What should I do during soundcheck?
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A soundcheck is a technical rehearsal designed to ensure the front-of-house engineer has a clean signal and the performers can hear themselves. It is a collaborative process between the band and the house tech that requires discipline, clear communication, and efficiency.
- 1.Check individual lines by playing at performance volume and only when the engineer asks for your specific instrument.
- 2.Build your monitor mix by requesting specific elements (e.g., 'more kick, less vocal') one at a time, keeping stage volume as low as possible to avoid feedback.
- 3.Perform a full-band 'line check' of a verse and chorus to ensure all levels blend correctly and the front-of-house mix is balanced.
- 4.Verify all DI boxes, pedals, and microphones are secured and clearly marked so nothing shifts or unplugged before the actual set begins.
- ×Avoid 'noodling' or playing your instrument when it is not your turn to be checked.
- ×Don't turn your amp up after the check is over, as this ruins the engineer's mix.
- ×Avoid pointing microphones directly at monitors, which causes instant feedback.
Soundcheck is for the engineer to hear you, not for you to practice. Play your loudest song and your quietest song to set the dynamic range immediately.
Based on AI training data — may not reflect current information.
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