Mixing a live performance presents some unique challenges, especially since your mixing choices can influence the audience’s perception of the performance. If handled properly, however, a live performance can have an incredible result. Follow the tips below to achieve a professional audio mix.  

A Professional Audio Mixer’s Guide to Live Shows

1. Keep Amplifiers Low

In smaller venues, keep guitar and bass amplifiers relatively quiet. Too much volume could compromise your sound with feedback. If your band insists on having their amplifiers turned up, then try turning them away from the audience so the sound won’t bleed into the P.A. Remind the performers that the monitors and speakers will take care of projecting the amplifier’s sound across the stage and into the audience.

2. Take Care with Vocal Separation

Audio engineers tend to over-compress vocals to ensure the singer’s voice will stand out. While keeping the voice distinct is particularly important in a live performance, you don’t want to overdo it. Too much compression will take away from the vocal’s natural quality, while too little will blend them into the background. Experiment with varying amounts of volume, compression, and reverb to find what’s right for the venue and the band’s genre.

3. Position Monitors Carefully

Great monitor positioning will prevent feedback and allow the band to hear themselves. When the monitors are too far away, the band won’t have a clear idea of how they sound. The same will happen when they’re too close. As you test this out, you’ll also want to check what your microphones are picking up. Each microphone should be close to the sound source while not picking up background sounds.

The right equipment is key to your live mix. Claiborne Sharp Professional Audio designs and installs professional audio and video systems within a 100-mile radius of Shreveport, LA. This full-service company is certified by the Louisiana State Board of Contractors and uses only state-of-the-art equipment. They’ll use computer systems to model the acoustics of your space and develop a custom audio installation to maximize its sound. Learn more online and call (318) 861-5953 to schedule an appointment today.