Shows
Signal To Noise Podcast298. InfoComm DebriefIt’s time for an InfoComm debrief, as returning guest Elliott Carroll joins Andy and Sean to compare notes on what he and Andy saw during their recent trip to Orlando for this year’s InfoComm trade show. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.As Andy puts it, it was the year of big wireless in small packages — so much of the show was about putting eyes and ears on the latest offerings from Shure, Sennheiser, and Sound Devices, but there was also a lot to check out in terms of spa...2025-07-031h 18Signal To Noise Podcast296. Garrett Doran On How To Get Hired As A FreelancerIn episode 296, Sean and Andy are joined by Garrett Doran, Sean’s director of operations at Audio Engineers Northwest, to get more perspective on how to get hired as a freelancer in the live audio industry. Garrett shares what he looks for in a resume and/or interview, how to impress a sound company you’re new to, and – just as importantly – what sorts of things are immediate red flags for a company like theirs!They also dig into strategies for keeping the small to medium size festival gigs that are the summer bread-and-butter for many audio provider...2025-06-061h 12Signal To Noise Podcast295. Coffee & Keynotes With Ryan JohnListener favorite Ryan John returns to the show in Episode 295 to catch up with Andy and Sean about a wide range of subjects, from the recent season of network TV “upfronts” and “For Your Consideration” presentations he worked to presenting at the L-Acoustics 2025 Keynote in his role as the company’s director of product management for software. There’s even a deep dive into espresso machines and the wonders of super light roasted coffee! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:L-Acoustics Keynote 2025 | Roundhouse LondonEpisode 289...2025-05-281h 05Signal To Noise Podcast294. More About Building A Freelance Career With Brian MaddoxPicking up where they left off in Episode 293, the hosts continue the conversation Brian Maddox about building a successful freelance career in live events. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Brian brings the unique perspective of not only being one of the most in-demand freelance mixers in the corporate event market, but having built a new freelance career after pivoting from a staff job at three different times in his life.Episode Links:STN Episode 151 With Brian Maddox (Next Generation Audio Professionals)STN Episode 243...2025-05-2049 minSignal To Noise Podcast293. Freelance Mixer Brian MaddoxFriend of the podcast and returning guest Brian Maddox joins Sean and Andy in Episode 293 to dig into the nuts and bolts of how to build a successful freelance career in live events. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Brian brings the unique perspective of not only being one of the most in-demand freelance mixers in the corporate event market, but having built a new career after pivoting from a staff job at three different times in his life. This conversation got so in depth with great advice from Brian...2025-05-1643 minSignal To Noise Podcast292. Building Your Company & CareerIn Episode 292, the hosts turn to a question from the Signal to Noise Discord community and take a trip to Signal to Noise University, where professor Sean treats Andy and the listeners to Marketing 101 with a look at how to make yourself indispensable to clients. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Whether you’re a small to medium-sized sound provider looking for new business, a freelancer seeking for work from one of those providers, or you’re doing (or trying to do) weddings, corporate events, and concerts — or a mix of all...2025-05-011h 03Signal To Noise Podcast291. Cody Heimann, RF Applications Engineer At Sound Devices, Part 2In the second part of Andy’s conversation with Cody Heimann of Sound Devices (part one is here), the duo rolls up their sleeves and goes deep on the company’s Astral wireless platform that offers 32 channels in a single rack-unit, Optocore integration, and a handheld transmitter that can take almost any capsule on the market without any additional adapters, there’s a lot to discuss. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:Episode 290 — Cody Heimann On Large-Scale RF DeploymentSound Devices Astral Wireless & A20-HH Intr...2025-04-1859 minSignal To Noise Podcast289. Sound Designer Nat Houle On Spatial Audio“Spatial” and “immersive” audio are buzzwords that we seem unable to escape in today’s world of live sound, but what do they actually mean and how do we use them — if we even should at all? Theatre sound designer Nat Houle joins the show in Episode 289 to provide a “manufacturer-agnostic” take on the topic, benefits and limitations, and much more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Houle, a 2025 USITT Rising Star winner for sound design, works as a designer and associate across the U.S. Last year, she launched a website, NMH S...2025-04-031h 04Signal To Noise Podcast288. Behind The ScenesThis week, Andy takes us behind the scenes for a look at how an episode of Signal to Noise is produced and edited. He walks through the recording, processing, and editing chain, sharing tips and tricks on how to efficiently produce an unscripted conversational podcast, as well as some plugins and tips that are equally applicable to live mixes to broadcast or streaming.Links:iZotope RX 11SoundRadix POWAIRREAPEREpisode 288 TranscriptConnect with the community on the Signal To Noise Facebook Group and Discord Server. Both are spaces for...2025-03-2148 minSignal To Noise Podcast287. The Return Of Mix Engineer Wayne PauleyVeteran mix engineer Wayne Pauley returns the show in Episode 287 to talk with the hosts about his experience mixing RCF’s Ultimate Jam Night showcase at NAMM, and doing it in the inimitable “Wayne Pauley style” — in other words, as analog as possible! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Wayne also talks about touring with an RCF TT+ Audio PA as well as his love for ATI Paragon II consoles, sharing the story of his one-of-a-kind custom half-desk Paragon made by FOH engineer and analog console whisperer Chris Mitchell. In addition...2025-03-0753 minSignal To Noise Podcast286. Larger-Scale Intercom PlatformsIn Episode 286, Sean and Andy continue their look at stepping up from smaller shows with a dive into larger intercom platforms and a look at life past four-channel analog systems. