Soundcheck is a crucial part of preparing for Sunday worship. It ensures the worship team and the tech team are aligned, creating a distraction-free atmosphere where the congregation can focus on worship. However, without proper structure, soundchecks can become chaotic or rushed. Here’s a guide to running an effective soundcheck that sets the stage for a seamless worship service.

1. Start with Prayer

Before diving into the technical aspects, take a moment to pray with the team. This sets the tone for unity, focus, and a heart of worship.

Prayer Focus:

• Invite God’s presence into your preparation.
• Pray for clear communication between the tech team and the worship team.
• Ask for wisdom to address any technical challenges.

2. Arrive Early and Be Ready

Punctuality is key to running a smooth soundcheck. Both the tech team and worship team should arrive with enough time to set up and start promptly. Ensure everyone has:

• Their instruments tuned and ready.
• Necessary gear (cables, picks, drumsticks, etc.).
• Personal monitors or in-ear systems in place.

Tip: Encourage team members to use the week to prepare their parts, minimizing last-minute adjustments during soundcheck.

3. Set the Stage and Check Equipment

Before the band begins playing, the tech team should:

• Ensure all microphones, instruments, and DI boxes are plugged in and functional.
• Test cables, soundboards, and monitors to confirm there are no technical issues.
• Adjust the stage layout for comfort and visibility.

Tip for Musicians: Take a moment to organize your space, ensuring pedals, stands, and personal equipment are set up efficiently.

4. Line Check Each Input

Begin the soundcheck with a line check. This ensures each microphone and instrument is sending a signal to the soundboard.

Line Check Process:

1. Start with drums: Kick, snare, toms, hi-hat, and cymbals.
2. Move to bass, guitars, and keyboards.
3. Check vocal microphones individually.

For each input, the sound engineer should confirm:

• Signal clarity.
• Proper volume levels.
• Elimination of feedback or unwanted noise.

5. Adjust Monitor Mixes

After confirming all inputs, work on individual monitor mixes. Each team member should communicate their needs clearly to the sound engineer.

Monitor Mix Tips:

• Ensure vocalists hear their own voices and any essential instruments for pitch reference.
• Instrumentalists should focus on hearing the rhythm section (drums and bass).
• Encourage balance—too much of any one element can create distractions.

Tip for Worship Leaders: Advocate for the overall blend while ensuring everyone has what they need to perform confidently.

6. Run Through Key Songs or Transitions

Once monitors are set, rehearse a portion of each key song or focus on tricky transitions. This allows the team to:

• Fine-tune dynamics and timing.
• Ensure smooth transitions between songs or service elements.
• Confirm that the mix works well when the band plays together.

7. Address the Front of House Mix

As the band plays, the sound engineer should:

• Balance the levels of all instruments and vocals.
• Adjust EQ settings to avoid muddiness or harsh tones.
• Check how the mix sounds in the room, walking through different areas of the sanctuary.

Tip: Ensure the mix serves the congregation, prioritizing clarity of lyrics and balance across the instruments.

8. Test Spoken Audio and Service Cues

Don’t forget to check microphones for speakers, announcements, or pastors. These need to be clear and at an appropriate volume. Run through cues for:

• Video or media transitions.
• Any special service elements like testimonies or communion.

9. Keep Communication Clear and Respectful

Effective soundchecks rely on good communication between the tech team and worship team. Be concise and patient, avoiding unnecessary chatter.

Helpful Phrases to Use:

• “Can I have more/less of [instrument or voice] in my monitor?”
• “Let’s run that section again to adjust the levels.”
• “I need clarity on [specific adjustment].”

10. End with Gratitude and Unity

Once the soundcheck is complete, thank everyone for their effort and hard work. Acknowledge both the tech team and musicians for their contributions.

Common Soundcheck Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Starting Late

   • Solution: Set clear call times and hold the team accountable.

2. Rushing Through the Process

   • Solution: Build in enough time to address technical issues without stress.

3. Poor Communication

   • Solution: Assign a leader (worship leader or music director) to facilitate communication between the band and the tech team.

Final Thought

A well-executed soundcheck is the foundation of a distraction-free worship service. When the tech team and worship team collaborate effectively, they create an environment where the congregation can engage deeply with God. Approach each soundcheck with excellence, humility, and the heart of a servant, knowing your preparation plays a vital role in leading others into worship.

What’s your favorite soundcheck tip or routine? Share it in the comments below!