KellyGubser.com

Sound System Basics – Microphones I

// May 23rd, 2008 // Sound

When using a sound system, for whatever purpose, you have to get something into the system to work with!  This is done in so many different ways, it can be overwhelming.  However, the most basic method is through the use of a microphone.

There are many different types of microphones made for different situations and conditions.  But the basic purpose of any microphone is to convert the sound energy of an instrument or voice into an electrical signal.

Chances are that you have seen this microphone in use in lots of places.  It is the Shure SM-58 microphone that has been used literally for decades as an input device for vocals.  They are relatively inexpensive (less than $100 each) and take a beating.  They also do a very decent job of producing a good sound in the system and preventing feedback when properly placed and used.

Chances are that if you are in a small building or very reverberant space, a couple of these for your vocalists will be a good start for your system while letting the band just play in the space without being in the system.  The band can be heard well in the room while, due to the volume of the band, the vocalists cannot be heard.  Putting the vocalists into a small sound system by themselves so they can be heard will go a long way toward a better sound.  You can always add from there.

Powered by Qumana