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Drawing from his work programming intercom systems for large scale corporate and broadcast events, including network upfronts, professional wrestling matches, and the recent SNL50 Homecoming Concert at Radio City Music Hall, Andy shares a brand-agnostic look at some tips and tricks for making the most of the options digital intercom systems offer — how a ne...2025-02-2158 minSignal To Noise Podcast285. IEM Start-Up Dark Matter Audio LabsIn Episode 285, the hosts are joined by Tal Kocen and Dave Friesema, founders of brand-new in-ear monitor maker Dark Matter Audio Labs. Sean and Andy were impressed with their IEMs when the company launched at NAMM a couple weeks ago, and knew they had to have the duo on to tell their story. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Tal and Dave detail their history in the live audio and IEM manufacturing worlds, and the journey that led to them branching off on their own to start Dark Matter Audio...2025-02-101h 12Signal To Noise Podcast283. “All Things Audio” From The 2025 NAMM ShowFresh back from the 2025 North American Music Merchants (NAMM) Show in Anaheim, CA, Andy and Sean compare notes on all the cool new audio things they saw there, including loudspeakers, in-ear monitors, plugins, consoles, and everything in between. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Be sure to register for Live Sound Nashville on March 11, where you can check out the annual Live Sound International Loudspeaker Demo, hear talks by Jim Yakabuski, Sawyer Dickenson, Wayne Pauley, and much more! Use code “SAVE10” at https://livesound.regfox.com/live-sound-nashville to take $10 off the...2025-01-3144 minSignal To Noise Podcast282. Focus On MonitoringIn Episode 282, Sean and Andy pick up where they left off last time, answering some follow-up questions they’ve received on gain staging for monitor mixes, other tips and tricks for clean and clear in-ear monitors, as well as how to make the most “bang for your buck” improvements to wireless microphones and monitors. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.If you’re going to the NAMM, be sure to find Sean and Andy and say hi! More events will be announced on the Discord and Facebook groups as it gets clo...2025-01-171h 00Signal To Noise Podcast281. Tips & Tricks For A Speedy Mix, Part 2In the final episode of 2024, Sean and Andy pick up where they left off last time (Episode 280) in rounding out some baseline tips for getting a rocking mix going fast — compressors, effects, and general mixing advice abound as their last holiday gift to everyone out there listening! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:Episode 230: Sean’s Go-To EffectsEpisode 236: Pat Brown on Gain StructureEpisode 273: Ben IveyEpisode 280: Tips & Tricks Part 1Episode 281 TranscriptConnect with the community on the Sign...2024-12-3149 minSignal To Noise Podcast280. Tips & Tricks For A Speedy MixIn Episode 280, Sean and Andy take it back to basics, and offer some advice for folks early in their live sound journey to help speed through sound check and get a band dialed in more quickly. From setting gains to EQ and compressors, the hosts share a bunch of tips and tricks they’ve learned along the way from all sorts of smart folks in both the live audio and recording worlds. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:ProSoundWeb Study Hall: Mixing & ConsolesEpisode 280 Tr...2024-12-2746 minSignal To Noise Podcast278. Brian Grahn Of Clear-ComBrian Grahn, joins the show in Episode 278 to talk about all things Clear-Com. He clears up a lot of mysteries about Arcadia, HelixNet, and Freespeak, lets us in on the new cloud-based Gen-IC Virtual Intercom, and sheds some light on common problems and tricks to getting the most out of good ol’ fashioned two-wire partyline intercoms, and more.Brian started as a musician, which quickly turned into working as a bar/club sound engineer, and then in turn to running his own company and working variously as a mixer, RF coordinator, comms tech, project manager, and technical pr...2024-12-101h 04Signal To Noise Podcast277. 2024 Holiday Gift GuideIn a bonus Episode 277, the Signal To Noise community presents it’s first-ever holiday gift guide. Join hosts Sean and Andy as well as a parade of past guests, friends, and listeners with gift suggestions for your favorite sound engineer/production tech to meet every budget, from $10s to $1000s. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:Article With Links: The Signal To Noise Podcast 2024 Holiday Gift GuideEpisode 277 TranscriptBe sure to check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group and Discord Se...2024-11-271h 09Signal To Noise Podcast276. Multifaceted Live Audio Professional Jason WaggonerSeattle-based globe-trotting sound engineer Jason Waggoner joins the show in Episode 276 and talks about the many twists and turns of his career in live audio. From e-sport tournaments to Formula 1 racing, theatre to corporate events to concerts, mixing to systems engineering, and even helping to build the U.S. tech support and education branch of a major loudspeaker manufacturer, there’s not much in live audio Jason hasn’t done. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Jason’s also the founder of HOBER, an entertainment production company focused on immersive techno...2024-11-251h 14Signal To Noise Podcast275. Luke McRitchie & Brian Maddox On Mixing For The 2024 Paris OlympicsLuke McRitchie and Brian Maddox join the show in Episode 275 to talk about their experience working together as mixers for the Olympic Broadcasting Service’s coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics. They share what it’s like mixing up to 16 simultaneous broadcast channels at once for one of the largest viewing audiences in the world, as well as insights into making the leap from a full-time staff position to freelance work, and how the Signal to Noise Discord community directly led to Luke flying to join the Olympics team with barely a day’s notice! This episode is sponsored by Alle...2024-11-181h 12Signal To Noise Podcast274. Answering Questions From The CommunityIn Episode 274, Sean and Andy open it up to listeners in the Signal to Noise Discord and Facebook groups to ask them anything, who provided a lot of great questions about work/home life, gear they bring to gigs, business goals — and, of course — tacos! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:Episode 274 TranscriptBe sure to check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group and Discord Server. Both are spaces for listeners to create to generate conversations around the people and topics covered in t...2024-11-081h 09Signal To Noise Podcast273. Front Of House Engineer Ben IveyEver wonder what it’s like to mix sound at Madison Square Garden for the first time without as much as a line check, let alone a proper sound check? In Episode 273, front of house engineer Ben Ivey shares his thrilling experience doing just that for country artist Warren Zeiders. