The mixing console can be
an intimidating and "phobic" experience for a new sound tech.Modern consoles
can feature more than 500 knobs and infinite settings. However, operating
a mixing console can be a very rewarding experience once you understand
the basic principals of signal flow. Every console, regardless of size,
can be broken down into either an INPUT or CONTROL section.
The INPUTS or channels strips
are available in both MONO and STEREO configurations. It is important to
consider this when evaluating a console for your particular application.
MONO inputs accept either a mic or line level input and the fader controls
a single signal. Many consoles feature a number of STEREO inputs, which
accept only line level inputs and control two channel inputs from a single
fader. Don't automatically assume that a 32-channel console offers 32 microphone
inputs when often several channels are reserved for line level devices
such as CD players, DAT machines, etc.
The Input or Signal Trim
is usually the first knob at the top of the channel strip; this level control
allows you to adjust the level of the incoming signal from a microphone
or instrument. Proper adjustment of this control maximizes the signal to
noise ratio of the signal. All sources put out different amounts of signal.
Some may be weak and others quite strong. If there is too much, distortion
will result. On the other hand, if there is too little, the channel level
may have to be set much higher than the rest of the channels. The input
is usually adjusted in conjunction with an LED Clip indicator or VU Meter,
which is used for setting the Gain/Trim/Pad. This LED is designed to illuminate
when the input signal is approaching the upper limit of the input circuit's
capacity, but still leaving around 3dB of headroom in most cases (check
the manual to be sure). It is thus possible to set the Gain controls simply
by watching the channel Clip indicators during a sound check and adjusting
them for slight amounts of activity.
Experiencing Worship, The Study
Used by churches all over the world to help teach worship, the Experiencing Worship study can help your worship team too.
Your team will learn why we worship and gain a better understanding of how to worship.
One user said..."Your 5 week study course has made a tremendous impact on my life in the study of worship... I would like to express my thanks for a well written study course that leads into a higher realm of praise and worship."
The Paul Langford Project
This is the debut album by EXW friend Paul Langford. Paul is a Chicago based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor. Paul has a career that spans 14 years. Paul's work includes arranging for groups like GLAD, Voices of Liberty, VoiceTrek, The Chicago based "Caroling Party" and Day of Discovery Singers. His arranging has appeared on recordings side by side with greats like Gene Puerling and David Maddux, and he has sung with Don Shelton, Bonnie Herman and Bob Bowker, among others.
Used by churches all over the world to help teach worship, the Experiencing Worship study can help your worship team too.
Your team will learn why we worship and gain a better understanding of how to worship.
One user said..."Your 5 week study course has made a tremendous impact on my life in the study of worship... I would like to express my thanks for a well written study course that leads into a higher realm of praise and worship."
This is the debut album by EXW friend Paul Langford. Paul is a Chicago based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor. Paul has a career that spans 14 years. Paul's work includes arranging for groups like GLAD, Voices of Liberty, VoiceTrek, The Chicago based "Caroling Party" and Day of Discovery Singers. His arranging has appeared on recordings side by side with greats like Gene Puerling and David Maddux, and he has sung with Don Shelton, Bonnie Herman and Bob Bowker, among others.