111. Broadcast Audio Setup

Key takeaways

The goal of a broadcast mix is to provide an experience reflective of the live church atmosphere while keeping it engaging for online viewers.
Choosing the right broadcast audio setup involves understanding the technical requirements and balancing the mix for both in-person and online audiences.
Managing dynamic range is crucial to prevent drastic volume changes when transitioning from music to speaking, enhancing viewer experience.
Using separate consoles or digital audio workstations can provide flexibility in mixing, but they also require skilled personnel and come with reliability risks.
Consider post-production options to ensure high-quality content is available online for those unable to attend live services.

Summary

Introduction to Broadcast Audio Setup

In this episode, James and Gary introduce the topic of broadcast audio, explaining that they will be focusing on the setup considerations for mixing audio for broadcasts specifically tailored to church settings. They acknowledge the challenges faced by audio professionals during the busy Christmas season, emphasizing the importance of remaining steadfast and not feeling overwhelmed.

Purpose of the Broadcast Mix

The hosts engage in a philosophical discussion about the purpose of a broadcast mix. They emphasize the goal of making the online experience as authentic and reflective of the in-person experience as possible, while also engaging viewers effectively. They argue that the online broadcast should not attempt to replace the live church experience, but rather complement it.

Choosing the Right Setup for Broadcast Audio

James and Gary delve into different setup options for broadcast audio, starting from a direct copy of the front of house mix to more complex setups involving ox sends or separate boards. They explore the pros and cons of various methods, stressing the importance of dynamically managing the mix to suit both the live audience and the broadcast viewers.

Technical Considerations for Mixing

The hosts discuss critical technical aspects of audio mixing, including balance, EQ, dynamic range, and the importance of crowd mics. They outline strategies for achieving clarity in the mix, preventing issues like drastically changing volume levels between music and speaking segments, which can lead to a poor viewer experience.

Using Separate Consoles and Workflow Approaches

James and Gary consider the benefits and challenges of using separate consoles for live and broadcast mixes. They emphasize the necessity of training personnel to effectively operate these systems and highlight the potential advantages of using digital audio workstations, while also addressing the reliability concerns associated with them.

Post-Production Considerations

The discussion wraps up with suggestions about post-production, where James and Gary talk about the importance of recording live services to allow for a polished broadcast version later. They address the balance between providing a live church experience versus high-quality playback for those unable to attend.

Show notes

In Episode 111, James and Gary discuss setting up broadcast audio, including a focus on differences between the mix in-person, the mix for broadcast, and tips on how to go back and forth while maintaining the highest quality possible. The Church Sound Podcast is sponsored by DiGiCo and Electro-Voice.

Check out James Attaway’s new worship audio academy at www.attawayaudio.com/academy, and also visit our new Instagram page @churchsoundpodcast.

Co-host James Attaway is the author of the Live Mixing Field Guide, a quick-start guide to EQ, compression and effects. Find more from James on the Attaway Audio YouTube Channel and at AttawayAudio.com. Reach him on IG @attawayaudio or contact him via email here.

Co-host Gary Zandstra has worked in church production as an AV systems integrator and as a manufacturer’s rep for more than 35 years.