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Ben also talks about his journey from learning church sound alongside his sound engineer dad to balancing life on and off the road, mixing sound for top acts that include Zeiders, TI, and Killer Mi...2024-11-011h 06Signal To Noise Podcast271. Nikki Sanz Of GiggsIn Episode 271, Sean sits down with Nikki Sanz, founder and CEO of Giggs, a platform designed to revolutionize how professionals in the live event industry hire, find work, and connect — essentially a LinkedIn for our word-of-mouth, niche market. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.After working with a diverse range of clients including Live Nation, the Ryman Auditorium, CMA Fest, and touring with Eric Church, Nikki pivoted from the “gigxiety” and challenges of both finding gigs for herself and staffing other positions to taking the leap to do something proactive about...2024-10-1056 minSignal To Noise Podcast270. Live Engineers, ProdCom Developers Justin Tyre & Stephen BaileyIn Episode 270, the hosts are joined by live sound engineers and software developers Justin Tyre and Stephen Bailey, who earlier this year launched ProdCom, new software for the live event industry that provides real-time multichannel text transcriptions of talkback mics, intercom chatter, or any other audio fed into a MacOS computer. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Stephen and Justin talk about how the idea came about as a way to make their own work as live sound engineers easier, walk Sean and Andy through how it works, and provide...2024-10-0356 minSignal To Noise Podcast269. Back To The 80s With Chris PouIn Episode 269, it’s time to break out your best dayglo shirts and leather jackets, dig out a slap bracelet or two, and get your 80s on, as Chris Pou, FOH and production manager for 80s rock cover band Electric Avenue, joins Sean and Andy to talk about what it takes to recreate those classic 80s sounds (spoiler: allllll the reverbs). Chris also digs deep into the Waves LV1 fly rig he built to tour with, how he decided on that platform, and what it takes to build it and keep it rock-solid reliable on more than 100 shows a ye...2024-09-261h 02Signal To Noise Podcast268. First Anniversary Celebration!Co-hosts Andy and Sean celebrate their first anniversary together on the podcast in Episode 268 with a look back on highlights from the past nearly 50 episodes as well as look forward to what the next year of the podcast has in store. They also discuss a momentous week in live sound news — the discontinuation of the ubiquitous Yamaha CL and QL console families and the reveal of Sennheiser’s exciting new Spectera wireless WMAS system.Episode Links:Sennheiser Unveils Spectera Wideband Bi-directional Digital Wireless EcosystemNotice Of Discontinuation Of Yamaha CL & QL ConsolesEpis...2024-09-2054 minSignal To Noise Podcast267. Frank Padikkala Of Audinate Talks DanteFrank Padikkala of Audinate joins the show in Episode 267 and talks with Sean and Andy to talk about all things Dante. Frank is a senior technical sales engineer for Audinate, and brings his years of experience in IT/cybersecurity as well as AV integrations together to help clear up a bunch of common misunderstandings about Dante and AV networking in general. From IP addresses to managed versus unmanaged switches to VLANs and more, get ready to peel back the layers and learn how to make your audio networking life much easier and more reliable. This episode is sponsored by 2024-09-121h 08Signal To Noise Podcast266. Busting Subwoofer Myths, Part 2Picking up where they left off in Episode 265, Sean and Andy continue their conversation with Phil Graham and Merlijn van Veen about all things subwoofer, including whether or not to haystack, ways to deal with power alleys (and whether or not it’s worth the cost), and more.Phil Graham started building hi-fi loudspeakers with his grandfather as a teenager in the 1990s and joined the B&C Group five years ago. Today, he’s the chief operating officer (COO) of Eminence Speaker, acquired by B&C in 2023. Based in Germany, Merlijn van Veen is a noted audi...2024-09-051h 01Signal To Noise Podcast265. Busting Subwoofer MythsThere are a lot of myths and misunderstandings when it comes to subwoofers and sub arrays, but the reality is that there’s no reason to be afraid of them. In Episode 265, Sean and Andy huddle up with two very smart folks when it comes to low end — Phil Graham and Merlijn van Veen — to bust subwoofer myths and help us all understand them better for our next gig.Phil Graham started building hi-fi loudspeakers with his grandfather as a teenager in the 1990s and joined the B&C Group five years ago. Today, he’s the chief op...2024-08-291h 08Signal To Noise Podcast263. Mike Dias Returns To Talk IEMs & MicrophonesVeteran audio professional Mike Dias picks up where he left off with last week (in Episode 262), digging into the other side of his career in the worlds of in-ear monitors and microphones. He spends time addressing and demystifying some myths about IEM technology, discusses why we each tend to favor a brand and/or types of IEMs that we do, and digs into changes with the Earthworks mic lineup over last few years. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.When Mike isn’t selling microphones (as a management coach and co...2024-08-1551 minSignal To Noise Podcast262. Mike Dias On The Value Of NetworkingVeteran audio professional Mike Dias returns in Episode 262 to convince us that networking needn’t be a four-letter word! Whether you’re a sound company owner, a freelance engineer, or full-time staff, networking is an important non-audio tool in the toolbox. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.When Mike isn’t selling microphones (as a management coach and consultant for Earthworks) and serving as the executive director of the In-Ear Monitor International Trade Organization, he writes and speaks about “What Entertainers Can Teach Executives” and “Why Nobody Likes Networking.” He offers persona...2024-08-081h 05Signal To Noise Podcast261. Checking Back In With Up-And-Coming AV Pro Evan TurunenIt’s been a year of huge growth and focus shifts for Evan Turunen and Turunen Audio Visual — first featured in Episode 221 — so Andy and Sean wanted to check back in with Evan and see how things have changed and what he’s learned since he last visited. