Mic Setup for Choir and Organ

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Music during Church meetings and conferences provides spiritual experiences for participants and listeners alike. But poor sound quality can significantly diminish the impact of the music. This article will outline how to amplify sound for organs and choirs so that the music can be heard throughout the meetinghouse and in other buildings that are receiving the webcast event.

TASK: CORRECTLY POSITION CHOIR MICROPHONES

Setting up microphones for the choir may be useful for large meetings that spill into overflow areas or for webcast events. Following these guidelines and using two vocal microphones, two microphone stands (boom stands are preferred), and an audio mixer will help ensure the music reaches all participants. Standard meetinghouse microphones are sufficient for this purpose; purchasing expensive recording microphones is unnecessary. Because choir size and placement vary, a ratio of distance is provided in the diagram below for determining microphone placement.

1. To achieve a balanced sound through microphone placement:
   • Look at the diagram to see the ratio of distances. X is the distance from the microphone to the closest row of singers. 2X is the distance from the microphone to the back row of singers. 3X is the distance between the two microphones.
2. To set up microphones to the ideal height:
   • Place the microphone so that it is even with the height of the back row of the choir. (Those farthest away should be in a direct line with the microphone.)
   • Position microphones horizontally. (Angled down a little is fine.)

TASK: CONNECT MICROPHONES TO OUTLETS

1. Run cables from each microphone to an audio mixer. Choir levels can be adjusted with the audio mixer before sending the signal to the broadcast or chapel sound system.
   • Be sure to cover cables with gaffer’s tape or using another method to avoid tripping hazards. (Do not use duct tape.)

TASK: SET UP ORGAN AUDIO

Most chapels built since 2010 have electric organs that connect directly to the chapel audio system. Older chapels may not.

1. Determine which kind of chapel you have by listening to the organ in various areas of the meetinghouse.
   • Auxiliary rooms equipped with connections to chapel audio can help determine if the organ is connected to the audio in the chapel.
2. If your organ is directly connected to the chapel audio system, then no additional microphones will be needed for the stake conference.
3. If your organ is not directly connected, position the main podium microphone vertically to best capture the organ music.
   • Keep chapel audio activated for all prelude, postlude, and meeting music with the microphone in an upright position.