How do you test and maintain a PA system before and after an event?

The majority of the work takes place at the warehouse before load-out. While a tech conducts the usual equipment check, there is a dedicated servicing team responsible for inspecting the hardware for any faulty components. Now, at the venue, the gear you bring is generally good to go. Before the event, it is essential to ensure that we have power and a backup as well. Once all the patching is completed, the most experienced engineer (FOH) collaborates with the system engineer to ensure the output is clean. If anything is not working as it should, the techs troubleshoot as instructed. After the show, the top priority is to ensure that all the gear is properly accounted for and testing is carried out at the warehouse during downtime.

Before an event: Power Up Systematically: Start by turning on the devices sequentially, beginning from the power source to the speakers. Listen for any abnormal sounds like hums, buzzes, or static that might indicate a grounding issue or faulty connection. Check Sound Quality: Play various sources like music, speeches, or instruments through the system. Ensure the sound is clear, crisp, and consistent. Test Each Component: Systematically test each component - microphone, mixer, amplifier, and speakers. Make sure the mics pick up sound properly, the mixer functions correctly, and the speakers produce clear audio.

After an event: Power Down Safely: Turn off and unplug the devices in the reverse order you powered them on - speakers first, then amplifier, mixer, and finally the power source. This allows them to cool down properly. Clean and Inspect: Wipe off any dust, dirt, or moisture from the equipment. Look for any cracks, dents, or loose parts. Inspect cables for kinks or damage. Proper Storage: Coil and store cables carefully to avoid knots or twists that can cause damage. Keep the equipment covered to protect it from dust and debris.

Antes de qualquer atividade no palco, ter um operador de som que utiliza o multímetro, faz todos da equipe ter mais confiança de que não vai danificar ou prejudicar os materiais durante a apresentação ou até mesmo antes dela acontecer.

It is far more commonplace to start at the "end" and move backwards when patching parts of a PA. You'd patch in order, speakers, amps, consoles, outboard, stage. Powering the amps on only after patching the console's outputs, unmuting the consoles ins and outs only after patching outboard and stage inputs. Typically it's so that the engineer can test each part, as the rest are being patched. I like to run noise on my outputs one at a time to check that the amps work, are patched correctly, and that I have no blown drivers. The PA should be configured, tested, and tuned well before the performers or presenters arrive, then microphones would be patched.

Investing in preventive maintenance is crucial for audio engineering excellence. By scheduling regular checks, cleaning, and calibrations, we proactively safeguard systems, reduce downtime, and enhance reliability. Tip: Create a detailed maintenance calendar with cleaning procedures and calibration schedules to stay organised and ensure top system condition. Prioritise preventive maintenance for consistent high-quality sound at every event! Let's stay ahead of the curve by prioritising preventive maintenance, ensuring top-notch sound quality at every event!