Introduction to Live Sound

This course aims to introduce the beginner to the principles and equipment used for sound reinforcement in a live situation. We will be looking at all the common equipment used in a sound system using both theory and practical work. Participants will be taken from the absolute basics up to a level where they can specify, construct and operate a sound system for a number of different types of event.

We start by looking at some background theory including acoustics, psychoacoustics and electrical principles. Following on from that we examine the equipment used including microphones, amplifiers, mixing consoles, loudspeakers , signal processors and the interconnections between all of these. For each item we look at the basic types and principles of operation that will enable students to select the right tool for the job.

Next up we look at the steps to set up a sound system. We examine the placement of loudspeakers and microphones, the connection of the system components and the correct approach to setting up and operating the mixing console.

We then move on to looking at different event types and how the sound system setup may vary between these.

Finally, we take a look at troubleshooting such systems and cover many of the common problems encountered such as hums and buzzes, feedback, cable problems equipment damage.