AUDIO
VOLUME ISSUES | Bill Gibson
Volume control can be a controversial issue . There seems to be a constant battle between the music-minded folks who just want the music to sound and feel good and the volumesensitive folks who only care that the mix sounds too loud to them .
As with most of the points I make in this book , I have lived through this dilemma and learned some valuable lessons . I offer these suggestions so you can avoid the same problems and benefit from what I ’ ve learned .
The diverse demographic that comprises many audiences brings inherent possibility for disagreement about the perfect volume . It ’ s not easy to please everyone . or sound complaints , then you ’ re either skilled , well-liked , diplomatic , or scary-looking . I have taught hundreds of sound operators , and many of them fight frustration about volume issues — they ’ re trying their hardest , but can ’ t find the perfect balance that pleases the musicians , the management , and the audience .
The volume knob , in general , is the problem . Everyone has one , and they get to set it exactly where they want , whether they ’ re at home or in the car . They ’ re in control of the volume almost everywhere , except at a live performance .
We all have different tastes . For some folks , the volume will never be quiet enough ; for others it will never be loud enough . Some folks like the vocals louder than the band ; others like the band louder than the vocals . Some people like guitars more than keyboards . Some like the drums and percussion to be predominant ; others prefer they be understated .
If you are fortunate enough to run sound for an established artist with a huge following , you might be able to define the sound , volume , and sonic signature of the act . In this case , your mix — and everything about it — is a large part
It helps to understand more aspects of volume issue . As we progress into the technical aspects of shaping sound and creating a good mix , we ’ ll cover techniques to help you build a mix that is full , sounds good , and is non-offensive .
WHY VOLUME ISSUES ARE SO COMMON I ’ m addressing volume controversies here . If you are a sound operator and never get volume