Testing your audio equipment is a very crucial step before you actually perform. A show or a performance will only be a hit if all the gears are perfect. If you start performing without a test, there might be instruments that might start glitching or the mic might be dead, which will eventually ruin your performance.
However, you can avoid ruining your show by pre-checking all the instruments and making sure everything is alright. Testing audio equipment is basically a dry run for music, which is highly recommended.
Importance of testing audio equipment: why does it matter?
Testing the audio might seem time-consuming, but it can save you from a failed live show. There might be distortion, the audio might glitch, and there might be many other factors that might ruin your performance. Here is why it is necessary:
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There might be major technical failures, which are usually caused by loose cables or broken wires. The audio will start glitching, and your mic might even stop working completely midway through your performance.
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You don’t have to spend time on the stage, and you can completely focus on your performance once you gain the confidence and you are sure that everything is perfect and there are no chances for any mistakes.
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When you test the Audio, you can be sure about the consistency in the quality of audio. It will elevate the experience of the audience ,and they will stay hooked easily for hours.
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When you know that everything is perfect, you get a boost of confidence and you perform without any tension and you won’t have any issues while playing the instruments or singing.
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It provides a professional image when you play without stopping midway to check for the audio quality and equipment. This is why it is necessary to perform a test before performing.
Steps to test the audio equipment
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Make a checklist of all the gears you need to check
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Microphone
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Speakers
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Guitar and other instruments
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Mixing console
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Stands and clamps.
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Monitors
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Make sure that all the cables and wires are connected securely to prevent glitches and sudden breakdown of the music system. The jack connectors should be tight to prevent unnecessary loose connections.
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Microphones are the main component of a music system. If you are using wired mics, make sure that all the cables are connected securely. Sing or speak to test the audio at the volume you want to perform in. Check if it is glitching.
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If you have a wireless mic, make sure that the battery is fully charged, as no risk can be taken. You can replace the batteries if they are half-charged to prevent sudden emergencies where your mic goes out of power.
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Checking the power lines and the power supply is necessary. Make sure that all the outlets are perfectly functioning and all the lines are clearly working without any glitches. The usage of surge protectors is highly encouraged to make sure that the gear is protected and there is no major damage.
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When you are outdoors, make sure that proper waterproofing is done and the cables are covered with cable covers so that it does not get ruined even if it starts raining during an outdoor show.
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Positioning matters a lot. It is important to make sure that the speakers are placed perfectly at their positions. The ideal height ensures perfect audio quality. You need to angle the monitors in such a way that they face the performer’s ears.
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The use of cable clips is highly encouraged especially for safety purposes. It helps in speeding up the overall troubleshooting. If you do not have wire clips, you can tape it down with transparent tape to avoid accidents.
Conclusion
Testing the setup before you perform is very necessary to avoid problems midway your performance. Certain steps will help you ensure that the audio quality and everything is top-notch. Following those will ensure a perfect show.
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