Mastering Your Live Music Stage Setup: Tips and Tricks

Live music is all about bringing fans together: whether they’re dancing to pop anthems in a jam-packed stadium or discovering new jazz improv in an intimate underground venue. As with any other event, production is key — from choosing audio equipment to lighting rigs. 

With crystal-clear audio and dynamic visuals, your live music stage setup plays a starring role in your event. In this guide, discover how to design the perfect stage to amp up the performance, the audio, and the attendee experience. 

Key takeaways

• Make sure your live music sound system — such as speakers, microphones, and audio mixers — are carefully selected and tailored to the size of the venue 

• Stage design is also essential in maximizing audience engagement during the performance with dynamic lighting and multimedia integration

• Safety measures and equipment organization, such as efficient cable management and power supply backups, are critical for ensuring a safe, spectacular show

Creating the perfect sound system for your live music stage

There’s one thing that steals the show in live music: the perfect sound system. From selecting speakers for super-crisp sound to choosing the right microphones for your musicians, great audio equipment immerses your crowd into the music. Discover tips on how to do this below.

Choosing the right speakers

Whether you’re running a folk gig in a small venue or a large-scale rave with big-name DJs, you’ll need the right speakers. Your choice will depend on the size of your venue, the type of rigging system you’re planning to use, and your audio requirements. Make sure to listen to speakers before buying or hiring to check the sound quality; a good audiovisual supplier should be happy to let you do this and can advise during the process. 

There are a number of things to look for when choosing a speaker (these details are usually available on the specification sheet):

Frequency response

This requirement will vary depending on the genre of music. For instance, 60 Hz to 18 kHz will work for genres where drum and bass sounds don’t need extra emphasis (such as folk or country), while rock or pop will likely require a subwoofer to extend the frequency response to 45 Hz or lower, allowing increased output.

Sound pressure level (SPL)

This is how loud a speaker is at a specific distance (usually one meter is used as the default on specifications). Peak SPL is how loud the speaker is on loud transients, while continuous SPL is the average loudness. 

It’s worth noting that output lowers by 6 decibels with a doubling of distance, while doubling up on speakers adds 3 decibels extra to the output. In other words, the SPL — and number of speakers — you opt for will depend on the size of the room, and how far the speakers will be from the audience.

Dispersion

This is the way the sound is projected horizontally and vertically from the speaker — which will help you decide on the placement of the speakers in the venue. Many speakers have a trapezoidal design, which allows them to be placed in a cluster of other speakers without interference, or dispersed throughout the venue. 

The aim is sound coverage for the entire audience — which will depend on the size and shape of the room. For instance, a speaker with a 60-degree horizontal dispersion might work for a narrow room, while a larger room with a higher ceiling and truss structures might require a speaker with a higher vertical dispersion.

Active vs passive speakers

Active speakers are the easiest to set up and operate. They have built-in amplifiers to limit distortion, and crossovers to isolate the high, mid, and low frequencies — whereas passive speakers require separate amps. 

Active speakers can be a great option if you’re looking for easy stage setup and streamlined event logistics — while passive speakers may be better if you’re looking for a fully customizable setup for more complex sound requirements. 

For different venue sizes, you might want to consider the following:

• Small to medium-sized venues: You might want to opt for models favored for their portability and high power output, like the Mackie Thump212, Yamaha DBR12, and QSC K12.2. 

• Larger venues: You might want to opt for speakers designed for large spaces, such as the QSC K12.2, which offers high headroom and robust projection, while the JBL EON712 has great horizontal and vertical dispersion for consistent sound coverage.

Microphone selection and placement

From saxophone solos to hip-hop vocals, microphones play a key role in delivering great sound to your audience. There are two main types of microphones: 

Dynamic microphones

These are most commonly used in live music performances. They’re best suited to loud environments and are extremely robust and versatile — you can use them for concerts with brass instruments, heavy vocals, drum kits, and guitars for incredible sound. 

Placement: A dynamic microphone should be placed around 15-60cm from the front drumhead of a bass drum, and the same distance above a snare drum. For an electric guitar, position it 20-30cm from the guitar cabinet. For vocals, it should be 5-15 cm from the mouth. 

Condenser microphones

These are typically used for recorded live music. Condenser microphones are much more sensitive, capturing audio with precision and detail, and so are best suited for vocals and acoustics. If you’re hosting a live music event in a virtual livestream setting where audio is paramount — such as a recorded live session for a music video — you might opt for these mics. 

Placement: A condenser microphone should be placed around 15-30cm from the 12th fret of the acoustic guitar. For vocals, it should be — just as for a dynamic mic — 5-15cm from the mouth.

Wired vs wireless microphones

Not sure whether to use wired and wireless microphones? Wired is often most commonly used for live music and can be the most cost-effective option. If you’re looking for more flexibility for the performance so that vocalists can move around more freely, wireless mics might be best. Try opting for the Shure SM58 for vocals, or SM57 for instruments. For wireless mics, the Shure GLXD24R+ or the QLXD series digital microphones are popular.

