The Toolcase for Live Sound Engineers

In this post, we take a look at the most important tools for a live sound engineer. We distinguish between indispensable tools, practical nice-to-have helpers, and specialized tools that are used depending on the area of responsibility.

The recommendations should be understood as a rough guide – they are either tools I have had good personal experience with or ones I often come across.

Must-Have's

Voltage Tester / Multimeter

An indispensable tool for measuring voltages and currents and ensuring that the power supply works correctly. You should always – really always – make sure that the socket or power line you connect to actually delivers the expected voltage. It wouldn't be the first time all equipment suddenly needed new power supplies ;)

Recommendation: Basically, any two-pole voltage tester that can measure voltage between two conductors will do.

Tape Measure

A tape measure is indispensable for precisely measuring distances and gaps – for example, when correctly placing speakers.

Recommendation: I recommend a fiberglass tape measure at least 20 meters long.

Screwdriver Set

A good screwdriver set definitely belongs to the basic equipment. There is hardly any situation where you won't need it.

Recommendation: I highly recommend the screwdriver sets from Wera; I've been using them for over 7 years without any defects.

Cable Tester

Depending on the application, you should be able to perform at least a basic functional check on analog lines. If you need more features, go for testers that offer more extensive functions.

Recommendation: A basic cable tester for XLR and Speakon connections is a must. For those who want more functionality, a device like the dBbox3 is an excellent choice. In addition to standard tests, it offers the ability to read timecode signals and much more.

Allen Key Set (Metric)

Required for tightening and loosening screws on gear and equipment that require metric Allen keys.

Recommendation: Here, too, I can only highly recommend sets from Wera.

Flashlight

A flashlight is indispensable on dark stages or in poorly lit work areas. It can also be perfectly used to temporarily illuminate stage stairs for others.

Recommendation: Flashlights from LEDLenser are widespread and proven. Personally, I use one of the smaller models.

Combination Pliers / Water Pump Pliers

Combination pliers or water pump pliers are ideal for gripping, turning, and securing nuts or other parts that are hard to reach or cannot be loosened by hand.

Recommendation: For all my "pliers" tools, I use products from Knipex. I've always had good experiences with them.

Cutting Pliers

Cutting pliers are an indispensable tool for cutting through cables, cable ties, etc.

Recommendation: Again, I can repeat my last recommendation: Knipex.

Utility Knife

A safety knife is a tool that may not be used daily, but is indispensable in situations where you need to cut carpets or similar materials.

Recommendation: Recently I started using a safety knife from MARTOR. With it, you can cut open cable looms without accidentally damaging the cables.

Various Audio and USB Adapters

It's worth carrying a certain number of different adapters with you; that has saved more than one emergency trip.

Recommendation: Here is a small collection of adapters I frequently need. Naturally, you should adapt and expand this list to your specific needs.

• XLR(m) --> XLR(m)
• XLR(f) --> XLR(f)
• XLR(f) --> 2x XLR(m)
• 3-Pin XLR --> 5-Pin XLR (both directions)
• Speakon Spookie
• Jack --> XLR(m)
• Jack --> XLR(f)
• Mini Jack --> 2x XLR(m)
• USB-C --> USB-A

Hearing Protection

Our hearing is, as you can probably imagine, crucial for our profession. Since we naturally spend time in loud environments, it is essential to protect our hearing as best as possible.

Recommendation: From classic foam earplugs and earmuffs to noise-canceling headphones or custom-molded hearing protection – there are many effective ways to protect your hearing.

Consumables

This includes things like electrical tape, gaffer tape, highlight tape, bungees, batteries, and thread adapters for mic clips, etc.

Nice-to-Have's

Multi-Tool

Many would probably have expected this under the must-haves, but I find that I rely on it less and less over the years. While it fulfills many tasks, it doesn't do them as well as specialized tools better suited for the job.

Laser Distance Meter

A laser distance meter is extremely practical for precise distance measurement over longer distances, especially for extensive stage setups. It is almost indispensable when it comes to measuring room dimensions accurately for use in simulation software.

Recommendation: Choosing the right distance meter depends heavily on the size of the venues you work in, as well as whether you often work outdoors. For indoor use, devices that can measure distances of at least 100 m are recommended. For outdoor use, a distance meter with an integrated camera is particularly advantageous, as it makes capturing distances and documenting measurement points easier.

Wire Stripper

Helps strip cables quickly and cleanly, which is especially important during repairs or adjustments.

Recommendation: I have an inexpensive wire stripper from Jokari that gets the job done.

Headlamp

Ideal when you need both hands free and still require good lighting, such as when working in tight or dark spots.

DI Box

DI boxes are essential for converting unbalanced signals to balanced ones. This avoids or eliminates interference over long cable runs.

Recommendation: I recommend a compact DI box that doesn't take up much space in your toolcase, but still works reliably.

Allen Key Set (Imperial)

In addition to the metric set, as some gear and systems rely on imperial screws, especially with imported equipment or on international gigs.

Switch

A mini switch is extremely practical for small networks or digital consoles, as it allows you to connect multiple devices together.

Recommendation: For most applications, a small 4-port unmanaged switch is completely sufficient. However, if you work with Dante or AVB networks, you should carefully check the switch specifications to ensure it meets your requirements.

Router

For wireless connections to digital consoles or other devices that allow control via tablet or smartphone.

Role-Specific Tools

System Engineer: Audio Interface & Measurement Microphone

An audio interface is essential for setting up measurement systems. Depending on the scale of your sound reinforcement setup, you can either work with a simple 2-channel interface and a wired measurement microphone, or rely on a multi-channel interface with various wireless measurement microphones.

Recommendation: Personally, I use a Focusrite 2i2 in combination with a beyerdynamic MM1 in my toolcase. For more extensive applications, however, I would recommend a larger measurement system to simplify the workflow.

Hygrometer / Thermometer

For monitoring humidity & temperature to make adjustments to the P.A. if necessary.

Mic Tech / UHF Tech: Label Maker

A label maker is ideal for labeling wireless transmitters and beltpacks. It not only ensures clear identification, but also looks professional. White on black is king!

Recommendation: Pick a compact model that takes up little space in your toolcase.

FOH / Monitor Operator: Talkback Microphone

Necessary to communicate with performers on stage and other colleagues.

Recommendation: Here I recommend the sE Electronics V7PTT. This is a Push to Talk microphone. So no more accidentally left open talkback microphones!

Cleaning Brush

For cleaning consoles or other gear.

Headphones / In-Ear Monitors

Headphones are important depending on the application to check signals and solo individual channels on the mixing console.

Recommendation: I can't give a clear recommendation here, as it depends on which headphones you know well. For live use, I recommend closed-back headphones to minimize ambient noise. Personally, I've been using the ATH-M50x for years.

This article will be continuously updated to best reflect the profession of the sound engineer. I welcome feedback, whether on additional aspects that should be added or points where someone has a different opinion. Exchange helps to further improve the article and offer a comprehensive perspective on this versatile profession.