A sound booth is not a set-it-and-forget-it type of system. After you define your needs, purchase and install the equipment, there is more work to be done.
Read on to learn about the next steps and optional technology that can enhance your audio-visual ministries.
Train the volunteers
Training, maintenance and upkeep are vital to maintain your audio investment. Ask whoever installed the equipment to train the volunteers who will be operating it each week. Make sure that they understand the basic functions of the equipment, the microphone techniques and how to achieve balanced sound levels. They will also need to know how to troubleshoot.
Promote continuing education by offering regular and consistent training. YouTube videos and social media groups for sound techs are an easy way to gain more information. Other churches in your area may be willing to partner with you for extended training. Social media groups and technology conferences are also valuable ways of staying informed.
Sound booths: A two-part series
Maintain the equipment
Prepare a list and create a schedule for routine sound system repairs and maintenance. Ensure that someone regularly monitors the tasks.
- Keep equipment safe and clean. Use appropriate covers to prevent accidental damage and unnecessary dust. Dust and debris affect performance. Clean with microfiber cloths or compressed air. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions.
- Inspect. Look for loose connections or broken pieces. Cables should not be pinched or tangled. Frayed cables need to be replaced immediately.
- Test and update. Software is often updated through the manufacturers. Register warrantied products to receive periodic updates that will fix bugs and improve performance. Use the appropriate tools and software to calibrate the speakers, equalizers and other components to ensure proper function.
Make improvements
As you and your team become more familiar with the equipment, you may discover other needs or you may want to expand your audio-visual ministry. For example, if your church wants to create quality videos for the internet, livestream services or venture into the world of podcasts, you will most likely need more equipment and expertise.
When it's time for an upgrade, consider these additional pieces of sound booth equipment:
Digital audio consoles, signal processors and audio networking protocols: Digital products are more advanced and flexible than their traditional analog counterparts. They allow for more-precise control, offer extensive signal processing capabilities and effects and easily recall saved settings. The newer technology connects and simplifies the communication between the various systems.
Personal monitoring systems: This technology includes wireless in-ear monitors and a personal monitor mixing console. Individuals have custom mixes of the audio directly in their ears. This provides enhanced clarity for musicians, vocalists and speakers.
Remote control and automation: Remote-control interfaces simplify operation and troubleshooting by allowing technicians to adjust settings, recall presets and monitor the audio system from a computer, tablet or smartphone.
Virtual soundcheck and recording: Sound engineers use this tech to record live performances and later play back the recorded tracks through the sound system for fine-tuning. Virtual soundcheck systems work with digital audio workstations for multitrack recording and editing.
Wireless microphone systems: Advanced wireless mics eliminate the need for long cables and allow greater mobility during performances or sermons. They include frequency scanning, interference detection and encrypted transmission to ensure reliable and secure operation.
Cameras: Filming can be accomplished via a smartphone, an iPad or through high-quality professional cameras that can be placed in various locations to capture different angles. Remote-controlled pan-tilt-zoom cameras can be adjusted to capture different views without the need for manual intervention.
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Stay tuned
The most important part of operating a sound booth is the willingness to stay tuned to the needs of your congregation and those on stage. A sanctuary that is full will sound different than a sanctuary that is empty. Your pastor will require different sound assistance than the soprano who likes to hit the high notes. Keep up to date on technology, the problems, the solutions and all the possibilities.
Ben Norrod, a graduate of Asbury University and the tech and communications director of a Kentucky church, suggests that you find somebody who is excited by this.
“It takes time and energy and (requires) research, so having somebody that wants to do that stuff will be a huge benefit to having a healthy sound booth,” he said. “It’s more than having great equipment, because you can have great equipment, but if you don’t have anybody who knows how to use it, then it will be pretty worthless.”
If you’re not that person, ask around. The sound booth is one more way your church ministers to the congregation. Chances are good that someone in your church has the knowledge and the desire to impact the kingdom through a love of technology.
Tricia K. Brown is a Christian author and inspirational speaker. She shares stories of life, loss and laughter to encourage women to grow in their relationships with the Lord and each other. Her recent fiction release, “Seen, Heard, Beloved,” can be purchased on Amazon. For more information about her ministry and books, visit The Girls Get Together.