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Topics discussed include making a similar major inventory pivot similar to the one Sean recently did for his company (Audio Engineers Northwest), moving the company into a proper warehouse after starting in a backyard shed, effectively planning...2024-08-0152 minSignal To Noise Podcast260. Meeting Up For A Music Festival & Much MoreFor the first time in 10 months of podcasting, Sean and Andy were together in the same place, so how better to celebrate than with a livestream? They talk about meeting up for a music festival Sean’s company (Audio Engineers Northwest) provided a PA and support for, in addition to presenting a demo of the TT+ GTX 12 line array (courtesy of show sponsor RCF). This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.They also discuss how accommodating an artist’s needs for the second day of the festival led to getting to expe...2024-07-2655 minSignal To Noise Podcast259. Summer Concert & Event Fun From The Great (U.S.) NorthwestSummer concert and event season is in full swing, and Sean’s company (Audio Engineers Northwest) has been running full steam with some exciting gigs the last couple weeks. Two of his regular freelancers, Kyle Shaw and Matt Ratza, join the show this week to talk about what it took the last couple weeks to pull off a huge open air concert on a dockside barge with audience both landside and on boats, and then flip the same PA over in 24 hours to cover a 50,000-attendance Fourth of July fireworks show. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath...2024-07-111h 07Signal To Noise Podcast258. Theatre Sound Designer ien DeNioOver the Fourth of July holiday, Andy teamed up with some Signal to Noise guest host alumni, as Kate Foretek pulled up the co-host chair once more to hang with previous guest host, theatrical sound designer and live foley artist ien DeNio. The jam-packed episodes includes tales of travel hijinks, pounding beers as part of a puppet show sound design and much more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.ien DeNio is a New York City-based trans non-binary sound designer who sought refuge in theatre after college oboe studies led...2024-07-081h 11Signal To Noise Podcast257. Chris Tsanjoures Of Rational AcousticsThis week, the hosts get nerdy with Chris Tsanjoures, one of the Rational Acoustics folks behind the Smaart measurement platform, a veteran podcast guest and an avid enthusiast of squiggly lines and measurement geekery. He answers all of Sean and Andy’s questions about Rational’s new Smaart Data Modeler in addition to addressing some of their other Smaart-related questions. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Smaart Data Modeler is a new DSP modeling software tool designed to allow you to perform virtual audio system alignment and optimization through the use...2024-06-2749 minSignal To Noise Podcast256. Broadway Sound Engineer Heather AugustineFresh off mixing the Broadway musical The Outsiders to a Tony Award win for Best Sound Design of a Musical for sound designer Cody Spencer, Broadway sound engineer and regular SoundGirls contributor Heather Augustine sits down with Andy and Sean to chat about her long touring career (including Billy Elliot, Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, and Mean Girls), her transition from touring to subbing on Broadway shows such Funny Girl, SIX, and A Beautiful Noise to mixing her first full-time show on Broadway, and more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and 2024-06-2158 minSignal To Noise Podcast255. Sound Engineer Joe “Chef” McGrathIn Episode 255, Andy is joined by DC-area based sound engineer Joe “Chef” McGrath, fresh off working together on a now rare “industrial musical” in NY this week. They start off talking about Joe’s extensive work as the mixer for the Ultimate Rap League, and why the mic of choice for them for rap battles might be the brand you’d expect, but almost certainly isn’t the model you’d guess! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.From there, they discuss different aspects of freelance life, including setting and negotiating rate...2024-06-141h 11Signal To Noise Podcast254. An End-Of-Spring Check-In On A Variety Of Recent Sonic AdventuresIt’s time for an end-of-spring check-in, as Andy and Sean sit down at the microphones in Episode 254 to catch up on everything they’ve been up to the last month. Sean talks about his trip to Texas to help with a loudspeaker demo for RCF and gives Andy and the listeners a follow-up on his adventures in freewire DSP from a couple episodes ago. Meanwhile, Andy shares some stories and thoughts from a busy month of out-of-town jobs, including a massive multi-city corporate event, a major show mishap that made an online “AV Rigging Disasters” page, and mixing monitors...2024-06-0655 minSignal To Noise Podcast253. FOH Engineer Paul Bevan On His Eclectic (And Quite Interesting) Career JourneyVeteran front of house engineer Paul Bevan joins the show in Episode 253 and discusses his eclectic career that includes mixing a wide range of gigs, from regal (Boston Pops Fourth of July) to raucous (Mott the Hoople), and just about everything in between. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.While his music mixing resume is extensive — including The Spin Doctors, Hall & Oates, The Chieftains, and more — and his corporate and broadcast resumes are equally vast, Paul is perhaps best known for helping create the genre of showing films with the scor...2024-05-231h 08Signal To Noise Podcast252. Elliot Carroll Of Show Imaging On The Business Side Of AudioIn Episode 252, the hosts are joined by Elliot Carroll, director of audio services for Show Imaging, who talks about the business side of audio — deciding what gear to buy (or, more importantly, not buy), when to say yes or no to a proposed project, training staff, keeping staff happy and healthy on job sites, and much more. Elliot’s spent the past 20 years specializing primarily in corporate audio, with stops along the way doing festivals in below freezing weather in Denver, and even running away with the circus for a stretch. