Running sound for church can be a dynamic and fast-paced endeavor–and, because it’s live “production,” anything can and does happen, normally when you least expect it. That’s why it’s important to be vigilant and think ahead.
Church sound techs can often prepare for common issues so that little things like a bad cable, a broken mic stand, or a malfunctioning wireless microphone don’t become an embarrassing audio emergency.
Here is a list of items that are worth keeping around for those “just in case” moments:
Church Sound Survival Kit
Gaffer’s Tape
Always keep a roll or two handy. It’s great for taping down cables on stage, holding gear together, and many other creative uses. The good stuff won’t leave a sticky residue on your cables or floor.
- Recommended product: Allstar Performance Professional Gaffers Tape
Board Tape
Using this special white (or even glow in the dark) tape is great for marking gear or making notes on your channel strip. It’s better than masking tape because it will come off when you want it to and doesn’t leave a yellow film behind.
- Recommended product: Shurtape P-724 console (or artist) tape
Sharpie
This is handy for making marks on that fancy board tape. A pack of fine point and ultra-fine point markers will work great for most labeling needs.
- Recommended product: Sharpie Ultra-Fine Point Permanent Marker
Batteries
Keep an assortment of spare batteries for common sound system devices like wireless mics. Buy in bulk when possible.
- Recommended product: Duracell Procell AA Batteries
Adapters
It’s a good idea to stock a variety of audio adapters. Common adapter types might include XLR – ¼” transformer, Speakon – ¼” speaker adapter, XLR m-m and f-f gender adapters, ¼” TRS barrel adapter, 3.5mm – RCA stereo cable, ¼” TRS to ¼” TS Y-cable (insert cable), and RCA – ¼” adapters. These are just a few examples.
- Recommended product: TecNec Audio Adapter Kit
Ground Lift Transformers
These are really an adapter, but specifically for eliminating buzz and hum in your sound system when you find it. Using a 1:1 isolation transformer can remove unwanted noise on a microphone cable. And using the right power isolation adapter is much safer than using the basic “cheater plug.”
- Recommended product: Rapco ISOBLOX
Headphones
A good set of headphones is important for a live sound tech. Closed-back headphones help isolate outside noise and provide focused listening for dialing in specific audio settings.
- Recommended product: Sennheiser HD280 Pro
Flashlight
Live production environments can be dark, so a good flashlight can be very useful. Consider using a flashlight with a red lens or red LED for a less distracting light at front of house or backstage.
- Recommended product: Coast PX20 LED Lenser
Cable Repair Tools
A soldering iron, wire strippers, and a cable tester can be invaluable when it comes to fixing damaged cables or other equipment. Stock these tools and some spare connectors in the tech closet or drawer.
- Recommended product: Pyle-Pro PCT40 cable tester and Weller WLC100 Soldering Station
Backup Microphones
Even a robust microphone can go bad from time to time. Consider stocking a few multipurpose microphones that can be used in case a vocal or instrument mic malfunctions.
- Recommended product: Audix i5, Sennheiser E835, or Shure PGA81.
Of course, all of these are basic suggestions. Stock the gear that makes sense for your sound system and your needs.
