Audio producers specializing in live music must be proficient with various tools, including mixing boards, lights, microphones, and monitors. A performing artist’s ability to have a successful rather than a terrible show depends on selecting the appropriate toolset for each live set. Most audio technicians will need more skills than just a working knowledge of their tools and equipment. They’ll also need to learn how to operate the lighting, set up the stage, and match the mics and stands to the instruments being played. The tools audio producers require for live music are listed below.
1. Microphones
Excellent live sound is primarily produced by selecting the correct microphone. The Shure SM-58, a microphone that works well with most voices and instruments, is the standard in the industry for live performance mics. The SM-58 is necessary for tours and travel because of its incredibly high durability, solid build, and superior sound output.
2. Amps
Even in classical music, amps are an essential component of live sound, from the teeny Pignose amps to the enormous Marshalls. To achieve a decent sound balance on stage, selecting the appropriate amplifier for each instrument is crucial as setting them up in a way that prevents interference with the microphones. In addition to feedback in stage microphones, a common issue with amplifiers is the quick deterioration of cable jacks brought on by extensive use in live venues.
3. Monitors
Stage monitors allow live performers to hear their sound while also informing the sound engineer of any adjustments that need to be made. The use of monitors eventually facilitates the collaboration between the performing artist and the audio producer and helps the artist make any necessary voice or instrument changes.
4. Live Mixing DAWs
Digital audio workstations (DAWs) are utilized in live sound contexts and recording environments. Because they aid with space and cost savings, the live sound DAW may occasionally even take the role of the mixing board. More and more businesses are creating DAWs appropriate for live and recorded settings as music production and execution shift to a digital format.
5. Microphone Stands
Mic stands need to be appropriate for the job, like microphones. Standard support is
6. Sound equipment cables
Although there is some validity to the adage that cables are the bane of the existence of an audio producer, it is nonetheless a common occurrence. A challenge in and of itself maintaining the organization and functionality of the dozens of various cables that audio producers will use during each session of their work.
7. Mixing Boards
Working the mixing board is nearly always the main responsibility when running a live concert and is the staple of a skilled audio producer. Some mixing boards might be straightforward for modest settings with four to six channels; however, for much larger venues or ensembles, the mixing boards might host many more channels and be more sophisticated.
8. Light Boards
Running lighting for live performances is an often-overlooked responsibility of the audio producer. Smaller venues might not need extensive lighting, but larger ones might need intricate light shows. It would be best if you watched that during the performances. However, both scenarios are rarely managed by a single audio producer.
9. PA Systems
Thanks to the public speaker system, all of your hard work will be heard by the crowd. Even an aging PA system may perform backflips under the expert audio engineer’s direction. Throughout their careers, audio producers will have the opportunity to work with various PA systems, including Alto, Wharfedale, Yamaha, Fender, and other well-known brands.
10. Mixing Desk Sound Equipment
Lastly, a good mixing console is a piece of gear that every professional live sound engineer must have. A mixing desk needs enough space to accommodate the mixing board and any computers or tablets that professionals may utilize to check or adjust the live sound. The mixing desk must have the right size to accommodate toolkits and possibly some storage for equipment like backup cables, repair toolsets, and spare microphones.
