112. Broadcast Balance & EQ

Key takeaways

Understanding the difference between broadcast mixing and front of house mixing is crucial for achieving optimal audio experiences.
Stereo imaging plays a vital role in creating the 'bridge' between what viewers see and hear, enhancing their engagement.
Managing dynamic range effectively is essential in broadcast mixing, often requiring level riding and strategic use of compression.
Creating a vocal pocket ensures that vocals sit harmoniously within the mix, allowing for clearer communication and engagement.
Listening to various examples and refining techniques can greatly enhance one's mixing skills over time.

Summary

Understanding Broadcast Mixing

In this episode, hosts James and Gary delve deeper into broadcast audio, specifically focusing on the balance and EQ. They highlight how these elements differ significantly from front of house mixing. The discussion emphasizes the unique experience of viewers at home versus live attendees, necessitating different technical approaches like imaging and spatial placement of sound to create a cohesive listening experience.

The Importance of Stereo Imaging

James and Gary discuss the critical role of stereo imaging in broadcast mixing. They explain that stereo imaging enhances the listener's ability to connect visual and audio elements, thereby enhancing the overall experience. Techniques such as hard panning instruments and ensuring the visual representation corresponds to audio location are crucial in bringing viewers into the performance.

Navigating Dynamic Range in Broadcast

The hosts elaborate on the challenges presented by limited dynamic range in broadcast mixing compared to live environments. Situational factors such as varying listener devices and circumstances create hurdles for mixers. They underscore the necessity of riding levels and using compression to manage these dynamics effectively.

Crafting the Vocal Pocket

One key aspect discussed is the 'vocal pocket'—finding the correct relationship between vocals and other instruments within a mix. The hosts emphasize using EQ to carve out space for vocals and ensure clarity without overpowering other elements. They share practical tips for achieving these goals through techniques like panning and certain frequency boosts.

Learning Through Examples

James encourages listeners to research and analyze different mixing examples and tracks to understand the vocal pocket concept. He shares specific songs as listening references that demonstrate various mixing balances, allowing mixers to train their ears for the vocal pocket concept.

Final Thoughts on Broadcast Mixing

As they conclude, James and Gary reflect on the pursuit of excellence in broadcast mixing. They reiterate the importance of creating a seamless experience for online viewers that mirrors the live performance quality. They hint at future discussions on compression techniques, further underlining the complexities of broadcast audio.

Show notes

In Episode 112, James and Gary continue their discussion on broadcast mixing and address two new topics, balance and EQ. For example, how you pan and EQ instruments and vocals can create the space needed to provide a clean broadcast mix. The Church Sound Podcast is sponsored by DiGiCo and Electro-Voice.

Check out James Attaway’s 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.