Set up and check sound equipment for theatre and live productions

This standard is about setting up and checking sound equipment for use in theatre and live production.
You will need to work effectively with others such as riggers or sub-contractors and make sure sound equipment and accessories are set up as planned, secure, work correctly and meet the specific needs of the production. You will need to devise solutions to any obstacles or problems.

This standard also covers dealing with the provision of talkback systems.

This standard is for anyone who is involved in setting up and checking sound equipment for theatre and live productions.

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1. check that equipment type and positioning are as defined in specification
2. confirm that systems are installed and working in accordance with specification
3. carry out electro-acoustic analysis to provide an indication of sound balance in all areas of venue when required
4. evaluate test results to provide a clear indication of how well systems meet requirements
5. modify specifications to produce optimum sound quality
6. check that the condition of any batteries is sufficient for intended length of use
7. assemble equipment according to specification or other requirements
8. check any hired-in equipment complies with inventory, reporting discrepancies
9. position aerials to optimise RF pick-up and minimise likelihood of drop out and compliance with frequency management
10. position microphones and use system gain and equalisation to avoid feedback
11. set up transmitters and receivers with input sensitivity appropriate for anticipated use
12. set up talkback systems that meet production requirements
13. position and interconnect equipment and cables in line with production requirements
14. identify and deal with any faults, failures and defects in equipment
15. check that cables meet performance related to their use
16. check that available power supply meets requirements
17. carry out power-up procedures in line with production requirements

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1. legislation, organisational requirements and codes of practice for live audio
2. different tests and analyses for sound systems overall and individual items of equipment
3. the importance of checking equipment and ensuring that it complies with safety requirements
4. relevant IT networks and systems and how these can impact on synchronisation
5. common indicators of faults, failures and defects and how to deal with them
6. who to contact to identify production requirements to be met
7. weather protective ancillaries that might be needed and how to use them
8. intended sound sources and where they will be located
9. any required labelling requirements and formats
10. who needs to be given confirmation about sound systems, and when this is needed in writing
11. the location and set up requirements of sound positions
12. electrical safety regulations that apply and safety checking procedures for mains operated equipment, including portable appliance testing (PAT)
13. safety regulations and procedures as they apply to rigging, set up, operation, between shows, de-rigging, storing and, if applicable, transport
14. statutory and procedural requirements for safety in different sorts and sizes of venue
15. methods of safe rigging and de-rigging, and how and when to apply them
16. the safety aspects of cable routing
17. flying techniques and any relevant regulations
18. principles of frequency transmission systems and in-ear monitors
19. health and safety concerns regarding radio frequency transmissions and in-ear monitors
20. acoustic principles and how to apply them
21. types and characteristics of microphones, amplifiers and loudspeakers, and how to optimise their operation for the required sound
22. the implications of using feedback suppression devices and noise gates
23. common connector types and their pin configurations
24. file standard protocols
25. how to design talk back systems that make best use of existing systems and conform to best practice
26. how to suggest alternatives to performers and members of the production team when talkback requirements cannot be met
27. factors to consider when positioning aerials
28. why it is important to leave equipment in good working order after use

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3

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2028

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Current

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Original

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Screenskills

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CCSTTL30

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Technician, Assistant Technician , Technical Supervisor , Technical Manager, Head Technician, Theatre Technician, Stage Technician, Production Technician, Technician Crew , Sound Technician, AV Technician, Sound Operator

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set up; sound; sound system; sound equipment; theatre and live productions;

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