Common AVL Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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Audio, video, and lighting are the backbone of any successful event, but small oversights can lead to major issues. Problems like uneven sound coverage, poor lighting zones, mismatched video resolutions, or insufficient power supply can disrupt the flow and professionalism of any production. Many teams also overlook rehearsal time, rely on consumer-grade gear, or create overly complex setups that are prone to failure.

Inconsistent communication between departments and a lack of planning for hybrid or scalable needs only add to the chaos. These mistakes are surprisingly common and usually happen when teams skip the basics or rush through AVL installation and setup. Knowing where things typically go wrong can help ensure smoother, more reliable events. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the common AVL mistakes and how to avoid them.

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10 Most Common AVL Mistakes To Avoid

These are the most frequent AVL mistakes:

1: Poor Audio Coverage or Uneven Sound Distribution

Using too few speakers or placing them incorrectly can cause dead zones (no sound) or hot spots (overwhelming volume), especially in large or oddly-shaped venues.

How to Avoid:

• Conduct a site analysis to understand room acoustics and dimensions.
• Use distributed speaker systems rather than a single source to ensure even sound coverage.
• Implement delay speakers for larger venues to maintain synchronization.
• Use simulation tools like EASE or Room EQ Wizard for placement planning.

2: Feedback and Echo Issues

Placing microphones too close to speakers or using incorrect gain levels can cause screeching feedback or echo loops.

How to Avoid:

• Always position speakers in front of microphones, not behind.
• Use directional microphones to reduce pickup from unintended sources.
• Apply gain before feedback (GBF) tests during setup to set safe volume levels.
• Consider automatic feedback suppressors if frequent speaker-mic interaction is expected.

3: Inadequate Power Supply and Cabling

Overloading power circuits, using mismatched cables, or daisy-chaining multiple power strips can result in signal loss, damage, or power outages mid-event.

How to Avoid:

• Calculate the total power load required for all AVL gear.
• Use dedicated circuits for heavy-load equipment like amplifiers and LED walls.
• Always match cables to power and signal specifications.
• Label and test all connections before showtime.

4: Poor Video Resolution and Aspect Ratio Mismatches

Running content in the wrong aspect ratio or resolution results in black bars, stretched images, or pixelation on screens.

How to Avoid:

• Match your video source output to the display’s native resolution (e.g., 1080p, 4K).
• Use scalers or video processors to convert inputs where needed.
• Test all media beforehand and create content in the intended aspect ratio (e.g., 16:9).
• Avoid using multiple devices with incompatible resolutions.

5: Ignoring Lighting Zones and Color Temperature

Using a one-size-fits-all lighting setup leads to uneven illumination or unnatural skin tones, especially in mixed lighting environments (indoor + daylight).

How to Avoid:

• Break the stage into lighting zones (front, back, side, and special areas).
• Use fixtures with adjustable color temperature (e.g., 3200K for warm, 5600K for daylight).
• Avoid harsh white or single-color lights unless it’s intentional for effect.
• Use diffusers or softboxes to avoid casting hard shadows on speakers or performers.

6: Not Testing Equipment Before the Event

Assuming all gear works because it did last time can result in unexpected malfunctions when it matters most.

How to Avoid:

• Perform full system checks a day before the event, including every mic, camera, speaker, and cable.
• Run a tech rehearsal with presenters to test slides, videos, and transitions.
• Always bring spare cables, batteries, and adapters.
• Use checklists for load-in, setup, and teardown to stay organized.

7: Overcomplicating the Setup

Using complex routing, over-layered effects, or too many transitions can confuse operators and increase AVL failure points.

How to Avoid:

• Keep the signal flow simple and linear when possible.
• Use preset scenes or macros to automate common functions.
• Avoid introducing new technology unless the team is trained on it.
• Label every cable, input, and output clearly.

8: Relying on Consumer-Grade Equipment

Using home or consumer-grade projectors, microphones, or speakers in professional events often leads to low quality and poor reliability.

How to Avoid:

• Invest in professional AVL gear designed for the environment you operate in.
• If on a tight budget, consider renting professional equipment.
• Choose gear with balanced XLR/TRS connections over unbalanced 3.5mm jacks for better signal integrity.

9: Lack of Communication Between Teams

If audio, video, lighting, and stage management teams aren’t aligned, timing errors, missed cues, or improper transitions can occur.

How to Avoid:

• Hold a pre-event coordination meeting with all AVL and production staff.
• Use intercom headsets or cue systems to communicate during the event.
• Share the run-of-show document and cue sheets with every team.

10: Not Planning for Expansion or Hybrid Needs

Designing a system only for current needs limits the ability to scale for future events or hybrid formats.

How to Avoid:

• Use scalable mixers, switchers, and routers that allow expansion.
• Implement IP-based AV systems to support hybrid streaming and multi-room setups.
• Record every session with redundant backups in case of live-streaming failures.
• Test latency and sync issues ahead of time for online participants.

Conclusion

Ensuring a successful event requires more than just good content; it demands attention to technical details and teamwork. From avoiding audio feedback and lighting errors to managing power loads and streamlining signal flow, every aspect of an AVL setup plays a role in the final experience. Skipping rehearsals, underestimating equipment needs, or failing to coordinate across teams can lead to preventable failures. 

By using professional-grade tools, maintaining clear communication, and designing systems that can adapt to different formats, event teams can eliminate common problems before they surface. With careful planning, regular testing, and a focus on simplicity, Titan AVL helps you improve the quality and reliability of live and hybrid events. These practices are essential when addressing the common AVL mistakes and how to avoid them.

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