What is Monitor World?

Monitor world is the position at the side of the stage where the monitor engineer mixes what each performer hears through their wedges or in-ear monitors. It sits side of stage so the engineer can see the performers and respond to their signals.

How monitor world works

The monitor engineer builds and runs a separate mix for each performer:

  1. Split: every input on stage is split, so the same signals go to both the monitor desk and the front of house desk.
  2. Mixes: the engineer creates a mix for each performer, such as more vocals for the singer or more kick drum for the bassist.
  3. Ring out: before the show, wedges are tuned with EQ to prevent feedback.
  4. Sound check: performers ask for changes to their mixes until they're comfortable.
  5. Show: the engineer watches the stage and adjusts mixes when performers signal for more or less of something.

Monitor requirements come in the act's input list and technical rider. Venues keep these with each show by sharing documents in Crescat.

Monitor world vs front of house

Front of house mixes what the audience hears through the mains. Monitor world mixes what the performers hear on stage. Larger shows have a separate engineer for each; at small venues one engineer often does both from the front of house desk.

What's in monitor world

  • Monitor mixing desk
  • In-ear monitor transmitters and receivers
  • Amplifiers for the wedges and side fills
  • A listen wedge or in-ear pack for the engineer
  • Comms to front of house and the stage manager

Frequently asked questions

What does a monitor engineer do?

A monitor engineer mixes what each performer hears on stage, sets up wedges and in-ear systems, and keeps feedback under control. Good monitor mixes help performers play in time and in tune.

What is the difference between wedges and in-ear monitors?

Wedges are floor speakers angled up at the performer. In-ear monitors are earpieces that deliver the mix straight into the performer's ears, giving more control and a quieter stage.

Why is monitor world at the side of the stage?

The engineer needs to see the performers and catch their signals quickly. Side of stage also keeps the desk close to the stage inputs and out of the audience's view.

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