I recently received a lot of questions regarding Facility Sound Systems from entry level sound tech crew members, so I would like to cover a few basics to clear up a lot of the common questions. Sounds like a great idea right? Addressing common questions about Facility Sound Systems will definitely help you if you are unfamiliar with the setup. Here are a few basic topics you could cover to clear things up.
Components of a Sound System
First, we need to know the basic equipment we will be using starting with the sound console or mixer, which allow users to control and balance sound inputs from different sources (mics, instruments, media players). The microphones can be wired or wireless, handheld or lapel mics for speakers and performers, which will still need to be connected to the sound console by cables (XLR, TRS, RCA, etc.).
To get the system on, you will need to turn on the speakers which distribute the sound throughout the facility. Types include ceiling speakers, wall-mounted, and subwoofers. So speakers are powered and have a power line to them and a signal cable, others are passive and use an amp, which sends a powered signal to the speaker. Amps boost audio signals to a level that can be heard through speakers.
A common item in Houses of Worship are assistive listening devices which help those with hearing impairments hear via headphones.
Sound Coverage and Speaker Placement
Speaker placement is important for even sound distribution and avoiding “dead spots.” Different types of speakers for different spaces: ceiling speakers for distributed sound, directional speakers for focused coverage.
Factors like ceiling height, room size, and materials that affect sound quality. Minimizing feedback and echo in large rooms can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you can significantly improve sound quality. By considering microphone and speaker placement, using proper EQ settings, applying acoustic treatment, and using feedback suppression tools, you can greatly reduce feedback and echo in large rooms.
Wired vs. Wireless Systems
Pros and cons of wireless microphones and audio systems (e.g., mobility vs. potential interference). Wireless microphones and audio systems are popular for their flexibility and ease of use, but they also come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Frequency Management with multiple wireless devices (microphones, in-ear monitors, etc.), managing frequency assignments can become complicated to avoid interference between channels. This often requires additional planning and sometimes extra equipment like frequency coordinators. In some regions, certain frequency bands are restricted or reallocated for other uses (e.g., TV broadcast, emergency services), meaning you may need to replace or retune your system to comply with new regulations.
Wireless microphones and audio systems are great for flexibility, convenience, and mobility, especially in dynamic or large venues. However, they require careful consideration of interference, range limitations, and battery management. For events or settings where reliability and uninterrupted performance are critical, having a well-planned wireless system—or a backup wired system—can ensure smooth operation.
Mixing and Balancing Sound
Basic guidelines on setting audio levels for clarity and avoiding distortion. The role of EQ (equalization) in adjusting sound frequencies. Setting audio levels for clarity and avoiding distortion, along with using EQ (equalization) effectively, is key to achieving great sound quality.
Start with proper gain staging, balance volume levels carefully, and ensure that no signals are too loud to avoid distortion. Use limiters or compressors as needed to control dynamics.
The EQ allows you to adjust the tonal balance of your mix. Use it to remove unwanted frequencies and enhance clarity. Apply high-pass filters, cut problem frequencies, and make subtle boosts to improve overall sound quality. By managing levels properly and using EQ wisely, you can achieve clear, balanced sound without distortion.
Feedback Control
Feedback is the high-pitched screech or howling sound you often hear in sound systems, and it’s caused by a loop between a microphone, speakers, and the amplifier. Essentially, the microphone picks up sound from the speakers, amplifies it, and sends it back through the speakers, causing a continuous loop that results in feedback. By managing microphone placement, adjusting speaker positioning, controlling gain and volume, and optimizing EQ settings, you can effectively reduce or eliminate feedback in most situations.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting is the means of handling common issues like hums, buzzes, or intermittent sound. Hums are low-frequency, continuous noises, usually around 50 or 60 Hz, often caused by electrical interference or grounding problems. Buzzes are often higher-pitched and can be caused by interference from electronic devices or bad connections. Intermittent sound is when the audio cuts in and out, which can be caused by various issues including cable problems, wireless interference, or faulty equipment.
- Isolate the Problem: Start by identifying where the issue is coming from. Test each component of the sound system (microphones, cables, mixers, speakers) individually to narrow down the problem.
- Use Balanced Cables: Balanced XLR or TRS cables are better at rejecting interference compared to unbalanced RCA or TS cables. Using balanced cables can significantly reduce hums and buzzes.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your cables, connectors, and equipment to prevent issues from developing. Clean dirty jacks and plugs with contact cleaner.
- Test with Known Good Equipment: If you suspect a piece of equipment is causing the issue, swap it out with a known working one to see if the problem persists. This helps confirm if the device is faulty.
By systematically addressing potential causes, you can resolve common issues like hums, buzzes, or intermittent sound and ensure that your audio system delivers clear, reliable sound. Make sure uou routinely check your cables, microphones, and amplifiers to ensure proper functionality.
Resources
Many useful resources can be found online, in magazines and articles about sound, but by far the greatest way to absorb a new skill is to learn directly from someone who has done the hard work themselves over the course of a long, specialized career. YouTube videos will only get you so far. Please email me bill@worshipfacility.com, I would like to answer your questions and guide you in the right direction.
