USEFUL HINTS AND TIPS
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All speakers should be balanced and steady. If stacked strap them together to
improve stability.
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Don't overextend poles/tripods; ensure at least 4 x the pole diameter is still inside
the outer pole.
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Make sure the legs have a good splay on tripods, but do not obstruct doorways or
other access-ways
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Ensure the top cab is smaller/lighter than bottom if using a pole.
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Keep lights away from speakers; heat can cause fires / speaker damage.
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Don't run cables across access-ways; if you have to, run them above doors or use
approved cable covers.
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Do not attempt to fly PA unless you are fully qualified to do so.
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Be aware of total power usage. Overloading a mains socket is potentially dangerous,
and likely to cause a power out during use.
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Keep lighting cables away from ALL sound including mains, use separate circuit for
lights if possible. Keep power and signal cables apart
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Run all cables neatly, use cable ties to tidy excess cable length in 'figure-8' not loops.
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Use electronic safety devices such as circuit breakers
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Start with EQ settings flat and gains low. Master volumes should be at zero for
switch on and off.
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Use the minimum cut or boost in EQ. If all bands are boosted or cut, flatten EQ, re-
adjust gain and start again.
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Use input gain to set maximum signal level without distortion (use VU meters, bar
graphs or peak lights). Amps should have peak or clip lights illuminating only on signal
peaks, not all the time.
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Set up mic levels first, and adjust other equipment to match.
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Avoid very high onstage levels from backline amps.
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When using separate power amps, turn the level of the amp to maximum. Control
overall level from your mixer, not the power amp.
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Avoid damp environments and extremes of temperature for storage and use of all
audio equipment.
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Look after your cables. Do not stand equipment or run cases over them, do not tie
knots in them and always use them for the correct application (a signal lead is NOT a
speaker lead). Coil and secure with cable ties before storing.
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Ensure your equipment is properly loaded and cannot move around during transit.
USEFUL HINTS AND TIPS
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