I want to discuss a technique that appears to be fairly simple, yet can lead to frustration. The basic concept is to create a mix that allows you to hear everything you see on stage. The concept is simple enough- Look at each input on your console and ask yourself if you can hear it in the mix. If the answer is ‘yes,’ then move on to the next channel. If the answer is ‘no,’ then the fun begins! Rather than just push the fader up until you can hear that specific input, I’d quickly ask yourself a few questions to help you determine how to best address the issue.

I was listening to some classic music today. I don’t mean classical music, but some stuff from the 60’s. I was admiring the sound of the drums, and it got me thinking about most of the drums I see and hear at churches. Drums seem to be the enemy of a lot of church audio volunteers. They try to tame the drums by confining them to cages, putting tape all over the heads, and telling the drummer to use small sticks and play ‘jazz’ style. Let me offer a different approach to the drums.

Let me ask you a question. What do you think of the sound of your room? What I want to know is how you think it sounds when you turn off the sound system. Have you heard an acoustic piano or drum kit played in the room while you sit in the seats and just listen? How about the voices of a choir, sans amplification? I’m guessing very few of you would say it sounds very good. Walk into any church and there’s a better than 50% chance you’ll find some kind of acoustic treatment on the walls, in the ceiling, under the stage, etc. If you’ve added these at your church, let us know if you noticed a big difference or not. I tend to find these treatments as band-aids, not resolutions.

This weekend I’m out doing a couple shows in Indiana. Last night we were in an old theater (as in movie theater- see the screen behind the stage?) in a college town, and I just want to tell you about the audio set up, what I liked/ didn’t like about it, and what could have been improved. It’s not my intent to insult anyone here. In fact, the theater took good care of us. The local radio station was there in support. And, the crowd seemed to have a good time. I, on the other hand, wasn’t the happiest camper.