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath a...2024-05-161h 32Signal To Noise Podcast251. Broadway Sound Designer Jessica PazIn Episode 251, Tony-award sound designer Jessica Paz joins the show and talks about all things Broadway and touring sound design, including how to make a theatre sound like a stadium or an intimate office as well as the trials and tribulations of doing live theatre outdoors at New York’s iconic Delacorte Theatre for Shakespeare in the Park, and more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Jessica’s the first, and to date only, non-male Tony-winning sound designer. She’s collaborated on Broadway productions that include Hadestown (Tony and Drama Desk A...2024-05-091h 13Signal To Noise Podcast250. The Early Days Of Grunge With FOH Engineer Craig MontgomeryIn Episode 250, Sean and Andy take it back to the early days of grunge when they talk to Craig Montgomery, the front of house engineer for Nirvana. He details mixing and managing small tours and festivals in a van with Kurt, Dave, and Krist from 1989 to 1993 as well as going on to tour manage for Hole, and mix and tour manage other well-known artists including TAD, Mudhoney, Weezer, and The Presidents of the United States. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.After getting off the road, Craig settled back home...2024-05-031h 01Signal To Noise Podcast249. Sam Kusnetz Of QLab & Founder Of Team SoundIn Episode 249, Sean and Andy gather around the microphones with Sam Kusnetz, education and training manager for Figure 53’s QLab and founder of Team Sound, maker of MIDI hardware and testers specifically designed for live audio playback users. Sam talks about growing up and falling into theatre in New York, working on smaller tours and regional theatres across the country, and then eventually settling into a dual role as a NY-based associate sound designer and, for the last decade and change, a core member of the QLab support and development team.Sam and the hosts focus on us...2024-04-251h 25Signal To Noise Podcast248. Burton Ishmael, Front Of House EngineerIn Episode 248, the hosts visit with front of house engineer Burton Ishmael, who is currently mixing Madonna’s global Celebration tour, and learn about how the artist sought him out after hearing him mix Post Malone, the latest in a list of A-List hip-hop and R&B acts on his resume that also includes Lil Baby, Nas, Big Sean, Miguel, and H.E.R., and others. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.They also talk about what it takes to make a concert spanning a 40-year career sound coherent and co...2024-04-1853 minSignal To Noise Podcast247. A Visit To RCF, Fun In Italy & The Importance Of Taking A BreakIn Episode 247, the co-hosts catch up after Sean returns from his first vacation since starting his company. Sean fills Andy in on turning a trip to visit the RCF factory into a vacation for his entire family. He gives a recap of his awesome time visiting the factory and seeing how the loudspeakers he’s bought for his company are made and tested, plus an obligatory stop for fantastic Neapolitan pizza and other Italy must-sees. The discussion turns to acknowledging how important time off is, and how hard it is to realize that you’re overworking or burning out unti...2024-04-1148 minSignal To Noise Podcast246. Finance Ninja & Theatre Nerd Bailie SlevinIn Episode 246, Sean, Andy and guest co-host Kate Foretek talk with financial advisor Bailie Slevin to get the lowdown on making your money work for you as a freelancer to plan for both the future you expect, and the one you don’t! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.A combination of finance ninja and theatre nerd, Bailie is a business management and financial consultant focused specifically on working with creatives of all types. With 10 years of experience as a financial adviser and a hefty résumé in theater, she is r...2024-03-271h 09Signal To Noise Podcast245. Kenny Barnwell On Maintaining Healthy Relationships When Working Away From HomeKenny Barnwell joins Andy in Episode 245 to discuss how to nurture and maintain healthy relationships while working away from home. His advice — which even those who don’t tour will find valuable — touches on communication strategies, mutual support and accountability, self-awareness and boundaries, and how to include your family in your life and your work when working away from home. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Subjects they touch on include managing work schedules, setting shared goals and priorities, developing trust and confidence, and so much more, as well as the im...2024-03-211h 17Signal To Noise Podcast244. Continuing The Deep Dive Into Corporate Event AudioPicking up where they left off in last time (here), in Episode 244 Sean and Andy continue their roundtable on corporate event audio with Aram Piligian, Brian Maddox, and Michael Curtis. Previously, they looked at the input side of corporate audio, and this time, focus shifts to the outputs — how to balance the needs of the live sound in the room with both recordings and live streams as well as how to minimize the sound of the room in a stream and why that may or may not be desirable. They also discuss how to keep an eye and ear on...2024-03-131h 05Signal To Noise Podcast243. A Deep Dive Into Mixing Corporate EventsMany of us spend tons of time talking about things like crafting the perfect kick drum or guitar or lead vocal, but in Episode 243, we focus the podcast on another important but less recognized set of “money” inputs — corporate event vocals.In part one of a two-part deep dive into mixing corporate events, Andy and Sean bring together a collection of top A1s in the business — Aram Piligian, Brian Maddox, and Michael Curtis — to talk about all things input chain. They discuss types of lavalier mics and where to mount them, placement and pattern of lectern microphone...2024-03-071h 00Signal To Noise Podcast242. Mark Russie, From Long-Time Audio Pro To Inventor/EntrepreneurIn Episode 242, Andy and guest host Aram Piligian talk with Mark Russie, who retired from a long career as a Las Vegas-based A1 and A2 to start a small business manufacturing the Lav Magnet and Beltpack Bar, tools he originally invented to make his own life on corporate events easier. Mark shares the story of how, after multiple manufacturers told him his product wouldn’t be feasible, he set up a shop in his garage and learned to do it himself, as well as highlights of his career that inspired the Lav Magnet, and what it’s like being an I...2024-02-281h 04Signal To Noise Podcast241. Richard Cadena, “Electricity for the Entertainment Electrician & Technician”In a “shocking” Episode 241, Sean and Andy talk with Richard Cadena, author of the book “Electricity for the Entertainment Electrician & Technician” as well as serving as a freelance lighting designer, lighting consultant, and trainer. He’s worked on concert tours, television, and theatre, and has designed dozens of lighting systems for permanent installations. Richard is also the technical editor for PLASA Media and a columnist for Lighting & Sound America, Lighting & Sound International, and Protocol, and is a member in good standing of IATSE Local 205. