Build a channel and routing plan, check the PA from source to audience, rehearse feedback and failure response, and retain the show configuration.
Collect the input list, stage layout, monitor needs, playback sources and operator responsibilities. Confirm venue-approved power, rigging and cable routes with the responsible crew. Document the installed loudspeaker/controller system and its manufacturer settings before changing any processing.
Label microphones, stage inputs and console channels, then check signal flow at a controlled level. Confirm device power requirements and compatible analog or digital connections from the manuals. If examining analog loading, use actual source, input and cable resistance; equal impedance is not the general goal for microphone inputs.
Use the installed system’s documented configuration and a suitable reference signal at a controlled level. Listen and measure at representative audience positions for coverage, polarity or delay problems. Coherent loudspeakers carrying the same signal cannot be predicted by an uncorrelated SPL sum; use actual system measurements for alignment.
Set input gain with the real performer and source, then build the required monitor mixes without feeding a microphone back into a nearby loudspeaker unnecessarily. Confirm mute groups, scene recalls and playback routing. Reposition sources or microphones and reduce problematic gain before using broad corrective processing.
Run the opening, changeovers, playback starts, mute states and closing cues. Test the planned response to a failed input or playback device at a controlled level. Confirm an accessible mute or stop path and the venue’s approach to measuring and managing audience and crew sound exposure.
Save the tested console and controller versions, patch list, stage plan and recovery notes. Record actual audience-position measurements with weighting, averaging and location when taken. After the event, follow the venue’s shutdown procedure and note changes needed before the next show.
Write and download the task brief, measured results and handoff decisions as Markdown.
Estimate resistive analog input loading using source, load and actual two-conductor cable resistance.
Compare the measured sample or true peak with an explicit ceiling; keep crest factor separate.
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NIOSH explains occupational noise exposure using A-weighted level and duration. Its occupational limit is not a universal audience or headphone safety target.
Directional response, placement and off-axis behavior affect what a microphone picks up. Confirm the actual live arrangement during soundcheck.
Keep the following evidence with the actual version used for this task.
| Record | Include | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Routing | Channel labels, monitors and mute groups | Test with actual performers |
| System | Controller preset, placement and alignment notes | Use approved equipment settings |
| Exposure | Position, weighting, averaging and duration | Follow the venue’s measurement and control plan |
An ideal RC corner or resistor power calculation cannot set an acoustic crossover or certify driver protection.
Digital headroom and electrical watts do not establish the acoustic exposure at a listener’s ears.