I don't even know

The Mixing Console

Mixers are used to combine multiple audio sources such as microphones and instruments to then manipulate the volume, frequency, and dynamics of the sound source. In a PA system, audio signals are increased to line level in the mixer.

Audio mixers come in different sizes. Larger audio mixers have several input channels that will accommodate more microphones and connections. They can be analog or digital. Analog mixers balance the tonal sound and carve out space in the sound profile for each instrument in the band. Most have a three to four parametric EQ (equalization), which changes the balance of different frequency components in an audio signal.

Digital mixers can be controlled wirelessly through dedicated apps. A sound engineer using this setup can move around a room or venue to make adjustments tailored to the audience’s perspective. It can also adjust monitors from the stage while listening to the musicians play.

Microphones

Microphones capture the sounds produced by vocals, guitar amplifiers, drums, and any other sound source. Mics come in different shapes and forms. Some are designed for studio recording, while others are tuned explicitly for live performances.

For live performing vocals, there are two main types of mics from which to choose: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are usually best for live performances because they are less sensitive than condenser mics. Having low sensitivity means the mic is less prone to bleed and feedback during a stage performance.

Even so, many vocalists and sound engineers prefer condenser microphones because they deliver superior sound quality and clarity when compared to dynamic mics. Condenser mics pick up more details, including inflection and other nuances of the speaking or singing voice.

The Amplifiers

Once audio signals coming from microphones or instruments are mixed, equalized, and amplified to line level, they leave the mixer and continue their path to the amplifier. Audio amplifiers increase the signal further to the speaker level.

Increasing the volume to the next level is called gain staging. At this point, it has attained speaker level and is controlled with the amplifier’s level control. The amplifier’s high voltage causes the speaker to reproduce the original sound at a much higher level for the audience to hear.

The Main Speakers

There are two different kinds of speakers, passive and active. Passive speakers have an amplifier as a separate device in a rack, usually located away from the speakers. In contrast, powered (or active) speakers have the amp in the cabinet with the speaker.

Active speakers are easier to use as they have built-in amplifiers matched to the speaker components (subwoofers, mid-range, and tweeters). They require only line-level input and no separate amplifiers to provide power.

Passive speakers, meanwhile, require amplification, speaker cables, and may require an external crossover and other signal processing. Bi-amped or tri-amped passive speaker will give you greater control over the speaker components, but they need a separate amplifier for each speaker part.

The Subwoofer

A subwoofer extends frequency response and output for full-range speakers. These are speakers that amplify low frequencies. It’s often best to put subwoofers close together, as putting two together increases sound pressure level by 3 decibels (dB) and will not produce interference. Placing them near walls or corners also increases the perceived bass output.

Stage Monitors

Wedge or stage monitors allow instrument players in the band to hear themselves as they play, by sitting on the floor and angling up toward the performers. Correctly placing monitors on a stage plays a vital role in reducing feedback.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse