pass filters, parametric and graphic EQ, and notch filters to clean up mixes, protect intelligibility, and keep monitor levels stable 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 structured soundcheck procedure from line check to full cast and band run-through. Learn check order, talkback etiquette, and how to document notes so adjustments are efficient and repeatable during 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 boxesReview the essential equipment for small live shows, including digital consoles, snakes, wedges, in-ears, DI boxes, and power distribution. Learn how to adapt the list to venue size, band needs, and available inventory.
Digital mixer features for small showsStage snakes and multicore optionsWedges, in-ears, and amplifier choicesDI boxes, power, and backup items