The role of the audio mixer

The audio mixing desk is where all the magic is conjured up: it’s where the sound engineer artfully merges different audio streams to produce an incredible piece of music. When planning your event and creating your budget for a live music event, make sure to factor in the costs of hiring an audio mixer for pitch-perfect sound. 

Mixers are often positioned at the back of the venue to experience sound from the audience’s perspective and have a clear view of the stage — although you might choose to position yours by the side of the stage so musicians have easy communication with them to adjust sound levels as appropriate. 

The sound engineer will work to achieve a well-balanced mix of vocals and instruments and avoid audio distortion, using different channels to adjust sound levels, frequencies, and reverb. The sound specifications will vary hugely depending on the music genre and artist, but this might include using:

• Faders: This is the device that raises or lowers the amount of audible signal from a specific channel (such as a mic or an instrument).

• Compressors: A compressor makes a voice or an instrument sound more even — for instance, loud parts become softer, or soft parts become louder. 

• Auxes: Auxes are used for adding a time-based effect (such as reverb or delay) as well as to send sounds to in-ear monitors or a monitor wedge on stage.

Essential accessories

Accompanying the big devices — such as speakers, microphones, and audio mixing desks — are the little things: accessories. There are a number of accessories you’ll need for a great music performance, so make sure these things are covered on your production schedule and tech checklist. 

Depending on the requirements of your event, you might want to consider: 

• Cables: XLR cables are an essential part of live music setups for their balanced connections and resistance to interference. You’ll also need a variety of cable lengths to accommodate different stage sizes and layouts. 

• Direct boxes (DIs): In addition to cable requirements, you’ll need direct inject (DI) boxes. These are used to convert unbalanced signals to balanced ones, crucial for long cable runs.

• Stands: Microphone stands are needed to position mics appropriately for various instruments and vocalists, while adjustable speaker stands are crucial for proper speaker placement, impacting sound coverage and quality.

• Clip-on microphone holders: These offer a quick and secure way to attach microphones to drum rims or other instruments.

• Monitor speakers: These allow performers to hear themselves and others during live performances — critical for maintaining harmony and rhythm.

• In-ear monitor systems: These provide an alternative monitoring solution with more control and less stage noise.

• Surge protectors: These are important accessories to guard against electrical surges and maintain power stability for all equipment.

Designing an engaging stage layout

From glittering stage backdrops to dazzling lighting techniques, event design is at the heart of a spectacular live music performance. Discover tips on how to design an engaging stage with lighting, dynamic elements, and layout styles below. 

Lighting techniques

The best way to create an atmospheric performance? Immersive lighting. When designing your lighting setup, make sure to consider practical elements — such as the venue’s rigging capabilities and tech — as well as more creative ones, such as lighting that fits with your event branding and the performances of the artists. 

You might want to consider:

• Color washes: Consider the role color psychology plays in achieving the right ambiance for the performance. During a quieter set, for instance, you might choose to opt for softer, warmer shades — while brighter hues will create an energetic mood. 

• Spotlights: These focus attention on performers or specific areas of the stage, and work well to keep the audience engaged. 

• Moving lights: Moving lights, on the other hand, offer more dynamic effects — they can can synchronize with the rhythm of the music and can be customized to a range of colors and intensities. 

• Strobe lights: Strobe lights are a great way to bring energy to high-impact moments in a show — such as special performances, solos, or choruses. 

Dynamic stage elements

Imagine your stage as a canvas: How can you paint a compelling picture for your crowd? In addition to lighting, adding dynamic stage elements consistent with your event’s theme can be a great way to think outside the box with your visuals. 

Discover some inspiration on how to enhance the vibe below:

Backdrop design

Striking backdrop designs can be a great way to capture the imagination of the crowd with visual layers. These might be themed backdrops for the stage with the band’s logo, motifs, or imagery; dynamic music videos; or moving graphics and animations that fit with the overall concept or the band’s aesthetic. These might include:

• Creative visual backdrops

• Drapes, curtains, or partitions

• Visual display screens with video or animation

• Decorative panels

Stage design

These set dressing elements can be used by artists and musicians during the performance. They might choose to use these throughout for height variation — or add them into the performance to visually indicate a change of pace, a new act, or a different sound. This could include:

• Elevated platforms 

• Inclined ramps

• Ascending stairs

• Tiered risers

Ensuring performer comfort and accessibility

The best way to ensure an unforgettable performance is to prioritize the comfort of the performers — whether that’s designing an intuitive stage layout or creating smooth transitions. As well as speaking with technicians, sound engineers, and the musicians themselves about what would work best, you might want to consider the following: 

• Stage layout: Is the stage laid out in an easy to navigate and safe format? Are instruments easy to access, and are all cables neatly secured to prevent trip hazards?

• Runthroughs: Conduct sound checks and run-throughs with performers before the event so that everyone is comfortable with timings and equipment — and so that any issues can be addressed beforehand. 

• Equipment: Is all necessary equipment — such as cables and microphones — within easy reach? Are there music stands for performers to switch between instruments for smooth transitions between songs?

