#104 - How to Soundcheck Like a Pro

One of my biggest pet peeves as a performer is a band who doesn’t know how to soundcheck properly. It shouldn’t be - it usually reflects inexperience and ignorance rather than disrespect and apathy. The truth is that most bands are taught how to soundcheck, it’s just a skill that gets picked up along the way. Despite this, the soundcheck is often an indicator of the professionalism of the band. Here are some tools that can help you: Creating a Stage Plot/Tech Rider/Input List: Stage Plot Pro Reverb Nation Pro Sonicbids Touring Musician Essentials: These are some things that you might consider carrying with your band at all times: Additional vocal mics (I recommend the Shure SM58 or the Beta 58 for tight stages) Extra XLR cables (Kirlin cables provide the best bang for the buck) Extra ¼” guitar cables (I like the Kirlin stage series cable) DI boxes (Behringer DI boxes are a good choice for backup unit) Power strips (Get an industrial strength one like this) Heavy and medium duty extension cables (lower gauges are for heavier use) Gaffer tape and painter's tape (more versatile than masking tape) Strings, picks, drumsticks, and other common accessories Velcro strips LED Flashlight (RockBirds has a good, versatile one for multiple uses) Batteries (9 volt, AA, and AAA). I recommend quick rechargeable sets Additional copies of the setlist (get them laminated) Sharpies (buy in bulk to save) These items aren’t as common but are also helpful to have on hand as well: Mic stand (tripod and round base) Guitar stand (get Hercules, they're the best) Keyboard stand (I like two-tier since they're versatile. This one is cheap/light, this is heavy duty) Powered stage monitor (I like the Mackie 12" Thump or Behringer B208D for a portable set) Portable PA system (The Fender Passport is surprisingly powerful for a compact and affordable unit) Fuse kit Basic tool set with wrenches and soldering kit Power cable (for amps)