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Topics cov...2024-02-211h 24Signal To Noise Podcast240. Dave Unger, Veteran FOH Engineer/Tour ManagerChicago-based front of house engineer and tour manager Dave Unger joins the show in Episode 240 and talks about his career mixing high-energy world music artists that include Femi Kuti and the Positive Force, Bombino, Sierra Leone Refugee Allstars, and many others at some of the highest profile venues and festivals in the world such as Coachella, the New Orleans and Montreal Jazz Festivals, Philharmonie de Paris, Bonnaroo, the Hollywood Bowl, the 9:30 Club, The Apollo, Austin City Limits, and more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Dave also talks about his...2024-02-141h 06Signal To Noise Podcast239. Marc Alan, FOH Engineer For The Legendary Jose Feliciano & MoreIn Episode 239, the hosts are joined by Marc Alan, front of house engineer for legendary artist Jose Feliciano as well as the production manager and FOH at the Wall Street Theater in Norwalk, CT and the marketing director of Factory Underground Studio. He goes deep on what it’s like working with an artist like Jose at this point of his incredibly long career, and he also talks about how to establish an optimum relationship between house engineer and guests who come in with bands — an especially fun conversation since Marc and Andy met last year when Marc guested at A...2024-02-071h 10Signal To Noise Podcast238. Mr. Sean Goes To The NAMM ShowLast week, while Andy was home in NY catching up on work after a vacation in Iceland, Sean headed to LA (well, Anaheim) to take in the 2024 NAMM Show. In Episode 238, the two catch up — Sean talks about everything he saw and learned at the show, how lessons learned at a trade show translate to how we run live events and shows, getting to meet up with a handful of friends and listeners from the Signal to Noise Discord Server, and more. Andy also talks about the stunning beauty of Iceland, from geysers to the aurora borealis (northern lights), an...2024-01-311h 00Signal To Noise Podcast237. Audio For The Carolina Crown Drum & Bugle CorpsIn Episode 237, four members of the audio team for Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps — Jonathan Yoo, Rosa Westfall, Tyler Hanson and Cole O’Malley — join Andy Leviss to talk about what goes into reinforcing sound for a modern Drum Corps International performance. They provide an in-depth look at the ins and outs of a true “battleground” audio situation, with 90 seconds or less to set up line arrays, wired microphones, and dozens of channels of wireless in some of the largest stadiums in the world! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Epi...2024-01-241h 12Signal To Noise Podcast236. Pat Brown Of SynAudConIt’s time to get our system engineer and designer hats on for Episode 236, as the hosts talk to Pat Brown of SynAudCon and Pro Sound Testing about all things loudspeakers, measurement mics, gain structure, and more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Note: Pat and Brenda Brown are offering a 10 percent discount on any SynAudCon training/membership until 1/31/24 — just go here (click on either Training or Membership in the menu at the top to purchase directly), type the words Signal-to-Noise in the coupon field in the online shop...2024-01-171h 05Signal To Noise Podcast235. Suzi Green, Tour Manager & Founder Of The BACK LOUNGEIn Episode 235, the hosts are joined by Suzi Green, tour manager and founder of The BACK LOUNGE, a peer support group for the live music industry. She talks about her journey out of and back into the music world with a new mission to help make it a better place, creating healthier work environments, mental health first aid, and more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:THE BACK LOUNGE On Facebook & InstagramHealthy Touring ResourcesTouring and Mental Health: The Music Industry Manual...2024-01-101h 02Signal To Noise Podcast234. Jim van Bergen, Audio “Renaissance Man”Audio “renaissance man” Jim van Bergen joins the show in Episode 234 to talk about his wide-ranging career, including his tenure mixing the Times Square New Year’s Eve broadcasts, serving as front of house engineer for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, recording singer-songwriter Shane MacGowan live, touring with the Metropolitan Opera, mixing the Beatles tribute Rain’s Broadway residency, and much more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.Episode Links:Jim vanBergen On LinkedInJvB UnCorked (Jim’s Wine Blog)Shane MacGowan’s Popes – Across the Broad...2024-01-041h 20Signal To Noise Podcast233. ProSoundWeb Podcast Network Holiday SpecialTo wrap up the year, the hosts of Signal To Noise and Live Sound Bootcamp joined forces in Episode 233 for an extra special live episode to talk about all things audio — favorite gigs of the year, goals for 2024, fun toys, and a deep dive into console presets, drum mics and processing, in addition to answering listener questions from the live chat! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath, RCF, and Rational Acoustics.Episode Links:Live Sound Bootcamp Podcasts On PSWLewitt MTP-50 Handle4-in-1 USB-C Charging Ca...2023-12-292h 13Signal To Noise Podcast232. TC Furlong, Sound Company Owner & MusicianChicago-based live audio legend TC Furlong joins the show in Episode 232 and talks about his journey in founding a live audio company that just celebrated its 50th anniversary, his life as a pedal steel player in a one-hit wonder band, and the details of a tool he invented in the 1980s that many of us still use on every single music gig we do nearly 40 years later! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath, RCF, and Rational Acoustics.Episode Links:TC Furlong — Live Sound Since 1973Jump In Th...2023-12-201h 07Signal To Noise Podcast228. Kevin Young, Professional Touring Musician & Audio WriterLong-time professional touring musician and Live Sound International/ProSoundWeb writer Kevin Young joins the show in Episode 228 and talks about a range of subjects, including building and maintaining the artist-tech relationship, concert production in the middle of an active war zone in Ukraine, and more. