A good live sound setup is essential for any singer who wants to put on a great show. Here, we’ll go over all the essential equipment you’ll need to get started. This includes everything from microphones to PA systems and more.
With this list in hand, you’ll be ready to take your live performances to the next level. Let’s dive right into it!
PA Systems
The term “PA” stands for “Public Address”, and is a set of loudspeakers and associated electronics that amplify sound to allow it to be heard by a large audience. They’re used in a variety of settings, including concerts, conferences, and sporting events.
A typical PA system includes a mixing console, amplifiers, loudspeakers, and microphones.
The mixing console is used to mix the different input signals.
The amplifiers are used to increase the level of the signal so that it can be heard by the audience. Not to be confused with loudspeakers that are responsible for projecting the sound into the room.
Amps
An amplifier is a device that takes a weak signal and makes it stronger. This is important for singers because they need to be heard over the instruments to be understood. Without an amp, their vocals would get lost in the mix.
Amps are especially important for live shows. Sure, venues usually have their sound system, but amps can help singers be heard over the noise of the crowd.
This is extremely important for outdoor shows where there is more ambient noise.
Additionally, there are different types of amplifiers and that’s a topic for another conversation.
However, they all serve the same purpose: to make the singer’s voice louder and clearer. Some amplifiers are specifically designed for vocals, while others can be used for any type of instrument.
Microphones
When choosing a microphone for a live show, there are several things to keep in mind.
First, you need to consider how durable the microphone is. It needs to be able to withstand being dropped or bumped around, as well as being exposed to liquids and other potential accidents.
Dynamic microphones are a good choice for live shows. They are durable and can withstand the rigors of touring. They are also less likely to pick up unwanted noise from the crowd or the stage.
Condenser microphones are another option. They are more sensitive than dynamic microphones and can pick up a wider range of frequencies. However, they are also more delicate and can be damaged by liquids or accidents.
Also, should you perform with a wired microphone or a wireless microphone?
If you like to move around onstage, a wireless microphone for singing is a good option. You won’t have to worry about tripping over wires or getting tangled up in them. However, wireless microphones can be more expensive than wired ones.
If you’re more of a stationary performer, a wired microphone is a good choice. They’re typically more affordable than wireless microphones, and the XLR cable is more reliable than wireless frequencies.
Still, you do have to be careful not to trip over the wires.
Mixer
A mixing desk, also called a mixer or mixing console, is a central hub where audio signals from microphones and other sound sources are routed.
Mixers typically have several inputs for microphones and other audio sources, as well as outputs for speakers. Each input has its dedicated volume control and equalizer (EQ) settings that the engineer can adjust to get the desired sound.
Furthermore, each channel includes a pan (or balance) knob, helping you to adjust the sound placement between the left and right speakers.
The mixers also have a master volume control that determines how loud the overall mix will be.
Mixers are used in a variety of settings, including live music performances, recording studios, and radio and television broadcasts.
In a live setting, the mixer is typically operated by a sound engineer who adjusts the levels of each signal to create the desired mix.
Monitors
A monitor is a loudspeaker designed to direct sound at the stage so that people on stage can hear what they are doing. They are typically placed on the stage floor, pointing up at the performer, so that the performer can hear themselves over the noisy crowd and the PA system.
There are two types of monitors commonly used on-stage: floor monitors (wedges) and in-ear monitors (IEMs).
Let’s talk about IEMs and wedges in more detail below!
In-Ear Monitors
In-ear monitors are small speakers that fit snugly inside your ear canal. They allow you to hear a personal mix of the vocals and instruments in your band, without the onstage noise that can be distracting or even dangerous.
IEMs consist of a transmitter, receiver, and earpiece.
The transmitter sends a signal to the receiver, which then amplifies it and sends it to the earpiece.
Furthermore, the earpiece converts the electrical signal into sound waves, which travel through your ear canal to your eardrum.
IEMs can be used for both live and studio applications. In the studio, they allow you to hear yourself clearly while recording, so you can focus on your performance.
Wedges
A wedge is a monitor system that uses a wedge-shaped design to direct and split up sources of auxiliary sound. It is typically used in live sound reinforcement, but can also be found in some recording studios.
The design of a wedge allows it to be placed onstage without blocking the view of the audience. This makes them ideal for use as stage monitors, allowing the performers to hear themselves clearly while still being able to see the audience.
Wedge monitors are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so there is sure to be one that will fit your needs. Whether you need a small monitor for personal use or a large one for a band, there is a wedge out there that will work for you.
Vocal Effects
Many different vocal effects can be used to enhance your singing during live performances. These effects are commonly used because they allow the vocalist to alter his/hers voice to fit the style or theme of the song.
For example, a vocalist may use a delay to make their vocals reverberate like an echo. Or they may use a vocoder to sound like a robot. There are many different types of effects and each one alters the voice differently.
Below is an example of different effects that can be used:
- Harmonies: Used to create beautiful chord-like harmonies
- Pitch correction: Used to help keep the singer in tune with the rest of the band.
- Loop Stations: Used to create a loop for an inputted vocal signal that can be used for playback.
Furthermore, vocal effects can be applied with a piece of hardware or by VSTs, hosted by a DAW.
Conclusion
Having the right live sound equipment is essential for any singer. These pieces of equipment will allow you to hear yourself clearly, which is crucial for a great performance.
Furthermore, you will be able to amplify your voice and have better control over the sound of your live performances.
By following the list above, you can be sure that you have everything you need to put on a great show.
So get out there and rock the stage. Until next time!
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