The Behind the Mixer Podcast

Too many people work on a one-person audio team. No vacations, no sick days, and burnout is just around the corner. Now imagine recruiting another person to join the team and that team growing. But how does that happen? In this episode, Chris details the exact steps to take to recruit and train a new person.

There are four ways in which live audio production can sound unprofessional or otherwise detract from the event. Chris details each of these while he battles through the seasonal crud that gives him a voice no one would want to mix. Two of these areas focus on mixing vocals.

Are your speakers in the best spot for your room? Are you confused about the sound you're getting from the subwoofers? In this episode, Chris interviews audio engineer Nathan Lively, author of 105 Questions about Sound System Tuning. They explore common questions and answers and ways to improve the sound quality in a venue. Chris also finds out about Nathan's change from aspiring musician to audio engineer.

What would a time of THANKSGIVING be without giving thanks to every person across the globe who is working behind the mixer, devoting their time and energy to helping their church, their congregation, and everyone within the church. Chris extends that thanks in this episode.

Jumping into the world of live audio production is no easy task. This week, Chris interviews church audio tech Brandon Wilson and finds out how he went from zero experience to mixing on an X32 digital mixer. Brandon also explains how finding an online community of audio techs was a blessing.

You asked, they answered. Audio production topics include compression, feedback, mentoring, and what to do with your old equipment. If you've got a question for Chris and Brian, drop them an email via the link in the podcast resource links.

You asked, they answered. Audio production topics include sound booth placement, the pros and cons of digital microphones, line array versus point source speakers, and how best to silence a channel. If you've got a question for Chris and Brian, drop them an email via the link in the podcast resource links.

Loudspeakers are available in active and passive models, but which is right for you? Chris and Brian detail the differences between the two models, the advantages of each, and how a church sound system can benefit from either. Powered and non-powered speakers have come a long way compared to fifteen years ago. Chris and Brian also debate which is best.

The WFX 2017 conference was packed full of AVL equipment and Chris Huff and Brian Gowing tackled it...or it tackled them! In this episode, they cover how to get the best out of a conference and the dangers that could cost you thousands. Chris also hits some of the gear highlights.

Avoid spending unnecessary money on your next audio mixer by walking through the five easy steps Chris suggests. He explains how to invest in the church audio mixer you need, not what you think you need. You'll also find out the critical step most people forget.

Analog mixers are used by top-notch live audio touring engineers. Yet, many people think only a digital mixer can create a great mix. In this episode, Chris takes you through the five steps to acheive a great mix with an analog console. Even though church audio production technology has jumped by leaps and bounds, you can still create a great mix with an analog mixer.

You've got a digital mixer and want to take your audio mixing skills up a notch, but how do you do it? Chris Huff talks with long time audio engineer and recent entrepreneur Gary Zandstra who has just the answer. Gary details his start in audio production and how there's new technology that makes multi-track recording and playback simple - and perfect for working on your craft.

Frustrated with wireless microphone problems? Does it seem like your microphones aren't giving you the great sound they should? Have no fear, Brian and Chris are here! Together, they cover common wireless and wired microphone problems...and solutions. They also discuss the four major microphone properties every sound guy should know to guarantee they are using the right microphone for the job.

Do you use wireless microphones or wireless in-ear transmitters? If so, you might be in for a nasty surprise. Chris Huff and Brian Gowing dig into the details of the FCC's latest changes to the 600MHz frequency range accessibility and what it means for churches across the nation. Some churches already have to replace equipment because of this move. They also discuss what you need to do next. Resources: http://www.behindthemixer.com/wireless-microphones-fcc-600-mhz/

Have you ever heard of grace under pressure? Chris interviews church audio tech Apryl Allen to find out how she started in church audio, what goes on in a typical day in her life as a tech, and how the spiritual side of audio production is greater than we often think. Please subscribe to the podcast to catch interviews, gear reviews, and mixing tips and strategies.