Mixing live sound is unique because of the involvement of a combination of artistry and technical skills. Whether it’s a small gig at your local bar or a large outdoor festival, having the ability to balance and deliver audio in real-time will add value to the performance. Unlike studio mixing, there is no live sound “do-over”. Every determination, whether a decision pertains to EQ or mic placement, requires quick thinking since there is no certainty the environment will remain the same.
But don’t worry – this isn’t a live sound guide tailored for experts only. If you happen to be a musician, an interested nonprofessional, or aspiring sound tech, having grasped the core principles of sound mixing will allow you to maneuver comfortably, take control of the sound apparatus. By the end of this blog, we hope that you will have the knowledge necessary to allow you to mix live sound like a pro—confidently, and without hesitation.
To check the importance of audio mixers in digital recording, read: Why Audio Mixers Still Matter in a Digital Recording Setup!
Different Steps to Guide the Mixing of Live Sound Like a Pro
In-Depth Knowledge of Your Equipment
The first thing you should do well in advance of touching the faders is familiarize yourself with your gear. Knowing what every knob, button, and cable does is imperative. Always learn the path of the signal, which for this is the microphone connecting to the mixer, and the speakers. Also know the difference between analog and digital mixers, passive and active speakers and dynamic vs condenser microphones. To find the top-quality audio mixers, check the best collection of 5 Core Audio Mixers.
Pro Tip: For easy and quick reference, make a “cheat sheet” for your specs gain structure, routing diagram and other important details.
Stage Setup and Clean Mic Placement
Putting microphones in good positions is equally as important as getting a clear sound out of them. Paying attention to this step allows for great mixing results. Make sure that you place microphones close enough to the clearest sound sources but away on the distant side to avoid collision with the monitors. Omnidirectional mics are perfect for situations in need of ambient sound while directional mics suit loud environments much better. During soundchecks, labeling monitor lines, inputs, and channels will save everyone great amounts of time.
In the case of keyboards and acoustic guitars, use DI boxes to reduce additional sounds while keeping clearness intact. Keeping stage clutter to a minimum helps improve the line of sight as well as the airflow between the microphones and instruments.
Balance The Mix By Blending Faders
After you set the levels and EQ, start blending. Ensure vocals sit on top of the mix while the instruments serve as supportive elements. Position the instruments where the stage is tilted in order to add width and severely separate the overlapping frequency.
Work toward a mono mix and then build outward. Never solo channels too frequently; always mix in context and with other parts of the piece. Rely on your ears as the final say and not the meters.
Add Effects And Compression Sparingly
Vocal and drum dynamics can be controlled using compression. However, a mix can be ruined if too much is used. Use in moderation to bring elements forward from the background while smoothing out the peaks.
Do not go overboard with reverb and delay. Always add them discreetly. Vocals require only a faint sprinkle of reverb to achieve depth and warmth, otherwise ensure creation of a massive washout. The acoustics of the room in a live setting already make reverb bloom, so make sure to adjust as needed.
Elimination of Feedback and Noise
Taking control of feedback is the death of live sound. Every time an offending frequency is encountered, cut it out with a narrow-band EQ (most likely using a parametric EQ or graphic EQ). Always remember sharp ringing out during soundchecks; slowly raising gain until feedback is reached and then notching that frequency is the correct approach.
As much as possible, cables should be kept clean and organize shields from each other, as well as from power supply lines. It helps to minimize hum and interference. Appropriate use of ground lift switches on DI boxes, when needed, will help address the issue.
Final Thoughts
Like many other things, developing live sound mixing requires practice and passion. By taking each step one at a time, start with prioritizing your gear, gain structure, EQ management, and finally adjust the monitors and effects which leads to a strong sonic foundation. It can be effortlessly built upon time and again. For credible performance at night clubs & DJ events, buy 5 Core Audio Mixer 8 Channel DJ Equipment with Bluetooth USB Sound Board Console.
Nevertheless, in order to be regarded as a professional around the audience and performers, everything needs to be approached like an art, thus incorporating the blend of precision, advanced technical manipulation and intuitiveness. It is an almost hypnotic response to the atmosphere and the energy of the crowd.