In live audio engineering, the goal of all sound engineers is to produce the highest quality sound output possible. This may differ through the venue's front-of-house speakers compared to the sound the musicians hear on stage through their monitor system. Unlike a typical lighting engineer, who may pre-program some of the effects created during a live performance, sound engineers tend to react to the audio as it is played live, thereby altering their processes depending on the dynamics of the music being played. What are some of the most common techniques available to audio engineers that allow for this? Read on to find out.
1. Frequency Equalization
The first technique involves the equalization (EQ) of sound. EQ enables sound engineers to alter different frequencies within the sound to enhance or reduce them. For example, reducing the bass frequencies in a singer's microphone can prevent rumbles that are picked up from vibrations in the mic stand from generating unwanted muddiness in the overall mix. Similarly, accentuating the high frequencies in the output of a guitar amplifier can help it stand out in the mix, something that sounds good when soloing, for example.
2. Compressed Audio
Secondly, professional audio engineers often utilize compression. This is best defined as the process of controlling the dynamic range of a sound source. By lowering the volume of loud sounds and amplifying quieter ones, compression helps maintain a consistent volume level and ensures that all sound elements can be heard distinctly. This technique is often used on kick drums to even out their dynamism. It can also be used on vocal mics, especially those of backing singers, to ensure a consistent level of sound irrespective of the singers' distance from their respective microphones.
3. Artificial Reverberation
Another technique involves the use of electronic reverb effects to augment the natural reverberation of the venue. Reverb adds a sense of space and depth to the sound, a good idea when the performance is outside and there are no walls for the sound to bounce off. Simply put, reverb simulates the natural echoes of a room. Reverb often makes audio more engaging and natural-sounding for the audience.
4. Gain Staging
Fourthly, audio engineers will often adjust the level of each signal they receive at their mixing console to prevent clipping and distortion while maximizing signal strength. Careful gain staging is important to maintain the integrity of the music while dispensing with unwanted noise or distortion.
5. Stereo Panning
A significant technique employed by live sound engineers, panning involves balancing the distribution of sound between the left and right speakers to generate a stereo image. By carefully panning different sound sources, engineers can create a sense of space and depth in their mix. This method mimics the experience of hearing a live band on stage without a PA system, where different sound sources would come from different locations.
For more info, contact a local sound engineer.
Share
