church sound

When discussing church sound, most of the focus is on the sound system components and technology used in the sanctuary or primary worship center. However, there are several other areas in the church that should be considered when planning or upgrading a church sound system.

For all of the high tech digital audio devices out there, there is still a lot of analog equipment and cables in church sound systems. Each cable typically comes with its own type of connector, but not all cables are this way. That’s where things can get confusing for a new sound team volunteer.

Great sound doesn’t have to be complicated sound. In fact, a simple setup and mix can increase the potential for better sound quality. Whether the need for simple sound is a necessity (like a new church plant) or a choice (like acoustic-style worship), it is important to understand what contributes to great sound with a simple setup.

Creating a thorough soundcheck process is one of the best ways ensure that a consistent audio mix is achieved at church each week. There are different ways to approach a soundcheck, but the end result should always be quality sound from the stage to the main loudspeakers, a good monitor mix for each musician and vocalist, and a sound tech that is prepared to mix the live event.

Streaming audio over Wi-Fi for assistive listening is the new thing for the hard-of-hearing, multilingual listeners and overflow areas of church services and events. For several decades the assistive listening technology landscape has been dominated by three twentieth-century analog technologies: Inductive Loop, Radio Frequency (usually FM) and Infrared (IR). Wi-Fi audio is now offering comparable and often superior alternatives to analog systems. How do they compare and how do churches know if Wi-Fi is the right solution? Let’s find out.

Mixing consoles and loudspeakers tend to dominate the discussion when it comes to church sound gear. However, it is extremely important to consider the smaller components that can make a huge impact on the sound quality before the signal even reaches the mixing console. Microphones and direct boxes are very common input sources, but there may also be a variety of other sources connected to the church sound system. Each type of device has its own special considerations worth learning about to ensure that the best quality signal is sent to the mixer.

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...

In-ear monitor systems are a great way to control stage volume and craft a better main mix. There are three primary things that a good in-ear monitor system does: Reduce the volume and acoustic energy on stage Give the performer on stage control over their own monitor mix Reduce microphone bleed and feedback problems