Glossary

PA (Public Address)

The main sound reinforcement system used to amplify the performance for the audience. Includes speakers, amplifiers, processing, and the FOH mixing console. A good PA should provide even coverage and sufficient SPL throughout the venue.

FOH

Front of House – Refers to the audience-facing sound system and the engineer mixing for the audience. Also refers to the FOH mixing console.

IEM

In-Ear Monitors – Personal monitoring system using earphones, typically wireless, allowing musicians to hear a custom mix on stage.

Split Snake

A signal splitter (analog or digital) used to send the same set of inputs to two different mixing consoles, typically FOH and monitors.

DI Box

Direct Injection Box – Converts unbalanced, high-impedance instrument signals (like from a bass or keyboard) into balanced, low-impedance signals suitable for mixing consoles.

Click Track

A metronome track sent to performers (usually via IEMs) to keep the band in sync. It is never intended to be heard by the audience.

Talkback Mic / TB

A microphone used by FOH or monitor engineers to communicate with performers on stage. The signal is routed to monitor mixes, not to the main PA.

Side Fill / SF

Speakers placed on the sides of the stage to supplement front wedges and help performers hear the overall band mix.

Wedge

A floor monitor speaker placed in front of a performer, used to deliver a custom mix.

Stage Plot

A visual diagram showing the layout of the band on stage — positions of musicians, instruments, monitors, and mic stands.

Input List

A detailed list of all channels (microphones and DIs) required for the performance, usually numbered and ordered to match the stage plot and patching.