Sound Advice by Leon Sievers Sound Professional February 20, 2008
In houses of worship, large
and small, getting good sound isolation can be a huge challenge. Whether
the need is to separate the drums from the rest of the ensemble or to help
control the overall stage volume, the ClearSonic 5 Panel Drum Shield is
an easy and convenient way to get the job done.
Developed by ClearSonic Manufacturing
Inc., the ClearSonic 5 Panel Drum Shield consists of 5 clear 1/4" thick
acrylic panels measuring 5 1/2' (66") x 2' (24") hinged together accordion
style with transparent hinges. The Shield features cutouts at the bottom
for easy cabling and has a total weight of 85 lbs. for easy transport.
The base of each panel has a steel reinforced semi-transparent rubber like
trim base to protect the panels and the floor from scratching. They provide
a good amount of sound isolation, alleviating the problem of the drums
overpowering the other instruments on stage. I could also see them being
instrumental in minimizing bleed in live recording situations. Knowing
the benefits of good isolation, the ClearSonic appealed to me right off
the bat although I did have some concerns. How does the ClearSonic affect
the drummer's interaction with other players? Is the drummer adequately
able to hear what the other musicians are playing on stage? What kind of
effect will sound rebounding off of the ClearSonic have on the overall
sound of the drums out front and to me (the drummer)?
As far as hearing what the
other musicians are playing is concerned, in situations where the drums
are behind the amplified instruments and /or the P.A., you will definitely
need adequate monitors. Once the monitors are dialed-in, communication
on stage should be a cinch. Sound rebound is an issue with the ClearSonic.
One positive aspect of sound rebound is that you won't need to have the
drums loud in your monitor mix. It can become a problem if the mikes pick-up
the rebound. There are pads available that can alleviate it, so it is no
big deal. One drawback I experienced was the feeling that I was separate
from the rest of the ensemble. I think that was because I have never played
behind a shield before and it could take a little getting used to.
To sum it up, the ClearSonic
5 Panel Drum Shield is light and easy to collapse and transport. It does
exactly what it is supposed to- isolate the drums to prevent sound bleeding.
From the drummer's vantage point, with good monitors, the ClearSonic is
relatively unobtrusive. From a musical director's perspective, the ClearSonic
is an excellent tool providing necessary sound control over every performance.
Communication Barriers During Live Praise and Worship
We use a drum shield on our Worship Center platform - although not the ClearSonic Manufacturing brand you mentioned. (Sorry.) As you noted in your article, there are several advantages and disadvantages to using a drum shield.I am one of ...more
Submitted by: David Guion Location: San Antonio, Texas
Drums in worship
I play drums for Love & Truth Ministries in Jackson, Tn. I am completely enclosed in front by the clearsonic panels. On the back, top and sides by absobent panels. We use the Aviom monitor mix, and I also use the Bose Quiet Comfort headphones. Th...more
Submitted by: Richard Smith Location: Jackson, Tn
Drums!
I have a drummer, who when asked to play softer takes offense and plays louder. I have recenlty purchased a 5 panel drum shield. I am hoping this helps.... ...more
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.