Soundcheck

A soundcheck is the preparation that takes place before a concert, speech, or similar performance, when the performer and the sound crew run through a small portion of the upcoming show on the venue's sound system to make sure that the sound in the venue's "Front Of House" (FOH) and stage monitor sound systems is clear and at the right volume and tonal frequencies. Soundchecks are especially important for popular and other musical genres that use heavily amplified PA systems; having correct sound is crucial to the success of such events. A soundcheck remains a difficult science, because the acoustics of a venue often change somewhat once it is filled with an audience.

Soundchecks are often conducted prior to audience entry to the venue. The sound check usually starts with the rhythm section, and then go on to the melody section and vocalists.

After technical adjustments have been completed by the sound crew, the performers leave the stage and the audience is admitted. In other instances, soundchecks take place in front of the audience, and can be followed immediately by the performance itself.