FRONT OF HOUSE
SETTING UP FOR THE WIN | Kent Morris
Live mixing is a complex task requiring instant action as the event unfolds . Though some functions can be preprogrammed , the majority of moves must be made in realtime , which opens the door to errors . Once a mistake is made , it begats a second and then a third as the service continues its rapid pace with the tech frantically trying to catch up . However , there are some reasonable ways to mitigate the chance of a missed cue or incorrect adjustment , so let ’ s set up the console for the win .
First , assuming it ’ s a digital desk , build and store basic templates of each type of service . Sunday morning settings , for instance , can be saved in several different locations internally plus on a thumb drive for external back-up . During rehearsal , update the console after dialing in the mix as a power glitch can wreck an hour ’ s work in a second . Each template should have a starting point any of the engineers could use to grab a mix in the event of a catastrophic failure .
Invest in an Uninterruptible Power Supply ( UPS ) as a safeguard against power failures . The best UPS is one that uses battery power continuously with the AC serving only as a recharger for the battery . Lower cost units use AC as the supply and then switch over to the battery if the power fails , but the console can hiccup during that transition .
Digital consoles have layers which means immediate access to every input is not an option . However , instant access to primary inputs is needed and can be created , even if the console does not have a separate dedicated input section on it . Every FOH tech should have the speaking pastor and worship pastor channels at the ready in any situation . By either using Recall Safe to prevent changes when a new preset is selected , or simply programming the two inputs to the same location on every layer , the speaking and worship pastor mics will be ready to engage at all times . After all , it ’ s one thing to miss the first three words of an announcement ; quite another to miss the pastor ’ s opening sermon line .
Build custom layers . Just because kick drum is channel one doesn ’ t mean channel one needs to be on the top layer . Instead , create a custom layer with the speaking and worship pastor mics , a DCA ( Digitally Controlled Amplifier ) of the BGVs , a single drum group or DCA , one fader for guitar and keys and one fader for all the media playback channels . Leave individual instrument inputs off this layer so it can function as a simplified console with fewer opportunities for mistakes .
Shure ’ s Wireless Work Bench ( WWB ) software is a great resource to use at FOH . It is free and works beautifully to monitor battery levels , antenna strength and signal integrity for each wireless mic and IEM . There is also a handy mute available onboard that can be password protected , making it easy to universally mute
or unmute the pastor ’ s headset mic . This step allows the pastor to talk to congregants in private without fear someone on the tech team can listen in to the conversation . By showing the pastor how WWB secures the line ahead of the console , you will earn their trust and confidence .
The most common cause of missed cues is an inability on the tech ’ s part to keep their head in the game . Yes , Sundays are long , with little sleep beforehand and a workweek ahead , but we must stay focused on every moment as the service progresses There is no appropriate time to relax . Stay the course and watch for anyone moving toward the platform or bringing their mic close to their mouth . Even if it ’ s not in the script , they may speak and we want to be ready . Conversely , keep your finger near , not on , the mute switch in case someone drops a mic or points it at a floor monitor .
Live is live and there will be imperfections , but we can set ourselves up for the win by following these tried-and-proven tips .
Kent Morris Kent is a 40-year veteran of the AVL arena driven by passion for excellence tempered by the knowledge digital is a temporary state .