Group Cabling Keep cables grouped together by type (audio, MIDI, mains, etc.). This makes it easier to find faulty cables, patch equipment quicker and easier, and help reduce cable-borne noise problems. Putting a little distance between different types will reduce the potential for EMI (electromagnetic interference) problems, because mains cables can induce a 50Hz hum on audio cables. Always try to keep power cords of any kind separate from audio cables. If they do have to cross, try to do it at a 90° angle to minimize hum induction. Cable Wraps Using cable ties of some sort are definitely in order! Use Velcro or easy-release plastic ties. DO NOT use the infamous rock-n-roll duct tape! It will leave sticky residue once removed! Label Label Everything! I used to use the little string tags (and if I was to be honest, there are still some being used). But I did finally invest in a digital label maker. Good Investment! I now have 2 different tape sizes and label everything – patch bays, monitor control, hard drives, cables, wires, boxes, etc. You get the point! ‘Faulty’ Box Get a large plastic box and label it “Faulty”, “Not Working”, “Needs Repair”, “Bad” or something like this. You will end up with equipment that needs repair, faulty wires or cables, stomp boxes not working correctly, or just components that you can use later for recycling of parts. Almost everything in our studio can be repaired or used for parts. This helps keep unusable equipment from getting mixed up with the good. How many times have you reached for that cable that doesn’t work or needs a wiggle when you use it! Throw it in the faulty box! When you have some time, get into the box and pick a project! Or better yet, sell the lot on eBay under ‘needing repair’ and get them out of your hair. I now have initiated all of this in my own studio. I am much better organized, I have better workflow, waste less time and can focus more on my tracking or mixing. I hope this helps you too! As always- Make it a great day! Tim
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