How to Turn On the Audio System

Purpose

This guide explains how to turn on the audio system for church services, ensuring all components are set up and ready for use.

Prerequisites

• Access to the audio booth and stage.
• Knowledge of where the equipment is located.

Steps

Step 1: Turn On the Amplifier

• Action: Turn on the amplifier located in the booth.
• Details: The amplifier is on top of the small wooden pull-out drawer below the desk on the left side, just as you enter.
  • This will turn on the main house speakers.
  • This enables the computer audio and any stage audio to come through.
  • Note: The Sonos speakers are independent and always on. They can be accessed from the Sonos app, casting from Spotify, etc., as long as you are on the same church Wi-Fi.
• Expected Outcome: The main house speakers are powered on and ready for audio input.

Step 2: Turn On the Stage Monitors

• Action: Turn on the stage monitors.
• Details: The stage monitors are powered and have their own switches.
  • Locate the switches on each monitor and turn them on.
• Expected Outcome: Stage monitors are powered on and ready for audio output.

Step 3: Prepare the Microphones

• Action: Insert batteries into the microphones.
• Details: There are 4 Shure PG58 wireless microphones.
  • Prep enough microphones for those singing on any given Sunday.
  • Ensure 2 batteries are prepared for the pastor’s headset (which the pastor usually grabs). Make sure to set up a guest speaker if needed.
• Expected Outcome: Microphones are powered and ready for use.

Step 4: Turn On the Instruments

• Action: Turn on the instruments.
• Details: The drums, keyboard, and bass amp all have power switches.
  • Locate the power switch on each instrument and turn it on.
• Expected Outcome: Instruments are powered on and ready for use.

Running Audio

Using the Mixing Station App

• Action: Control the audio using the Mixing Station app via the iPad located in the booth.
• Details: The mixer can be accessed by any device connected to the same Wi-Fi (iPhone, computer, etc.).
• Expected Outcome: Audio levels can be managed and adjusted as needed during the service.

Methodology

Gain Staging and Levels

• Action: Ensure each channel is set to 0db (unity).
• Details: Each channel should receive the proper amount of signal (gain stage around -15db).
  • This ensures proper audio levels for the livestream, compression, FX, etc.
• Expected Outcome: Proper gain structure and minimal adjustments needed during the service.

EQ Adjustments

• Action: Use low cuts and high cuts for EQ adjustments.
• Details: Avoid extreme EQ settings. Aim to blend the instrument into the overall mix while maintaining sound integrity.
• Expected Outcome: Balanced and clear audio mix.

Things to Note

• The Behringer X Air 18 mixer is left on at all times, with all channels unmuted (except for the bass channel to avoid low buzz).
  • Turn off the speakers when not in use.
• Computer audio is controlled via the red Scarlett 2i2 interface using the big volume dial to the right of the computer screen.
  • Ensure the main speakers are on.
• Stage monitors are in a LEFT/RIGHT stereo pair.
  • Panning channels can adjust the feed, but proper gain staging should maintain balance.
• In-ears and livestream receive a stereo signal.

Troubleshooting

• Using Sonos for Background Music:
  • Ensure you are on the church’s Wi-Fi: TableChurch102 is the password.
• Cables and Adapters:
  • Found in the walk-in closet by the side room (nursery).

Additional Resources

• Contact: Keith Perez for help or more information.