Adapters
A sound technician should have a good variety of Radio Shack audio
connector adapters to convert between 1/8", RCA, 1/4", XLR,
male/female, and mono/stereo connectors
Cables
A variety of short (3') cables are needed to interface between
mixer and FM receivers, tape deck, CD, equalizer, effects
processor, and amplifiers. Most use 1/4" to 1/4" cords, but some
use RCA, XLR, or 1/8"
Tools
Variety of screw drivers, wire cutters, adjustable wrench,
hammer
Cable Tester
To look for broken wires in cables (it happens more often than
you'd think)
Batteries
Keep several 9V Alkaline batteries for battery powered FM
mikes
Flashlight
Guitar Tuner
Patience and a cool temper
AC Power:
If your total sound system does not require more than 15
amps, then connect EVERYTHING to one outlet to reduce the
possibility of ground hum.
You need several AC power ground-lift adapters (3-prong to
2-prong adapters), a few multi-outlet adapters, several
multi-outlet power strips with surge protectors, and a variety of
3-conductor extension cords (of different lengths).
You should have a 3-prong AC power tester and always test an
AC power outlet before you use it (prevents equipment damage due
to faulty wiring).
If you do get a ground hum, use your power tester to test the
power feed to every unit first, then try a ground lift adapter on
each unit of the system, one at a time, until you find the source
of the hum.
Intercom System:
An intercom system may be helpful if it is necessary for
the Sound Technician to talk to Stage Crew or Lighting
Technician
Projection System:
A projection system may be useful if song words are to be
displayed for the audience
Possibilities include overhead projector, slide projector, or
projection video
Projecting on a movie screen will give a brighter
image
Carefully aim other lights so they don't shine on the
screen
Documentation and Labeling:
Label all permanent wires
Put a strip of tape across the mixer and label all
channels
Label all equalizers, effects units, amplifiers, etc. as to
what they are connected to (i.e. Left Main Amp).
Controls which are always to be left set at the same place
should be marked with a dot at the proper setting. (white-out
works well)
Engrave a permanent identity name or number on all expensive
equipment (to identify it in case of theft).
Buying Equipment:
Get Educated
Read audio magazines, go to various performances and see what
equipment other people use, ask other sound technicians what
equipment they like or don't like, go to music stores and ask
questions
Requirements
Before buying any equipment, write down all requirements for the
sound system
Budget
Evaluate the requirements in relation to the available budget
Determine which items are most important to have
first
Insurance / Inventory / Labeling
Make sure that all equipment is covered by insurance (you
may have to list all equipment for the insurance
company)
Keep an accurate, up to date, and complete inventory of all
sound equipment with manufacturer, model, and serial
numbers
An identification name or number should be engraved on the
equipment in a visible, but not unsightly location
