Whether you’re in charge of AV for your church or an IT expert planning for your company’s annual conference, you know that sound is key. A compelling line-up of speakers won’t matter much if the sound equipment is low-quality, constantly malfunctioning, or inaudible. To help you navigate the complicated world of professional audio systems, the guide below offers do’s and don’ts for live audio mixing.

Do

Research ahead of time.

If you’re working with a soundboard you haven’t used before, you should take the time to read the basics about it. Understanding what sort of venue you’ll be working in is also crucial, as the size and layout of the venue can impact how many monitors and speakers you’ll need. If you’re renting or buying the professional audio systems from a commercial sound expert, ask them for tips on setting up your venue.

Be ready to change between sets.

Whether you’re switching from a guest speaking behind a podium to a lavalier mic or you’re transitioning from a worship service to a pastor’s sermon, sound level changes will require adjustments in your mixing. Ideally, you should be able to practice beforehand so you know how to easily transition between microphones and adjust mixing from band settings to accommodate a single speaker.

Don’t

Over- or under-mix.

With professional audio equipment at your command, it’s tempting to get carried away customizing the sound. However, over-mixing can make the sound seem dull and over-compressed. On the other hand, you don’t want to get complacent and start under-mixing. Additionally, keep in mind that using default presets won’t account for factors like changed mic placement or a larger crowd than normal.

Forget about your ears.

Many pieces of professional audio equipment are designed to make using them as simple as possible. However, that means it’s easy to trust what you’re seeing on the mixing screen and forget that your ears are your best guide. Taking the time to listen to feedback can help you fine-tune the audio settings for the best possible mix at your live event.

Need professional audio equipment installed right for your church or business in Shreveport, LA? Claiborne Sharp Professional Audio has been the area’s trusted source for AV services since 1989. From surround sound design and installation to projector setups, they’ll set up the equipment you need and make sure you understand how to use it. To learn more about their services, visit their website or call (318) 861-5953.