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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Organise input sources
   • Determine audio requirements and timelines in consultation with relevant personnel and with reference to production documentation
   • Assess venues to determine input source options based on acoustic analyses that take physical limitations into account
   • Take acoustic sources of audio into account when identifying preferred microphone placement
   • Clarify the backline needs of musical groups as required and organise microphones and other input sources accordingly
   • Keep up-to-date with developments in audio technology to ensure the most appropriate selection of microphones and the best approach to audio operations
   • Reach agreement on placement and organisation of microphones and other audio input sources prior to technical run-throughs or rehearsals
2. Maximise gain on stage
   • Place and connect microphones in desired locations using safe work practices
   • Position microphones appropriately to achieve required gain
   • Increase gain before feedback through effective use of equalisation options and effects equipment
3. Manage inputs
   • Prepare and implement appropriate microphone plots
   • Patch microphone signals to audio mixing desk, including multiple signals as required
   • Prepare and maintain an input signal failure plan
   • Test input sources, identify problems promptly and take appropriate action to rectify
   • In consultation with relevant personnel, evaluate quality of audio set-up and note areas for future improvement

Performance Evidence

Evidence of the ability to:

set up and test complex microphone plots and other audio input sources for at least two productions or events

apply in-depth knowledge of microphone technology and product options to work activities

manage a range of microphone and other audio inputs during technical run-throughs or rehearsals on at least two occasions

correctly use terminology associated with input source management

work collaboratively.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided for each of the above points at least once.

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Knowledge Evidence

To complete the unit requirements the individual must:

explain the features of a range of different microphone and the contexts in which they are best used

explain the acoustic consequences of signal phase problems and when to use phantom power

provide examples of current trends in microphone development and the availability of products

provide examples of issues and challenges that typically arise when managing audio input sources, along with solutions to address them

provide example of issues to consider when preparing microphone plots and input signal failure plans.

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