In addition, I don’t always trust the USB connection from digital mixers into computers. I’ve seen some things break in that connection (albeit “lesser” mixers) and I just don’t want my entire stream mix to depend on the USB output functioning properly, let alone the computer getting bogged down (or crashing), and/or trying to get the audio to some other location.
However, this is just me. Again, I’ve heard of a lot of good experiences with it – I just don’t want to do it if I can help it for the reasons I’ve stated. And I don’t specify that path when I’m consulting on a design. If your church has a digital mixer, those who are curious can download a DAW of their choice and simply plug it into a computer via a USB cable. The computer sees the board as a soundcard, and from there, you can just route all the channels from the mixer into the DAW as either a mixdown (only taking a copy of the main left and right channels, for instance) or as individual channels. If you’ve ever played with multitracking, it’s the same setup.
The bottom line if you’re interest: go forth with caution, but never be afraid to experiment. (Editor’s Note: Samantha has addressed streaming in the just-release Church Sound University online training video series, and she’s currently working on two more chapters with further depth on the topic. Check it out at churchsoundu.com)
Q: “Our team is interested in starting to tune our PA. We have a measurement mic, but that’s about it. What next?” – Orlando
Tuning a sound reinforcement system is a big job. People can make an entire living off of just tuning and maintaining PA systems. So, while there are some things you can do to at least get started, be cautious in changing too much. Hiring a recommended professional will provide the best results.
That said, I advise utilizing system optimization software such as Rational Acoustics Smaart. It comes at a hefty price tag, even for the single input version, Smaart DI. That’s for a reason, though. It takes a lot of math and a lot of additional work to get all the information needed to properly a PA.
If you’re serious about tuning your system and having a deeper understanding about what’s happening in your space it’s well worth the investment. Note: Anyone going down this path must have proper training.
A good place to start is the Rational Acoustics channel on YouTube, where there’s are several very useful training videos. The company also offers online training lead by professional instructors (and these courses will again be available in person once things have returned to “normal.”)
Some people recommend using only a measurement mic and an RTA (real-time analyzer), but this only provides one dimension of a three-dimensional answer. I really don’t recommend this route unless you’re doing something in the nearfield like a monitor on stage, but there’s still an argument to be made about doing it the right and thorough way.
If you’re interested in tuning your PA or looking to have a deeper understanding, start with Rational Acoustics. The training is top notch – I check in and re-watch the videos on a regular basis to stay up to speed. Just don’t make the mistake of thinking that because you’ve a measurement mic and a digital mixer with an onboard RTA or “PA Tuning” button that it will help or inform you about what’s actually happening.
