A live sound engineer is a professional who mixes and balances multiple audio sources at a live musical event by utilizing a mixing console, voice and instrumentation. The sound is normally equalized, re-routed and balanced via several loudspeakers positioned throughout the venue. This technique of mixing multiple live musical acts together was originally developed and used in live theaters to great success as a means for the audience to hear the actors on stage without the audience sitting in the front row. Live sound engineering has since been applied to a variety of other live events including marathons, school events, sports meets, festivals and concerts. If you've ever attended an event that utilized this technique, you likely noticed that the room was filled with buzzing sounds rather than the normal popping and crackle typical of a theater or other live source.
Sound engineers use various different equipment to mix a sound source such as a band, DJ, vocalist, instrumentalists and more. Typically, an acoustics specialist is also involved with the mix down. These specialists are trained in acoustics and design their personal mixing consoles to specifically be able to handle sound waves in specific areas and for specific purposes. A live sound engineer will have a vast knowledge of sound wave technology as well as know-how in acoustics and acoustical design.
Acoustics and acoustical engineering are one of the most important aspects of sound engineering. Light and stage setup are integral elements to creating a successful live sound experience. A live sound engineer has to set up the right acoustics and lighting system to get the best performance from every single source. Stage lights are required to brighten the stage and provide enough general acoustics to allow people to hear their instruments clearly. Vocal microphones need to be set up so that the performers can hear themselves as well as everyone else on the stage.
Live recording or overdubbing is another form of live sound engineering. Live recording is the recording of an event using different equipment and software than typical studio recording. Live recording usually involves live audio and MIDI as well as output monitoring and input control. The advantage of this type of recording is that the engineer can alter the sound and mix as they see fit without needing to re-recording the entire thing. Live audio engineers usually use solid state digital compressors, limiting, and equalizers to ensure the end result is as close to the original as possible.
Mastering or finishing a recording is another form of live sound engineering. Mastering or finishing involves the digital finishing of a recording to fix any audio issues that may exist. Audio engineers will use both subtractive and additive processing along with high quality monitor monitoring to finalize the recording. Any time an engineer handles the finishing process of a recording they are in charge. This is what makes an engineer very different from a studio producer or radio presenter.
An additional form of live sound engineering is the implementation of editing live soundboards. Live mixing boards are electronic boards composed of digital synthesizers, sound effects, drum machines, and other sound generating elements. Live mixing boards offer a more hands on approach to music creation compared to conventional studio mixing boards.
Sound engineers also play a vital role in video recordings. Video recordings contain all the necessary elements for an entertaining and informative piece. These recordings often contain interviews, commentaries, music, and other sound effects. If a sound engineer is not involved in the creation of the video then the recorded audio will not come out as smooth as it should be and will not hold the viewer's attention. All in all live sound engineers play a crucial role in the creation of audio recordings and videos.
With all the opportunities that live sound engineering opens up, the world of live sound engineering has taken off in a big way. These professionals not only help create a fun and exciting live music experience, but also increase the overall quality of the music that is being produced. Without the assistance of live sound engineers, music could not be heard in its true form.