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath, RCF, and Rational Acoustics.Episode Links:Kevin Young Article Archive On ProSoundWebKevin Young Website, LinkedIn & InstagramBe sure to check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group and Discord Server. It’s a...2023-11-221h 13Signal To Noise Podcast220. Andy Peters, FOH For The Feelies & A Whole Lot MoreIn Episode 220, co-hosts Katie Karch and Andy Leviss are joined by guest co-host Ryan O John to interview Andy Peters, front of house engineer for New Jersey-based indie rock band The Feelies in addition to being an astronomy instrumentation developer and long-time ProSoundWeb Live Audio Board denizen. This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath, RCF, and Rational Acoustics.As the house mixer for Maxwell’s, the seminal Hoboken, NJ club dubbed the “Island of Misfit Toys,” Andy had a back row seat to so much indie/punk rock history during the 1980s and 90s, all while working full-t...2023-09-201h 22Signal To Noise Podcast193. James Holt, Theater Control Software Creator & Theatrical MixerOn episode 193 James Holt joins the hosts to talk about the theater control software he created as well as his experiences as a theater mixer. People with a background in mixing live music are often surprised when they learn how professional musical theater productions are mixed: extensive console automation is used to bring the active character inputs onto the console VCAs, which are then adjusted “line by line,” which minimizes the audibility of bleed and phase issues, and keeps open inputs to a minimum. They discuss how and why James developed TheatreMix, the challenges along the way, and more....2023-02-221h 03Signal To Noise Podcast129. Jeri Palumbo - NFL Broadcast MixingIn episode 129 the hosts are joined by Jeri Palumbo to discuss broadcast audio for NFL games. They get into all aspects of the job from mixing in the truck, A2 work on the field, RF coordination, parabolic microphones, and more. Jeri Palumbo is a Broadcast Sports and Entertainment Mixer based in Los Angeles. Jeri has been working in audio for over 30 years, first as a trained musician and arranger before going into post-production and then moving into live broadcast. Working mainly within sports broadcasting, her clients include the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NASCAR, The Super Bowl, World Series, Stanley...2021-11-241h 12
Church Sound Podcast41. Church Facilities Expo w/ProSoundWebThe ProSoundWeb team met up together (some of us for the first time) in Dallas, TX at the end of September, 2021. With the opportunity presented, the crew all got on the mic together to discuss how the conference was going and what we've all been up to!Host Samantha Potter is also co-lead instructor with Church Sound University — a training program tailored specifically for worship audio techs that’s now also available online. Reach her via email here.2021-10-071h 04Signal To Noise Podcast120. Live From CFX 2021, First Time In The Same RoomThe hosts are in the same room for the first time. Episode 120 was live from CFX (Church Facilities Conference & Expo), where Kyle and Chris hosted the LiveSoud Magazine speaker demo room. They talk about how to get the most out of a trade show, the attendee vs. manufacture experience, and more. They are also joined by many guests such as Keith Clark ( Editor and Chief of ProSoundWeb), Karl Winkler ( VP of Sales at Lectrosinics), Samantha Potter ( ChurchSound U , Allen & Heath), and Hannah Goodien ( Rational Acoustics).This episode is sponsored by Audix and Allen & Heath.2021-09-221h 03Signal To Noise Podcast109. Loudspeaker Design and Measurement with Charlie HughesCharlie Hughes is a loudspeaker design and measurement expert with over three decades of experience. He is currently a Principal Engineer at Biamp, and in the past has worked with AMFG, Altec Lansing, and Peavey, and also runs his own company, Excelsior Audio Design & Services. In this episode, he chats with the hosts about his journey and passion for audio test and measurement, the early era of audio analysis, and the loudspeaker measurement lab that he built.Read about Charlie's measurement lab: https://www.prosoundweb.com/field-trip-endeavors-in-audio-accuracy/Square Wave mythbusting: https://www.prosoundweb.com/square-waves-and-dc-content-deconstructing-complex-waveforms/2021-07-071h 05Signal To Noise Podcast100. Jim Yakabuski / 100th Episode LiveThe ProSoundWeb Signal to Noise podcast celebrates the release of its 100th episode (Wednesday, May 5) with a live stream special edition featuring Jim Yakabuski, a music performance by noted artist Mike Green (his track “Break Free” is the show’s theme song), and special prize giveaways that include an Allen & Heath SQ Series mixer, a Mic Bundle from Audix, and many more.You can watch it here on our YouTube Channel Join our Mentorship Program here:https://forms.gle/ZhsJP5D6BFiBLZiX8This episode is sponsored by Audix and Allen & Heath.Please...2021-05-081h 23Signal To Noise Podcast99. Rachael Moser, System EngineerRachael Moser joins the hosts on episode 99 to discuss the path she took to become a system tech with Clair Global. They discuss some issues they have encountered on shows, including a time when Rachel had to smack an analog console to bring the left side of the PA back to life mid-show.A veteran of more than 15 years in professional audio, Rachael Moser has served in multiple roles – PA tech, monitor tech, RF tech, monitor mixer, and now system engineer/crew chief – with Clair Global in Nashville for more than a decade.Check out Rachel Mose...2021-04-281h 00Signal To Noise Podcast93. Ryan John, Mixing GuitarsIn this episode, A-level mix engineer and product manager Ryan John returns to the show to share his approach to mixing guitars, plus the group talks about getting peer feedback on mixes, and Kyle eats an entire pack of Starburst. Check out Ryan's podcast, Live Sound Bootcamp at https://www.prosoundweb.com/podcasts/live-sound-bootcamp/.Join our new Discord ServerThis episode is sponsored by Audix and Allen & Heath.Please check out and support The Roadie Clinic, Their mission is simple. "We exist to empower & heal roadies...2021-03-171h 15Signal To Noise Podcast86. Cory Wong - guitarist, songwriter, producerThe hosts are joined by guitarist, songwriter, and producer Cory Wong. We discuss Cory's approach to mixing his own records and his perspective on his IEM mix. We also learn about Cory's tours with Vulfpeck and Ben Rector, and what it takes to be a good rhythm guitar player.Cory Wong recently launched a new YouTube series called Cory and The Wongnotes.Hear Cory's IEM mix with Ben Rector.You can watch this episode on the ProSoundWeb YouTube