• Visibility: Just as with a sound check, you might want to do a lighting check to ensure that performers have adequate visibility during the performance and adjust lighting levels accordingly.

Soundcheck and fine-tuning

The best way to catch any sound issues is to identify them beforehand. That’s where a soundcheck comes in. Whether you’re running an indie rock festival or a small folk gig, conducting a soundcheck of all performers’ instruments and vocals is essential. 

Here are some tips on how to run an effective soundcheck:

• Select the right songs: During soundchecks, select songs that highlight different parts of the band, allowing for optimization of sound across various instruments and vocals.

• Test the sound from all parts of the venue: Have the producers and sound engineers assess the sound from various parts of the venue to ensure consistency of audio quality for the audience.

• Pay attention to softer sounds: Adjust the volume of each instrument carefully, and focus on making softer outputs like vocals or acoustic guitars easily audible. 

Balancing volume levels

A live performance thrives on a multitude of sounds blending together — from vocals to drum beats to guitar strings. In soundcheck, the aim is to find the perfect balance for harmony. To do this, make sure to:

• Angle amplifiers upwards so that musicians can better hear themselves without needing increased volume

• Use personal monitoring devices like in-ear monitors or headphones for direct control over what’s heard

• Implement acoustic treatments, such as absorptive materials and panels, to curtail space echo in the venue

EQ and acoustic adjustments

Adjusting the balance between different frequency elements in an audio signal, known as equalization (EQ), is essential for creating a realistic sound profile for each instrument. This involves taking into account the acoustic properties of the venue when mixing sounds at the mixing desk. 

EQ helps to achieve a natural sound for each instrument, while other acoustic adjustments help to create the perfect volume. Compressors are used in sound production to prevent signals from becoming overly loud — and to shape the dynamics of sounds within the mix as a whole. It’s worth noting that too much compression can lead to feedback issues — so make sure you have an audio engineer on board to steer the production. 

Monitor speaker setup

Monitors play a starring role in an artist’s performance: they allow musicians to listen to themselves and their fellow band members to ensure they’re in tune and in time with one another. 

When running your soundcheck, make sure to communicate with the musicians to ensure these monitors are tailored to each musician’s individual sound preferences (for instance, stage monitor mixes are commonly kept without reverb or effects to give musicians a clearer sound, but some singers may prefer having a bit of reverb added to their monitor mix for better vocal delivery). 

With an optimal monitor setup, musicians can deliver a smooth live performance and delight your crowd. 

Stage safety and equipment organization

The final ingredient in a great live music stage setup: safety and organization. Health and safety considerations should be a key part of any event contingency plan, and live music events are no different. Take a look at some key features of good protocol below:

Cable management and equipment safety

Live music involves a lot of equipment — so it’s essential to keep everything organized on stage, from cables to speakers.

Cable management is essential for keeping the stage free of clutter, which not only improves the aesthetics of the stage, but also reduces the risk of performers or crew members tripping over loose cables. Use Velcro straps or cable ties to bundle and secure cables — making them neater and easier to manage. You can also use cable ramps or covers in high-traffic areas to minimize tripping hazards during the performance. 

For larger equipment like speakers, make sure all equipment is securely mounted — such as on a rigging system, or secured to the ground (and make sure to consult OSHA regulations for crew safety procedures). Ensuring everything is stable is essential in preventing accidents on stage, and ensures the safety of all performers and crew. 

Power supply and backup solutions

Every music organizer’s worst nightmare? No power on stage. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate this by planning ahead. 

One of the best ways to do this is via an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). This keeps equipment running in the event of a power shortage. To select the right UPS requires calculating the combined wattage of all equipment and choosing a device with a slightly higher VA (Volt-Ampere) number to ensure proper protection. These backups come in different forms such as brick or tower UPS, with tower UPS being more suitable for the complex and sensitive equipment typically found in live music stage setups. 

When choosing a UPS, it's important to consider the number of outlets needed, the filtering features of the UPS, and any included software that can enhance the protection and functionality of the backup system. If you’re unsure about how to choose the right UPS, you can consult a technician or the venue (it’s likely they will have one, or know where to source one, if they frequently host music events). 

Whether you’re hosting an indie pop gig or a live orchestra event, your stage setup is at the heart of your attendees’ sensory experience. From crisp, immersive audio to dynamic and exciting visuals, a sleek stage setup can help you polish the performance — and delight your audience with an unforgettable night of music. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment do you need to set up a live music stage?

To set up a live music stage, you’ll need a variety of audiovisual equipment — such as speakers, amplifiers (if using passive speakers), microphones and accessories like XLR cables, instrument stands, DI boxes, and more. 

What is the role of an audio mixer in a live performance?

In a live performance, an audio mixer is essential for handling sound from various microphones and instruments, regulating sound levels, and delivering a harmoniously balanced mix through the speakers to create an incredible experience for the crowd. 

Where should speakers be placed on a stage?

There are many options for speaker placement — and much of it will depend on the size and shape of your event space. However, generally speaking, speakers (and subwoofers) should be placed at the front of the stage, facing the audience. They should also be placed in front of microphones and instruments to avoid unnecessary feedback.