Audio 101

Because volunteers often don’t have experience in mixing audio, this page is dedicated to helping them understand the basic principles.

Vocals are the most important part of the mix!
- That said, don’t allow them to be uncomfortably loud.
Use the right mic for the task!
- Studio mic for a clustered group of vocalists.
- Standard mic for a single vocalist.
- Shotgun mic can also capture groups, but because of the conical pickup pattern, it needs to be placed far enough away to catch the entire group.
- Headset mic to allow a presenter to be hands-free.
Use gain wisely — Use as much gain as you can without making the mic so hot that it starts to echo or pick up other sound in proximity.
Use the High-Pass filter to make a voice less “boomy”, but not so much that it starts to sound thin or hollow.
Remember, vocalists and speakers often “warm up” after they begin and their voice may be stronger.

Instruments require use of a Direct Input (D.I.) box.
- Always have the instrument channel shut off when an instrument is being plugged in / unplugged to avoid pops and damage.
Never let an instrument or soundtrack overshadow the vocals.
- Keep them a close second to the vocals so they are clearly heard but don’t dominate.
Don’t use the High-Pass filter unless the track was not recorded properly and has too much bass.

One word “Attention!” — Audio is very rarely “set it and forget it”. Dynamics change frequently and require adjustment, especially with music.
- Example — Soundtracks can have
Keep tabs on each output (house mix, narthex, live stream).
Once you have a good balance with clean sound, don’t change the gain unless you want your change to affect the sound of all three outputs.
For the live stream, deliver as much output as you can without distortion.