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How to plan soundcheck and line check
Updated October 7, 2026 · 3 min read
Soundcheck time is limited and shared, so planning it is part of running a good show day. This guide covers how soundcheck order works, what a line check is, and how to keep everyone on time.
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Day sheet template
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Input list template
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Soundcheck order
On a multi-band bill the usual convention is "last on, first to check": the headliner checks first, then support acts in reverse order of playing, so the opener checks last and their gear stays set up in front. This keeps the opener’s changeover to a minimum. Confirm the order and times during the advance.
Typical timings
Times depend on the venue and production. A headliner on a club tour might get forty-five minutes to an hour, support acts less. Ask the venue how long you have and who decides when you’re done. Build a buffer before doors; soundcheck almost always runs late.
What happens at soundcheck
- Line check: each input is checked to confirm it works and is on the right channel.
- Instrument check: the engineer sets gain and tone for each source.
- Monitor mixes: each player gets their mix set.
- Play a song or two: the band plays together so both front of house and monitors can balance.
- Notes: mark positions, save scenes, and note anything to fix.
Line check only
When there is no time for a full soundcheck (festivals, late arrivals, openers), you do a line check: confirm every input passes signal and monitors work, then start the set and fix the mix during the first song. A clear input list and stage plot make line checks much faster.
Keeping it on time
- Be ready to start when your slot begins: gear built, instruments tuned.
- Have one person (the tour manager or production manager) keep time and call "two minutes".
- Don’t rehearse new songs at soundcheck.
- Leave the stage promptly for the next act.
Put it on the day sheet
Every soundcheck slot belongs on the day sheet with start and end times, plus the opener’s line check and changeover times. See the day sheet guide.
Example multi-band schedule (EXAMPLE)
| Time | Item |
|---|---|
| 15:00 | Headliner load-in and set up |
| 16:00 | Headliner soundcheck |
| 17:00 | Support load-in |
| 17:15 | Support soundcheck |
| 17:45 | Opener line check |
| 18:15 | Dinner |
| 19:00 | Doors |
Changeovers
The gap between bands is a changeover. Plan it: who moves what, where gear goes, and how long it takes. Pre-patch what you can and mark positions with tape. Practice; a ten-minute changeover done well buys time for your set.
Etiquette
- Be on time for your slot and leave the stage when it ends.
- Keep stage volume reasonable during others’ checks.
- Don’t move other bands’ gear without asking.
- Thank the engineers; they decide how your show sounds.
How TRMNGR helps
Add each soundcheck and line check as a Day Sheet item with start and end times so the whole band sees their slot. Keep the Input List (CH, INSTRUMENT, MIC, STAND, MIX) and Stage Plot current on the Stage tab and export them as PDFs for the house engineer before you arrive.