Sound Engineer

A good sound engineer ensures the audio at your event sounds great.

Their duties could include:

• Setting up audio equipment
• Correctly positioning microphones
• Conducting sound checks with performers
• Balancing sound levels and EQ
• Troubleshooting technical issues
• Ensuring the sound is at an appropriate volume
• recording your event if that is required (although it is better that a sound engineer concentrate on either live mixing or recording).

It is important to use an experienced sound technician or audio engineer, because operating audio equipment without knowledge and experience could potentially result in the following problems:

• Damage to Equipment
• Excessive microphone feedback 
• Audio that sounds harsh, muffled, or unintelligible, or is otherwise unpleasant to listen to
• Technical problems that can not be resolved
• Hearing damage

What do the different types of audio engineers do?

Front of House (FOH) Mixing Engineer

This individual plays a crucial role in the audio production process, specifically by mixing sound for the audience during live events. They are responsible for operating the main mixing console, where they skillfully adjust the levels of various audio sources, including microphones and instruments. Their primary goal is to ensure that all sound elements are balanced, clear, and impactful, providing great auditory experience for the crowd attending. This involves monitoring sound quality and level in real-time, making adjustments as necessary, and collaborating with performers to achieve the desired acoustic outcome. Additionally, they may troubleshoot any audio issues that arise during the performance, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

Audio Visual (AV) Technician

An audio-visual (AV) technician is essential for the success of events by managing all visual and audio equipment, including projectors, screens, microphones, and speakers. They collaborate with event planners to understand specific needs and ensure optimal performance through thorough testing. During the event, the technician monitors sound levels. They may adjust lighting, play stings and background music as needed. It is also the AV techs job to troubleshoots any issues to deliver seamless presentations, conferences, and speeches. Their expertise enhances communication and creates an immersive experience for the audience.

Stage Patch Technician

This technician is a master of connections. They are responsible for setting up all the microphones, stands, and cables on the stage and ensuring that everything is connected properly to the stage box or mixing console. They maintain a clean and organised stage, ensuring that every input is patched to the correct channel. Their role is crucial during transitions between acts and artists, making sure that the next performer has everything plugged into the correct channels on the desk.

Often, the patch engineer creates a master patch sheet and labels the cables and channels on the stage box. They collaborate with both the front-of-house (FOH) mix engineer and the monitor engineers to guarantee smooth transitions throughout the event.

Monitor Engineer

The monitor engineer plays a vital role in live performances by creating customised audio mixes tailored specifically for each performer on stage. This job is often more challenging than that of the front-of-house engineer because the monitor engineer mixes sound for multiple band members—typically 4-8—instead of just the mix for the audience. 

They strategically use in-ear monitors (IEMs) or foldback wedge speakers to ensure that every musician can hear their own instruments and vocals, as well as those of their bandmates, at the appropriate levels. This careful attention to sound balance is crucial, as it allows performers to perform musically and stay in time during the show.

Additionally, the monitor engineer collaborates closely with the performers and other audio engineers and production staff to accommodate individual preferences and address any audio issues that may arise in real-time, ultimately contributing to a successful and engaging performance.

Playback Technician

This specialist manages all pre-recorded audio for a show. They handle backing tracks, sound effects, cues, and any other audio that is not live. They ensure that all playback is triggered correctly and is perfectly in sync with the performance.

Recording Engineers with our Mobile Recording Options

A recording engineer captures a live performance or studio session with our mobile recording rig. They are responsible for setting up the microphones, capturing the sound on a multi-track recorder, and ensuring a high-quality, professional recording that can be mixed and mastered later.