Monitor Controller
A Monitor Controller is an essential piece of equipment in sound engineering that helps manage what performers and audio engineers hear during performances or recordings. Think of it like a sophisticated volume control system that lets sound engineers adjust what different people hear in their headphones or stage speakers (monitors). For example, the drummer might need to hear more bass, while the singer needs to hear more of their own voice. Similar terms used in the industry include Monitor Mixer, Monitor Console, or Monitor Desk. This role is crucial for both live performances and studio recordings to ensure everyone can hear what they need to perform their best.
Examples in Resumes
Managed complex stage setups as Monitor Controller for major music festivals
Operated Monitor Desk for touring rock bands across 30+ venues
Provided Monitor Mix solutions for Broadway musical productions
Set up and operated Monitor Console systems for television broadcast performances
Typical job title: "Monitor Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Monitor Engineers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle multiple monitor mixes for a large festival with quick changeovers?
Expected Answer: A senior monitor engineer should explain their system for organizing presets, working with digital consoles, managing different performer preferences, and maintaining smooth transitions between acts while ensuring each performer gets their preferred mix quickly.
Q: How do you deal with feedback issues in a live monitoring situation?
Expected Answer: They should discuss prevention techniques, understanding room acoustics, proper microphone and speaker placement, using EQ effectively, and how to quickly identify and resolve feedback without disrupting the performance.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain your approach to setting up in-ear monitoring systems.
Expected Answer: Should describe the process of setting up wireless systems, creating individual mixes, managing frequencies, and ensuring reliable connections while maintaining audio quality for performers.
Q: How do you communicate with performers during a show?
Expected Answer: Should explain various communication systems, hand signals, how to interpret performer requests during a show, and maintaining professional relationships while ensuring everyone gets what they need to perform.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between wedge monitors and in-ear monitors?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that wedge monitors are speakers on stage while in-ear monitors are like earbuds, and describe basic advantages and disadvantages of each.
Q: How do you set up a basic monitor mix for a singer?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of getting the vocalist's voice in their monitor along with basic accompaniment, and how to adjust levels based on their feedback.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic monitor console operation
- Understanding of stage layout and setup
- Basic troubleshooting skills
- Working with wedge monitors
Mid (2-5 years)
- Managing multiple monitor mixes
- In-ear monitor system setup
- Working with digital consoles
- Basic system design
Senior (5+ years)
- Festival and large event experience
- Advanced troubleshooting
- Team leadership
- Complex monitoring system design
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with digital mixing consoles
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of basic sound system knowledge
- No experience with wireless systems
- Unable to work under pressure
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