Channel.This episode is sponsored by Audix and Allen & Heath.Please...2021-01-251h 00Signal To Noise Podcast74. In-Ear Monitor Test & Measurement, Audix TM2Audix just released a simple and effective way to test in-ear monitors (IEMs) for potential damage or performance degradation. By pairing the TM2 with test and measurement software, a transfer function of an in-ear monitor can be easily generated and compared to previous measurements of the same device. Steve Young and Fred Bigeh join us in a demonstration and discussion on the TM2You can watch the video of this episode on the ProSoundWeb YouTube channelThis episode is sponsored by: Audix NEW Online Podcast Merch store: https://teespring.com/stores/signal-to-noise-podcast2020-11-1152 minSignal To Noise PodcastLive Episode #6: Jeff Hawley, Pavan Grewall, Daniel LundbergLive Episode #6 featuring guests: Jeff Hawley, Pavan Grewall, Daniel LundbergYou can watch the video of this episode on the ProSoundWeb Youtube ChannelThis episode is sponsored by: Audix Please check out and support The Roadie Clinic, Their mission is simple. "We exist to empower & heal roadies and their families by providing resources & services tailored to the struggles of the touring lifestyle."Be sure to check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group. It’s a space for listeners to create to generate con...2020-10-051h 08Signal To Noise PodcastThe FOH & MON Engineer Relationship - Chris Taylor, Robert Bull, & Russ LongProSoundWeb Podcast Network joined forces to host “The FOH & Monitor Engineer Relationship” LIVE, the first-ever Front of the House Fridays live event. FofHF host Russ Long and Signal To Noise co-host Chris Leonard teamed up with FOH engineer Chris Taylor and monitor engineer Robert Bull to talk about mix strategies and how two sides of the same coin successfully come togetherYou can watch the video here: https://youtu.be/SEOy0PKqjpIPlease check out and support The Roadie Clinic, Their mission is simple. "We exist to empower & heal roadies and thei...2020-08-151h 04Signal To Noise Podcast60. Fletcher McDermott & Chris TsanjouresMichael and Kyle are joined by touring audio engineer Fletcher McDermott and Smaart instructor Chris Tsnajoures to talk about their workflows for quickly wrangling PA du Jour, mixing techniques, and some nerding out about synthesizers. Links: https://www.prosoundweb.com/2019-top-20-9-front-lines-why-we-measure/This episode is sponsored by: Audix Be sure to check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group. It’s a space for listeners to create to generate conversations around the people and topics covered in the podcast — we want your questions and comments! Let’s build a great sound co...2020-08-0553 minSignal To Noise PodcastPlay Well With Others - Chris Leonard on the Church Sound PodcastCo-Host Chris Leonard was on the Church Sound Podcast episode 11. "Chris Leonard, one of the hosts of the Signal To Noise Podcast and director of audio at IMS Technology Services joins me this week. What does it look like to play well with others? Chris and I discuss what it means to work with people we don't get along with (and why it matters most.) Additionally, we hash out adding in pads and tracks into worship sets. Also, what does the corporate world and the House of Worship world have in common?Church Sound Podcast...2020-08-031h 04Signal To Noise PodcastLive Episode #5 Special Guest: Pavan Grewall, Carter Hassebroek & Kevin McCoyIn this Special Episode, the hosts went live again in the Signal To Noise Podcast Facebook group to hang with some friends - Carter Hassebroek, Hannah Goodine, Kevin McCoy and Pavan Grewall. We talked about all sorts of interesting and nerdy things - reality vs expectations, the ethics of SPL, console ownership, and more.You can watch this episode on our ProSoundWeb YouTube Page as well.This episode is sponsored by: Audix Be sure to check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group. It’s a...2020-07-101h 28Signal To Noise Podcast50. 50th Episode Celebration LiveTo mark its 50th Episode, the Signal To Noise podcast went live on both the ProSoundWeb Facebook page and YouTube page .This episode is sponsored by: Audix Be sure to check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group. It’s a space for listeners to create to generate conversations around the people and topics covered in the podcast — we want your questions and comments! Let’s build a great sound community with a place to learn, discuss and reminisce about the “good old days.”The Signal To Noise podcast ser...2020-06-021h 24Signal To Noise Podcast49. Ike Zimbel, RF TechIke Zimbel is a wireless frequency coordinator and tech based in Toronto. A 35-plus year veteran of the audio industry. During that time he has worked extensively as a wireless microphone technician and coordinator, live sound engineer, recording studio technician, audio supervisor for TV broadcasts and have managed manufacturing and production companies. Coordinating 200+ channels of RF is Ikes's specialty for events like The NHL All-Star game. We dig into all things RF with Ike.Ike Zimbel's ProSoundWeb ArticlesIke Zimble's Website This episode is sponsored by: Audix Be sure to c...2020-05-261h 03Signal To Noise Podcast47. FOH & System Tech Relationship : Jim Yak / Carter HassebroekThe working relationship between the FOH mix engineer and the system tech is critical for ensuring a quality and consistent experience for the audience. On this episode, professional system engineer Carter Hassebroek and mix engineer Jim Yakabuski join us for a deep dive on their working relationship and process on the 2019 Peter Frampton tour.Jim Yakabuski on ProSoundWeb: https://www.prosoundweb.com/author/jim-yakabuskiThis episode is sponsored by: Audix A reminder — check out the Signal To Noise Facebook Group. It’s a space for listeners to create to generate conversations around the...2020-05-1859 min
Church Sound PodcastBrian Maddox, All Things Audio Part 1Get ready for an audio explosion. Brian Maddox (Patti LaBelle, James Brown, Herbie Hancock) is a pro audio veteran with enough experience to fill several books. Our main topic covers some best practices for live sound: the importance of proper gaffing, objectivity vs subjectivity, troubleshooting tips, and more. What are your best live sound practices? Brian Maddox on ProSoundWebProSoundWeb ForumsChurch Sound Podcast is sponsored by Saint Paul School of Theology and is hosted by Samantha Potter, co-lead instructor with Church Sound University and editorial director with ProSoundWeb and Church Sound Magazine. 2020-05-071h 27