Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Event Sound Engineer Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a mixing console in a live sound setup?

a) To amplify sound only

b) To record audio

c) To control and blend multiple audio sources

d) To provide lighting cues

Rationale: The mixing console allows the engineer to adjust volume,

tone, and effects of multiple inputs to create a balanced overall sound.

• Which type of microphone is most commonly used for vocals in live

performance? 1 / 4

a) Lavalier microphone

b) Ribbon microphone

c) Dynamic microphone

d) Condenser microphone

Rationale: Dynamic microphones are durable, handle high SPL, and

are ideal for live vocals.

• What does SPL stand for in audio engineering?

a) Sound Pressure Level

b) Signal Processing Line

c) Sound Pressure Level

d) Signal Power Level

Rationale: SPL measures the pressure of sound waves in decibels,

crucial for monitoring safe volume levels.

• In a PA system, what component is responsible for converting

electrical signals back into sound?

a) Mixer

b) Amplifier

c) Equalizer

d) Loudspeaker

Rationale: Loudspeakers take electrical audio signals and produce

audible sound.

• Which frequency range is generally considered the bass range in live

sound? 2 / 4

• 500 Hz – 2 kHz
• 20 Hz – 250 Hz
• 2 kHz – 5 kHz
• 5 kHz – 20 kHz

Rationale: Bass frequencies provide the low-end foundation and are

typically between 20–250 Hz.

• What is the primary function of a compressor in live sound?

a) To boost high frequencies

b) To add reverb

c) To control dynamic range

d) To separate audio channels

Rationale: Compressors reduce the difference between the loudest

and softest sounds, preventing distortion and maintaining clarity.

• What is feedback in a live sound context?

a) A type of equalizer

b) A recording effect

c) A loop of amplified sound from speaker to microphone

d) A signal from the lighting system

Rationale: Feedback occurs when a microphone picks up sound from

speakers, creating a high-pitched loop.

• What type of cable is commonly used to connect microphones to a

mixer?

a) RCA cable 3 / 4

b) XLR cable

• 1/4 inch TS cable

d) HDMI cable

Rationale: XLR cables are balanced, reducing noise and interference,

and are standard for microphones.

• Which effect is commonly used to add depth and space to a vocal in a

live mix?

a) Distortion

b) Chorus

c) Reverb

d) Flanger

Rationale: Reverb simulates natural space, making vocals sound

fuller and more ambient.

• What does the term “gain staging” refer to?

a) Adjusting speaker placement

b) Changing microphone type

c) Setting optimal input levels to avoid distortion

d) Programming lighting cues

Rationale: Proper gain staging ensures signals are neither too weak

nor too hot, maintaining clarity throughout the system.

• Which speaker type is designed to cover long distances with

focused sound?

a) Subwoofer

• / 4